Scissors – Diamond Edge
advises …..
When considering which scissors to buy there are a number of factors you
will need to consider. What will the scissors be used for? Will the scissors be
used infrequently or be in daily or constant use? Do you want scissors for a
specific purpose? You also need to consider your comfort, the weight of the
scissors and left-handed or right-handed, as some scissors are made
specifically for left-handed users. What are the scissors made from? Premium
scissors are made from harder steel and are therefore more suitable for heavy
use, they retain their sharpness longer and can still be readily sharpened
to extend their lifetime.
A professional dog groomer will require a range of scissors to ensure the
best results and selecting the correct scissors for the right job will improve
both your performance and satisfaction and give great customer service. At
Diamond Edge we can offer bespoke scissors packages to suit your requirements
and budget. Please contact us with
your requirements.
Scissor Components
How to hold Scissors
The generally accepted ‘correct’ way to hold a pair of scissors is shown
below; the first two fingers to rest on the shanks, the third finger is in the
bow of the scissors with the little finger resting on the finger rest (if
fitted) to provide additional control. The scissoring action is provided by
moving the thumb.
However - there are a number of ways to hold your scissors and the important
thing is to feel comfortable and in control when grooming. Before you start
grooming for real, try different grips to see which feels most comfortable so
that you feel confident to tackle any grooming job.
Left-Handed Scissors or Right-Handed Scissors
Many left-handed people find no problem in using right-handed scissors - in
fact, become conditioned applying the correct pressure to get right-handed
scissors to cut effectively. However, there are genuine left-handed scissors available
which may be less tiring on the hand in regular use. Left-handed scissors
have the blades reversed to ensure the correct grip and comfort during
use. We stock some left-handed scissors and have other brands available to
special order. View our full range of dog grooming scissors here.
Scissor Blades
While comfort and ease of use are very important, the key component of your
scissors are the blades. The materials used in the manufacture of the scissors
and the anticipated amount of use should be considered before purchase.
Blade Materials
There are a range of materials for scissor blades developed for either the
occasional user or the professional dog groomer using their scissors
regularly. The principal choices are:
Carbon steel scissors will provide good quality at
competitive prices. Retains a good sharp edge, but will require some routine
care. Carbon steel scissors will rust if stored in damp or humid conditions, so
we recommend a wipe with fine oil after use and at the end of each working day
to protect your scissors.
Stainless steel scissors are by far the most popular
and forgiving of scissors in regular professional use. Good quality stainless
steel scissors will provide the answer to the majority of grooming
requirements.
High cobalt stainless steel scissors are the premium
quality of scissors available. They have extremely hard steel blades to
retain a fine cutting edge,and most are hand-honed for an exceptionally
smooth action. Will reduce strain on the hand in use, particularly important
for large, scissored breeds.
Types of Dog Grooming Scissors
Straight Scissors
The most commonly used scissors, offering a wide range of sizes to suit all
users for weight and blade length. Scissor sizes shown represent the overall
length of the scissors, not the blade length.
Micro-serrations Scissors
Micro-serrations are, as the name suggests,very fine grooves machined
into the cutting edges of your scissors, as can be seen in the picture above.
They help to grip the hair and reduce blade "fatigue" when the
cutting edges may begin to become dull through constant use. Many new scissors
are now supplied with one blade micro-serrated. When sharpening, any
existing serrations are inevitably removed, so should be specified if you wish
them to be replaced. We can also micro-serrate new un-serrated scissors if
required, please specify when ordering.
Thinning Scissors
30 tooth, double-serrated
thinning scissors
Thinning scissors are used to lighten a heavy coat by removing some of the
density of the coat, they may also be used for blending different lengths of
coat without the defined edges which can be left with straight scissors.
Thinning scissors come in double or single-serrated versions
and generally come in three tooth pitches, fine, medium and coarse. View our full range of thinning scissors here.
Double or single-serrated-Double-serrated thinning scissors (as
shown above)have teeth on both blades and will generally take out less coat and
leave a more natural, feathered finish. Single-serrated thinning scissors have
teeth on one blade and one plain blade. The plain blade may be used to lift the
coat, prior to cutting.
46fine tooth scissors- remove more coat than coarser tooth
scissors.Ideal for use on fine silky coats. Only available in
single-serrated version, as the teeth would not line up if double-serrated.
30 medium tooth scissors- Recommended for dog grooming beginners.
Ideal for use on medium weight coats. Available in double or single-serrated
versions.
24 coarse tooth scissors-For use with heavy or dense
coats. Available in double or single-serrated versions.
Curved Blade Scissors
Curved blade scissors are manufactured to curve gently along the length of
the blade, allowing easier shaping of the coat, as the shaped blades follow the
contours of the body.
Bent Shank Scissors
Bent shank scissors are manufactured with a bend in the shanks of the
scissors to allow the blades to run parallel with the body, keeping your
fingers out of the way.
Rounded Tip Safety Scissors
Rounded or ball-tipped scissors are used for safely grooming delicate
areas such as the face and feet. Particularly useful for trimming between the pads,
especially for active dogs. Straight and curved blades available.
