My parents had the same hedge cutters for years.....made in America......I have been through,  I don't know how many makes and models of hedge trimmers during just the past fifteen years.  THIS cutter puts them all to shame!  I cannot only see the blades cutting, but also HEAR steel against steel.  Very comfortable to use.....just the right handle length.  Forget about those extendable-handle units...all for show.  This trimmer delivers.  Would highly recommend.