<blockquote class="source-note"><p class="small text-muted mt-3">Source baseline: ScissorPedia research index and JapanShears distributor data — Document supporting interviews or shop quotes in the editorial log.</p></blockquote>
Every shear in your kit should solve a specific problem. Use this stack-aligned guide—built from our Shear Selection Hub—to stock the right tools for each persona and climate.
Core Cutting Shears
| Type | Length | Edge | Persona Fit | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Precision cutter | 4.75” – 5.5” | Convex | Modern Influencer, Apprentice | Fringe work, beard architecture, camera-ready detailing |
| All-rounder | 5.75” – 6.25” | Convex / Hybrid | Business Owner, Mobile Barber | Clipper clean-up, point cutting, mid-length crops |
| Long barber shear | 6.5” – 7.5” | Bevel / Sword | Traditional Craftsman | Scissor-over-comb tapers, bulk removal, flat tops |
Texturising & Thinning Tools
| Tool | Teeth | Cut % | Best For | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blender | 28–32 | ~35% | Blending clipper lines, apprentices refining work | Close fully before storing to protect teeth |
| Chunker | 14–18 | ~25% | Debulking thick crowns, curl control | Work off the ends; never near the scalp |
| Finisher | 40+ | ~10% | Adding air to mullets, longer crops | Take multiple light passes to avoid frizz |
Texturiser cadences live in the Maintenance SOP; log every service.
Specialty Builds
- Swivel thumb (5.75”–6.25”) – Keeps wrists neutral during filming or high-angle work. Perfect for content-focused crews.
- Left-hand grinds – True reverse blades protect southpaw barbers from RSI. Stock at least one per left-handed team member.
- Mobile kits – Lightweight 6” hybrid cutters plus 30-tooth blenders travel well and survive airport knocks.
Explore deeper in the Specialty Shears guide and the Left-Handed kit guide.
Match Tools to Australian Climate
| Climate | Core Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Coastal (NSW, WA) | Stainless-rich steels, nightly anti-corrosion oil, silica packs in storage |
| Inland dust (SA, NT) | Beveled blades for durability, pivot blow-outs before oiling |
| Tropical (QLD north) | ATS-314 or powder steels, sealed cases, 3-month sharpening during Wet |
Climate tactics are detailed in the Climate Care playbook.
Build a Persona-Aligned Kit
- Traditional Craftsman – 7” sword bevel + 5.5” convex detailer + 30-tooth blender.
- Modern Influencer – 6” swivel convex + 5” precision shear + micro-tooth finisher for airy texture.
- Business Owner – 6.25” hybrid workhorse + 6.75” bulk remover + matched blender for staff consistency.
- Apprentice – 5.75” hybrid starter + 28-tooth blender + mentoring deck from the
Apprentice Upgrade guide.
Purchase Checklist
- Audit service mix and persona priorities.
- Confirm steel specs with authorised Australian distributors (see
docs/shear-brand-validation.md). - Test balance, tension, and handle comfort in-hand.
- Log maintenance requirements before putting the shear on the floor.
- Pair every purchase with a backup or complementary tool.
Treat each shear as a deliberate investment. When the tool meets the technique, climate, and persona you serve, it earns its place in your roll every single day.