What size hairdressing scissors to choose: how to measure them and which size for each use
The right size of hairdressing scissors depends mainly on technique and hand: 5.5″ for precision and details, 6″ for everyday cutting, 6.5″ for slide cutting and large sections and 7″ for scissor over comb. Length is measured in inches (1″ = 2.54 cm), from the blade tip to the end of the ring, excluding the finger rest. If you are not sure where to start, 6″ is the most versatile size.
How to measure hairdressing scissors
- Size is given in inches and refers to the overall length: from the blade tip to the end of the longer ring.
- The finger rest does not count: two 6″ scissors can look different if one has a longer finger rest.
- Blade length matters too: at the same overall size, a longer blade cuts larger sections and a shorter one gives more control at the tip.
- To convert: inches × 2.54 = centimetres.
Size chart
| Size | approx. cm | Typical use | Hand | Client and cut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5″ | 12.7 | Extreme precision, details, fringes | Small | Finishing, work very close to the head |
| 5.5″ | 14.0 | Precision: outlines, point cutting, short cuts | Small or medium | Short cuts for women and men, clean lines |
| 6″ | 15.2 | General cutting, the most versatile | Medium | Everyday salon use, all cuts |
| 6.5″ | 16.5 | Slide and slice cutting, large sections | Medium or large | Long hair, bobs, perimeters |
| 7″ | 17.8 | Scissor over comb, fades | Large or barber technique | Men’s cuts, barbershop |
Scissors by size: 5.5 inch, 6 inch, 6.5 inch, 6.8 and 7 inch.
Size by hand and technique
- Rule of thumb (indicative): place the closed scissors on your open palm, with the ring in the centre of your hand. For comfortable everyday use the blade should reach roughly the tip of your middle finger; if it goes well beyond, the scissors are long for your control.
- Small hand: 5.5″ for precision, 6″ as your main scissors.
- Medium hand: 6″ as a base, 6.5″ for slide cutting.
- Large hand or barber work: 6.5–7″; the 7″ follows the comb along its whole length.
- Technique matters more than hand size: if you work a lot with the tip (point cutting, outlines) you will prefer a short blade; if you work large sections or over the comb, a long one.
Straight blade or sword blade
- Straight blade with fine tip: more precision at the tip, ideal for outlines, point cutting and details (for example TL PRO).
- Sword blade: smoother cut, ideal for slide cutting, slicing and large sections.
- Scissor over comb needs a long straight blade that follows the comb: TS7 PRO 7″.
Common mistakes
- Choosing by inches alone, without considering blade shape and technique.
- Using scissors that are too long for details: you lose control at the tip.
- Using scissors that are too short for scissor over comb: more passes and a less even result.
- Buying two scissors of the same size that do the same job: better two sizes with different functions (for example 5.5″ for precision and 6.5″ for slide), as in the PRO kits.
- Ignoring your hand: badly proportioned scissors strain wrist and shoulder.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common size for hairdressers?
6″ (about 15 cm): the most versatile for everyday cutting and suitable for most hands.
How do you measure hairdressing scissors?
From the blade tip to the end of the longer ring, in inches, excluding the finger rest. One inch equals 2.54 cm.
What size do you need for scissor over comb?
A long straight blade, usually 7″ (about 17.8 cm), that follows the comb along its whole length.
Should a small hand only use short scissors?
No: with a small hand 5.5″ is comfortable for precision, but a well-balanced 6″ can be your main scissors. Technique matters more than hand size alone.
Short or long scissors to start with?
A 6″ with a straight blade: the most versatile choice for learning and everyday work. Later you add a specific size (5.5″ or 7″) according to your technique.
Not sure which size suits you? Use Find your scissors: 4 questions about your work and we recommend the model. Or read the full guide: how to choose professional scissors.