Brand snapshot
Ichiro is a value-to-professional bridge brand offering stainless and VG-10 shears shipped directly from Japan. Public references (ScissorPedia, retailer listings) emphasise hardened steel, ergonomic offsets, and kits that include matched thinning shears.
At a glance:
- Positioning: Upper value / entry professional tier
- Core strengths: VG-10 and 440C options, ergonomic handles, matched cutter + thinner kits
- Best suited to: Apprentices moving beyond entry tools, stylists needing affordable VG-10 performance, salons standardising transitional kits
What’s publicly documented
- Steel usage: Ichiro highlights hardened stainless steel for entry models and VG-10 for premium sets (e.g., K10).
- Distribution: Direct-from-Japan shipping to multiple regions, including Australia, with transparent materials disclosure.
- Kits: Popular bundles pair cutters and thinners to maintain balance during training.
Buying considerations for Australian stylists
- Steel selection: Use 440C kits for basic training; step into VG-10 (K10, premium sets) once maintenance routines are consistent.
- Handle fit: Offset handles are standard—check finger inserts for secure fit, especially for smaller hands.
- Maintenance planning: Follow the maintenance hub routines; expect 4–6 month sharpening intervals for 440C and 6–9 months for VG-10.
- Authenticity & shipping: Order through authorised retailers to ensure genuine stock and warranty support.
- Upgrade path: Use the value tier upgrade playbook when transitioning stylists toward VG-10 or ZA-18 professional kits.
Related resources
Always verify the latest specifications with authorised retailers or Ichiro directly before purchasing.