Kasho - the artistry of Japanese steel blades
Choosing a new pair of scissors is not only an important and personal purchase but also an investment. An investment in yourself and your craft. The aim of this article is to help you understand the ins and outs of a very specific element of your scissors: the steel and its origin.
On the surface it’s not a very exhilarating topic, but it’s an incredibly important one and I’m going to explain why understanding scissor steel is crucial for unlocking the magic in your hands.
When it comes to investing in new scissors, not all steels are created equal, and we’re here to break down the nitty-gritty – VG10 vs. sintered, Japanese vs. German – with a crystal-clear message:
Japanese scissors are the real winner.
WHY DOES STEEL MATTER?
Before we dive into the ‘steel showdown’, let’s address the elephant in the salon – why does it even matter? Well, your scissors are singularly the most important tool in your toolbox and the type of steel they’re made of can make all the difference between a meh cut and a slay-all-day masterpiece. It also makes a massive difference in the longevity and consistency of the sharpness of your scissors.
VG10 STEEL – THE CROWN OF THE JEWEL
VG10, the VIP of Japanese steel, crafted for samurai swords – means business. VG10 is all about that razor-sharp edge – the kind of precision that can turn a haircut into a work of art.
It is known for its high hardness, typically ranging from 59 to 61 HRC (Rockwell Hardness C scale). This level of hardness allows for excellent edge retention, meaning the blade can maintain its sharpness through extended use.
But there’s more! VG10 doesn’t just play the sharp game; it’s the MVP of durability and corrosion resistance.
SINTERED STEEL – THE TOUGH COOKIE
Sintered steel is used in the Kasho Millennium scissor – the unsung durability hero. Think of sintered steel as the “Tough Guy” of the scissor world – strong, resilient, and ready for any hair adventure, yet it’s light. A scissor forged with sintered steel feels almost weightless in your hand. It’s an unmatched experience.
Through the magic of blending and compacting metal powders, sintered steel emerges as the heavyweight champion, promising you a scissor partner that stands the test of time.
JAPANESE VS. GERMAN – SPOILER ALERT. JAPAN TAKES THE CROWN
Japanese Steel:
- Precision Perfected: Japanese steel is the Picasso of the hair world and crafts details like no other.
- Feather-Light Magic: Japanese scissors are sleek and nimble, giving you the control for those intricate styles.
- Style and Substance: They’re not just scissors; they’re a fashion statement – sleek, stylish, and undeniably fab.
German Steel:
- Solid Durability: German steel is the workhorse – solid, durable, and built for endurance.
- Powerful Performance: German scissors carry a bit more weight, perfect for those who love a powerful cut.
THE TAKEAWAY – JAPANESE STEEL WINS!
When you’re eyeing those shiny new scissors, remember this: Japanese scissors are the holy grail of the hairstyling universe. VG10 steel brings precision, durability, and a touch of glamour to your fingertips. It’s not just a purchase; it’s an investment in your craft, your clients, and the professional that is you.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the hair game choose Japanese, as you deserve scissors that truly represent the work you want to be your hairdressing legacy.