Tanaka Scissors are hand-made Japanese hair cutting scissors for stylists who want precise, comfortable cutting. Every model is made from Tamahagane steel and finished with a ball-bearing adjustable tension, an engraved serial number and a lifetime warranty.
Start with the length you use most. Most Tanaka models are offered in 5.5-inch or 6.0-inch sizes. A 5.5-inch scissor gives control for point cutting, fringe work and detailed sections, while a 6.0-inch scissor is a versatile all-round size for salon cutting. The 6.5-inch KINGU is discontinued and no longer available. Blade length, handle shape and weight all affect how the scissor feels in your hand, so compare the specifications before choosing.
Each model shares the Tanaka construction: Tamahagane steel, a precision edge, adjustable ball-bearing tension and a permanent finger rest. The names come from Japanese words; the character of each scissor is described on its product page.
For removing bulk without changing the outline, use KUZURI, a 30-tooth thinning scissor with 33% thinning capacity. Keep a cutting scissor and a thinning scissor separate so each edge stays true to its job.
Keep the blades clean and dry, store the scissor closed and protect the edge from drops. Professional sharpening preserves the cutting geometry; Tanaka's scissor sharpening service is available for Japanese shears. Do not use household scissors for hair, and do not cut paper or synthetic materials with a professional hair scissor.
Most stylists use 5.5-inch scissors for detail work and 6.0-inch scissors for general cutting. The right size depends on your hand size, cutting technique and the sections you cut most often.
Hair scissors have a solid cutting edge for clean lines. Thinning shears have teeth and remove a controlled amount of bulk; KUZURI is Tanaka's 30-tooth thinning scissor with 33% thinning capacity.
Tanaka Scissors are hand-made professional hair cutting shears made from Tamahagane steel, with ball-bearing adjustable tension, an engraved serial number and a lifetime warranty.