Choosing Your Shear

The goal of Inochi's  Stylist Education is to make the purchase of your shear as enjoyable as using it! Our aim is to make this process as simple as possible. Whether new behind the chair or a seasoned professional, we know that with the proper education, you will find that perfect shear.

By reading this, you have already chosen the correct brand, Inochi. Now, the decision becomes, what shear should I buy and why? Should I consider ergonomics and blade design? Does the length matter? Should I consider my cutting technique? Are there differences in the metal that is used? And, once I have my shear, how do I keep them performing at their best?

The most important factor to keep in mind when choosing a shear is comfort. If your shear isn't comfortable and doesn't feel like an extension of your hand, it is useless. Ergonomics of the handle design plays a huge roll in the prevention of repetitive motion illness. If you are worried about, or already experience, discomfort when cutting, you might consider an offset or swivel thumb design.

Perhaps you have been told that the size of your hand determines what length and style shear you should use. Do not be fooled by this. Let your hair cutting technique decide for you. Most stylists opt for a length in the 5"-6" range for their primary go to shear. Do you want a shorter 4.5" scissor for detail work? Or a 7" shear that might be used for scissor over comb and/or other finish work?

There are two main edge types to be concerned with, bevel and convex. Some companies claim a semi-convex edge. This is just a fancy name for a bevel. The bevel edge is easier to manufacture and maintain but is not as sharp. The convex edge is much sharper and allows for more advanced cutting techniques.

When it comes to the craft of creating a hair-cutting shear, the quality of the steel and how it's made should not be overlooked. The shear is either forged or cast. During the forging, or compressing of the metal, the molecules in the alloy are forced closer together. The result is a longer lasting, tougher shear. The cast scissor can be more brittle and the edge work doesn't last as long. The alloy or recipe used in the manufacturing process determines its durability and longevity. The different properties and characteristics of the scissor can be improved by the addition of the different metals used to create the alloy.

You now own your new shear. Responsibility on your part is needed to help keep your shear working at its peak. Periodic maintenance is required. This includes daily do's and dont's. Who sharpens your shears determines how long they last and how well they perform. Have your shears serviced/sharpened regularly by Inochi.

Trust your shear purchase and sharpening requirements with a company that not only knows how, but why! We hope this knowledge section helps you. Please call or e-mail us if you have any additional questions that need answering.