Z-1 Master
Below are the measurements and an overview of each available Z-1 size, helping you compare the differences in length, weight, blade profile and cutting feel.
Z-1 / 5.5”
|
Detail |
Spec |
Type |
|---|---|---|
|
Overall length |
14 cm / 5.5” |
Small |
|
Weight |
56 g / 2.0 oz |
Medium |
|
Blade length |
5.9 cm / 2.3” |
Medium |
|
Blade width |
1.1 cm / 0.43” |
Slim |
|
Tip width |
0.3 cm / 0.12” |
Pointed |
The 5.5” combines a compact overall length with a slim blade and pointed tip for close control, everyday precision and detailed finishing. Its medium weight keeps it stable through the cut, making it particularly suited to fringes, point cutting, short layers, outline work and smaller sections across wet or dry hair.
The finger and thumb holes are designed to fit all finger sizes. Finger inserts are included with every scissor for a more secure, personalised fit.
Z-1 / 6.0”
|
Detail |
Spec |
Type |
|---|---|---|
|
Overall length |
15.2 cm / 6.0” |
Medium |
|
Weight |
61 g / 2.2 oz |
Medium |
|
Blade length |
6.4 cm / 2.5” |
Medium |
|
Blade width |
1.2 cm / 0.47” |
Medium |
|
Tip width |
0.3 cm / 0.12” |
Pointed |
The 6.0” provides the most balanced combination of control, blade length and cutting power. Its medium proportions create a stable, versatile feel across everyday cutting, clean lines, layering, point cutting, scissor-over-comb and general wet or dry work.
The finger and thumb holes are designed to fit all finger sizes. Finger inserts are included with every scissor for a more secure, personalised fit.
Z-1 / 6.5”
|
Detail |
Spec |
Type |
|---|---|---|
|
Overall length |
16.5 cm / 6.5” |
Large |
|
Weight |
66 g / 2.3 oz |
Heavy |
|
Blade length |
7.7 cm / 3.0” |
Long |
|
Blade width |
1.3 cm / 0.51” |
Wide |
|
Tip width |
0.3 cm / 0.12” |
Pointed |
The 6.5” combines a longer, wider blade with greater weight for stronger, more powerful cutting. It is particularly suited to longer sections, clean lines, layering, scissor-over-comb and stylists or barbers who prefer a larger scissor for wet or dry cutting.
The finger and thumb holes are designed to fit all finger sizes. Finger inserts are included with every scissor for a more secure, personalised fit.
How we measure
- Overall length: Measured from the blade tip to the furthest point of the handle, excluding the finger rest.
- Blade length: Measured from the tip to where the cutting blade shape ends, rather than to the centre of the pivot.
- Blade width: Measured at the widest point of the blade.
- Tip width: Measured close to the end of the blade.
- Weight: Measured for the complete scissor.
- Please note: Slight variations may occur between individual scissors.
The ultimate all-round scissor for professionals who want one scissor that can do it all. Exceptional comfort, balance and cutting performance from your first client to your last.
Description
Description
The ultimate all-round scissor for professionals who want one model they can rely on for almost every technique. Smooth, balanced and powerful, the Z-1 moves effortlessly through the hair while giving you the control needed for detailed, accurate work.
One of our best-selling models and a trusted choice for hairdressers and barbers, the Z-1 is made for varied, fast-moving days behind the chair. From blunt cutting, layering and scissor-over-comb to point cutting, chipping, fades, sliding and slicing, it adapts easily to the way you work - delivering consistent performance from your first client to your last.
Key features
Key features
- Handmade by master craftsmen. The Z-1 is handcrafted by master craftsmen and specialist engineers, combining generations of expertise with precision manufacturing to deliver outstanding quality, balance and performance.
- Smooth, controlled power. The precision sword blade adds stability and power to the cutting edge, creating a strong, balanced feel that glides effortlessly through all hair types.
- VG10 Japanese steel. Made from Japanese VG10 steel, the Z-1 delivers exceptional sharpness, edge retention and long-lasting durability for years of professional use.
- Clean, effortless cutting. The Japanese convex edge glides cleanly through wet and dry hair, helping reduce dragging, folding and pulling for a smoother, more precise cutting experience.
- All-day comfort and control. The sculpted offset handle promotes a natural hand position, improving comfort and control while helping reduce strain on the hand, wrist and shoulder during long working days.
- Ball-bearing tension system. The precision ball-bearing tension system maintains smooth blade movement, reduces friction and protects the cutting edge, creating an effortlessly smooth cutting action.
Specifications
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product code | Z-1 |
| Steel | VG10 Japanese steel |
| Scissor type | Cutting |
| Handle type | Ergo X offset |
| Handle design | Ergonomic |
| Finish | Mirror polished |
| Tension system | Adjustable ball-bearing |
| Rockwell hardness | 63 HRC |
| Cryogenically tempered | Yes |
| Blade shape | Sword |
| Cutting edge | Japanese convex edge |
| Finger rest | Fixed |
| Bumper | Screw-in bumper |
| Hand fit | All hand sizes |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Your Akito's are protected for life, with expert support, free inspections, replacement parts and much more.
Shop with complete peace of mind. Enjoy free returns and exchanges, a 30-day money-back guarantee, prepaid customs and import duties, and much more.
Masterful performance
If you’re looking for the ultimate high-performance scissor that can do it all, the Z-1 is the one for you. Combining precision, power and all-day comfort, it adapts effortlessly to the way you work.
From detailed precision and point cutting to blunt cutting, layering, sliding and scissor-over-comb, it performs all cutting techniques. The Z-1 is a best seller trusted by professionals worldwide, it’s the scissor you’ll reach for every day.
The 5.5” is the smallest size in the Z-1 range, offering exceptional precision and control. Perfect for professionals who enjoy working with a shorter blade, it excels at detailed work while remaining versatile enough for all-round salon cutting.
Best suited to
- Precision cutting
- Point cutting
- Fringes and detailing
- Short to medium-length hair
- Stylists who prefer a shorter blade
- Professionals who prioritise maximum control
- Wet and dry cutting
- Cuts perfectly through all hair types and textures
Why choose the 5.5”?
If precision is your priority, the 5.5” offers the greatest level of control within the Z-1 range. Its shorter blade provides exceptional fingertip accuracy for intricate work, while the balanced sword blade maintains the smooth, effortless cutting performance the Z-1 is known for.
The 6.0” is the most popular size in the Z-1 range, offering the perfect balance of precision, control and versatility. Designed as the ultimate all-rounder, it’s an excellent choice for professionals who want one scissor that can do it all.
Best suited to
- Everyday salon work
- Blunt cutting
- Point cutting
- Sliding and slicing
- Scissor-over-comb
- Stylists and barbers looking for one all-round scissor
- Wet and dry cutting
- Cuts perfectly through all hair types and textures
Why choose the 6.0”?
If you’re looking for one scissor that can do it all, the 6.0” is the ideal choice. It's the perfect balance between precision and versatility, from detailed work to longer cuts and everything in between.
The 6.5” is perfect for professionals who prefer a longer blade for more powerful cutting without sacrificing control. The additional length makes it ideal for working through larger sections of hair, blunt cutting, scissor-over-comb and longer cutting techniques, while still offering the balance and precision needed for detailed work.
Best suited to
- Blunt cutting
- Long hair
- Sliding and slicing
- Scissor-over-comb
- Faster cutting across larger sections
- Stylists and barbers who prefer a longer blade
- Wet and dry cutting
- Cuts perfectly through all hair types and textures
Why choose the 6.5”?
The longer blade provides greater cutting power and makes working through larger sections easier, while the balanced design maintains smooth control and comfort.
The 7.0” is the largest size in the Z-1 range, built for professionals who prefer maximum cutting power and a longer blade. Ideal for larger sections, scissor-over-comb and longer cutting techniques, it delivers strong performance while maintaining excellent control.
Best suited to
- Barbering
- Scissor-over-comb
- Large sections
- Long hair
- Fast, efficient cutting
- Professionals who prefer maximum reach
- Wet and dry cutting
- Cuts perfectly through all hair types and textures
Why choose the 7.0”?
The 7.0” is ideal for professionals who prefer a longer scissor with more cutting power. Perfect for larger sections and longer cutting techniques, it remains smooth, balanced and controlled in the hand.
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What's in the box
We include everything needed to keep your scissors sharp, smooth, and performing at their best.
- Akito box
- Finger ring inserts (multiple sizes)
- Universal tension key
- Leather chamois cloth
- Oil pen
- Cleaning cloths
FAQs
Which size is right for me?
Which size is right for me?
Scissor size is a personal choice and often depends on your hand, technique and the length you feel most comfortable using.
- Choose 5.5” for precision cutting, fringes, point cutting, detailed finishing and smaller sections.
- Choose 6.0” for everyday cutting, layering, clean lines and the widest range of salon and barbering techniques.
- Choose 6.5” for longer sections, stronger cutting, scissor-over-comb and more power through thicker or denser hair.
- Choose 7.0” for maximum blade length and power through large sections, long cutting strokes and scissor-over-comb.
Which cutting techniques is the Z-1 best suited to?
Which cutting techniques is the Z-1 best suited to?
The Z-1 performs exceptionally across blunt cutting, precision work, point cutting, chipping, layering, scissor-over-comb, sliding and slicing.
Its pointed tip supports detailed work and controlled point cutting, while the sword blade provides the stability and power needed for clean lines, larger sections and stronger cutting techniques.
How often will the Z-1 need sharpening?
How often will the Z-1 need sharpening?
The Z-1 is made from VG10 Japanese steel with an adjustable ball bearing tension system, giving it excellent durability, smooth movement and long-lasting sharpness when properly cared for.
For regular professional use, we’d usually recommend sharpening around every 12-18 months, depending on use, technique, hair type and care. Sharpen it sooner if the blade starts to push, fold, drag or feel less clean.
If dropped or damaged, it will likely need sharpening sooner and may require professional repair.
Can the Z-1 be used on both wet and dry hair?
Can the Z-1 be used on both wet and dry hair?
The Z-1 is made for both wet and dry cutting.
Use it on wet hair for clean lines, shape building, blunt cutting and general section work. Use it on dry hair for refining, detail work, softening shape and finishing.
Is the it good as a main everyday scissor?
Is the it good as a main everyday scissor?
Yes. The Z-1 is a best-selling all-round design and an excellent choice as a main everyday cutting scissor.
It combines the control needed for detailed work with the stability and power required for clean lines, larger sections and scissor-over-comb, allowing you to move between techniques throughout the day.
Is the Z-1 suitable for both hairdressers and barbers?
Is the Z-1 suitable for both hairdressers and barbers?
Yes. The Z-1 is designed for both hairdressers and barbers who use a wide range of cutting techniques.
It works exceptionally across salon cutting, scissor-over-comb, fades, clean shape work, layering, precision cutting, sliding, slicing and detailed finishing.