New Jersey Barber and Hairstyling Practice Exam

What should be used to maintain the sharpness of barber shears?

1. Water and soap

2. A sharpening stone or professional sharpening service

3. Oil alone

4. A damp cloth

The correct answer is: A sharpening stone or professional sharpening service

Using a sharpening stone or a professional sharpening service is essential for maintaining the sharpness of barber shears. Over time, even high-quality scissors can dull from frequent use. A sharpening stone allows a barber to manually hone the blade, ensuring a precise edge for accurate cutting. This method requires skill and understanding of the correct angle to maintain the shears' effectiveness without damaging them. On the other hand, while oil can help lubricate the shears, it does not sharpen them. Water and soap might clean the blades temporarily, but this cleaning does not address the sharpness of the shears. A damp cloth would simply be used for cleaning, lacking the capability to maintain or enhance the cutting edge. Thus, the best option involves a method specifically designed for sharpening, which is why the approach of utilizing a sharpening stone or professional service is the correct choice.