Hair Scissor Tension Adjustment Guide - Fix Cutting Issues

Perfect Scissor Tension in 30 Seconds

Most cutting problems aren't blade issues – they're tension issues. Let's fix yours with the professional drop test method.

73% of issues are just tension

30 sec to test & adjust

This guide includes:

📋 3-Question Diagnosis

📐 Drop Test Method

🎬 Video Tutorial

🔧 All Screw Types

⚡

New Scissors? Manufacturers intentionally overtighten tension to protect blades during shipping. Your scissors aren't defective – they just need a 30-second adjustment before first use.

What Is Tension Adjustment?

A simple turn of the tension screw can transform scissors that won't cut into perfect cutting tools. Here's what we'll be doing:

Adjusting scissor tension with tension key

✓ 1-3 turn can fix most issues

✓ Takes 30 seconds to test & adjust

✓ No experience needed

Quick Diagnosis

Three questions to identify your issue

What's happening when you cut?

When did this start?

How do the scissors feel when opening/closing?

The Professional Drop Test Method

The industry standard for perfect tension adjustment

Position Vertically

Hold scissors with tips pointing to the ceiling. Hold by one handle only.

Open to 90 Degrees

Open the moving blade to horizontal (90° angle). The other blade stays vertical.

Release & Observe

Let go of the moving handle. Don't touch or guide it – let gravity work naturally.

Check Final Position

The blade should stop at approximately 35-45°. This indicates perfect tension.

Understanding Your Results

35-45° PERFECT TENSION

Ideal setting – blades maintain proper contact throughout the cut

Fully Closed TOO LOOSE

Falls completely shut – hair will fold. Tighten 1/16 turn clockwise.

Stays at 90° TOO TIGHT

Barely moves – causes wear and fatigue. Loosen 1/16 turn counter-clockwise.

Professional Demonstration

Watch the complete tension adjustment process

How to Adjust Your Scissors

Find your tension system below for specific instructions

⚠️ Always close scissors completely before adjusting. Adjusting with blades open can cause permanent damage worth hundreds of dollars.

Flat Screw System

Most common – requires tension key

Close scissors completely first

Turn clockwise to tighten (tiny increments)

Turn counter-clockwise to loosen

Test after each 1/16 turn

Never exceed 1/4 turn total adjustment

Click Dial System

Hand adjustable – no tools needed

Numbers visible on dial (typically 1-9)

Higher number equals tighter tension

Adjust one click at a time only

Test between each adjustment

Most scissors work best at 4-6

Ball Bearing System

Premium system – most precise

Uses specialized key (included with scissors)

Make tiny adjustments (1/32 turn)

More sensitive than other systems

Holds tension settings longer

Consider professional service if unsure

Need Additional Help?

Our scissor specialists can provide personalized guidance for your specific scissors.

Contact Support