Scissors are hand-operated tools that consist of a pair of metal blades with handles. The blades pivot to bring the sharpened edges in contact with each other, an action that cuts the material placed between the blades.

Scissors are selected based on specific features:

• Size or length: Blade length is key, as is the overall length of the scissors
• Shank-to-blade ratio: The length of the handles compared to the length of the cutting blade; the ratio helps determine the force needed to product a cut
• Type of handles: Straight, offset
• Material: Stainless steel is typically used for surgical scissors; some surgical scissors also have tungsten carbide cutting surfaces for hardness and durability
• Tips: Blade ends may be pointed, semi-blunt, or blunt (rounded)
• Blade shape: Straight, curved, or angled (bent); curved or angled blades may provide better access to areas with limited space

Many surgical scissors can be used by both right- and left-handed people. Scissors specifically designed for left-handed users are also available.

Types of Lab Scissors

• General purpose: Used to cut paper, foil, cloth, and other thinner materials
• Utility scissors or shears: Used to cut cardboard, wire and other heavier materials
• Dissection or iris scissors: Small scissors with very short, sharp blades
• Operating or Mayo scissors: Usually have one sharp and one blunt blade