A good pair pruning shears is like gold.
A bad pair of pruning shears is blisters on your hands.
I own these shears and they are amazing for pruning small bushes, roses, and decorative trees (like a red bud or Japanese Maple). And I paid WAY more for mine at Home Depot.
Get the Fiskars Professional Bypass Pruning Shears for $15.83 with FREE Super Saver shipping and $25 purchase from Amazon.
Pricing was current when the post was published, however Amazon prices change often, so please check before you buy.