How to Pick the Perfect Hairdressing Scissors Size and Style

Picking the right hairdressing scissors is the most important thing you will do as a professional hairdresser. Look at it this way: if you spend little time researching and sourcing scissors, you will spend far less time perfecting haircuts. In all honesty, scissors are the most valuable asset for your salon.

However, we understand that you are an artist, and you probably don’t want to spend a lot of time researching and shopping. This is where we come in. At Zen Master Scissors, we are passionate about providing the best hairdressing scissors, accessories, and supplies to hairdressers in Australia and New Zealand.

In this blog, we do all the research so you don’t have to. There are two things to consider when sourcing shears: scissor sizes and style. We discuss how to pick the perfect hairdressing scissors size and style for haircuts with unmatched precision. Read until the end to make informed decisions.

Understanding Hairdresser Scissor Sizes

Getting the scissors size right is crucial to ensure every haircut you make is seamless and stylish. The scissor size is usually measured in inches. It encompasses the total length from the tip of the blade to the end of the finger ring. The size of the scissor must be picked after considering various factors, such as:

• Hand Size
• Cutting Technique
• Comfort and Grip
• Blade Control
• Hair Type
• Experience Level
• Dominant Hand
• Preferred Cutting Style

Most Common Scissor Sizes and Their Applications

4.5” – 5.0” Scissors

Among the smallest variants in terms of size, these scissors are ideal for individuals with small hands. When the scissor handles are too big, they slip quite often. On the contrary, if the handles are too small, they risk restricting blood flow. Small scissors are perfect for achieving fine, intricate cuts and detailing.

5.0” – 5.5” Scissors

The versatility of these scissors is unmatched. For most barbers, this scissor size is just about the sweet spot. Perfect for layering, texturing, trimming, and general-purpose cutting. Beginners or amateur hairstylists who wish to experiment with multiple techniques must definitely invest in scissors of this size.

5.5” – 6.0” Scissors

Considered the “medium-sized” scissors by many hairstylists, they are perfect for trimming short to medium-length hair. Their design and scissor size are best suited for making blunt cuts, layering, and slide cutting. If you have medium-sized hands, scissors measuring 5.5” to 6.0” are just perfect.

6.0” – 6.5” Scissors

Medium to large hands fit perfectly in 6.0” to 6.5” scissors. These scissors are ideal for general cutting, scissor-over-comb, long layers, and thicker hair sections. If you need to extend your reach and ensure smooth cutting, these scissors are absolutely perfect.

6.5” – 7.0” Scissors

More length, more reach, more leverage. You can use 6.5” to 7.0” scissors to achieve flawless long layers, scissor-over-comb cut, or cutting thick, coarse hair. One of the best things about these scissors is that it is tough for amateur or novice barbers to wield. The extended reach demands expertise and skills.

7.0” – 8.0” Scissors

If you work with long, thick, textured hair, 7.0” – 8.0” scissor size are ideal for heavy-duty cutting, thick hair, barbering techniques, and professional scissor-over-comb work. The added weight and leverage of these scissors contribute to their impressive balance.

Scissor Handles: Impacting Efficiency And Productivity

Straight Handles

Traditional handle design where the thumb and finger rings are aligned in a straight line.

Impact on Efficiency: Straight handles provide a classic cutting grip. It is best suited for basic techniques. You might experience mild wrist strain when using straight-handled scissors for long hours. Recommended for clients who prefer a more conventional hand position.

Offset Handles

The thumb ring is slightly lower than the finger ring, creating an angled grip. The shorter thumb handle and longer finger handle, respectively, enhance ergonomics and offer better control.

Impact on Efficiency: Reduces wrist and elbow strain, allowing for a more natural hand position. Enhances comfort and precision, especially for extended cutting sessions.

Crane And Semi-Offset Handles

Crane handles have the most pronounced handles of all the scissors. They are used by more experienced hairdressers who work long hours. Meanwhile, semi-offset handles are appropriate for stylists transitioning from the more conventional straight-handled scissors. 

Impact on Efficiency: Minimises fatigue and promotes smoother cutting motions. Ideal for stylists who spend hours cutting daily and perform various techniques like layering or slide cutting. Prevents repetitive strain injuries.

Swivel Thumb Handles

Swivel thumb handles are known for an extra thumb ring (not the finger ring), which rotates at a 360-degree angle.

Impact on Efficiency: Allows more natural wrist movement and greater flexibility, reducing repetitive strain. Enhances control for precise cutting angles.

Finger Rest / Tang

A finger rest or a tang is an extension attached to the finger ring for added support. Its purpose is to improve balance and stability, especially during long cuts or complex work. This small addition helps reduce hand fatigue and increases control.

Impact on Efficiency: The ergonomic design helps barbers maintain consistency and efficiency.

Ergonomic or Curved Handles

The natural contour of the hand demands scissors with curved handles. From reducing pressure on the joints to improving cut efficiency, scissors with ergonomic handles enable a more natural, relaxed grip.

Impact on Efficiency: Promotes a comfortable hand position, allowing smoother motion and greater control during cutting.

Why Picking the Right Haircutting Scissors Matters

• Precision – Cuts are cleaner and more accurate.
• Comfort – Reduces hand, wrist, and elbow fatigue.
• Efficiency – Allows smoother, faster cutting.
• Control – Gives better grip and manoeuvrability.
• Technique Compatibility – Supports layering, texturising, and slide cutting.
• Hair Type Adaptability – Works well with thick, fine, or textured hair.
• Consistency – Ensures uniform results every time.
• Professionalism – Enhances the quality of your work.
• Durability – High-quality scissors last longer.
• Ergonomics – Prevents repetitive strain injuries.

Conclusion
We hope by the end of this article, you have learnt how to pick the perfect hairdressing scissor size and style. Zen Master Scissors is a one-stop destination for all your hairdressing scissors and barber supply needs in Australia and New Zealand. If you would like to talk to one of our professional sales team (who are and have been hair stylists and barbers) call us on 0400077830.