I bought the fine block. This is the place where I order the big sanding pads for DH to use on redoing our sailboat's hull, so there'll be more orders. This was just an add on to an order that had to go out fast to get here in time.... Next time I'll order the mixed set with different grits. (And I buy the bulk boxes of mixed sandpaper from these folks. The quality is superb and the backings are so much stronger than anything I've ever been able to buy locally.) Next project will be my Grandmother's bread knife, the old fashioned steel one with seriously serrated edge but which still cuts well, but no longer looks so good. And the oriental chopping knive I've had for decades. And my big loppers.

I don't quite agree with your comparison ^ Strob. I live in the land of Felco snobs, yet I truly find my Corona hand pruner superior.....for me. I may have already stated this above, but I appreciate the narrower nose of the cutting end. It seems to get into crotches better for a more precise cut. Also, again for me, the overall balance and ergonomics work better. This is the original Corona style BTW, not the newer version they have out that looks like Felco. One thing I always do with any hand pruner is remove the little latch that locks the two halves of the handle together. It serves no purpose if you wear a holster as I do, and does often get in the way of making a cut, plus must be unlatched each time a cut is made if you use it. No use for that-the pruners can simply be placed back into its holster without any need to latch. During times of the year when I'm wearing the Carhartt overall pants, I stick the pruner into one of the side tool pockets, again with no latching necessary. This too works out great. +oM

Re. Trimmers - I use Felco secateurs for larger topiary, but like to use the lighter sheep shears for final shaping, and for boxwood topiaries. I don't know where you can get them in the states, but Lee Valley Tools Ltd. is an Ontario-based mail-order source for gardening, woodworking tools, etc. They have sheep shears on p. 45 of their current Xmas gift catalogue for $8.95. They also have a website at www.leevalley.com. Good luck! - Laurel

I highly recommend pruners by ARS, made in Japan of superior Japanese steel. I have two pairs-- lighter weight one made for roses, and a little heavier pair. I use the heavier pruners the most. As far as loppers, I have been satisfied with various Fiskars loppers, from the smallest size to those big telescoping ones. I use the smallest size most. I also have an ARS pruning saw which I don't use much. Over the years, I have many brands and accumulated a collection of losers. Those I've mentioned are my favorites. Diane