How to Test and Adjust Tension on Your Hair Cutting Shears

Scissors are the most crucial tool for any hairstylist or barber, and maintaining them properly is key to ensuring precise, effortless cuts. One of the most overlooked aspects of scissor maintenance is tension adjustment — a factor that directly impacts cutting performance, comfort, and blade longevity. If the tension is too loose, hair folds rather than cuts. If it’s too tight, excessive strain is placed on the hands, wrists, and blades. Here’s how you can test and adjust the tension of your shears to keep them performing at their best.

Why Tension Adjustment Matters

Proper tension ensures:

• Effortless cutting – Reducing hand fatigue and increasing efficiency.
• Blade longevity – Preventing unnecessary wear and tear.
• Precision cutting – Avoiding hair bending or pushing.
• Injury prevention – Less strain on fingers, wrists, and hands.

How to Test Your Scissors’ Tension

Follow these steps to check if your scissors have the correct tension:

1. Hold your shears vertically with the tips pointing up.
2. Open the blades to a 90-degree angle (forming an “L” shape).
3. Drop one blade and let it fall freely.
4. Observe the movement:
   • If the blade closes completely without resistance, the tension is too loose.
   • If the blade barely moves or remains open, the tension is too tight.
   • If the blade closes halfway (stopping at about 45 degrees), the tension is optimal.

How to Adjust the Tension on Your Shears

If the tension is off, follow these steps to adjust it safely:

Loosening or Tightening the Tension

• Locate the tension screw in the center of the shears.
• Use your fingers or a tension key (depending on the scissor model) to make adjustments.
• Make small, gradual turns to avoid over-tightening or over-loosening.
• Re-test the tension after each adjustment by repeating the drop test.

Fine-Tuning the Tension

• For looser tension, turn the screw counterclockwise in small increments.
• For tighter tension, turn the screw clockwise in small increments.
• Test after each adjustment to ensure you don’t overtighten or leave them too loose.

Common Signs of Incorrect Tension

• Too Loose: Hair folds or pushes instead of cutting cleanly.
• Too Tight: Increased hand fatigue, difficulty opening and closing, excessive blade wear.
• Just Right: Smooth cutting motion with minimal resistance.

Final Tips for Maintaining Your Shears

• Check tension regularly – Ideally, adjust the tension at least once a week.
• Clean and oil your shears before making tension adjustments.
• Store your shears properly in a protective case to avoid unnecessary tension changes.
• Never force adjustments – Over-tightening can damage the tension system and compromise blade performance.

By maintaining the correct tension, your shears will deliver consistent, effortless cuts while ensuring a longer lifespan. Need help finding the perfect pair of shears or learning more about shear maintenance? Check out our collection at Shear Fanatic™ Scissor Company for high-quality tools designed for professionals.

Recommended Shears & Tools for Better Tension

The right tools make tension adjustment and long-term performance much easier. If your current scissors fight you, it may be time to upgrade.

• For reliable everyday cutting with solid tension systems, explore our Pro Series shears and Craft Series shears.
• If you want premium steel and ultra-smooth tension and glide, check out our Master Series shears and Infinity Series shears.
• For barbers dealing with coarse hair and heavy use, our barber shears are built for durability and control.
• If tension issues are making your hands sore, consider upgrading to swivel shears or double swivel shears for better ergonomics and reduced strain.
• Want to keep fresh, sharp tools in rotation without a huge upfront cost? Our shear subscription box makes it easy to stay ahead of tension, sharpness, and wear.
• To see everything we offer in one place, browse all scissors, or visit our education hub and blog for more maintenance tips.

FAQ

How do I know if my hair cutting shears have the right tension?

Use the simple drop test: open your shears to a 90-degree angle, then let one blade fall freely. If it closes all the way, the tension is too loose. If it barely moves, it’s too tight. Optimal tension is when the blade closes to about a 45-degree angle and stops smoothly.

How often should I adjust tension on my hair shears?

For most working stylists and barbers, it’s smart to check and adjust tension at least once a week, or anytime your shears feel different than usual. After cleaning, oiling, or having them sharpened, always re-check and fine-tune the tension.

Can incorrect tension damage my professional hair shears?

Yes. Tension that’s too loose can cause blades to rub improperly and fold hair, while tension that’s too tight can create excess friction, hand fatigue, and premature wear on the edge and pivot area. Proper tension protects both your hands and your investment in quality shears.