To many growers, the name ARS needs no introduction. The Japanese company is famous for the quality of the blades it produces on its saws, secateurs, loppers and snips.
It was only a matter of time then, before ARS tried its hand at its own electronic secateurs. Applying their expertise in blade steel, as well as in electronics (in Japan, ARS makes a range of electronic hedging shears), they have produced their first model, the EP-700.
First model—EP-700
The EP-700 is a powerful finger-follow type electronic secateurs which is produced in Japan.
The blade, typical for ARS, holds a keen edge for much longer than many owners of existing electronic tools have come to expect—delivering an instant productivity boost for the user.
On top of this obvious benefit, the EP-700 features a slim, well-balanced handpiece which is comfortable to hold for hands of all sizes. People with smaller hands will especially appreciate the user-friendly design.
Ergonomic battery harness
Ergonomics are also excellent with the battery harness.
This harness uses broad shoulder straps and waist belts to ensure that there are no painful pressure points. The battery sits comfortably on the user’s back (it’s easy to forget that it’s there!).
The harness covers the battery, affording some protection from the elements—again reducing possible downtime.
The power switch is conveniently mounted to the waistbelt, and includes a system of LEDs to indicate remaining power. These are visible at all times, without having to remove the harness or twist around to see them.
The battery is a lithium-ion unit, which during real-world testing easily lasted a full day’s work.
The great advantage of lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries over NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) technology is that they don’t develop the ‘memory effect’ which slowly reduces the useful life of NiCad units. Li-Ion batteries can be recharged at any point without any effect on the battery’s lasting power.
Excellent performance
In use, the EP-700 performed with excellence. In initial Australian trials (during 2012), the ARS was used by a team of contractors who were also using products from well-established French and Swiss manufacturers.
Once each user was familiar with its operation, the ARS’ efficiency impressed, losing no ground to the established order. In another trial, a small handed user new to vineyard work found the EP-700 to be comfortable and light enough to use all day without causing fatigue.'
The ARS EP-700 is an excellent product, whose quality and power can hold its head high in any company. Hats off to ARS for producing an all-new tool on their first attempt.
Great price
The EP-700 is available now from selected ARS stockists—although you’ll need to be quick as numbers will be limited to start with as the product rolls out around the country.
And the nicest surprise from the EP-700? The price: just $1860 including GST!
Contact the friendly team at Woodchuck, the Australian ARS importers and distributors phone 1800 655 542 to find your local stockist
e-mail
visit www.woodchuck.com.au
See this article in Tree Fruit May 2013
