Telephone scissors carbon steel

Since the 1920s Schwarte has produced these Electrician's scissors that have proved their worth as household aids for decades – especially when cutting textiles. They are made of C-60 steel, which has a higher carbon content than normal cast steel. Therefore, it can be hardened to 57 – 58 HRC (normally it is 52 – 54 HRC) and milled sharper. The fact that the steel of the scissors is hard enough to cut copper wires means they always remain sharp enough for household use. The eye rings are formed so they fit closely to the thumb and middle finger when in use. Further details ensue from the use for which the scissors were originally designed. The notch in the lower blade prevents the telephone cable from slipping off; the file cutting at the side of both blades is used to strip the cable – which used to be isolated with dipping varnish.

The family business Carl Schwarte – founded in 1910 – is one of the few manufacturers of knives and scissors for real professional use. For over 100 years now, they have been supplying clients mostly from industrial and handcraft companies belonging to many different sectors. Up to today, all production steps are executed by hand prior to the scissors being examined and stamped with the company name. The scissors are favorably priced, durable as well as very practical. They are forged of carbon steel and, therefore, not rustproof. The scissors are delivered oiled and, occasionally, a small amount of oil should be re-applied. Over the course of time, the scissors lose the luster obtained during the manufacturing process and develop a nice patina when in use.

The traditional inch for the Solingen cutlery is the old Prussian inch (2.615 cm) and not the English or American inch (2.54 cm).