Shear Guide

The grooming shear guide

Find the right shear.
Refine every finish.

Start with the work you do most. Choose the blade shape, length, and fit that help you groom with control and confidence.

Shop all grooming shears

Start with the shape

A different tool for every finish.

Build your kit around the cuts you make, then add specialty shears as your work calls for them.

Clean lines & everyday cutting

Straight shears

A versatile starting point for creating straight lines and even outlines. Choose a length that gives you control over the area you're shaping.

Explore straight shears
Rounding & contouring

Curved shears

Follow rounded shapes when finishing heads, legs, and other contours. Different curves offer different approaches to shaping.

Explore curved shears
Texture & coat shaping

Chunkers

Wider-spaced teeth create texture and help soften a scissored outline. Work in small passes and check the finish as you go.

Explore chunkers
Blending & finishing

Blenders & thinners

Toothed blades help soften visible lines and blend transitions. Tooth design and spacing affect how much coat each cut removes.

Explore blenders & thinners

Tooth count is only part of the picture. Blade design, coat texture, and technique also influence the result-compare each product's details before choosing.

Balance reach with control

Choose a length for the task.

Use these ranges as starting points. Your hand size, experience, and preferred technique matter just as much.

5-6.5?

Smaller areas

Shorter shears can offer more control for detailed work and compact areas.

7-7.5?

Everyday versatility

A middle-length option to consider for a mix of shaping and general grooming.

8? & up

More coverage

Longer blades cover larger areas with each cut. Choose a length you can comfortably control.

Listed length usually refers to the overall shear, rather than the cutting edge alone. Measurement methods can vary by model and manufacturer.

Feel comes first

Find a comfortable fit.

Handle position

Compare opposing, offset, and swivel designs. Choose a grip that lets you move naturally without forcing your thumb or wrist.

Finger fit

Finger inserts can help adjust the ring opening. Aim for a secure grip without squeezing.

Left-handed cutting

Look for a true left-handed shear designed for your cutting hand.

Shop left-handed shears

Look beyond the label

Understand your steel.

440C & VG-10

Both appear across professional shear ranges. Compare the specific model's steel, edge, weight, and care requirements.

Finish & coating

A colored or coated finish is different from the steel underneath. Check the base steel in the product details.

The complete shear

Steel grade alone doesn't determine performance. Blade geometry, manufacturing, maintenance, and sharpening all play a part.

Keep your kit cutting well

A little care after every groom.

Clean & dry

Remove hair and residue, follow the maker's cleaning instructions, and dry thoroughly before storage.

Oil & check tension

Use shear oil as directed. Follow your model's tension guidance rather than forcing a tight or loose blade.

Protect & service

Store shears in a protective case. If they push or fold clean coat, stop and have the tension and edge checked.

Explore sharpening service

A few common questions.

Which shears should I start with?

Start with a straight shear you can control comfortably. Add a curved shear for rounded shaping and a blender or thinner for finishing. A backup pair is useful while your main shears are being serviced.

Does a higher tooth count mean a softer cut?

Not on its own. Tooth shape, spacing, blade design, coat type, and technique all affect the cut. Compare the intended use of each model.

How often should I sharpen my shears?

It depends on use, maintenance, and the coat you cut. If performance changes, check cleanliness and tension first. Ask a professional to assess an edge that still pushes or folds coat.