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How to Sharpen Barber Scissors?
If there’s one tool that speaks for you in every service, it’s your scissors. And you know it. That’s why, if you’re wondering how to sharpen barber scissors without ruining the edge, how to keep them in top condition, or when it’s time to put them to the stone… you’re in the right place. Here at Beardburys, we’ve spent many years training barbers and working with precision tools, so let us guide you step by step to keep your scissors performing like they did on day one.
And if you need the quick version, here it is: scissors should be sharpened every two to four months, using a medium-fine grit stone or a specific scissor sharpener, always keeping the original angle and using smooth, one-way strokes. That’s what ensures a clean cut, no pulling, and the smoothness every client notices.
By the way: if your scissors are already giving you trouble… it might be time to upgrade to professional barber scissors that can keep up with your pace.
Let’s dive into the full guide, barber!
Why it’s important to keep scissors sharp
In this craft, every detail shows. Sharp scissors give you control, flow, and precision. And yes, they also save you more than one headache. Sharpening isn’t a luxury—it’s part of the ritual of a good barber.
Here’s what you gain when you maintain a proper edge:
Cleaner, more precise cuts without going over the same section
No more pulling that makes clients frown
Real durability: your tools last longer
A feeling of professionalism from the very first close
A smoother, faster work rhythm
If you feel resistance while cutting, hear metallic friction, or have to squeeze harder than usual… your scissors aren’t asking: they’re demanding sharpening.
When to sharpen barber scissors
Barber, if you use your scissors daily—as most do—the edge won’t last forever. There’s no exact date, but there are very clear signs:
Pulling or snagging, even on fine hair
Rough or metallic sound when opening and closing
You need to apply extra pressure to make the blades meet
The finish is no longer clean
You see small irregularities along the edge
In most barber shops, sharpening every two to four months is standard. If your schedule is packed, it may be even sooner.
How to sharpen barber scissors step by step
If you want to do the sharpening yourself, perfect. Just one request: care. Scissors don’t forgive mistakes.
Here’s the process exactly as we teach it in training:
1. Pre-cleaning
Use a soft cloth to remove any hair or product residue. Sharpening with debris is like rubbing sand on glass.
2. Disassemble the scissors
If your model allows it, separate the blades by removing the central screw. You’ll gain access, precision, and safety.
3. Choose the right tool
Ideally: a medium-fine grit stone (between 1000 and 6000) or a specific sharpener for hairdressing scissors. No improvising with objects not designed for this.
4. Respect the original angle
This is sacred. Every pair of scissors has its own bevel, and changing it can ruin them forever.
5. Controlled movements
Run the blade along the stone with soft, consistent strokes, always in the same direction. No back-and-forth. Smoothness rules here.
6. Reassembly and adjustment
After removing any metal dust, reassemble the scissors and adjust the screw until you get that smooth but firm closing tension.
7. Cutting test
Test on paper or a synthetic strand. If it cuts with the same elegance you work with, it’s ready.
And if doing it yourself feels intimidating… no worries. That’s what sharpening professionals are for.
At-home methods vs. professional sharpening
At-home sharpening
You can perform some light maintenance and extend the life of the edge, but if you lack technique or proper tools, there’s risk.
Professional sharpening
This is foolproof. Full respect for the blade’s angle, calibrated machinery, and a uniform edge. Many barbers combine light self-maintenance with periodic professional sharpening—and it works.
Our recommended Takimura scissors
If you want your day-to-day workflow to be smooth, Takimura professional scissors are a safe choice. They’re made from Japanese SUS 440C steel, one of the most durable steels in the industry. They open and close smoothly, maintain their edge longer, and reduce fatigue.
Recommended Scissors Table
| Model | Size | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Takimura 5.5" | 13.97 cm | Precision cuts and small areas |
| Takimura 6" | 15.24 cm | Versatile cutting for any style |
| Takimura 6½" | 16.51 cm | Broad, fluid cuts |
| Takimura 7" | 17.78 cm | Ideal for fades and fast cuts |
| Takimura 7½" | 19.05 cm | Large volumes and beards |
| Takimura Thinning 6½" | 16.51 cm | Controlled texturizing and thinning |
Tips to make the edge last longer
Barber, if you take care of your scissors, they take care of your reputation. Simple as that:
Clean the blades after every use
Adjust screw tension from time to time
Store them in their case—never loose
Lubricate the pivot for smooth movement
Avoid cutting paper, plastic, or fabric
Never leave them damp or with product residue
The key is care. Scissors are with you every day—treat them as they deserve.
Common mistakes when sharpening scissors
We see these daily in training, so take them seriously:
Using stones that are too abrasive and destroy the edge
Accidentally changing the blade’s angle
Sharpening without cleaning first (ruins the steel)
Incorrectly reassembling the central screw
Testing directly on a client without a prior test
Avoiding these mistakes is nearly as important as sharpening correctly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to sharpen barber scissors is a fundamental skill in this trade. It’s what allows you to work with precision, protect your clients’ hair, and maintain your pace without frustration. Your scissors are an extension of your hands, and when you take care of them, they respond with clean cuts, smooth movement, and impeccable finishes.
At Beardburys, we’re with you every step of the way. From sharpening to choosing your next scissors, we want you to enjoy every cut and ensure your work always matches your talent.
F&Q
How often should barber scissors be sharpened?
Every two to four months, depending on usage.
Can I sharpen them myself without damaging them?
Yes, as long as you respect the angle and have the right tools.
What happens if I work with dull scissors?
Pulling, split ends, wear and tear on your hands and worse results.
Which stone is better?
A medium-fine grit stone (1000–6000) or a sharpener specifically designed for professional scissors.
Is the sharpening angle always the same?
No. Each model has its own angle and it must be respected.
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