Hand-Forged Medieval / Blacksmith Scissors, 18 cm (7")

Hand-Forged Medieval / Blacksmith Scissors, 18 cm (7")

A Versatile Helper for Crafts and Camp Life

Thanks to their design and sharp blades, these scissors are useful in many situations. They are the ideal accessory for:

• Tailors and Seamstresses: Excellent for cutting fabrics, canvas, wool, and thick threads when making historical garments.
• Scribes and Calligraphers: For precisely trimming parchment, paper, or leather when creating scrolls and books.
• Herbalists and Barber-Surgeons: For snipping herbs, cutting bandages, and preparing medicinal supplies at camp.
• Everyday Camp Use: You can cut a piece of string, a leather patch for repairs, or even give your beard a trim.

They are an indispensable part of any kit for reenactment, LARP, or for anyone who appreciates traditional crafting techniques.

Scissors Through the Ages

From Rome to the Renaissance

Pivoted scissors, like this pair, began to appear in Europe during the Roman era, gradually replacing the older style of spring shears (which resemble small garden snips). Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, they became an utterly common tool in the hands of tailors, scribes, barbers, and surgeons. Their design with large loops allowed for a firm and comfortable grip, which was essential for precise work.

Fun Fact: Symbol of the Tailor's Guild

In many medieval cities, the scissors were the main symbol of the tailor's guild. Golden or silver scissors on a guild's banner made it clear to everyone what craft they represented. Owning a pair of high-quality, well-sharpened, and perhaps even decorated scissors was the mark of a master craftsman. The quality of the tool was a direct reflection of the owner's social standing and skill.

Technical Specifications

• Material: Hand-forged carbon steel (not stainless)
• Overall Length: approx. 18 cm / 7 in (precise length approx. 16.5 cm)
• Width (Closed): approx. 7.9 cm / 3.1 in
• Blade Length (from pivot): approx. 5.5 cm / 2.2 in
• Handle Material Thickness: approx. 4.8 mm / 0.19 in
• Blade Thickness: approx. 2.4 mm / 0.09 in
• Weight: approx. 84 g / 3 oz
• Finish: Blackened, delivered oiled

How to Care for Your Scissors

Rust Prevention Is Key

These scissors are made from carbon steel, which means they can rust if they come into contact with moisture. You will receive them preserved in a layer of oil, which you can easily wipe off with a cloth before first use. To ensure your scissors serve you well for a long time, it is important to wipe them dry after each use, especially in damp environments, and ideally apply a light coat of oil (e.g., mineral oil, gun oil, or even cooking oil).

What to Avoid

The scissors are sharp, so please handle them with care. Never wash them in a dishwasher. They are designed for cutting softer materials like fabric, thread, thin leather, paper, or herbs. Avoid cutting hard materials such as wire, sheet metal, or thick branches, as this could damage the cutting edge or the pivot joint.