OPPOSING HANDLE

This handle design is used primarily by stylists who cut with their middle finger and thumb.  This design has also been implemented when vertical stroke cutting.  This is the least ergonomic handle design.  

OFFSET HANDLE

With this design, the thumb blade is shorter and shaped to reduce excess movement.

With the thumb ring closer to the tip of the shear the hand opens and closes with less stress.  The offset handle is the most common shear chosen and is available in many styles including crane and swivel options.

CRANE HANDLE

This extreme offset design drops the elbow position relieving the stress on both the shoulder and hand.  It allows for freer blood flow and nerve energy which can minimize the risk of shoulder and hand injuries.  This design is perfect for palm to palm cutting.

SWIVEL THUMB

This style is by far the most ergonomic of handle designs.  It enhances comfort and reduces the stress caused by cutting.  When using this shear, your hand is always in a neutral position regardless of the angle you are cutting.

It allows complete control of your styling technique without fatiguing or stressing your hand.

What does this mean for you?      

The most important factor to keep in mind when choosing a shear is comfort.

If you are a stylist who uses your ring finger, an offset, crane, or swivel thumb style shear would probably be more comfortable, and a better choice, than an opposing design.  Consider a handle that matches how you hold the shear, consider the type of performance you need, and only look at shears with a handle configuration that best fills that need.  With this in mind, you now have a logical way to choose a scissor best suited for you.  This will ensure the minimum risk of repetitive motion illness.