30th Dec 2025
Steel Types Explained – Japanese 440C vs. VG10: Which Steel Is Best for Your Work?
Choosing Between 440C and VG10: A Practical Steel Guide
Steel choice affects more than “sharpness.” It impacts how long your edge lasts, how easily the blades can be maintained, how the shear feels through the cut, and how well it stands up to real-world daily use behind the chair. If you’ve ever wondered why one pair seems to stay crisp longer—or why another feels easier to service—this breakdown will help you match steel type to your workload and technique.
Why Steel Type Matters in Hair Shears
Steel influences edge retention, corrosion resistance, and the overall “feel” of the cut. It also affects maintenance: some steels are more forgiving and simpler to service, while others deliver longer-lasting performance but demand more precision when sharpening and handling. The goal isn’t to pick a “best” steel—it’s to pick the best steel for your work.
Want deeper training on shear care, adjustment, cutting performance, and long-term maintenance? Start here: Education.
Japanese 440C Steel Explained
Japanese 440C is a popular choice in professional hair shears because it offers a strong balance of durability, corrosion resistance, and easy maintenance. It can take a very sharp convex edge and is often considered a “workhorse” steel for consistent day-to-day cutting.
- Corrosion resistant for everyday professional environments
- Sharp convex edge potential with smooth cutting action
- Service-friendly and generally easier to maintain
- Reliable daily performance for high-volume work
Explore 440C options here: Craft Series shears.
VG10 Steel Explained
VG10 is a premium Japanese steel known for higher hardness and impressive edge retention. When the shear is properly built and maintained, VG10 can stay crisp longer and deliver a very clean, precise cutting feel—especially for refined technique work.
- Longer edge retention for fewer sharpening intervals
- Crisp, precise feel through the cut when properly maintained
- Wear resistant under professional use
- Best with careful handling and precise servicing
Explore VG10 options here: Master Series shears.
440C vs. VG10: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Japanese 440C | VG10 |
|---|---|---|
| Edge retention | Strong, consistent | Typically longer-lasting |
| Maintenance | More forgiving, easier servicing | More precision-dependent |
| Cutting feel | Smooth, dependable | Crisp, precise when dialed in |
| Best fit | High-volume daily use | Precision + longer edge life |
Both steels can perform exceptionally well in properly built Pro Series shears, ergonomic options like swivel shears, and blending tools such as texturizing shears.
Which Steel Is Best for Your Work?
Choose Japanese 440C if you:
- Want easy maintenance and predictable servicing
- Prefer a durable “daily driver” for steady salon or barbershop volume
- Sharpen more regularly and want a steel that’s more forgiving
- Want premium performance without jumping to the highest tier
Choose VG10 if you:
- Prioritize longer edge life between sharpenings
- Do a lot of precision work (detail cutting, controlled refinement, dry cutting)
- Like a crisp cutting feel and consistent performance when dialed in
- Are comfortable with higher-precision maintenance
Who This Guide Is For
- Professional stylists and barbers
- Salon and barber students building buying confidence
- Educators teaching shear selection and maintenance fundamentals
- Anyone upgrading from entry-level tools
FAQ
Does VG10 always cut better than 440C?
Not automatically. VG10 often holds an edge longer, but the overall cut quality depends on the shear build, edge geometry, maintenance, and technique. Many professionals prefer 440C for its balanced, service-friendly performance.
Which steel is better for high-volume barbershop work?
Many barbers like 440C because it’s durable and more forgiving for frequent daily use and regular servicing. VG10 can be excellent too—especially if you want longer edge life and maintain tools carefully.
Can both steels be used in swivel shears?
Yes. Handle style and steel type are separate decisions: swivel designs improve ergonomics, while the steel type mainly influences edge retention and maintenance behavior.
If you want a shear that’s easy to live with, 440C is a proven professional choice. If your priority is longer edge retention and a crisp cutting feel—especially for precision-focused work—VG10 is often worth the step up. Either way, consistent care and correct adjustment are what keep performance high over time.