Why this barber refuses to replace his favourite scissors

When I asked Mehmet why he sharpens his scissors instead of simply buying new ones, I wasn't expecting the answer he gave.

"I have a deep bond with my scissors. They have looked after me, making me money, so I look after them."

It's a simple statement, but it perfectly captures how many professionals feel about the tools they use every day.

Meet Mehmet from Bucks Barbers

Mehmet recently took over Bucks Barbers in Great Missenden. Like many barbers, he spends most of his working day with a pair of scissors in his hand.

For someone outside the trade, scissors may seem interchangeable. For a barber, they're anything but.

A trusted pair of scissors becomes familiar. You know how they feel in your hand. You know how they move. You know exactly how they'll cut.

Why Professional Scissors Matter

Professional scissors aren't just a purchase. They're an investment in a barber's work.

The right scissors can improve comfort, consistency, and precision. Over time, they become part of a barber's craft.

That's why many professionals would rather maintain a favourite pair than replace them.

The Importance of Proper Sharpening

During our conversation, Mehmet mentioned that he knows barbers whose scissors have been damaged by the wrong sharpener.

Unfortunately, poor sharpening can shorten the life of a good pair of scissors.

With proper maintenance and sharpening, quality scissors can continue performing for years.

Trust matters.

Thank You, Mehmet

I appreciate Mehmet trusting me with his scissors and sharing his story.

As he kindly said:

"Dominic is an expert at this. He knows scissors very well and does his job meticulously. Moreover, he sharpens your scissors right in front of you. I am very pleased with him."

Stories behind the scissors

Every pair of scissors has a story.

This article is part of the Stories behind the scissors series from Toucan Blades, where I meet the professionals who rely on their tools every day and learn about the journeys they've been on.