Japanese steel shears are prized for their precision, durability, and sharpness, making them a top choice for hairstylists. This guide compares four leading suppliers - Shihan Shears, Hikari, Kasho, and Matsui - to help you choose the best option based on quality, pricing, and features.
Key Takeaways:
- Shihan Shears: Affordable professional tools ($174.95–$274.95) with lifetime warranties and ergonomic designs.
- Hikari: Handcrafted shears for all skill levels, featuring Convex Edge technology and prices ranging from $129 to $2,500.
- Kasho: Premium shears ($179–$2,500) with advanced tension systems and handcrafted precision.
- Matsui: Budget-friendly ($199–$699) with stylish designs and lifetime warranties.
Quick Comparison:
| Supplier | Entry-Level Price | Premium Range | Unique Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shihan Shears | $174.95 | $274.95 | Lightweight, ergonomic | Lifetime |
| Hikari | $129.00 | $2,500 | Convex Edge, handcrafted | Manufacturer-based |
| Kasho | $179.00 | $2,500 | Advanced tension systems, luxury | Manufacturer-based |
| Matsui | $199.00 | $699.00 | Stylish designs, versatile options | Lifetime |
If you’re a new stylist, consider Hikari for affordable entry-level shears. For high-end precision, Kasho is ideal. Shihan offers great value for daily use, while Matsui combines style and performance at competitive prices.
1. Shihan Shears
Quality
Shihan Shears crafts its products using high-grade Japanese steel, including VG-10, ZA-18, and ATS-314. These materials are known for their strength, long-lasting sharpness, and durability, ensuring their shears meet the demands of professionals.
Product Range
Shihan Shears offers a variety of shears tailored to different styling needs. Here’s a quick overview of their main collections:
| Collection | Specifications | Steel Type | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legacy Set | 6.8" Cutting + 6" Thinning | ATS-314 | Ergonomic design, leather case |
| Red Moon Set | 5.5" Cutting + 6" Thinning | VG-10 | Lightweight and easy to handle |
| Zen Series | 6.0" Single Cutting | VG-10 | Designed for better control |
Pricing
Shihan Shears offers competitive pricing for their professional-grade tools:
- Single cutting shears: $174.95 to $249.00
- Professional sets: $255.00 to $274.95
- Legacy Set: $269.00 (discounted from $380.00)
Customer Service
Shihan Shears prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering:
- Lifetime Warranty: Every pair is backed by a lifetime warranty, reflecting their confidence in quality.
- Free Shipping: Enjoy complimentary shipping on all orders.
2. Hikari
Quality
Hikari brings a unique edge to the world of professional shears with its in-house craftsmanship. Founded in 1969 by Fukataro Takahashi, a well-known hairdresser, Hikari stands out as the only scissor manufacturer led by a hairdresser . Their shears are handcrafted in Niigata, using Convex Edge technology inspired by the precision of Katana swords . By managing every aspect of production - from research and development to quality control - Hikari ensures unmatched precision. Unlike competitors who rely on outsourcing, Hikari's fully integrated process delivers shears known for their durability and accuracy .
Product Range
Hikari offers a variety of professional shears tailored to different skill levels and cutting needs:
| Series | Quality Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| E-Series | Good | Entry-level professionals |
| Chikari | Better | Experienced stylists |
| Cosmos | Best | Advanced professionals |
| Dry Cut | Superior | Specialized techniques |
Each series incorporates Hikari's Convex Edge technology, ensuring exceptional sharpness and precision . The ergonomic designs reduce hand strain, allowing smooth and stress-free cutting at any angle .
Customer Service
Hikari offers support through various channels to assist customers effectively:
- Email: fish@hikariusa.com
- Phone: 800-621-5619
- FAQ: Detailed resources available online
Their team typically responds within 1–2 business days, ensuring quick and reliable assistance.
Top 10 Best Japanese Shears
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3. Kasho
Kasho stands out for its precision craftsmanship and cutting-edge production techniques, making it a go-to brand for professional shears.
Quality
Kasho's shears are a testament to Japanese artistry. Each one is handcrafted by skilled artisans known as "shisho", who leave their personal mark on every piece . The manufacturing process blends time-honored methods with advanced technology, utilizing two high-grade stainless steel alloys that meet strict Japanese standards for sharpness and durability.
Here are some of the standout features that define Kasho's quality:
- Forged Construction: Boosts durability and edge retention.
- Precision Inner Blade: Designed to meet only at the cutting point, reducing hand strain.
- Diamond-Like-Carbon Coating: Enhances hardness and wear resistance while cutting down on friction.
Their patented Disc Operation System, found in the Millennium and XP Series, ensures precise tension control for consistently accurate cuts . This dedication to quality is evident across their product lineup.
Product Range
Kasho offers a wide variety of shears to suit different cutting styles and preferences:
| Series | Price Range | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Komachi | $179 | Entry-level | Basic professional features |
| Chrome | $470 | Budget-conscious pros | Excellent value for quality |
| Blue | $540 | Classic styling | Convex and hollow-ground blades |
| Millennium | $1,292–$1,504 | Premium performance | Advanced tension system |
| Damascus | $1,900 | Luxury segment | Exceptional craftsmanship |
| Slidecut | $2,500 | Specialized techniques | High-end cutting technology |
This variety ensures that stylists can find the perfect tool for their specific needs and budgets.
Pricing
Kasho's pricing reflects its focus on premium craftsmanship. Here's a breakdown:
- Entry-Level: $179–$400 (e.g., Komachi and Balanced Precision models)
- Mid-Range: $500–$800 (e.g., Blue and Chrome series)
- Premium: $1,000–$2,500 (e.g., Damascus, Millennium, and Slidecut models)
Customer Service
Kasho supports its customers with detailed product specifications, maintenance tips, and technical guidance for tension adjustments. This ensures that their shears deliver top performance over time.
4. Matsui
Matsui, founded in 1998, has built a reputation as a leading name in Japanese high-precision shears, celebrated for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Quality
Matsui shears are handcrafted with top-tier Japanese steels, including Aichei Mountain and Damascus . Designed with ergonomics in mind, these shears provide comfort for long hours of use, drawing inspiration from centuries of Japanese bladesmithing expertise.
Product Range
Matsui's collections cater to various cutting techniques and stylist preferences:
| Collection | Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Precision Series | Classic professional design | Everyday salon work |
| Matte Black Series | Available as a triple set | Versatile styling |
| Rose Gold Collection | Includes swivel handle options | Enhanced ergonomics |
| Aichei Mountain Rainbow | Crafted with specialized steel | Top-tier performance |
Pricing
Matsui offers options for different budgets:
- Entry-Level: The Aichei Mountain Rainbow series starts at $199.00 (sale price) .
- Mid-Range: Precision Shears are priced between $249.00 and $399.00 .
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Premium Sets:
- Matte Black Precision Triple Set: $499.00 (sale price) / $699.00 (regular) .
- Rose Gold Precision Triple Set: $399.00 (sale price) / $699.00 (regular) .
Customer Service
Matsui America provides robust customer support across the Americas, with offices in the USA, Mexico, and Brazil . Stylists can reach out via phone, fax, or email for technical help and maintenance advice, ensuring smooth and hassle-free service.
Supplier Comparison Chart
Here's a breakdown of key features among top suppliers:
| Feature | Shihan Shears | Hikari | Kasho | Matsui |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Quality | VG-10, ATS-314, ZA-18 | Japanese steel (HRC 58–63) | Premium Japanese steel, handcrafted | Japanese stainless steel |
| Entry-Level Price | $174.95 (Zen Cutting Shears) | $129.00 (Mina Umi Series) | $279.00 (Yasaka Series) | $199.00 (Aichei Mountain Rainbow) |
| Premium Sets | $274.95 (Red Moon Set) | $499.00 (Joewell TR Series) | $450.00 (Black Cobalt Series) | $699.00 (Matte Black Precision Set) |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Manufacturer-based warranty | Manufacturer-based warranty | Lifetime warranty (via Scissor Tech USA) |
| Return Policy | Not specified | 7-day exchange/return | 7-day exchange/return | 7-day exchange/return |
| Unique Features | Ergonomic, lightweight designs | Handcrafted with traditional methods | Handcrafted with traditional techniques | – |
| Target Users | Stylists, barbers, educators | All skill levels | Premium market | Industry professionals |
Shihan Shears stands out for its variety of steel options and competitive pricing. Hikari combines affordability with traditional craftsmanship. Kasho focuses on the premium segment, offering handcrafted tools made with care.
Japanese steel's hardness rating (HRC 58–63) ensures durability and sharpness over time . Each supplier's pricing reflects its target market, catering to a range of stylist needs.
Below, you'll find suggestions to help you choose the best supplier based on your specific requirements.
Recommendations by Stylist Needs
For new stylists and those on a budget, Hikari provides affordable shears made from durable Japanese steel. These shears are a great choice for professionals just starting out.
High-volume salon owners might want to look at the Shihan Shears' Red Moon Set, designed with ergonomics to minimize repetitive strain. Another solid option is Ichiro Shears, which are built for both precision and long-lasting use .
For premium service providers, Kasho shears stand out with their handcrafted precision, making them perfect for stylists catering to high-end clients.
Left-handed stylists have excellent options with Yasaka. Their left-handed cutting shear is priced at $349.00, and they also offer a 7.0 Inch Barber Cutting Shear for $299.00. Both are crafted from high-quality Hitachi 440C steel, ensuring accuracy and ease of use .
For institutions like training salons or educational programs, Matsui shears are a dependable choice. They combine premium Japanese steel with consistent, long-term performance, making them a smart investment for professional training environments.