Hair Scissors
Whether you’re giving yourself a full-blown haircut, a simple trim, or just snipping away those pesky split ends, using the right pair of scissors can make all the difference. It’s not just about getting a straight cut; it’s about ensuring that your hair remains healthy and undamaged in the process. The right pair of shears is designed to do just that – they are sharp, precise, and tailored for the task at hand, unlike the blunt blades of your typical household scissors.
“Using professional hair shears is not about indulgence; it’s about self-care,” insists Los Angeles-based stylist, Lila Moreno. “A dull blade can fray your ends, making your hair more susceptible to breakage and split ends. It’s not just about how your hair looks, but how it feels and grows.”
For those who are new to cutting their own hair, the options may seem overwhelming. There are shears with different types of edges, various lengths, and distinct handle designs. Plus, there are thinning shears, which have a serrated edge to remove bulk without changing the hair’s length dramatically.
“Thinning shears are a game-changer for people with thick, unruly hair,” notes Chicago-based stylist, Theo Mitchell. “They allow you to reduce bulk and create a softer, more natural finish without drastically altering the length of your hair.”
And while it’s true that a top-tier pair of shears can be a significant investment, there are also plenty of affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone who just needs a quick trim between salon visits, there is a pair of shears that fits your needs and your budget.
In this article, we will guide you through 13 of the best hair scissors and shears for cutting hair at home, as recommended by professional hairstylists. Each pair has been vetted for quality, ease of use, and value for money. We will also provide links for you to buy these shears, making your journey to a perfect at-home haircut as smooth as possible.
So, before you even think about reaching for those craft scissors in your drawer, let’s dive into our top picks for the best hair shears that will leave your locks looking salon-fresh.
Saki Shears – Saki Kanzen
The Saki Kanzen Damascus hair cutting shears are a true testament to where artistry meets functionality. Crafted from exquisite Damascus stainless steel, these shears are visually stunning, showcasing your originality and style as a hairstylist or a dedicated DIY haircutter. But the Saki Kanzen is more than just a beautiful tool; it is designed to empower the user, transforming a simple haircut into an art form.
With a Japanese style convex blade boasting a hardness of 61-62 HRC, these 6-inch shears are perfect for precise cuts and detailed work. They are handmade, reflecting a commitment to quality that is paramount in all of Saki Shears’ designs. Designed for right-handed use, they fit comfortably in hand, allowing for ease of use that professionals and novices alike will appreciate.
Miami-based stylist, Ricardo Alvarez, praises the Saki Kanzen shears: “They are like an extension of my own hand,” he says. “The Damascus steel is not only stunning to look at, but it holds an incredibly sharp edge that glides through hair effortlessly. These shears are a true investment in my craft.”
Adding to their appeal, the Saki Kanzen shears come with a lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance of their enduring quality and performance.
Saki Kanzen are currently priced at $249.00 and are available on both Amazon and the Saki Shears website.
Kashi Shears – King Arthur
Priced at $349.00, the King Arthur shears from Kashi Shears are a noble addition to any hairstylist’s toolkit. Crafted from VG-10 Japanese Cobalt Steel, these shears are designed to be both durable and sharp, with a Rockwell hardness of 59-61. At a size of 6 inches, they are versatile and adept at handling various cutting techniques, making them ideal for wet, dry, and slide cutting alike.
The ergonomic design of the King Arthur shears is one of their standout features. The handle is crafted to relieve stress on both the shoulder and wrist, allowing for extended use without discomfort—a critical factor for professionals who spend hours each day perfecting their craft. The adjustable tension screw adds another layer of customization, enabling the user to find the perfect balance and resistance for their cutting style.
“The King Arthur shears are my go-to for a busy day at the salon,” shares San Francisco-based stylist, Jenna Kim. “Their lightweight design and ergonomic handle make them incredibly comfortable to use, even during long appointments. The VG-10 Japanese Cobalt Steel is remarkably sharp, allowing me to make precise and clean cuts every time. They are truly a knight in shining armor in my toolkit.”
Kashi Shears doesn’t stop at exceptional design and materials; they also offer a lifetime warranty for the King Arthur model, as well as free sharpening for life. This commitment to customer satisfaction and product longevity is a testament to the quality that Kashi Shears infuses into every pair of shears they craft.
Nic – Nic King
With a price tag of $559.00, the Nic King shears are a premium choice for those who are serious about their hair cutting tools. These shears are crafted with a keen eye for quality, featuring a convex edge that is renowned for its sharpness and precision. This edge allows for smooth and effortless cutting, which is essential for achieving that perfect, salon-quality finish at home or in a professional setting.
The Nic King shears are constructed from premium stainless steel, a material known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that these shears are not just a short-term investment but a long-lasting tool that will retain its exceptional performance over time.
The 7.5″ offset handle is designed with user comfort in mind. It promotes a more natural hand position, reducing strain during prolonged use—a crucial feature for professional stylists and dedicated home users alike. The fixed finger rest provides additional support and stability, allowing for more controlled and precise cuts.
“The Nic King shears are a dream to work with,” enthuses Boston-based stylist, Alex Carter. “The convex edge is incredibly sharp, making each cut clean and exact. The premium stainless steel gives it a substantial, yet balanced feel in my hand. And the offset handle? It’s a lifesaver on a long day. It’s clear that these shears were designed with the professional in mind, but they’re so user-friendly that I recommend them to my clients who are brave enough to try cutting their own hair.”
The flat screw tension system is another thoughtful feature of the Nic King shears. It allows for easy and precise adjustments to the shears’ tension, enabling each user to tailor the tool to their own preferences and cutting style.
JW Shears – JW C5 Full 360 Swivel
Priced at a reasonable $250.00, the JW C5 Full 360 Swivel shears from JW Shears are designed for those who crave flexibility and control in their cutting experience. One of the standout features of this model is the 360 Degrees Full Swivel Handle, which allows for an unparalleled range of motion. This design enables hairstylists to achieve intricate and precise cuts with minimal strain on the wrist and hand, making these shears a fantastic option for professionals and at-home users alike.
Crafted from high-quality Japanese stainless steel, these shears are built to last. The material is known for its durability and sharpness, ensuring that each cut is clean and precise. The convex edge design further enhances the shears’ cutting ability, allowing for smooth and effortless snips every time.
The JW C5 Full 360 Swivel shears also boast an engraved handle design, which adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the tool. The permanent finger rest and low profile tension screw are thoughtful additions, aimed at maximizing user comfort and allowing for easy adjustments to the shears’ tension.
“The 360-degree swivel handle is a game-changer,” raves Dallas-based stylist, Leah Robinson. “It allows me to move freely and comfortably, adapting to different angles without straining my wrist. The Japanese stainless steel is top-notch, and I can feel the quality with every cut. These shears make me feel like I have complete control, and they have truly elevated my craft.”
With a lifetime warranty included, JW Shears demonstrates a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and confidence in the enduring quality of their product.
Kamisori – Kamisori Black Diamond III Set
Priced at $595.00, the Kamisori Black Diamond III Set is a luxurious choice for hairstylists who are looking for top-tier performance and elegance in one package. This set is not just about the aesthetics; it’s designed for serious, precise, and comfortable cutting, whether you are a professional stylist or an at-home hair enthusiast.
The anatomic crane handle is engineered for the perfect handle curve, allowing for a comfortable and natural grip that reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. This thoughtful design ensures that stylists can focus on their craft, not on the discomfort in their hands.
Crafted from flexible cobalt steel with a hardness rating of 62 HRC, these shears promise ultra-smooth, agile, and steady operation. The 3D convex edge is a standout feature, designed for ‘grip & slice’ technology that allows for the cleanest cuts while minimizing damage to both hair and tools. This technology is a boon for those looking to achieve precise styles without compromising the health of the hair.
“The Kamisori Black Diamond III Set is in a league of its own,” says Seattle-based stylist, Marcus Chen. “The anatomic crane handle fits so naturally in my hand, and the 3D convex edge technology is phenomenal—it grips the hair just right, allowing for incredibly precise and clean cuts. The cobalt steel is noticeably smooth and agile, making every cut a breeze.”
The sleek new design, complete with a ‘frozen’ matte-black titanium finish, adds a touch of sophistication and modernity to these shears. They are as much a statement piece as they are a tool, reflecting the artistry and professionalism of the user.
Designed for all-around cutting, these shears excel in both wet and dry hair conditions, making them a versatile addition to any hairstylist’s toolkit.
Jonetsu Shears – Jonetsu HMD
Priced at $585.00, the Jonetsu HMD shears are a perfect blend of artistry and engineering. These shears are crafted to meet the highest standards of professional hairstylists, yet are intuitive enough for at-home users who are serious about achieving salon-quality results.
The Damascus blade is a standout feature, known for its exceptional sharpness and durability. This type of blade is crafted using a technique that involves folding and forging steel multiple times, resulting in a blade that is not only incredibly strong but also features a distinctive and beautiful pattern reminiscent of flowing water.
The “Crane Arc Ergo Offset” handle design is meticulously crafted to follow the natural curve and movement of the stylist’s hand. This ergonomic design reduces strain on the wrist and hand, allowing for more comfortable and extended use—a critical feature for those long days in the salon or meticulous at-home styling sessions.
“The Jonetsu HMD shears are a revelation,” says Atlanta-based stylist, Isabella Grant. “The Damascus blade is incredibly sharp and durable, and it adds an element of artistry that I adore. The ‘Crane Arc Ergo Offset’ handle is a lifesaver—it aligns so naturally with my hand, making each cut feel intuitive and effortless. These shears are a true extension of my art.”
Available in sizes of 6.0, 6.5, and 7.0 inches, these shears offer versatility to suit various cutting styles and hand sizes. The flat screw tension allows for easy adjustments, ensuring that the shears can be perfectly calibrated to each stylist’s preference.
The mirror finish on the Jonetsu HMD shears adds a final touch of elegance, reflecting the exceptional quality of the Cobalt Special metal from which they are crafted.
Scissors Tech – Series R Gold Hair Shears Set
Priced at an accessible $160.00, the Series R Gold Hair Shears Set from Scissors Tech is a luxurious yet affordable addition to any stylist’s toolkit. This set isn’t just about making a statement; it’s about delivering top-notch performance with every snip.
With a stunning gold finish, these shears are designed to turn heads in the salon, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your styling kit. But beyond their striking appearance, they are crafted for precision and durability. Made from premium SUS440C steel, known for its hardness and resistance to corrosion, these shears are built to last.
The cutting shears in this set feature a convex professional cutting edge and a 59-60 HRC rating. This design ensures that they are exceptionally sharp and durable, capable of making precise and clean cuts with ease. The razor-sharp sword blade and offset handle design allow for comfortable and effortless use, making these shears a joy to work with, whether you are a seasoned professional or a passionate at-home stylist.
“The Series R Gold Hair Shears Set is a showstopper,” says Denver-based stylist, Clara Hayes. “Not only do they look stunning with that gold finish, but the performance is just as impressive. The cutting shears are incredibly sharp and precise, and the thinning shears work wonders for texturizing. They feel balanced and comfortable in my hand, allowing me to focus on crafting the perfect look for my clients.”
The set also includes a pair of gold thinning shears, perfect for texturizing and thinning out hair without removing length. With C type teeth and a size of 6 inches, they are designed for meticulous and controlled work, allowing you to add texture and movement to a hairstyle with ease.
Shihan Shears – Sensei 5.5
Priced at $205.00, the Sensei 5.5 hair cutting shears from Shihan Shears are designed to be the ultimate tool for master-level barbers and stylists. These shears are more than just a cutting instrument; they are a statement of professionalism and commitment to the craft.
Crafted from Japanese ZA-18 Super Premium steel, these shears are celebrated for their exceptional strength and durability. This high-quality material ensures that the shears maintain their sharpness and integrity over time, allowing stylists to consistently deliver precise and clean cuts.
The Sensei 5.5 inch shears are designed with the user’s comfort in mind. At a size of 5.5 inches, they are comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time, making them a reliable choice for busy professionals. They are also designed for right-handed use, ensuring a natural and ergonomic grip.
One of the standout features of these shears is the thumb adjustment ball bearings on the tension screw. This innovative design allows for a customizable cutting experience, enabling each stylist to calibrate the shears to their own preferred tension with ease.
“The Sensei 5.5 shears are my secret weapon,” says Austin-based stylist, Henry Nguyen. “The Japanese ZA-18 steel is incredibly durable and holds an edge like no other. The thumb adjustment ball bearings are a brilliant touch—they let me fine-tune the tension to suit different cutting techniques. These shears are an extension of my artistry, and I can’t imagine working without them.”
With a lifetime warranty included, Shihan Shears stands firmly behind the quality and craftsmanship of the Sensei shears, offering peace of mind and assurance of their enduring performance.
Hattori Hanzo Shears – Kamikaze
With a price tag of $1300.00, the Hattori Hanzo HH1 Kamikaze shears are a premium investment in your craft, designed for stylists who demand nothing but the best from their tools. These shears are part of Hanzo’s exclusive high-carbon family, reflecting a commitment to exceptional quality and performance.
The Kamikaze is designed with a wide blade and exaggerated radius, features that make it excel at dry slide cutting. This design allows it to cut through coarse, dry hair with ease, making it an invaluable tool for stylists who do a lot of dry finishing or detail work. Whether it’s channel cutting, slide cutting, carving, face-framing, point cutting, or layering, the Kamikaze is crafted to deliver precise and beautiful results every time.
This model is especially useful for curly hair, which is typically cut dry. The curved shape of the shears is designed to follow the curl pattern, allowing for natural and flattering cuts that enhance the hair’s natural texture.
“The Kamikaze shears are a masterpiece,” says New York-based stylist, Elena Rodriguez. “Their wide blade and exaggerated radius are perfect for dry slide cutting, and they glide through curly hair like a dream. They are incredibly precise, making detailed work a joy. Despite the investment, they are worth every penny for the level of craftsmanship and performance they offer.”
Hair Scissor
Crafted from premium high-carbon Japanese stainless steel, the Kamikaze shears are built to last, and their permanent finger rest, counter-sunk locking tension control, and screw-in bumper are thoughtful additions that enhance user comfort and control.
With a lifetime warranty included, Hattori Hanzo Shears stands behind the enduring quality of the Kamikaze, offering stylists peace of mind with their investment.
Available in a swivel design and left-handed versions, and with a 5.5-inch length option that has a more exaggerated radius specifically designed for dry slide cutting, the Kamikaze shears are adaptable to a wide range of stylist preferences and needs.
Hattori Hanzo Shears – Mamba
Priced at $842.00, the Hattori Hanzo Shears HHV Mamba is designed to be a versatile powerhouse in the hands of a dedicated stylist. This shear is a natural wet/dry hybrid, developed with high-carbon dry cutting steel, offering the best of both worlds for stylists who demand flexibility and precision in their tools.
The Mamba is dubbed a “hybrid shear” because, while it boasts outstanding dry cutting properties, it features the blade design of a narrow, precision wet cutting shear. This unique combination makes it a standout choice for stylists who need their tools to be as adaptable as they are.
With a handle design reminiscent of classic Sassoon handles, the HHV Mamba is constructed with a slight offset and a minor rounded thumb, features that are designed to increase comfort and control during use. The small whip tang is a strategic part of the design with the freestyle cutter in mind, allowing the user to manipulate the position of the shear in their hands with ease.
“The Mamba is my go-to shear,” says Los Angeles-based stylist, Michaela Davis. “Its hybrid design is perfect for my diverse clientele. I love the classic Sassoon handle—it’s comfortable and gives me incredible control. The option for a 4.5-inch size is a dream come true for detailed work. It’s clear that these shears were designed with the stylist’s needs at the forefront.”
The Mamba is available in a wide variety of sizes, starting at 4.5 inches and going up to 6.5 inches, distributed by half-inch sizes. Notably, it is the only shear that Hattori Hanzo offers in a 4.5-inch configuration, catering to the true Sassoon short scissor enthusiast.
For left-handed barbers and stylists, the Mamba is also available in a left-handed configuration, listed as the Hattori Hanzo Shears HHVL.
With a lifetime warranty and a 15-day “Love it or Leave it” guarantee, Hattori Hanzo Shears demonstrates a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and confidence in the enduring quality of their product.
Saki Shears – Saki Katana
Priced at an accessible $179.00, the Saki Katana shears are designed to be the go-to choice for master barbers, advanced hair stylists, and professional hairdressers alike. These shears are celebrated as the most popular model in the Saki Shears lineup, and for good reason—they are crafted to deliver exceptional performance with every cut.
The Saki Katana shears feature extra-long crane shape handles, designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic grip that reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. The ball-bearing screw is a standout feature, ensuring that each cut is fantastically smooth and precise.
The thick and short sword back blades are designed to make cutting exceptionally soft and effortless, allowing for precise control whether you are performing blunt cuts, wet cuts, or dry cuts. The transparent screw-in silencer is a thoughtful addition, minimizing noise for a more peaceful and focused cutting experience.
“The Saki Katana shears are a staple in my toolkit,” says Chicago-based stylist, Adrianne Lewis. “The extra-long crane shape handle is incredibly comfortable, and the ball-bearing screw makes each cut feel smooth and controlled. The Japanese 440C stainless steel is top-notch, and I can feel the quality with every snip. These shears are perfect for detailed work and have truly elevated my craft.”
Crafted from premium Japanese 440C stainless steel, known for its exceptional hardness and durability, these shears are built to last. The convex edge, with a hardness rating of 59~61 HRC, ensures that the shears maintain their sharpness and integrity over time.
With a lifetime warranty included, Saki Shears stands firmly behind the quality and craftsmanship of the Saki Katana, offering peace of mind and assurance of their enduring performance.
The Saki Katana shears are perfect for those who demand excellence from their tools, reflecting the artistry and professionalism of the user.
Saki Shears – Saki Kotaro Set
Priced at $229.00, the Saki Kotaro Hair Shear Set is where sophisticated style meets professional craftsmanship. This set is designed for stylists who are serious about their craft and want a tool that is both visually stunning and exceptionally functional.
Handmade using premium Japanese 440C stainless steel, known for its remarkable hardness and durability, these shears are designed to provide smooth, precise cutting on both wet and dry hair. The super sharp Japanese style convex blade, with a hardness rating of 60-61 HRC, ensures that each cut is clean and exact, allowing stylists to work with confidence and precision.
The Saki Kotaro set features an offset handle with a removable finger rest, designed for the ultimate in comfort. This ergonomic design is a standout feature, helping to prevent fatigue in the hand, wrist, and elbow, even during long cutting sessions. These shears are perfect for slide cutting on wet or dry hair, offering versatility that is appreciated by all stylists.
“The Saki Kotaro Set is a revelation in my daily work,” says Miami-based stylist, Carlos Rivera. “The Japanese 440C stainless steel is incredibly sharp and durable, and the ergonomic design of the handle is a lifesaver—it aligns so naturally with my hand, making each cut feel intuitive and effortless. The thinning shears are perfect for adding texture and removing bulk without sacrificing control. This set is a true extension of my art.”
Available in 5.5 and 6 inches, and also in a left-handed configuration, the Kotaro Shears Set is designed to be a perfect fit for all stylists, regardless of hand size or cutting style.
The set also includes a pair of Kotaro Thinning Shears, available in 5.75 inches with 27 teeth or 6 inches with 30 teeth. These thinning shears are designed to remove bulk, add texture, and thin out the hair while providing control and comfort.
With a lifetime warranty included, Saki Shears stands firmly behind the quality and craftsmanship of the Saki Kotaro Set, offering peace of mind and assurance of their enduring performance.
As a final touch, the set includes a hair razor and a luxurious leather carrying case, ensuring that your tools are always protected and ready for action.
Shihan Shears – Soke 6 Inch
Priced at $250.00, the Soke hair cutting shears from Shihan Shears are designed for top stylists and barbers who demand the highest quality in their tools. As a leading stylist, you deserve tools that are as dedicated to perfection as you are, and the Soke shears are crafted to meet that standard.
Made with Japanese ATS-314 High Cobalt Blend Steel, these shears are celebrated for their exceptional sharpness and durability. This premium material, known for its hardness of 62-63 HRC, ensures that the shears maintain their edge over time, allowing stylists to consistently deliver precise and clean cuts.
The Soke shears feature a convex blade, designed for superior sharpness and precision. The thumb adjustment ball bearings on the tension screw are a standout feature, allowing for a customizable cutting experience. This innovative design enables each stylist to calibrate the shears to their own preferred tension with ease, ensuring that the shears are an extension of the stylist’s own hand.
“The Soke shears are my trusted companion,” says San Francisco-based stylist, Liam Chen. “The Japanese ATS-314 steel is incredibly sharp and holds an edge beautifully. The thumb adjustment ball bearings are a game-changer—they let me fine-tune the tension to suit different cutting techniques. These shears are impeccably crafted and have truly elevated my work to a new level.”
Measuring 6.0 inches in size, these shears are comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time, making them a reliable choice for busy professionals. They are also designed for right-handed use, ensuring a natural and ergonomic grip.
In the world of hairstyling, the right tools are not just a necessity; they are an extension of the artist’s hand. Investing in a high-quality pair of shears is akin to a painter investing in high-quality brushes—it makes a tangible difference in the final result. The shears we’ve highlighted in this article are among the best in the industry, designed with both the professional stylist and the at-home enthusiast in mind. They are crafted from premium materials, designed for ergonomic comfort and precision, and are backed by warranties that attest to their durability and quality. Whether you are a seasoned professional or are taking your first steps into the world of hairstyling, these shears are worthy of your consideration.
Choosing the perfect pair of shears is a deeply personal decision. It’s about finding that perfect balance between comfort, style, and performance. It’s about selecting a tool that feels like a natural extension of your hand, allowing you to execute your craft with confidence and precision. The shears on this list offer a range of options, from versatile hybrids that excel in both wet and dry cutting, to specialized tools designed for detailed work. With options at various price points, and available in both right-handed and left-handed configurations, there is a perfect pair of shears here for every stylist.
Cutting your own hair or others’ doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and with the right pair of shears, it can even be a joy. Remember the wise words of our featured professionals: the right tools make all the difference. Investing in a quality pair of shears is investing in your craft, your confidence, and the satisfaction of your clients or the health of your own hair. So take the plunge, select a pair of shears that speaks to you, and elevate your hairstyling to an art form.
