Buyer's Guide: Kitchen Shears/Scissors
Type of Blade
Choose between straight or serrated blades
Pros
- Straight blades are great for precise cuts and trimming.
- Serrated blades are ideal for cutting through tough materials like meat and poultry.
Cons
- Straight blades can be difficult to use for left-handed people.
- Serrated blades can be harder to sharpen and maintain than straight blades.
Blade Material
Choose between stainless steel, carbon steel, or ceramic blades.
Pros
- Stainless steel blades are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Carbon steel blades are sharper and hold their edge longer than stainless steel blades.
- Ceramic blades are lightweight, sharp, and won't rust or corrode.
Cons
- Stainless steel blades may not hold their edge as well as other types of blades.
- Carbon steel blades require more maintenance and may rust if not properly cared for.
- Ceramic blades can be brittle and may break if dropped or mishandled.
Handle Material
Choose between plastic, metal, rubber
Pros
- Plastic handles are lightweight and easy to grip.
- Metal handles are durable and can withstand heavy use.
- Rubber handles provide a comfortable and non-slip grip.
Cons
- Plastic handles may not be as durable as other materials.
- Metal handles can get slippery when wet and may cause hand fatigue during extended use.
- Rubber handles may be difficult to clean and may attract dirt and grime over time.
Extra Features
Consider additional features like safety locks, bottle openers, or herb strippers when selecting a pair of kitchen shears.
Pros
- Safety locks can prevent accidents and injuries when not in use.
- Bottle openers and herb strippers can be convenient for multitasking in the kitchen.
Cons
- Extra features may not be necessary for everyone and may add to the cost of the kitchen shears.
A Step By Step Guide to Buying Kitchen Shears
Looking for the right kitchen shears can be overwhelming. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the best pair for your needs.
1. Brand Preference:
If you have a preferred brand for kitchen tools, start by checking out their selection of kitchen shears. Look for their bestsellers or any models that have good reviews.
The biggest caveat for selection by brand is Brand Intent. Did the maunfacturer design the product(kitchen scissor/knife) for the purpose you intend to use it for. There are many great knife collections that include shears/scissors. For the most part, shears in those collections are not meant to replace the knives but to complement. Usually they are meant to compliment the knives as a tool to cut non-food items. If you want to use your shears to cut food, we suggest to look elsewhere in these cases.
2. Specific Use Case or General:
Consider the specific tasks you'll be using the shears for. If you need them for cutting through meat or poultry bones, look for heavy-duty shears. If you'll be using them for general kitchen tasks, such as snipping herbs or cutting open packaging, a lightweight and versatile pair may suffice.
3. Knife Substitute or Supplement:
Decide whether you want the kitchen shears to serve as a substitute for a knife or as a supplement. If you plan to use them in place of a knife, look for shears with a sharp, pointed blade. If you're looking for a supplement to your knife set, you may want shears with additional features such as a bottle opener or nutcracker.
4. Price Range:
Set a budget for your kitchen shears. Prices can vary widely depending on the material, brand, and features. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, plastic or rubber handle shears may be a good choice. If you're willing to invest more, metal or wooden handle shears may offer greater durability and performance.
5. All-in-One:
If you're looking for a versatile option that can handle a variety of tasks, consider an "all-in-one" kitchen shear that includes features such as a bottle opener, nutcracker, or even a built-in herb stripper.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect pair of kitchen shears to add to your culinary arsenal.