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Kanpeki Hairdressing Scissors
Kanpeki hairdressing scissors are manufactured from a range of Japanese and American stainless steel because of its time proven reputation for high and consistent quality. The preferred hardness rating of this steel is between 55 and 63 HRC Rockwell which we believe offers the necessary combination of ductility for impact resilience and the hardness to ensure maximum scissor blade life.
How to Choose Hairdressing Scissors
Hairdressing scissors are generally made from different grades and blends of stainless steel with a hardness range from 52 to 67 HRC Rockwell.
The best steels come from Japan and the USA, countries that, over time, are proven to make a consistently high grade product. Softer steels, 52-55 HRC are more malleable, so are less likely to chip but, being softer, their cutting life is shorter and they will loose their cutting edge quicker.
As the hardness rating is increased the blade life is extended.
The main three parts of a scissor are the blade, handle and tensioner.
The blade edge is generally either bevel or convex. Bevel edge is the oldest design, the angle of the edge is steep and most durable. Serrations are sometimes added to help hold the hair, this can add a rough and noisy effect to the blade performance.
Convex blades are the more recent technology. This blade edge has a finer angle with a honed cutting line, it is also hollow ground, producing a smooth quiet cutting action.
Hairdressing Scissor handles come in 2 main styles, opposing or offset. Opposing finger holes are the traditional design with the finger and thumb travelling in the same plain which can get uncomfortable over time as the hand is not open. The more recent offset design allows you to cut with a more open hand, hence less hand and wrist fatigue.
The scissor tensioner allows you to make the necessary adjustments for optimum blade contact. Poorly adjusted scissors are a common reason for cutting issues. If the tension is to tight it increases blade resistance, pushes the hair and blunts the blade, to loose and the hair will bend or fold and the blades will connect unevenly. For optimum tension, hold the scissor by the thumb hole, blades fully open. Release the top handle, allowing gravity to close the blades. They should stop with around 10 to 20mm of travel left, depending on the scissor weight and length.
A reputable supplier should offer a lifetime warranty against any manufacturing or material defect.
Factories that use quality material and employ skilled craftsmen with robust quality checks will produce a product that is built to last and consistent in quality.
Your scissor is an extension to your arm, controlled by your hands it’s length, fit and weight must be right for you to produce your best results.
Do consider in particular the scissor handle design. Research shows that there are benefits of using an ergonomic offset handle. Repetitive cutting action with the thumb in an unnatural movement can develop into injury such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
For scissor sizing, a basic guide is to lay the closed scissor in the palm of your hand with the top handle hole on the base of your thumb. The blade tip should reach the bottom of your nail on your middle finger. A good connection of your fingers and thumb in the handle is essential for comfort and blade control. Your index finger resting on the front and ring finger on the rest will add stability, balance and precise blade direction.
Your scissor is the main tool of your trade so confidence in its performance and pride in its quality and design will help you achieve your best results.