Best Kitchen Shears America’s Test Kitchen Swears By!

Cutting through tough poultry bones or finely snipping herbs with a regular kitchen knife can be frustrating and unsafe. Many home cooks seek a tool that combines precision, durability, and ease of use.

This is where the best kitchen shears America’s Test Kitchen recommends can make a real difference. These kitchen shears are designed for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile cutting tool in the kitchen. They handle a variety of tasks, from trimming meat to opening packages, without losing sharpness or comfort.

The best kitchen shears America’s Test Kitchen highlights offer balance, strong blades, and safety features that improve daily cooking experiences. This review will cover key factors such as build quality, cutting performance, maintenance, and value.

By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which kitchen shears match your needs and why these specific models have earned high marks from America’s Test Kitchen.

Discover Top Picks That Combine Precision and Durability for Your Kitchen Needs

Image	Product	Price
Pick 1	iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears with Protective Sheath	Check Price On Amazon
Pick 2	KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath	Check Price On Amazon
Pick 3	OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears and Herb Scissors	Check Price On Amazon

1. iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears with Protective Sheath

Upgrade your kitchen toolkit with iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears featuring a durable protective sheath. Designed to handle a variety of cutting needs, these scissors offer sharp precision and reliable comfort.

Ideal for food preparation and household tasks, they simplify everyday cutting challenges.

Crafted for versatility, these heavy-duty shears measure 66 inches with super sharp blades made from hardened stainless steel. They slice effortlessly through meat, vegetables, poultry, fish, herbs, and packaging materials. The ergonomic handle fits comfortably in both large and small hands, providing a stable and cushioned grip for smooth cutting action.

The ergonomic handle fits comfortably in both large and small hands, providing a stable and cushioned grip for smooth cutting action. Users will appreciate two scissors in the pack, each with different handle colors to help designate specific tasks and prevent cross-contamination. Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, they withstand frequent use in busy kitchens and outdoor environments alike.

Suitable for adults and older kids, these kitchen shears are an essential tool for households, campers, and first apartments looking for reliable, multipurpose scissors at great value.

Pros

• Premium stainless steel blades ensure precise, effortless cutting
• Ergonomic comfort grip designed for both left- and right-handed users
• Includes two pairs with color-coded handles for versatile kitchen and household use

Cons

• The blades require occasional hand sharpening to maintain peak sharpness

Reliable and adaptable, iBayam Kitchen Scissors Shears deliver excellent performance across a broad range of cutting needs. Their thoughtful design and durable build make them a valuable addition for anyone seeking dependable kitchen shears.

2. KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath

Experience the perfect blend of durability and precision with the KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears. These shears are crafted to handle everyday kitchen tasks, delivering clean, effortless cuts every time.

Designed with both performance and comfort in mind, they make food preparation quicker and safer.

Equipped with premium stainless steel blades and a protective sheath, these shears are built to last. Their thoughtful design ensures they remain a reliable tool in your kitchen for years to come.

The KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears feature sharp stainless steel blades that resist rust and maintain their edge through frequent use. Equipped with micro serrated edges, the blades grip food firmly, minimizing slips and making cutting smooth and efficient.

Comfort is enhanced with a soft, non-slip grip handle that reduces hand fatigue during extended use. A sturdy plastic protective sheath keeps the blades safe when stored and adds an important safety element.

Cleaning is convenient since the shears are dishwasher safe, although hand washing may prolong blade sharpness.

These shears stand out for their balance of robust build quality and user-friendly features. They suit home cooks and professionals alike, making food preparation easier and safer than many standard kitchen scissors.

Compared with other kitchen shears, the KitchenAid model offers excellent grip, blade strength, and thoughtful safety details that elevate daily kitchen tasks.

Pros

• Rust-resistant stainless steel blades maintain lasting sharpness.
• Micro serrated edges provide superior grip for smooth cutting.
• Comfortable, non-slip handle reduces hand fatigue during use.

Cons

• Hand washing recommended to preserve optimal blade quality.

Combining durability, comfort, and safety, the KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears represent a reliable choice for daily kitchen tasks. Their well-engineered design and thoughtful details offer a versatile cutting tool that delivers strong performance and ease of use. For those seeking dependable kitchen shears with protective storage and effortless handling, these shears stand out as a practical and efficient option.

3. OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears and Herb Scissors

Experience effortless precision with the OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears and Herb Scissors. Designed to tackle a variety of kitchen tasks, these shears combine durability and comfort for seamless cutting. From slicing through tough materials to neatly stripping herbs, they offer versatile performance every time.

Crafted with user-friendly features, these kitchen shears provide a reliable tool for home cooking and food preparation. Their sturdy build and thoughtful design make daily kitchen chores easier and more efficient, making them a trusted choice for many.

OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears are engineered with stainless steel blades, capable of slicing through cardboard, twine, meat, and vegetables with ease. The micro-serrated edges ensure a firm grip, preventing slips and enhancing safety during use. Additionally, the built-in herb stripper efficiently removes tough stems, saving preparation time.

The handles feature cushioning pads that absorb pressure, providing a comfortable grip even during extended use. The blades conveniently separate for thorough cleaning, promoting hygiene without hassle. Its solid build quality balances strength with ergonomic design, supporting a smooth cutting experience.

Its solid build quality balances strength with ergonomic design, supporting a smooth cutting experience.

Ideal for home chefs and everyday cooks, these shears provide great versatility in the kitchen. Their easy maintenance, reliable sharpness, and multi-functionality make them a practical addition to any culinary toolkit.

Compared to other shears, they offer a combination of performance and comfort that stands out for regular kitchen use.

Pros

• Micro-serrated blades grip food securely to prevent slipping
• Built-in herb stripper removes herbs quickly and effectively
• Blades separate for easy and thorough cleaning

Cons

• May feel slightly heavy during prolonged use for some users

The OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears and Herb Scissors deliver dependable performance and thoughtful design. Their ability to handle varied kitchen tasks with ease and comfort makes them a reliable tool for everyday cooking. Highly rated and well-built, they provide excellent value and convenience.

Highly rated and well-built, they provide excellent value and convenience.

4. Henckels Kitchen Scissors

Henckels Kitchen Scissors combine durability with versatile performance, making them an essential tool for every kitchen. Crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, these shears handle various tasks with precision and ease.

Their thoughtful design allows effortless cutting, cracking nuts, and opening screw caps, enhancing efficiency during meal preparation. A reliable companion for both casual cooks and culinary pros alike.

Constructed with high-quality stainless steel, the Henckels Kitchen Scissors resist corrosion and maintain sharpness over time. The micro-serrated blades provide slip-proof cutting, ensuring clean and accurate slices through a wide range of ingredients. Beyond basic cutting, the built-in serrated metal handle insert functions as a nutcracker and bottle opener, adding extra utility without clutter.

While dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to preserve the longevity of the blades and overall finish. Designed in Japan, this tool showcases meticulous manufacturing standards respected worldwide.

These kitchen shears suit daily food preparation, from trimming herbs to breaking down poultry. Their multifunctional design caters especially well to households seeking a durable, all-in-one cutting instrument. Compared to similar products, Henckels’ lifetime warranty and trusted brand reputation offer added peace of mind for long-term use.

Pros

• Corrosion-resistant stainless steel blades for durability
• Micro-serrated edges ensure slip-proof, precise cutting
• Multipurpose design with nutcracker and bottle opener features

Cons

• Dishwasher safe but hand washing is recommended to maintain quality

Reliable, sturdy, and multifunctional, Henckels Kitchen Scissors enhance efficiency in any kitchen setting. Their blend of quality materials and practical features make them worthwhile for daily culinary use.

5. MAD SHARK Heavy Duty Poultry Shears

Experience unmatched precision and strength in your kitchen with MAD SHARK Heavy Duty Poultry Shears. Designed for effortless cutting and versatile use, these shears redefine convenience and durability. Perfectly crafted for heavy-duty tasks, they become an essential tool for any cooking space.

From breaking down poultry to trimming herbs, these professional-grade shears simplify complex kitchen chores. Their robust build and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable grip and long-lasting sharpness.

A smart addition for cooks seeking efficiency and quality in one.

Forged from rust-proof molybdenum-vanadium steel, the blades measure a sturdy 5mm and slice through poultry bones with ease. A corrosion-resistant coating keeps them spotless despite frequent use. Industrial-grade aluminum handles tolerate ten times more pressure than average scissors, promising a resilient performance.

Industrial-grade aluminum handles tolerate ten times more pressure than average scissors, promising a resilient performance.

Featuring a thumb-activated safety lock, the shears prevent accidental openings and secure quickly. The spring-loaded design supports one-handed operation even with slippery or greasy fingers, enhancing safety and convenience. Built-in tools like a nutcracker and fish scaler add practical value for various kitchen tasks.

Built-in tools like a nutcracker and fish scaler add practical value for various kitchen tasks.

Ergonomically shaped non-slip handles with thumb rests reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Tested by chefs with larger hands, 89% reported no need for adjustments while working hours on end.

Dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleaning, their elegant packaging also makes them a thoughtful gift choice.

Ideal for home cooks, BBQ masters, and food preparers looking for dependable kitchen shears that combine strength with control. These shears stand out for their lifetime sharpness guarantee and multi-functionality, reducing the need for multiple tools and saving space.

Pros

• Rust-proof molybdenum-vanadium steel blades ensure lasting sharpness and corrosion resistance.
• Quick-lock safety mechanism offers secure storage and one-handed operation.
• Multi-functional design includes built-in nutcracker and fish scaler for added versatility.

Cons

• The heavy-duty construction may feel slightly bulky for users preferring lighter scissors.

MAD SHARK Heavy Duty Poultry Shears bring professional-grade durability and convenient features to any kitchen task. Their solid construction and ergonomic design deliver reliable performance for diverse cutting needs.

6. Shun Multi-Purpose Kitchen Shears

The Shun Multi-Purpose Kitchen Shears offer a superb combination of durability and versatility for everyday kitchen tasks. Expertly crafted in Japan, these shears blend traditional skills with modern features for outstanding performance. Their robust design makes them an essential tool in kitchens of all sizes.

Their robust design makes them an essential tool in kitchens of all sizes.

Designed to handle many functions beyond simple cutting, these shears come with a bone notch, bottle opener, and nutcracker to simplify food preparation. The detachable blades make cleaning effortless, promoting hygiene and convenience. With a comfortable grip that remains secure even when wet, these shears provide safe and reliable handling throughout use.

With a comfortable grip that remains secure even when wet, these shears provide safe and reliable handling throughout use.

Constructed from high-quality 420J2 stainless steel, the blades deliver exceptional sharpness and durability. A serrated edge ensures effective gripping and slicing through tough materials with ease, making it suitable for various kitchen jobs. The shears’ multi-functional tips double as jar openers or screwdrivers, adding even more value to their design.

The ergonomic handles feature a plastic over-mold that reduces hand fatigue while providing a secure grip. This design detail enhances safety and comfort during extended use. They split apart easily to allow thorough cleaning, preventing food residue buildup and maintaining blade integrity.

The overall build emphasizes Japanese craftsmanship, reflecting a longstanding tradition of attention to detail and precision. Ideal for home cooks and professionals alike, these shears perform well across diverse kitchen environments.

Pros

• Multi-functional design with useful additional tools built in
• Extremely sharp and durable 420J2 stainless steel blades
• Comfortable, slip-resistant handles with easy blade detachment

Cons

• Higher price point compared to basic kitchen shears

The Shun Multi-Purpose Kitchen Shears combine precision cutting, added functionalities, and an ergonomic design to deliver a reliable kitchen tool. Their craftsmanship and robust materials justify their place in any well-equipped kitchen. Below is a detailed specification overview to help with your decision.

Below is a detailed specification overview to help with your decision.

7. Gidli Kitchen Shears and Seafood Scissors Set

Discover versatility and precision combined in the Gidli Kitchen Shears and Seafood Scissors Set. Designed to handle various kitchen tasks, these shears provide clean cuts with ease and comfort.

The set is ideal for chopping herbs, slicing poultry, and tackling seafood effortlessly.

Crafted for daily use, this pair offers durability thanks to premium stainless steel blades. Lightweight with ergonomic handles, it suits both left and right-handed users equally well.

A bonus seafood scissor adds specialized functionality that simplifies shellfish preparation.

These kitchen shears deliver sharp, dependable cuts on a range of ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Constructed from heavy-duty 3Cr13 stainless steel, the blades maintain edge retention over extended use. The included 7-inch seafood scissors have a distinct shape for cracking shells and deveining shrimp with minimal effort and mess.

Ergonomic TPR and PP handles enhance grip comfort during extended food prep sessions. Their ambidextrous design makes the set user-friendly for all. Weighing just 8 ounces, the shears feel balanced without causing fatigue.

Optional dishwasher cleaning adds convenience, though hand drying is recommended to protect the hinge and prolong blade life. A protective cover safeguards the blades when not in use.

Additionally, the lifetime replacement warranty provides peace of mind against defects or damage.

While powerful enough for most kitchen tasks, these scissors are not built for heavy bone cutting or industrial work. Ideal for home cooks seeking multipurpose tools, the set improves efficiency without sacrificing comfort or precision. Its combination of function, durability, and ease makes it a practical upgrade for culinary routines.

Its combination of function, durability, and ease makes it a practical upgrade for culinary routines.

Pros

• Durable stainless steel blades stay sharp through daily use
• Ergonomic, ambidextrous handles provide comfortable grip for all users
• Bonus seafood scissors designed for easy shellfish preparation

Cons

• Not suitable for cutting heavy bones or industrial tasks

A well-balanced blend of sharpness, comfort, and versatility makes this scissors set a kitchen staple. The inclusion of specialized seafood shears adds unique value not commonly found in standard sets.

8. Huusk Japanese Steel Kitchen Scissors

Discover the precision and strength of Huusk Japanese Steel Kitchen Scissors, crafted to elevate everyday kitchen tasks. These shears combine traditional Japanese metallurgy with modern design for a tool that performs flawlessly on various food prep challenges.

Engineered for comfort and enduring sharpness, the Huusk shears adapt effortlessly to both left- and right-handed users. Their compact size makes storage simple while adding elegance to your culinary tools.

Huusk kitchen scissors boast blades made from 0mm premium SK5 steel, known for high durability and excellent edge retention. The mirror-polished finish not only enhances the scissors’ resistance to rust but also brings a sleek professional look to the kitchen counter.

The ergonomic handles are sculpted to reduce wrist strain, enabling prolonged use for chopping herbs or crushing garlic with ease. This design supports those with arthritis, providing a comfortable grip regardless of hand orientation.

At just 9 inches when disassembled, the scissors fit neatly into kitchen drawers or picnic baskets, adding practical portability.

Every pair undergoes stringent quality checks, assuring a reliable and long-lasting product. Ideal for home cooks, grill masters, or gifting, Huusk shears present a high-value upgrade over typical kitchen shears. Their versatility and craftsmanship justify their reputation among the best kitchen shears tested over time.

Their versatility and craftsmanship justify their reputation among the best kitchen shears tested over time.

Pros

• Extremely sharp, durable blades made from premium SK5 steel
• Ergonomic handle design that eases wrist strain for all users
• Compact, detachable structure for easy storage and portability

Cons

• Not suitable for cutting very hard materials beyond kitchen use

Huusk Japanese Steel Kitchen Scissors stand out as a finely honed tool that combines function and form. These kitchen shears deliver sharp, reliable cutting performance for multiple food types, supported by thoughtful ergonomic features.

The compact size and elegant finish make them a valuable addition to any kitchen setup.

9. WÜSTHOF Come Apart Kitchen Shears

WÜSTHOF Come Apart Kitchen Shears bring exceptional craftsmanship to your kitchen tools. Designed for versatility, these shears easily handle cutting tasks ranging from fresh herbs to poultry preparation.

Combining long-standing tradition with modern convenience, their detachable feature simplifies cleaning and storage. A trusted choice for home cooks and professionals alike.

Crafted by a family-owned company from Solingen, Germany, these kitchen shears exemplify quality built on over 200 years of experience. The robust stainless steel blades maintain sharpness, supporting precise and effortless cutting every time.

Designed to tackle a wide range of tasks, they are ideal for snipping herbs, trimming chicken skin, and cutting twine or flowers. The ergonomic handles offer a comfortable grip, reducing hand strain during extended use.

These shears stand out with their combination of functionality, durability, and ease of use. They provide excellent value for anyone seeking a reliable kitchen cutting tool. Whether preparing simple meals or detailed recipes, these shears adapt well to multiple needs.

Whether preparing simple meals or detailed recipes, these shears adapt well to multiple needs.

Pros

• Pull-apart design for easy cleaning and maintenance
• Sharp stainless steel blades for precise cutting
• Comfortable ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing

WÜSTHOF Come Apart Kitchen Shears deliver reliable performance through durable construction and thoughtful design. Their versatility covers multiple kitchen tasks, supported by the ease of cleaning and comfortable handling.

Ideal for anyone looking to upgrade their cutting tools with a product grounded in tradition and precision.

10. ZWILLING TWIN L Kitchen Shears

ZWILLING TWIN L Kitchen Shears combine versatility with precision, making everyday kitchen tasks easier. Crafted for reliability, these shears handle a variety of cutting needs with comfort and efficiency.

Designed to be a handy multitool, they are perfect for slicing herbs, cutting poultry, or opening stubborn jars. Their durable build supports daily use without compromising performance.

Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, these 7-inch kitchen shears are built to last. The blade’s sharpness ensures clean, effortless cuts on numerous materials, from food to packaging.

A built-in rotary opener aids in loosening tight lids, adding convenience beyond simple cutting tasks.

Ergonomically shaped handles reduce hand fatigue, allowing safe and comfortable use during extended food preparation sessions. Although dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to maintain the blade’s integrity over time.

Ideal for home cooks seeking a multifunctional cutting tool, these shears are also practical for those with limited hand strength due to their easy handling. When compared to similar products, the ZWILLING model stands out with its lifetime warranty and strong customer satisfaction ratings, reflecting both trust and quality.

Pros

• Durable stainless steel blades ensure long-lasting sharpness
• Built-in rotary opener adds versatile function for jar lids
• Lightweight ergonomic handles provide comfortable grip and control

Cons

• Performance may decline slightly if not hand washed as recommended

The ZWILLING TWIN L Kitchen Shears offer a dependable and multi-functional solution suitable for various kitchen tasks. Their solid construction and thoughtful design deliver excellent value, especially for those seeking durability combined with everyday practicality.

Cut Like a Pro: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Kitchen Shears According to America’s Test Kitchen

Blade material and sharpness

Blade material and sharpness play a crucial role in the overall performance and durability of kitchen shears. High-quality stainless steel is often favored for its excellent resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring the shears maintain their integrity even after frequent exposure to moisture and acidic foods.

The ability of the blade to hold a sharp edge over time is equally important, as it influences how effectively the shears cut through various ingredients without frequent need for sharpening. Additionally, ease of sharpening ensures that the shears can be maintained with minimal effort, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring consistent cutting performance in the kitchen.

Handle design and comfort

Efficient use of kitchen shears depends highly on how well they adapt to various tasks and integrate with your existing tools. Models that offer versatile attachment points or modular components allow for seamless integration with other kitchen gadgets, enhancing overall functionality.

Functionality and versatility

Kitchen shears that incorporate multiple functions can transform a simple tool into an all-in-one kitchen companion. Many models offer added features such as built-in bottle openers and nutcrackers, which increase their utility beyond just cutting. The inclusion of detachable blades is particularly valuable, as they allow for thorough cleaning, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and maintaining hygiene.

The inclusion of detachable blades is particularly valuable, as they allow for thorough cleaning, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and maintaining hygiene. Additionally, shears designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks—from trimming herbs and opening packages to cutting poultry—provide greater convenience and efficiency, minimizing the need for several separate tools. Investing in a design that supports these versatile functions ensures that the shears will remain useful across various cooking scenarios, maximizing their overall value and practicality.

Durability and build quality

Shears designed with welded construction typically offer a seamless, sturdy feel that resists loosening over time, while those using riveted joints may provide easier maintenance but sometimes at the risk of reduced long-term durability. Overall sturdiness and balance play crucial roles in ensuring comfort and precision during use, so tools that feel well-weighted with balanced handles can greatly enhance control and reduce hand fatigue.

Cleaning and maintenance

Understanding how a kitchen tool integrates with your cleaning routine can greatly impact its convenience and durability. Many high-quality shears offer the option to be cleaned in a dishwasher, which saves time but may potentially dull the blades over time due to harsh detergents and high heat. On the other hand, models designed for hand washing often require a bit more effort but tend to retain their sharpness and finish longer. Additionally, the ease with which the shears can be taken apart plays a crucial role in thorough cleaning.

Tools that disassemble smoothly allow for better access to hard-to-reach areas, preventing the buildup of food residue and bacteria. Maintaining these shears also involves regular sharpening and proper drying to avoid rust or corrosion.

Applying food-safe oil to the pivot points can keep the movement smooth, further extending the tool’s lifespan.

• Dishwasher safe: convenient but may affect blade sharpness over time.
• Hand wash only: requires more care but better for longevity.
• Easy disassembly: essential for deep cleaning and hygiene.
• Regular sharpening and lubrication: key maintenance practices.

Price and value

People Also Asked

America’s Test Kitchen recommends the Wüsthof Classic 7-Inch Kitchen Shears as their top-rated choice for durability and versatility. These shears feature sharp, high-quality stainless steel blades and comfortable handles that make them ideal for various kitchen tasks.

Kitchen shears from America’s Test Kitchen are highly rated for their exceptional durability and sharp performance, often outperforming many competing brands. Their sturdy construction and precision cutting make them a reliable choice for a variety of kitchen tasks.

America’s Test Kitchen looks for kitchen shears that offer strong, sharp blades for efficient cutting, ergonomic and comfortable handles for ease of use, and durable construction for long-lasting performance. They also consider additional features like ease of cleaning and versatility in handling different kitchen tasks.

America’s Test Kitchen kitchen shears are well-made and durable but are not specifically designed for heavy-duty tasks like cutting poultry bones. For such tough cutting, specialized poultry shears or a heavy-duty knife are recommended.

America’s Test Kitchen recommends cleaning kitchen shears by hand-washing them with warm, soapy water, then thoroughly drying them to prevent rust. Regularly oiling the pivot and sharpening the blades will help maintain their performance and longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best kitchen shears America’s Test Kitchen recommends offer a perfect balance of durability, precision, and ease of use, making them an essential tool for any home cook. Their sharp, sturdy blades and ergonomic handles ensure effortless cutting through a variety of ingredients, from poultry to herbs.

These kitchen shears are ideally suited for culinary enthusiasts who value quality and efficiency in their cooking tools. For those hesitant about maintenance, most options feature easy-to-clean, rust-resistant materials.

Overall, if you seek reliable, high-performing kitchen shears, the best kitchen shears America’s Test Kitchen spotlights provide an excellent choice that will serve you well in the kitchen.