Shipped in a large long box was a bit concerned since it was able to roam around in the box unprotected... also a bit concerned since some reviews cautioned those unfamiliar with this type of saw should stay clear of it... It is by far the best investment I have made so far in my new to wood working tools....like with all tools it's important to learn by reading and watching videos... respect for the tool...safety while using it... etc. Shipping was an ease...came on time and in good condition... I've only used in on test wood so far...but am very pleased! Great investment... Absolutely love it!My first Jappanese hand saw and I just feel in love with it. I have bought 2 more. I like this saw so much a few months latter as I was cutting some super large stock (logs really) I got the http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BSQUARI?redirect=true&ref_=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_56 as well.As I put in my other reviews of the 2 other Gyokucho saws. My brother was so impressed with them he said he really wanted one. I got him the 9 1/2 no the hardwood toothe version he loves it. Uses it often. I can go through a 2x4 of pine, spruce or fir ine like 1 1/2 min not even really trying to go fast and without that much effort. I just the fact I can buy another blade if / when I need to do so.My saw arrived on time as promised and seems to be as sharp as a razor, but I would have appreciated a set of instructions in English.I am a DIY guy and am reasonably astute at using hand tools, but this is my first Gyokucho saw and I need to know how to get the best service from it without breaking it.The handle gives me a little worry as it is plastic with a plastic cord wrapped around it that mimics bamboo. Real bamboo would have been nice. A hole at the end of the handle would also have been useful to hang it with, and I would have paid a little extra for some kind of a protective holder, other than a thin plastic blade cover on one side.Maybe I'm jumping the gun by reviewing before doing a project, but I wanted other customers to know what I've found so far.I will update my review after I've cut a few boards.I am new to wood working and I was recently practicing dovetails with this saw. I'm not saying it is good or bad per se, just noticed that as I was cutting, it was hard to keep the blade steady as it doesn't have any rigidity to it. I'm sure there are more suitable uses for this saw and I will learn them as time goes.The saw was received as promised and in good order. As this is my first Ryōba saw I am a novice with this tool. I now must learn and become familiar with proper use of the saw but I must say that the quality appears to be excellent and I'm very pleased with the purchase.This saw cuts as clean as a $250 “white paper steel” saw that I own.Unfortunately, it was bent during shipping because the box was too small.I purchased this as a gift for my husband. i had no clue if he wanted it or if he would even like it. It has quickly became one of his favorite woodworking tools. I don't really have any technical information to provide, but my husband is very particular about his tools and that he likes it so much indicates it is a good product. Highly recommend!I'm a fine art and sculpture artist and often work late at night in my garage, so I really don't like cracking up my power saws and make all that noisy racket. The Gyokucho has become my go to saw and in fact my favorite tool. I can truly say that I get all giddy every time I get to use it!