The Difference Between Shears and Scissors Explained

Do you ever struggle to figure out the difference between shears and scissors? Have you been in the market for a good pair of quality cutlery, but don’t know which tool is best? I mean is there even a difference? If this sounds familiar, then listen up! District Cutlery is here to help shine some light on the difference between shears and scissors. From comfortability to strength, we’ll explain why one may be more suitable than the other when it comes to your cutting needs.

Is There A Difference Between Shears and Scissors?

Yes! This isn't some "U.S. vs. British English" debate. Shears and scissors are two different tools. The main difference between them is their length and the type of material they are made from. Shears are usually longer than scissors, ranging from 8-10 inches in length, while most scissors max out at 7 inches. This added length gives shears more leverage which makes it easier to cut through materials such as fabric

What Are Shears?

Shears are mainly used in gardening and crafting. They are typically made from steel and have a serrated edge, which aids with grip while cutting through fabric. The handles of shears also tend to be slightly curved so that your entire hand can fit comfortably when using them. This ergonomic design makes them easier to use for long periods of time without straining or causing discomfort.

Shears are also heavier than scissors and have much thicker blades, making them the ideal choice for cutting through tougher materials such as leather or thick fabric. The extra length of shears makes it easier to accurately cut with precision, which is perfect for doing intricate work like sewing.

What Are Scissors?

Scissors, on the other hand, are typically smaller than shears and made from a lighter material, such as stainless steel. They also don’t have the same serrated edge that shears do and their blades are usually thinner, making them better suited for cutting through thin or delicate materials such as paper or thread.

The handles of scissors are usually straight in design so that they fit comfortably in your hand . This design makes them easier to use with one hand and also allows you to have greater control over the amount of pressure applied when cutting through materials.

Which Tool Is Best For Which Job Type?

When it comes to deciding which tool is best for your specific cutting needs, usually the choice between shears and scissors will come down to length, material strength, comfortability, and desired detail.

For tasks that require a lot of precision like sewing or crafting with fabrics, then shears are generally the better choice. The extra length gives you added leverage when cutting through material, while the serrated edge ensures an excellent grip when in use. Shears are also great for gardening tasks, such as pruning and trimming branches or cutting through thick weeds.

For tougher materials, such as meat or leather, shears are also the right tool for the job. The thicker blades and heavier build of shears make them better for cutting through these more robust materials with ease.

Scissors are great for everyday tasks such as snipping herbs or trimming your hair. The lighter material and smaller size will give you greater control over the amount of pressure applied when cutting. They are also great for tasks that require detailed precision, such as trimming photographs or paper crafts.

So if you’re ever in doubt when selecting your next pair of cutlery, just remember this: Shears are best for longer and tougher materials while scissors are better suited for thin and delicate materials. Here at District Cutlery, we have a variety of quality shears and scissors to suit your needs, so be sure to check us out! We even offer shear and scissor sharpening services to keep your cutlery sharp and in perfect condition. So why wait? Get cutting today!