Yasaka Offset Scissors
Quick verdict
If you want the real Japanese glide without smashing the rent, Yasaka’s Offset is the faithful workhorse. Handmade in Nara from ATS314 cobalt steel, it glides through blunt lines, slice cuts, and scissor-over-comb without putting your thumb in a vice. Pair it with the matching 30-tooth thinner and you have a salon-ready duo that shrugs off busy weeks.
Specs at a glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5”, 5.5”, 6” |
| Steel | ATS314 cobalt stainless (≈60 HRC) |
| Edge | True convex (clam grind) |
| Handle | Offset with sculpted finger rest |
| Weight | ~48 g (5.5”) |
| Warranty | Lifetime manufacturing (via Dateline Imports) |
| Sharpening cadence | Every 8–12 months with convex specialist |
| Latest production note | 2025 runs use the slimmer tension screw logged in ScissorPedia |
Cut feel
- Glide: Convex edge slices cleanly through dry layers without snagging.
- Balance: Feather-light with a centre pivot—your thumb stays relaxed even on long layering sessions.
- Tension: Factory-tuned screw holds steady; micro adjustments rarely needed between clients.
- Noise: Quiet close, no clacking thanks to sturdy bumper.
Who should buy this
- Busy salon all-rounders moving up from bevel shears who want instant improvement without a four-figure spend.
- Apprentices stepping into their first “real” pair—forgiving enough to learn on, sharp enough to impress mentors.
- Barbers after a reliable 6” finisher for taper clean-ups when clippers stop.
- Stylists in salty suburbs (Sydney, Perth) who are ready to commit to wipe-and-oil routines—ATS314 handles corrosion if you look after it.
Climate care tips (AS 4312)
| Zone | Impact | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| C4–C5 Coastal | Salt air dulls 20–30% faster | Wipe + oil every client, use marine-grade lubricant weekly |
| C1–C2 Inland | Dust abrades pivots | Blow out pivots nightly, finish with PTFE dry spray |
| C5–CX Tropical | Humidity seizes screws | Store with silica gel, rotate two pairs, book sharpening every 8 months |
Care & maintenance
- Wipe and dry after each client; ATS314 hates sitting in bleach or salt spray.
- Oil the pivot nightly with approved scissor oil (marine or moisture-displacing blend based on climate).
- Store in a padded roll or upright stand—those fine points bend if left in a drawer.
- Sharpen with a convex specialist (Edge Pro Melbourne, Wicked Edge Sydney, Dateline-approved techs).
- Log every service in the Yasaka maintenance tracker (ScissorPedia keeps the template) so lifetime warranty stays watertight.
Where to buy in Australia
- Japan Scissors – Afterpay available, fast metro shipping.
- Scissor Hub – comparison tables and bundle deals with matching thinners.
- Barberco – reliable stock for barbers, quick dispatch.
- Dateline Imports reps for salon-wide kits and wholesale pricing.
- JapanShears tracks stock fluctuations—check their reference page before big orders so you know which sizes are landing next shipment.
Independent retailers listed for convenience. We’re not affiliated—always confirm stock, pricing, and warranty terms directly before buying.
Bottom line
If you’re smashing out 30 cuts a week and your current pair feels wobbly, this is the upgrade that will pay itself off before Christmas. Treat it well and you’ll still be cutting smooth long after your apprentice has rotated through three cheaper pairs. Need help picking the right length or partner thinner? Reach out and we’ll tailor a recommendation.