BARBER SCISSORS -Written by Venkatachalapathi.P.B. Davangere. 9901196772

 BARBER SCISSORS

 

1. Introduction

The scissors are one of the most essential and versatile tools in daily human life. After the knife, scissors likely have the most common presence in households worldwide. They are used to cut paper, cardboard, foil, fabric, thread, rope, wire, and many other materials. Because of their usefulness, scissors are vital in various fields, including agriculture, industry, medical and surgical procedures, offices, tailoring, households, and grooming services such as barbershops and salons.

Among these, barber scissors form a special and specialized category. Unlike regular household scissors, barber scissors are specifically designed for cutting human hair with precision and smoothness. They are crafted with fine workmanship, featuring sharp blades and ergonomic designs tailored for professional use.

For barbers or hairstylists, scissors are more than mere tools; they are an extension of their artistic creativity and professional skill. Whether shaping hair, thinning, layering, or texturizing, a high-quality pair of scissors is essential for creating a perfect haircut. In this chapter, we will explore the meaning, mechanism, parts, types, history, cleaning, and maintenance of barber scissors.

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2. Meaning and Mechanism of Scissors

A scissor is a hand-operated cutting tool made of two blades pivoted together so that their sharpened edges slide against each other when the handles are closed. The pivot allows the blades to cross at a fixed point, and when pressure is applied by closing the handles, the blades exert a concentrated force that cuts through the material.

Barber scissors, also called hairdressing scissors or shears, are different from regular scissors. They are:

• Sharper and thinner, designed for precise cutting.
• Usually made of high-quality stainless steel to resist rust and keep a sharp edge.
• Crafted with specialized blade designs to suit different hairstyling techniques.

Professional barbers and hairstylists often own several pairs of scissors, each suited for a different purpose—such as cutting, thinning, blending, or texturizing.

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3. Parts of Barber Scissors

Every part of a barber's scissors has a distinct role in functionality and ergonomics.

1. Blades
• The primary cutting elements are designed to be extremely sharp.
• Cutting Edge: The sharpened line along the blade that slices the hair.
• Inner Edge: Holds the hair in place while cutting.
2. Pivot / Joint Screw
• Holds the two blades together and enables their smooth cross-movement.
• Its tension determines the ease and precision of cutting.
3. Handles / Shanks
• Provide grip and control. Each handle ends with a finger ring.
• Still Shank: With the finger ring for the ring finger.
• Moving Shank: With the thumb ring, controlling movement.
4. Finger Rings
• Thumb Ring: Usually on the moving handle.
• Finger Ring: For the ring finger, on the still handle.
5. Finger Rest (Tang)
• A small protruding extension is attached near one of the rings.
• Provides support for the little finger, enhancing comfort during long use.
6. Stopper / Bumper
• A small rubber or plastic pad between the handles.
• Prevents blades from clashing harshly, reduces noise, and prolongs durability.
7. Tension Adjuster / Set Screw
• Allows the barber to adjust the tightness of the blades.
• Proper tension ensures smooth, fatigue-free cutting.

Together, these parts create a highly functional, ergonomic tool that allows barbers to cut with accuracy and comfort.

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4. Types of Barber Scissors

Professional barbers use different types of scissors depending on hair type, density, and styling techniques.

4.1 Standard Cutting Shears

• Short Blade Shears (4.5–5.5 inches)
• Lightweight, easy to maneuver.
• Ideal for precision cuts, detailing, trimming fringes/bangs, and women’s hairstyles.
• Long Blade Shears (6–7.5 inches)
• Cover more hair in a single cut.
• Useful for men’s cuts, blunt cutting, and over-comb techniques.

4.2 Thinning Scissors (Texturizing Shears)

• One blade is smooth, the other has teeth.
• Reduces hair bulk without removing too much length.
• Creates soft, natural blending and movement in thick hair.

4.3 Wide Blade Scissors

• Have broad blades for cutting larger hair sections at once.
• Useful for coarse or thick hair, providing structural shaping.

4.4 Special Handle / Ergonomic Shears

• Designed to reduce strain on hands and wrists.
• Often include swivel thumb rings, offset handles, or crane designs.
• Essential for professionals working long hours, helping prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

4.5 Point Cutting Scissors

• Features very fine, pointed blades.
• Used for adding texture, softening layers, and shaping hair ends with precision.

4.6 Blending Shears

• Similar to thinning scissors but with more teeth.
• Provide ultra-smooth blending between layers for a natural finish.

Without these variations, professional haircutting would not be possible. A barber’s scissor collection represents both technical necessity and artistic potential.

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5. History of Scissors – From Antiquity to Modern Times

5.1 Ancient Scissors (Over 4000 years ago)

• Spring Scissors were first used in the Middle East around 2000 BC.
• Made from bronze, consisting of two blades joined at one end.
• Required continuous squeezing to cut, as the blades automatically opened due to tension.

5.2 Roman Pivot Scissors (100 BC)

• Romans introduced pivoted scissors where blades crossed at a central screw.
• This design closely resembles modern scissors.
• Spread to China, Japan, and Korea, where scissor-making became a skilled craft.

5.3 Medieval to Industrial Age (17th–19th Century)

• Scissors were handmade by skilled blacksmiths, often elaborately decorated.
• Zhang Xiaoquan Company in China (founded 1663) still makes scissors today.
• Robert Hinchliffe (1761, Sheffield, England) revolutionized scissor-making by introducing cast steel, earning him the title “Father of Modern Scissors.”

5.4 Japanese Mastery (20th Century)

• Japanese smiths adapted sword-making techniques to scissors.
• KAI Corporation (founded 1908) introduced high-end professional barber scissors, such as Kasho shears, renowned worldwide for sharpness and durability.

5.5 Scissors as Art

• Throughout history, scissors have also been seen as objects of aesthetic craftsmanship.
• Made from bronze, silver, gold, or decorated with carvings of birds, animals, or floral patterns.
• Barber scissors evolved into a blend of utility, precision, and artistry.

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6. Cleaning Barber Scissors – Hygiene and Efficiency

Maintaining scissors is not just about durability—it is essential for hygiene, client safety, and professional reputation.

6.1 Importance of Cleaning

• Hair fragments, oils, and sweat accumulate after each use.
• Dirty scissors can lose sharpness, corrode, and spread infections.
• Unsanitary tools risk transmitting fungal infections, lice, and bacterial diseases between clients.

6.2 Cleaning Method

1. Remove Hair – Brush off loose hair after every use.
2. Wash – Use mild liquid soap and warm water, paying attention to blade edges and pivot area.
3. Dry – Wipe immediately with a microfiber cloth to prevent rust.
4. Disinfect – Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol or Barbicide solution.
5. Sterilize (Optional but Recommended) – Use a UV sterilizer in salons for maximum safety.
6. Oil the Pivot – Apply a drop of scissor oil daily to maintain smooth movement.

By following these steps, barbers extend the life of their tools while ensuring safe and professional service.

7. Maintenance & Storage of Barber Scissors

Barber scissors are among the most important tools in a professional’s kit. Their performance directly impacts the precision of haircuts and the overall client experience. Proper maintenance and storage practices not only extend the life of scissors but also ensure safe and hygienic use.

a) Sharpening

• Frequency: Scissors should be sharpened every 3–6 months, depending on usage. High-volume salons may require more frequent servicing.
• Professional Sharpening: Always use a certified scissor sharpener rather than attempting DIY methods, as incorrect sharpening can damage blade edges.
• Signs of Dullness: Hair folding instead of cutting, uneven lines, or added pressure during use are indicators that sharpening is due.

b) Tension Adjustment

• Optimal Tension: Scissors should open and close smoothly, neither too loose nor too tight.
• Adjustment Test: Hold the scissors vertically and slightly open them—if they close too quickly, tension is too loose; if they don’t close at all, it’s too tight.
• Routine Check: Adjust the tension screws regularly according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Correct tension reduces hand strain and prolongs scissor life.

c) Cleaning and Oiling

• After Each Use, wipe blades with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove hair, moisture, and chemical residue.
• Daily Care: Apply a drop of scissor oil at the pivot point to maintain smooth movement.
• Disinfection: Use approved salon disinfectants, but avoid prolonged soaking, which can corrode steel.

d) Storage Cases

• Protective Storage: Always store scissors in a padded case or holster to prevent accidental drops and blade nicks.
• Avoid Moisture: Never leave scissors in damp environments or mixed with combs and razors.
• Travel Safety: For mobile barbers, a lockable carrying case ensures security and organization.

e) Lifespan of Barber Scissors

• Average Lifespan: High-quality professional scissors last 5–10 years with proper care.
• Influencing Factors: Frequency of use, maintenance routine, sharpening quality, and storage conditions.
• Replacement Indicators: Visible blade wear, repeated sharpening with little improvement, or consistent cutting issues signal the need for replacement.