Barbar scissors

Types of barber scissors

Barber scissors are an essential tool for any hair cutting. From simple trims to complicated hairstyles, these scissors provide the precision and control that barbers need to create professional-looking cuts. There are different types of barber scissors available on the market:

• Thinning barber scissors

  Thinning barber scissors, also known as texturizing shears, have a comb-like blade on one side and a regular blade on the other. The design allows barbers to remove bulk from the hair or add texture to haircuts. These scissors are especially helpful when working with thick or curly hair, as they enable even blending without compromising the hair's volume.

• Chunking barber scissors

  Chunking barber scissors are similar to thinning shears but with fewer teeth on the comb-like blade. They remove larger sections of hair at once, creating more dramatic texturized effects. Barbers use chunking scissors for high-impact looks where they need to take out significant bulk swiftly. The resulting cuts appear more voluminous and dynamic.

• Offset barber scissors

  Offset barber scissors feature an ergonomic design that offsets the thumb and finger holes compared to the blades. This positioning provides a more natural hand position when cutting, reducing strain on the wrist over extended use. Offset scissors are comfortable and well-balanced, making them a popular choice among professional barbers who cut hair for extended periods.

• Carve or razor barber scissors

  Carve or razor barber scissors have serrated blades that slice hair instead of cutting it. One blade is straight, and the other has ridges. These scissors create very soft, textured cuts that look natural. Barbers use carving scissors to add subtle movement and body to hair. The razor action leaves the hair's ends smooth, perfect for clients wanting relaxed styles.

• Straight barber scissors

  Straight barber scissors have two straight blades that meet evenly. They are the most common type of cutting shear used for snipping and cutting hair. Straight scissors provide an ultra-smooth finish on cuts, making them ideal for clients needing polished looks. Barbers use straight scissors in conjunction with clippers to achieve precise outlines and shapes in the haircut.

How to choose barber scissors

Choosing barber scissors requires careful consideration to ensure the best possible performance and comfort. Here are some essential factors to look at before purchasing barber scissors:

• Material:

  High-quality steel is important for haircutting scissors because it holds the edge longer and is more comfortable to cut. Look for scissors made from high-quality stainless steel, like Japanese or cobalt steel. Cobalt steel is more durable, while Japanese steel is sharper and more comfortable to use.

• Size:

  The length of the blade determines the size of the scissors. They vary in size from 4 to 6.5 inches or more. Smaller scissors are more comfortable to use and ideal for detailed work, while larger ones are better for cutting large sections of hair. Choose a size that feels comfortable in hand and suits the cutting technique.

• Weight and balance:

  The weight and balance of the scissors affect the cutting motion and comfort. Look for scissors that feel balanced in hand and comfortable to use. Most hair cutting scissors are lightweight, making them easy to use for long periods.

• Handle design:

  Barber scissors come with different handle designs, such as straight, offset, and ergonomic. Straight handles have equal finger holes on both sides and are ideal for barbers. Offset handles have angled thumb holes, making them more comfortable for cutting. Ergonomic handles are designed for more comfort and less strain on the hands and fingers while cutting, making them ideal for people with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Blade shape:

  The blade shape affects the cutting motion and technique. Straight blades are ideal for cutting, while convex blades are better for slicing and texturizing. Curved blades are perfect for cutting around the ears or neckline.

• Edge type:

  The edge type affects the cutting motion and technique. Sharp edges are ideal for cutting and straightening, while beveled edges are better for slicing and texturizing. Serrated edges have teeth that grip the hair and are ideal for cutting and reducing bulk.

• Price:

  Barber scissors vary in price depending on the quality, size, and material. Set a budget before shopping but remember that investing in a high-quality pair of scissors will benefit your haircutting career and last many years.

How to use, install & product safety

• Preparing the Haircutting Area:

  To begin, one should ensure that the space where the haircut will be performed is well-lit and organized. Gather all necessary tools, including a cape or towel to protect clothing, a comb, and, of course, the barber scissors.

• Sectioning the Hair:

  The next step involves dividing the hair into manageable sections. Use a comb to create clean partings and secure each section with clips or hair ties. Proper sectioning allows for more precise cutting and ensures an even result.

• Using the Barber Scissors:

  Hold the scissors comfortably in hand, with your thumb resting in the larger hole and your ring finger in the smaller one. The index and middle fingers should be placed on the flat blade for balance. Open and close the scissors smoothly, utilizing the pivot motion to cut the hair accurately.

• Cutting Techniques:

  Employ different cutting techniques depending on the desired outcome. For straight lines, cut along the section's edge using a comb for guidance. To create texture or layers, slightly lift each subsection with the comb before cutting. Practice feathering or point cutting, where the scissors are held vertically, to achieve softer, blended effects.

• Checking for Evenness:

  Throughout the haircutting process, periodically step back and visually assess the overall length and shape. Use a handheld mirror to check the back and sides. If necessary, make adjustments by cutting small amounts from sections that appear longer or shorter than others.

• Finishing Touches:

  Once satisfied with the haircut's evenness, remove any excess hair clippings using a brush or comb. Style the hair as desired, whether blow-drying, straightening, or curling. Finally, clean the barber scissors by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove any product residue or hair debris.

• Product Safety:

  When using barber scissors, always prioritize safety. Keep the scissors out of reach of children and pets. Be cautious of the cutting blades and avoid using excessive force when cutting hair. Store the scissors in a designated place, such as a scissors case or closed drawer, to prevent damage and ensure longevity.

Functions, features and designs of barber scissors

Functions

• Cutting Hair: The primary function of barber scissors is to cut hair. They are designed to make precise cuts to create different hairstyles.
• Thinning Hair: Some barber scissors have teeth on one or both blades, allowing barbers to thin out thick hair or remove bulk. This helps create more textured and layered hairstyles.

Features

• Blade Length: Barber scissors come in various blade lengths, typically ranging from 5 to 7 inches. The choice of length depends on the barber's preference and the type of haircuts they do.
• Material: High-quality stainless steel or alloy steel makes barber scissors. The material ensures sharpness, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
• Sharpness: The scissors' sharpness is crucial for clean cuts without causing split ends. Barber scissors are honed to a sharp edge for professional use.
• Ergonomic Handles: Many barber scissors have ergonomic handles designed for comfort during extended use. These handles may have soft grips or a specific shape to reduce hand fatigue.
• Adjustable Tension: Some barber scissors feature an adjustable tension screw, allowing users to customize the blade's closing pressure. This feature can suit individual preferences for a smooth cutting action.

Design

• Classic Design: This design features straight, smooth blades and is the most common type used by barbers. They have simple handles and are designed for basic hair cutting.
• Offset Design: This design is similar to the classic design but with an offset handle position. It provides a more natural hand and finger alignment, reducing strain during cutting.
• Ergonomic Design: Scissors are specifically designed for comfort and support. They have contoured handles that fit the hand's shape, reducing pressure points and fatigue during use.
• Curved Blades: Scissors with slightly curved blades assist in cutting hair closer to the scalp or around the ears and neckline. They are helpful for blending and creating natural-looking haircuts.
• Texturizing Design: These scissors have features like teeth or serrations on one or both blades, allowing barbers to create textured cuts by removing some bulk from the hair. They are valuable for layering and adding volume to haircuts.

Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between thinning and cutting barber scissors?

A1: Cutting scissors are used to cut hair evenly. They have sharp blades and no teeth. Thinning scissors have teeth on one blade and a sharp blade on the other. They mix hair strands together and thin out thick sections.

Q2: How can one tell if a barber's scissor is good?

A2: Good barber scissors will be heavy and feel comfortable in the hand. The blades should be sharp and smooth when closed together. Quality scissors are also made from stainless steel and have a polished finish.

Q3: What size of barber scissors should a barber use?

A3: Scissors come in sizes ranging from 4 to 8 inches. Those 5.5 to 6.5 inches long are the most used. Smaller scissors work better for detailed cuts and around the ears. Larger ones are best for cutting up the back of the head.

Q4: How should one maintain their haircutting scissors?

A4: Keep the blades clean by gently wiping them after each use with a soft cloth. Oiling the pivot point regularly with scissors oil will keep them working smoothly. Make sure the tension is just right - not too tight or too loose. Always store them in a protective case to avoid damage.