When you’re serious about cutting hair – whether it’s in a salon, barbershop, or grooming studio – the tools you use make all the difference. The terms scissors and shears often get thrown around interchangeably, but they’re not exactly the same. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right tool for your cutting style, comfort, and results.
What Are Hair Cutting Scissors?
Hair cutting scissors are typically shorter, with blades under 6 inches. They’re designed for precision work – think point cutting, trimming bangs, or working close to the scalp. The smaller size gives you maximum control in tight spaces.
- Blade length: Usually 4.5–6 inches
- Best for: Precision, fine details, short haircuts, facial framing
- Users: Stylists who need accuracy for close detail work
What Are Shears?
Shears are generally longer, measuring over 6 inches, and are designed to cut through more hair with each motion. Their length makes them ideal for barbers handling bulk cuts or pet groomers who need efficiency and consistency in long strokes.
- Blade length: 6–8 inches (sometimes longer for grooming)
- Best for: Bulk cutting, straight-line cutting, scissor-over-comb techniques
- Users: Barbers, pet groomers, stylists who handle long layers
Key Differences Between Scissors and Shears
Feature | Scissors | Shears |
Blade Length | Shorter (under 6”) | Longer (6”+) |
Use Case | Precision cutting | Bulk cutting & layering |
Best For | Stylists focusing on detail | Barbers & groomers |
Ergonomics | Often smaller handles | More leverage & power |
Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs
- Stylists → Dry cutting, slide cutting, texturizing → consider swivel-thumb scissors for comfort.
- Barbers → Shears for scissor-over-comb, fades, and faster cutting.
- Pet Groomers → Dog grooming shears for durability and smooth strokes over thick coats.
- Left-Handed Pros → Choose left-handed shears to reduce wrist strain.
FAQs
Can I use regular household scissors to cut hair?
No. Household scissors are not designed for hair and will damage both the scissors and the hair itself. They have duller blades and the wrong alignment, which bends and frays the hair instead of cutting cleanly. Always use professional hair cutting shears to maintain precision and protect hair health.
Are shears only for professionals?
Shears are built for professionals because they’re longer, sharper, and require good control. That said, anyone can use them with the right guidance - but without training, you risk uneven cuts. Professionals invest in shears because they deliver consistent results and last longer under heavy use. See our guide on why high-quality shears make a difference.
Which is better: scissors or shears?
Neither is “better” universally - it depends on your cutting style.
- Scissors excel at detail and precision.
- Shears excel at speed and efficiency.
Most pros own both and switch depending on the service they’re performing. Learn how shears have evolved over time.
What size shears should I buy?
It depends on your hand size and cutting technique:
- 5–5.5 inches: Precision cutting, short styles, point cutting.
- 6–7 inches: Everyday salon/barber work, scissor-over-comb.
- 7+ inches: Groomers, barbers who cut bulk hair quickly.
Tip: Place the shear against your palm. If the blade reaches the last joint of your middle finger, it’s a good fit. Read more about length options when selecting shears.
How often should I sharpen my scissors or shears?
It depends on usage, but professionals typically sharpen every 3–6 months. If you notice tugging, bending, or pushing hair, it’s time for a tune-up. High-quality shears (like those at Scissor Mall) will hold their edge longer, especially with regular cleaning and oiling. Here are signs your shears need sharpening.
Do shears come with a warranty?
Yes, all of Scissor Mall’s shears and scissors come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. This means you can buy with confidence knowing your investment is protected for the long run. If you’re shopping, visit our hair shears collection.
Why Professionals Trust Scissor Mall
- Lifetime Warranty – Every shear is backed by our guarantee.
- PayPal Pay Later – Flexible options for building your kit.
- 40+ Years of Expertise – Serving stylists, barbers, and groomers since 1985.
- Exceptional Customer Service – Personalized help choosing the right tools.
See what our customers say about their experience.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Shears?
Your tools are the backbone of your craft. Whether you’re refining your precision cuts or handling high-volume grooming, the right scissors or shears make all the difference.
Premier barber supply store, offering top-tier premium Japanese and high-carbon stainless steel hair cutting scissors, barber scissors, and scissor sets for professionals. Scissor Mall's products ensure durability and sharpness, we are your destination for quality, ergonomic design, and exceptional service.
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