With hairdressing scissors, the quality of steel really makes a big difference to how well they perform and last. So, understanding the effect steel quality has on your tools is crucial and can mean a world of difference in how you're able to cut hair as a professional. No matter if you use Japanese hair-cutting shears or any other high-quality scissors, the steel composition as well as its hardness is very important to take in mind.

Why Steel Quality Matters

The main benefit of better steels is that scissors made from them will be sharper and more long-lasting. From the purest top-grade materials and composition, such shears could potentially hold an edge for a smooth and accurate cutting experience for long periods of service time. Conversely, from cheap and poor materials, the edge may not last long, The hardness of the metal based on the Rockwell scale (HRC) is a very good indicator on whether the blades will retain their edge and avoid dulling on wear.

Common Steel Types Used in Hairdressing Scissors

Hairdressing scissors are generally made from stainless steel which is available in different grades; each and every grade or type of steel available has its composition as well as characteristics. Some of the most commonly used types of steel include the following.

• 440C Stainless Steel: This type balances hardness and corrosion resistance. It is one among many favourites when selecting good quality hairdressing scissors since it offers relatively good edge retention while being easy to sharpen.
• VG10 Steel: A premium-grade type of Japanese steel, VG10 is popularly liked because of its very high hardness and ability to hold a sharp edge. Among the Japanese hair-cutting shears; it is one of the widely used steels and is regarded as best at holding a sharp edge.
• Cobalt-Added Steel: This type of steel is even better than regular steel and holds a sharp edge for a very long time. Cobalt is added to regular steel to improve its wear-resistant ability. It is perfect for professional grade shears where accuracy is very important during salon sessions.

How Steel Hardness Affects Performance

Steel hardness is the main factor to consider in haircutting shears. Harder steel of HRC 58 and higher stays sharp longer, and it is perfect for precision cutting. The disadvantage of such steel is its brittleness. It can chip if you drop your scissors on the floor. On the other hand, softer steels are less brittle, and you won’t see chipping that often. However, they get dull quickly and have to be sharpened regularly.

The Importance of Corrosion Resistance

Among other things that hairdressing scissors encounter daily, exposure to moisture, chemicals and hair products tops the list thus corrosion resistance cannot be overemphasised. Stainless steel with high chromium content offers excellent rust and stain resistance, ensuring your scissors remain in good condition even with regular use. Scissors made from steel with added molybdenum or vanadium also boast improved corrosion resistance, making them ideal for use in a busy salon

Choosing the Right Scissors for Your Needs

There is so much more to choosing a good pair of hairdressing scissors than simply looking at the steel type, you also need to take into account your cutting style and what it is that will be required by most of your clients. If you are more focused on detailed cutting, perhaps scissors made from tougher steel with a sharper edge will work better for you — think Japanese hair-cutting shears. If you do a lot of thick or coarse hair, the cobalt may be even preferable.

Extending the Life of Your Shears

You need regular maintenance if you want your scissors to last no matter their quality. Proper cleaning and oiling, as well as careful storage, can significantly extend their usable lifespan. Likewise, only using haircutting scissors for hair prevents nicks and dings that inevitably cause blades to gradually dull.

How to Spot High-Quality Steel

When shopping for new hairdressing scissors, recognising high-quality steel is essential for making a wise investment. Here are a few key indicators to help you spot superior steel:

• Material Labels: High-quality scissors should be clearly labeled as 440C, VG10, ATS-314, and so on. These labels will tell you about the hardness and durability of the scissors, as well as about their properties in terms of edge retention. The grade of steel will indicate how well the scissors will perform.
• Brand Reputation: A lot of well-known brands list the hardness of steel in HRC and the exact composition of steel. In this case, a good brand will ensure scissors are made from high-quality materials since people would leave bad feedback.
• Country of Origin: Generally, the best steels are produced in Japan and Germany, where manufacturers have stricter regulations. Japanese hair-cutting shears are usually made from high-quality steel, meaning they are the sharpest and least likely to get dull.
• Look for Certifications: Some high-quality scissors even bring the certification about the grade of steel used and the treatment it went through. Keeping a closer eye out for such indicators will always make you feel much safer about the choice.
• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: The best way to find out how the steel is good is to keep an eye out for other professionals’ reviews. If this type of scissors boasts the absolute vast majority of positive feedback, it is much more likely to have high-quality steel that will remain sharp.
• Price Point: A clear giveaway, though not always exclusive is the price. Normally the high-quality steel costs more as they are subjected to expensive materials and better work. Although it may cost more initially, it will save money in the long due to less frequent sharpening and replacement.

It is essential to always purchase your scissors based on the above-mentioned rules. By doing so, you can be assured that every pair of hairdressing scissors you buy is sure to be a good purchase in the long run, serving its purpose and not breaking.

OSAKA Scissors: Premium Japanese Hair Cutting Shears

OSAKA Scissors believes that the quality of your tools will directly affect the quality of your work. We use the finest steel to create scissors with the best sharpness, durability, and corrosion resistance. So do not let your scissors fail halfway through, choose OSAKA Scissors which you can trust to give you the best cutting experience. Whether you are an expert or a beginner, our Japanese hair-cutting shears are the best high-standard scissors for you. Shop now and keep creating your best work.