My Brand New Scissors/Blades aren't cutting. What can I do?
If Your New Scissors Aren't Cutting Properly
New grooming scissors should deliver a smooth, satisfying cut, but sometimes they need a little attention to perform their best. Here are some common reasons scissors might not be cutting as expected, along with practical tips to get them working perfectly. (We cover blades below)
Scissor Tension
One of the most common reasons new scissors don’t cut well is incorrect tension. The scissors are correctly set during the manufacturing process, however shipping and storage can alter the tension over time, so its always best to check your scissor tension before the first use on any new pair. If the scissors are too loose, they tend to fold the hair instead of cutting it, which can feel like they’re dull even when they’re not. On the other hand, if the tension is too tight, you’ll feel extra resistance when you cut, which can lead to faster wear on the scissors and fatigue on your hand.
To check the tension, hold the scissors upright and lift one handle to create a 90-degree angle, then let go. If the blades smoothly fall to about a 45-degree angle, the tension is just right. If they snap shut, they’re too loose; if they don’t move much, they’re too tight. Adjust the tension in small increments, tightening or loosening as needed until they glide to that 45-degree position.
Scissor Technique
Sometimes, scissor technique can also influence cutting performance, especially with specialty grooming scissors like thinners, chunkers, or blenders. It’s tempting to dive right in, but take a moment to find your grip. Hold only the top of your ring finger and thumb in the finger rings, with your pinky on the scissor rest, and index and middle on the shank for balance. When opening and closing the scissors, keep your hand steady while moving only your thumb straight up and down—avoid side pressure. Opening the blades too wide or pushing sideways with your thumb can cause misalignment to the blades, damaging your scissors.
When using thinners, blenders, or chunkers, precise technique is crucial to prevent the notched teeth from catching. If your new thinners feel as if the teeth are catching, stop and check your technique before continuing to avoid damage.
Cleanliness and Care
Even brand-new scissors benefit from a quick clean. Tiny bits of dust, oil, or packaging residue can get between the blades, interfering with a smooth cut. Gently wipe them down with a soft cloth before using them for the first time, and remember to clean them regularly and oil the pivot screw to keep them in top shape.
Shipping Challenges
Scissors go through a long journey before they arrive in your hands, and while they’re securely packed, rough handling during transit can impact their tension or alignment. This can sometimes create a brand-new pair of scissors that doesn’t feel as sharp as expected. If adjusting the tension and testing your technique doesn’t solve the problem, the scissor blades may have been slightly misaligned in transit. In these cases, please get in touch so we can help.
If Your New Blades Aren't Cutting Properly
Nothing’s more frustrating than a brand new blade that won’t cut as it should. While it’s easy to assume something might be wrong with the blade itself, there are several factors that can affect the performance of even a brand new blade. Here’s what to check before deciding if the blade needs further inspection or replacement.
Blade Drive Needs Replacement
A worn blade drive is often overlooked, but it’s a common culprit when blades don’t cut well. If your clipper’s blade drive is worn out, it can weaken the power sent to the blade, making it seem as though the blade isn’t cutting. With a new blade, you may notice this issue more since it typically has higher factory tension than older, looser blades. If this happens with a brand new blade, check your clipper’s blade drive—it may need to be replaced. The blade drive is a part that wears down faster than others, and regular replacement is a great way to ensure maximum performance. Typically, we recommend for professional groomers to replace their blade drive every 2-4 months, depending on use.
Lack of Lubrication
Blades require regular lubrication to maintain smooth movement. Even though new blades are pre-oiled, they can dry out during storage and shipping. Dry blades may drag or feel dull, even if they’re perfectly sharp. Before first use, apply a few drops of clipper oil to both the teeth and the back rail of the blade, then reapply every 10-15 minutes during grooming. Regular oiling not only enhances performance but also helps prevent wear and tear.
Dirty or Matted Coat
New blades perform best on clean coats, as dirt, coat oil, and matting increase resistance, causing a dull or rough cut. Trying to clip through a dirty coat can make even a new blade dull quickly, leading to a disappointing cut. For best results, bathe and thoroughly dry the dog before clipping. If pre-bathing isn’t an option, it helps to have a backup blade in case one dulls midway through a session.
Blade is Clogged or Dirty
A clogged or blocked blade can happen quickly, even with a new blade. During use, hair and debris can easily accumulate between the teeth, impacting performance. When working with thick coats or dense fur, take regular breaks to brush away any buildup, especially when switching between coat types. If your new blade starts tugging or grabbing, it could simply need a quick clean to remove the trapped hair.
Inadequate Power in Your Clipper
A brand new blade can’t make up for a clipper that’s underpowered for a dense or thick coat. Clippers range from Light to Super Duty, with each level designed for different coat types. For dense, non-shedding, or thick double coats, you’ll need a Heavy Duty or Super Duty clipper. Using a light-duty clipper on a heavy coat can strain the blade and prevent it from cutting as smoothly as expected, even if it’s new.
Blade is Dull or Blunt
While a new blade should be sharp, there are instances when it may seem dull if used immediately on a very coarse or matted coat. Grooming a tough coat can blunt a new blade faster than expected, so if the cut seems rough or uneven, it might need sharpening sooner than anticipated. Blades also go through many handling stages before reaching you, and occasional quality control issues can mean a blade arrives dull, though this is rare. In these cases, please get in touch so we can help.