Choosing the right hair scissor makes a real difference to how you work. This guide walks through the three questions you should ask before buying your first — or your next — pair of Mina shears.
1. What size do I need?
Scissor size is measured in inches from the tip of the blade to the end of the finger hole. It is personal — there is no single “right” size — but a few rules of thumb help.
| Size | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| 5.0” | Students, apprentices, detail work, small hands |
| 5.5” | General salon work — our most versatile size |
| 6.0” | Classic all-rounder, longer cutting strokes, barbering |
| 6.5” | Barbering, scissor-over-comb, experienced stylists |
| 7.0” | Specialist barbering and long-hair work |
If you are unsure, 5.5” is the most popular size across working hairdressers and makes a sensible default for your first professional shear.
2. What’s my experience level?
Students and Apprentices
You are learning to cut, build muscle memory, and develop your own style. You want a shear that rewards good technique without costing a fortune to replace if you lose it.
Recommended: Mina Jay, Mina Matte Black
Working Stylists
You cut every day and need a shear that holds its edge, feels balanced after six hours on the salon floor, and can be sharpened professionally when needed.
Recommended: Mina Umi, Mina Sakura
Experienced Professionals
You have preferences — tension, handle shape, blade profile — and you want a shear that gives you fine control. You may own multiple pairs for different work.
Recommended: Mina Timeless, Mina Black Diamond
Barbers
You work with short hair, clipper-over-comb, fades, and beard detail. You need a shear built for precision and short blade strokes.
Recommended: Mina Barber Shears
3. What’s my cutting style?
- Blunt cutting and one-length work — longer blades (6.0”–6.5”) give cleaner, straighter lines
- Layering and point cutting — medium blades (5.5”–6.0”) give more control
- Slide cutting and texture work — shorter blades (5.0”–5.5”) give finer control
- Thinning and texturising — our thinning shears are all 6.0” with 30 teeth, designed to remove weight without visible lines
Hand Fit
Comfort matters more than size. If a shear is the right length but the wrong handle shape for your hand, you will feel it in your wrist by the end of the day. Every Mina shear is designed with an ergonomic offset handle that places less strain on the thumb.
If you are between sizes, we recommend going slightly smaller for better control and less fatigue.
Still Not Sure?
If you have a specific need — a particular cutting style, a hand condition, or a question about which of our ranges fits your budget — just contact us. Our team in Tokyo reads every enquiry personally and we are happy to recommend a model for your situation.