Scissors & Shears

What is the difference between regular scissors and kitchen scissors?

Unlike conventional scissors, kitchen scissors are meant for food prep and other kitchen tasks. They’re designed for heavy-duty actions like cutting through fish bones and jointing or spatchcocking chickens. They usually have features for added utility and are great for snipping fresh herbs and kitchen string; trimming bread dough and pie crusts; and cutting homemade pizza, parchment paper, or fresh flowers for your dining room table. (They’re also really handy for opening packages.) They usually have a pull-apart mechanism that allows the blades to be washed and dried separately, minimizing rust and maximizing hygiene. 

What are the best quality kitchen scissors?

The best quality kitchen scissors have a pull-apart or come-apart mechanism at the hinges to maximize blade hygiene and prevent rust. Blades are razor-sharp, nimble, and made from durable stainless steel, while handles fit comfortably in your hand and feel easy to use. They should feel sturdy, yet lightweight and intuitive. And since WÜSTHOF has been perfecting kitchen scissors for over 200 years, we think ours are as good as it gets.

What is the difference between shears and scissors?

“Kitchen scissors” and “kitchen shears” are sometimes used interchangeably, though you might see subtle differences between brands. Kitchen scissors will always have two matching blade lengths (often ranging from six to eight inches) and two matching handles and eyes. Kitchen shears, meanwhile, can feature longer or angled blades, or handles and eyes that differ in size. 

What are poultry shears used for? 

Kitchen scissors, like chef’s knives, are all-purpose workhorses than can handle a variety of food prep tasks. Poultry shears, meanwhile, are designed specifically for birds like chicken, turkey, and duck. WÜSTHOF’s poultry shears can handle tasks that require more force, like cutting through bones and joints or slicing thicker pieces of fat. Our shears’ slightly curved, razor-sharp blades are crafted from durable stainless steel, while an internal spring-loaded mechanism ensures your hands stay fatigue-free while working.