Many people think all professional scissors are the same, but hairdressers and barbers use different tools for different jobs. The design, length, weight, and cutting style of the scissors you use can completely change the quality of your work. Understanding the difference between hairdressing scissors and barber scissors helps you choose the right tool and get the best results for your cutting style.
Hairdressers usually work with shorter scissors, typically 5.5” to 6.0”. These lengths give more control for detailed techniques such as point cutting, slide cutting, layering, and shaping. Shorter blades make it easier to work close to the head and create soft, blended results. This is why stylists and salon professionals often choose scissors like the Shogun GHOST 6.0 or Shogun ROSA 5.5, which offer precise control and smooth cutting for all salon techniques.
Barbers, on the other hand, prefer longer scissors, usually 6.5” to 7.0”. Longer blades make scissor-over-comb faster and more efficient, allowing barbers to cut more hair in fewer strokes and create clean, sharp lines. They also provide a better reach when working on men’s cuts and classic barbering styles. This is why the Shogun GHOST 7.0 is extremely popular among barbers — it’s powerful, sharp, and perfectly balanced for fast, accurate cutting.
The difference isn’t only in size. Barber scissors tend to be slightly heavier and straighter, giving more stability and cutting power. Hairdressing scissors often have more ergonomic handles to support detail work and long salon sessions. Both types can be razor sharp, but they’re built for different purposes.
Another important difference is the type of steel. The best hairdressing and barber scissors use Japanese steel, which stays sharper longer, cuts smoother, and gives the level of precision professionals need. Whether you’re a barber or a stylist, using scissors with high-quality Japanese steel makes your work faster, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
This is exactly why Shogun Scissors are trusted by both barbers and hairdressers across the UK. Every Shogun scissor is crafted with Japanese steel, ergonomic comfort, and the perfect balance for professional performance. Stylists choose Shogun for precision and control, while barbers choose Shogun for speed, sharpness, and power.
In the end, the difference between hairdresser and barber scissors comes down to size, technique, and the type of work you do. Hairdressers work best with 5.5”–6.0” scissors, barbers prefer 6.5”–7.0”, and Japanese steel is the top choice for both. If you want the best results in your craft, Shogun Scissors are the best hairdressing and barber scissors in the UK, built for professionals who want exceptional quality and performance every day.
