Types of Screws for Hair Scissors: Avoid Choosing the Wrong One!

Types of Screws for Hair Scissors

When buying professional hair scissors, most hairstylists focus on blade type, handle design, and steel quality. However, one overlooked yet crucial component is the screw system. The screw determines tension adjustment, cutting accuracy, and shear longevity.

Choosing the wrong screw type can lead to loose blades, frequent misalignment, and poor cutting performance. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of screws used in hair scissors, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

1. Why Are Screws Important in Hair Scissors?

The screw system in hair scissors holds the two blades together, allowing them to pivot smoothly. A properly adjusted screw:

• Ensures precision cutting by keeping the blades aligned.
• Prevents hair folding or pushing during cutting.
• Reduces hand fatigue by ensuring a smooth glide.
• Extends shear lifespan by minimizing unnecessary wear.

A poorly adjusted or low-quality screw can loosen over time, leading to uneven cutting and frustration. That’s why it’s essential to understand the different types of screw systems.

2. Types of Screws in Hair Scissors

There are three main types of screws used in professional hair scissors:

1. Flat (Standard) Screw

✅ Features:

• Traditional design with a flathead screw.
• Requires a screwdriver or special tool for adjustment.
• Common in entry-level and mid-range scissors.

🔍 Pros:

✔️ Simple and durable – Less likely to break.
✔️ Holds tension well – Doesn’t loosen easily.
✔️ Budget-friendly – Found in most affordable shears.

❌ Cons:

❌ Needs a screwdriver – Not easy to adjust quickly.
❌ Less convenient – Can be difficult for hairstylists who adjust tension frequently.

💡 Best For: Beginner hairstylists, barbers, and those who don’t need frequent tension adjustments.

2. Adjustable (Hand-Tighten) Screw

✅ Features:

• Also called a click or dial screw.
• Can be adjusted by hand, without a screwdriver.
• Found in high-end professional hair shears.

🔍 Pros:

✔️ Easy to adjust – No tools required.
✔️ Click system – Ensures secure, precise tension control.
✔️ Smoother operation – Allows hairstylists to fine-tune cutting feel.

❌ Cons:

❌ More expensive – Usually found in premium scissors.
❌ May loosen over time – Requires periodic checking.

💡 Best For: Professional hairstylists who frequently adjust shear tension for different cutting techniques.

3. Ball Bearing (Advanced) Screw

✅ Features:

• Contains tiny ball bearings inside the screw mechanism.
• Reduces friction and improves blade stability.
• Found in high-end Japanese and ergonomic shears.

🔍 Pros:

✔️ Superior smoothness – Blades move effortlessly.
✔️ Even wear – Extends shear lifespan.
✔️ Stays tight longer – Reduces frequent adjustments.

❌ Cons:

❌ Expensive – Only available in top-tier scissors.
❌ Harder to replace – Custom parts may be required.

💡 Best For: Advanced hairstylists who need ultra-smooth cutting shears with minimal maintenance.

3. How to Choose the Right Screw Type?

Selecting the best screw system depends on your hairstyling needs:

Screw Type	Best For	Ease of Adjustment	Durability	Price
Flat Screw	Beginners, Barbers	Low	High	💲
Adjustable Screw	Professional Stylists	High	Medium	💲💲
Ball Bearing Screw	Advanced Stylists	Very High	Very High	💲💲💲

🔹 If you rarely adjust your shears, a flat screw is fine.
🔹 If you need precise control, go for an adjustable screw.
🔹 If you want ultimate performance, invest in ball bearing screws.

4. Common Mistakes When Choosing a Screw System

Even experienced hairstylists make mistakes when selecting scissors based on their screw system. Avoid these common pitfalls:

❌ Mistake #1: Ignoring the Screw System

Many hairstylists focus only on the blade type and overlook the importance of a high-quality screw.

🔹 Solution: Always check if the shear has a reliable tension system that matches your cutting style.

❌ Mistake #2: Choosing a Non-Adjustable Screw Without Considering Future Needs

A beginner might start with flat screw scissors but later regret not choosing an adjustable screw for more control.

🔹 Solution: If you plan to advance in hairstyling, consider a shear with an adjustable or ball bearing screw.

❌ Mistake #3: Over-Tightening the Screw

Over-tightening can cause blades to wear out faster and create hand strain.

🔹 Solution: Adjust tension properly so that the blades close smoothly without excessive force.

5. How to Adjust Your Hair Scissors’ Screw Correctly

Regardless of the screw type, proper adjustment is key to optimal performance.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1️⃣ Check the tension: Hold the scissors open and let one blade drop. If it slams shut, the tension is too loose. If it doesn’t move, it’s too tight.
2️⃣ Adjust gradually: Turn the screw clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen in small increments.
3️⃣ Test the cut: Try cutting a piece of tissue. If it folds or pulls, the tension is incorrect.
4️⃣ Maintain regularly: Check the tension weekly to ensure the best cutting performance.

Conclusion

The screw system is a vital component of hair scissors that affects cutting precision, ease of use, and shear longevity. Choosing the right screw type—flat, adjustable, or ball bearing—can make a significant difference in your hairstyling experience.

🔹 For beginners, flat screws are durable and simple.
🔹 For professionals, adjustable screws offer flexibility.
🔹 For advanced stylists, ball bearing screws provide the smoothest cut.

If you’re looking for premium hair shears with the perfect screw system, check out Michiko Shears—crafted for precision and performance.