What’s the difference between universal shears and poultry shears?

Universal shears are general-purpose scissors designed for a range of kitchen tasks like opening packages, snipping herbs, and cutting soft food. Poultry shears are specifically built with stronger blades, a reinforced hinge, and a blade notch to cut through joints and small bones safely and efficiently.

Can I wash my kitchen shears in the dishwasher?

Some shears are labeled dishwasher-safe, but repeated dishwasher cycles can dull edges and corrode less-stable metals. I recommend hand-washing with warm, soapy water, drying thoroughly, and oiling the pivot occasionally to prolong lifespan.

How long should kitchen shears be for comfortable use?

Most comfortable universal shears fall in the 7–9 in range. For example, many multi-purpose shears are around 7.9 in, while poultry shears may be closer to 9.3–9.8 in for better leverage. Choose a length that balances control and reach for the tasks you do most.

Are serrated blades better than straight blades?

Serrated blades help grip slippery items like fish and poultry skin and can reduce slippage during cuts. Straight blades offer cleaner slices on delicate items. Many versatile shears use a partially serrated lower blade to combine grip with clean cutting.

How often should I sharpen my kitchen shears?

Frequency depends on use. For regular home cooking, once or twice a year is typical. If you use shears daily or for heavy-duty tasks, sharpen them more often. Test on cardboard — if the cut is ragged, it’s time to sharpen or send them to a pro.

Unbeatable Kitchen Shears Deals in the UK

Kitchen Shears	Price
Multi-functional Multi-layer Scallion Scissors	£6.99
Eva Solo Green Tool Kitchen Scissors 20 Cm Green	£10.46
Eva Solo Green Tool Rounded Scissors 16 Cm Green	£10.46
Nordwik Nordwik Universal Scissors 2 Piece Taupe	£10.99
Multi-functional Kitchen Scissors	£11.99
Eva Solo Green Tool Scissors 24 Cm Green	£13.96
Fiskars Functional Form Kitchen Scissors 22 Cm	£18.99
Linex 400084194 Kitchen Scissors 225 Mm Green - Grey	£25.00
Giesser Giesser Fish Scissors 10 Cm Stainless Steel-black	£41.35
Zwilling Zwilling Twin Select Universal Scissors 20 Cm	£57.99

Top Kitchen Shears to Upgrade Your Prep Game: A Practical Buyer's Guide

Why a Great Pair of Kitchen Shears Matters

Think of kitchen shears as the unsung heroes of your countertop — they’re the multitool that cuts through everything from herbs to poultry with less fuss than a knife. I use mine more often than I expected, and once you get a pair that fits your hand and your tasks, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them. Good shears speed up prep, improve safety, and reduce the need to reach for multiple tools.

Types of Kitchen Shears and What They Do Best

Not all shears are created equal. You’ll find universal or multi-purpose shears, poultry shears for breaking down birds, herb scissors for quick snips, and heavy-duty versions for tougher jobs. Choosing the right type makes a big difference in efficiency and wear — a delicate herb shear will dull fast if you try to cut through bone, while a poultry shear will struggle to trim tiny herb stems neatly.

Universal / Multi-Purpose Shears

These are the go-to for daily cooking: opening packages, cutting pizza, snipping fresh herbs, or trimming fat. Models like Zwilling’s Universal Scissors (about 7.9 in) or the Zwilling Twin Universal Scissors (about 7.9 in) are built to handle a broad range of kitchen duties without over-specializing.

Poultry Shears

Poultry shears have a notch on the blade and a robust hinge to cut through joints and rib bones of smaller birds. The Zwilling Twin Select Poultry Shears (about 9.3 in) and Victorinox Steel Poultry Shears (about 9.8 in) are examples built for the job, offering the leverage and blade geometry you need to portion chickens or trim wings safely.

Herb Scissors

If you chop herbs by the handful, herb scissors are a time-saver. The Brabantia Tasty Herb Scissors with cleaning comb make fast work of parsley, chives, and other tender greens, leaving you with evenly snipped herbs and little mess to clean up.

Spotlight: Popular Models from Trusted Brands

Below I’ll walk you through some of the models spotted in comparison listings and what makes each one stand out. I’ll also point out which kitchen tasks they’re best suited for so you can choose the right fit for your cooking style.

Nordwik Universal Scissors — 2-Piece Set (Taupe)

The two-piece concept is handy because you can dedicate one pair to food and another to general household tasks. Nordwik’s set is practical and stylish, usually lightweight and ideal for quick, daily jobs like cutting herbs, trimming packaging, or slicing pizza slices when you don’t want to reach for a knife.

Fiskars Classic Scissors — 7.1 in

Fiskars is known for ergonomics. Their 7.1 in classic scissors offer a comfortable grip and a sharp edge that stays useful for repeated home-use tasks. They’re not specialized kitchen shears in the poultry-shear sense, but for universal uses and craft-like precision in the kitchen, Fiskars does well.

Zwilling Universal Scissors — 7.9 in (Black and Stainless Options)

Zwilling’s universal shears show up in many comparison listings for good reason: sturdy blades, solid rivets, and a design that balances precision with durability. The stainless steel option is especially resilient to staining and odors, making it a long-term companion in a busy kitchen.

Zwilling Twin Select Poultry Shears — 9.3 in

These are built specifically for poultry shaping and butchery. With a robust locking mechanism and a blade profile designed to cut around joints, they make quick work of portioning chickens. If you prepare whole birds often, a dedicated pair like this is worth the investment.

Victorinox Steel Poultry Shears — 9.8 in (Black)

Victorinox, famed for their Swiss Army knives, produce poultry shears that feel well-balanced and secure in the hand. The 9.8 in length gives great reach and leverage, which helps when cutting through thicker joints or when you need a longer blade arc to maneuver around bones.

Zwilling Kitchen Shears — 7.9 in Stainless Steel Multi-purpose (Red)

Color-coded handles aren’t just for looks — they help keep dedicated tools separate for tasks like raw meat prep. This red-handled Zwilling option is a good example of a multi-purpose tool that’s visually obvious on a busy kitchen wall or magnetic strip.

Brabantia Tasty Herb Scissors (Green) with Cleaning Comb

Herb scissors with multiple blades make snipping a breeze. Brabantia’s version usually includes a cleaning comb that slides between blades to remove trapped stems and leaves — a small detail that saves time and keeps your tool hygienic.

Rösle Spherical Cast Iron — Ø1.2 in

While not a shear, the Rösle spherical cast-iron tool (about 1.2 in in diameter) shows up among kitchen tools for specialty jobs — think weighty, durable pieces used for pressing, pounding, or even as a decorative handle on heavier utensils. It’s a reminder that kitchen tools come in many forms, each with its purpose.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Shears for Your Needs

Ask yourself: what will I use shears for most? If you roast or buy whole birds, poultry shears with a bone-cutting design are worth it. If you cook a lot of fresh herbs, grab a dedicated herb scissor. For everything else, a high-quality universal pair with stainless steel blades is usually the best single purchase.

Consider the Handle and Grip

Comfort matters. Look for soft-grip handles or ergonomically shaped polymer that fit your hand. If you spend minutes — not seconds — cutting, a poor grip can become tiring or even dangerous.

Check for Detachable Blades and Dishwasher Safety

Blades that separate make deep cleaning easy and safer, especially after working with raw meat. Still, not all shears are dishwasher-safe, and repeated dishwasher cycles can dull the edge or corrode some metals. When in doubt, wash by hand with warm soapy water and dry immediately.

Blade Material and Serration

Stainless steel blades resist rust and odor retention, while partial serration helps grip slippery items like fish or poultry skin. For heavy-duty cutting, look for full-tang or reinforced joints that won’t loosen over time.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Shears Sharp and Safe

Your shears will stay reliable longer with a little care. Wipe them after each use, separate and wash the halves if possible, and oil the pivot lightly to keep movement smooth. A quick sharpening once in a while — or sending them to a professional sharpener — keeps the cutting action efficient and safe.

How to Sharpen at Home

You can sharpen kitchen shears on a fine whetstone or using a diamond file for the beveled side of the blade. Open the shears fully, follow the original angle, and use consistent strokes. Reassemble, check alignment, and test on a scrap of cardboard before trusting them with food again.

Storing Shears Safely

Keep shears locked or in a sheath to protect the blades and prevent accidents. Magnetic strips are great as long as you place the shears out of reach of curious kids. A drawer insert designed for scissors also works well and prevents banging against other metal that could dull edges.

Comparing Top Brands: What Sets Them Apart

Brands like Zwilling, Victorinox, Fiskars, Brabantia, and Rösle each bring strengths. Zwilling tends to focus on premium stainless finishes and robust joints; Victorinox prioritizes balance and functional design; Fiskars delivers ergonomic comfort; Brabantia emphasizes clever little features for herbs; and Rösle is known for high-quality German craftsmanship.

Price vs. Value

Higher price doesn’t always mean better for your specific needs. A budget-friendly universal pair can be excellent for occasional cooks, while frequent entertainers or those who prepare whole animals will benefit from a more specialist, durable shear. Think in terms of long-term value, not just sticker price.

Safety Tips for Using Kitchen Shears

Always cut away from your body and use a stable, clear surface. When handling raw meat, use separate shears from those you use for herbs or packaging to avoid cross-contamination. Sanitize blades between uses, and keep your fingers clear of the cutting path — particularly with poultry shears that offer a lot of leverage.

Other Handy Cutting Tools to Consider

While shears are versatile, a small paring knife, a boning knife, and a serrated bread knife complement them perfectly. For herbs, a small mezzaluna can be a pleasant alternative if you like rocking cuts. Magnetic knife strips, a sharpener, and a compact cutting board round out a smart cutting station in any kitchen.

Where to Compare Prices and Find the Best Deals

Comparison sites are great for spotting deals, reading side-by-side specs, and checking user reviews. Look for detail pages that list blade material, handle ergonomics, lock mechanisms, and exact blade lengths. If you see a model like the Zwilling Twin Select or the Victorinox poultry shear listed, check the specs and customer photos to confirm real-world fit and finish.

Final Thoughts on Picking the Perfect Pair

Buying the right kitchen shears is about matching tool to task. For most home cooks, a reliable universal shear and one dedicated poultry shear cover 90% of needs. Add an herb scissor for frequent fresh-herb use and you’ll be set. Comfort, blade quality, and ease of maintenance are the three pillars I look for every time.

Conclusion

Kitchen shears are one of those small investments that pay daily dividends in efficiency, safety, and tidy prep. Whether you pick a versatile Zwilling universal pair, a beefy Victorinox poultry shear, a Fiskars for everyday use, or a Brabantia for herbs, the right set will streamline tasks and make cooking more enjoyable. Remember to think about the jobs you do most, prioritize build quality and comfort, and look after your shears so they’ll serve you well for years.

Kitchen Shears

Kitchen Shears	Price
Multi-functional Multi-layer Scallion Scissors	£6.99
Eva Solo Green Tool Kitchen Scissors 20 Cm Green	£10.46
Eva Solo Green Tool Rounded Scissors 16 Cm Green	£10.46
Nordwik Nordwik Universal Scissors 2 Piece Taupe	£10.99
Multi-functional Kitchen Scissors	£11.99
Eva Solo Green Tool Scissors 24 Cm Green	£13.96
Fiskars Functional Form Kitchen Scissors 22 Cm	£18.99
Linex 400084194 Kitchen Scissors 225 Mm Green - Grey	£25.00
Giesser Giesser Fish Scissors 10 Cm Stainless Steel-black	£41.35
Zwilling Zwilling Twin Select Universal Scissors 20 Cm	£57.99

Top Kitchen Shears to Upgrade Your Prep Game: A Practical Buyer's Guide

Why a Great Pair of Kitchen Shears Matters

Types of Kitchen Shears and What They Do Best

Universal / Multi-Purpose Shears

Poultry Shears

Herb Scissors

Spotlight: Popular Models from Trusted Brands

Nordwik Universal Scissors — 2-Piece Set (Taupe)

Fiskars Classic Scissors — 7.1 in

Zwilling Universal Scissors — 7.9 in (Black and Stainless Options)

Zwilling Twin Select Poultry Shears — 9.3 in

Victorinox Steel Poultry Shears — 9.8 in (Black)

Zwilling Kitchen Shears — 7.9 in Stainless Steel Multi-purpose (Red)

Brabantia Tasty Herb Scissors (Green) with Cleaning Comb

Rösle Spherical Cast Iron — Ø1.2 in

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Shears for Your Needs

Consider the Handle and Grip

Comfort matters. Look for soft-grip handles or ergonomically shaped polymer that fit your hand. If you spend minutes — not seconds — cutting, a poor grip can become tiring or even dangerous.

Kitchen Shears

Wüsthof Kitchen Shears 1059594901

Multi-purpose Kitchen Shears Black Grey Ks-205bg

Rf Kitchen Scissors With Soft Touch Handles 21cm

Zwilling Zwilling Twin Select Universal Scissors 20 Cm

Fiskars Functional Form Kitchen Scissors 22 Cm

Fiskars Functional Form Kitchen Scissors 21 Cm Black

Zwilling Zwilling Household Scissors Stainless Steel 13 Cm

Robert Welch Signature Scissors 210mm

Multi-purpose Kitchen Shears White Blue Ks-205wb

Taylors Eye Witness 23cm Kitchen Shears Black Red Ssks004-br

Mac Kitchen Scissors 8.5cm Ks-4

Zwilling Zwilling Twin Universal Scissors 20 Cm

Sabatier Professional Soft Grip Kitchen Scissor 22cm Cork Effect Sabprsc06

Zwilling Zwilling Twin Select Poultry Shears 23.5 Cm

Wüsthof Kitchen Shears 1059594902

Zwilling Zwilling Universal Scissors 23 Cm Black

Victorinox Victorinox Steel Poultry Shears 25 Cm Black

Victorinox S S Poultry Shears With Buffer Spring 25cm 76345

Brabantia Tasty Herb Scissors With Cleaning Comb Green

Giesser Giesser Fish Scissors 10 Cm Stainless Steel-black

Sabatier Professional L'expertise Kitchen Shears Sabpr121

Stainless Steel Kitchen Scissors No Waste - Eco Friendly Scissors

Multi-purpose Kitchen Shears Ks-2-fg

Zwilling Multi-purpose 20cm Stainless Steel Shears Red 43964-200-0

Zwilling 24cm Stainless Steel Poultry Shear 42903-000-0

Zwilling Zwilling Universal Scissors 20 Cm Black

Wüsthof 7cm Kitchen Shears 1049594906

Lion Sabatier Pluton Poultry Shears

Sabatier Professional Soft Grip Kitchen Scissor 22cm Sabprsc02

Sabatier Professional Heavy Duty Kitchen Scissor Sabgs90006

Lion Sabatier Multi Purpose Scissors 588080

Wüsthof Kitchen Shears Wt1049594907

Global Gs Kitchen Shears & Block Gs-103

Wüsthof Poultry Shears Wt1049595002

Wüsthof Classic White Kitchen Shears Wt1040294901

Wüsthof Kitchen Shears 1059594904

Wüsthof Kitchen Shears 1059594903

Victorinox Kitchen Scissors - Black 763633

Kai Shun 93mm Kitchen Scissor Kai-dh-6002

Kai Shun Herb Scissor Japanese Kitchen Scissor Kai-dm-7100

Kitchen Shears price list

Questions and answers about Kitchen Shears

What’s the difference between universal shears and poultry shears?

Can I wash my kitchen shears in the dishwasher?

Some shears are labeled dishwasher-safe, but repeated dishwasher cycles can dull edges and corrode less-stable metals. I recommend hand-washing with warm, soapy water, drying thoroughly, and oiling the pivot occasionally to prolong lifespan.

How long should kitchen shears be for comfortable use?

Most comfortable universal shears fall in the 7–9 in range. For example, many multi-purpose shears are around 7.9 in, while poultry shears may be closer to 9.3–9.8 in for better leverage. Choose a length that balances control and reach for the tasks you do most.

Are serrated blades better than straight blades?

Serrated blades help grip slippery items like fish and poultry skin and can reduce slippage during cuts. Straight blades offer cleaner slices on delicate items. Many versatile shears use a partially serrated lower blade to combine grip with clean cutting.

How often should I sharpen my kitchen shears?

Frequency depends on use. For regular home cooking, once or twice a year is typical. If you use shears daily or for heavy-duty tasks, sharpen them more often. Test on cardboard — if the cut is ragged, it’s time to sharpen or send them to a pro.

Top Kitchen Shears to Upgrade Your Prep Game: A Practical Buyer's Guide

Why a Great Pair of Kitchen Shears Matters

Types of Kitchen Shears and What They Do Best

Universal / Multi-Purpose Shears

Poultry Shears

Herb Scissors

Spotlight: Popular Models from Trusted Brands

Nordwik Universal Scissors — 2-Piece Set (Taupe)

Fiskars Classic Scissors — 7.1 in

Zwilling Universal Scissors — 7.9 in (Black and Stainless Options)

Zwilling Twin Select Poultry Shears — 9.3 in

Victorinox Steel Poultry Shears — 9.8 in (Black)

Zwilling Kitchen Shears — 7.9 in Stainless Steel Multi-purpose (Red)

Brabantia Tasty Herb Scissors (Green) with Cleaning Comb

Rösle Spherical Cast Iron — Ø1.2 in

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Shears for Your Needs

Consider the Handle and Grip

Check for Detachable Blades and Dishwasher Safety

Blade Material and Serration

Maintenance Tips to Keep Shears Sharp and Safe

How to Sharpen at Home

Storing Shears Safely

Comparing Top Brands: What Sets Them Apart

Price vs. Value

Safety Tips for Using Kitchen Shears

Other Handy Cutting Tools to Consider

Where to Compare Prices and Find the Best Deals

Final Thoughts on Picking the Perfect Pair