Black & Decker Crafting Shears Scissors

As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and avid crafter, having the right tools is crucial for ensuring projects go smoothly and efficiently. Recently, I had the pleasure of testing a new addition to my toolkit: Crafting Shears Scissors by Black & Decker, model number BDHT20002. These shears boast a robust design, durable stainless-steel blades, and some intriguing additional features. After putting them through their paces on various crafting and cutting tasks, here’s a comprehensive look at their performance.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Crafting Shears do not disappoint in this regard. The shears have a solid, hefty feel that immediately conveys quality. The blades are made from stainless steel, promising longevity and resistance to rust, which is essential for any tool that's likely to encounter a variety of materials. The handles are constructed with a bi-material comfort grip, which is both comfortable and secure in hand. This ergonomic design ensures long periods of use without discomfort, a significant plus for extensive crafting sessions or heavier-duty tasks.

Performance

The primary purpose of any shears is cutting, and these do their job exceptionally well. The sharpness of the blades impressed me right out of the box. They effortlessly sliced through paper, cardboard, thick fabric, and even light wood dowels without any snags. For mixed media projects, these shears performed admirably, making precise cuts through fabric and paper, and delivering clean cuts through more challenging materials like popsicle sticks and thick plastics.

One interesting aspect of these shears is their ability to separate into two halves. This feature is remarkably useful for thorough cleaning, ensuring that any materials stuck between the blades are easily removed. I also found it handy when needing to score lines on cardboard boxes for easier folding and tearing, adding versatility to their use.

Additional Features

In addition to their primary function, the shears come with a few extra tools. A paint can opener is integrated into one handle, which, while a bit unexpected, is quite practical for those moments when I needed to pop open a can of paint mid-project. Additionally, there's a small notch designed as a bottle opener. Though I initially questioned the necessity of this feature, it has proven its utility during long crafting sessions when a refreshing beverage is needed.

The shears also include a flathead screwdriver blade, which is less frequently used but still a nice touch for minor adjustments or impromptu tasks. This multifunctionality is a testament to the thoughtful design Black & Decker incorporated into these shears.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort is paramount when it comes to tools that are used for extended periods, and these shears excel in this area. The soft, yet firm, bi-material handles fit comfortably in my hand, reducing strain and fatigue during long cutting sessions. The handles are spacious enough for a firm grip, even when wearing gloves, which is beneficial for outdoor or messier projects.

The weight of the shears is balanced perfectly, providing a steady hand for precision cuts without feeling cumbersome. The durability of the materials used is evident, and after several weeks of rigorous use, the blades remain sharp and show no signs of wear or dulling.

Versatility

The sheer versatility of these shears has been a pleasant surprise. While they are marketed primarily for crafting, their robust construction and sharp blades make them suitable for a wide array of tasks. From trimming garden branches to cutting through tough packaging materials, these shears have proven themselves to be a reliable multitool.

In the kitchen, they performed admirably as well. I found them particularly useful for cutting butcher's twine, opening food packaging, and even as a pair of poultry shears. Their ability to come apart for thorough cleaning is especially beneficial in a kitchen environment, ensuring hygiene and ease of maintenance.

Durability

Durability is a key factor for any tool, and these shears live up to the Black & Decker reputation for sturdy construction. The stainless-steel blades have maintained their sharpness despite extensive use, and the handle construction shows no signs of wear. The robust design suggests that these shears will be a staple in my toolkit for years to come.

Criticisms

While there are many positives, there are a few minor criticisms to note. The additional features, such as the flathead screwdriver, feel somewhat out of place and are not as frequently used. Additionally, the ability to separate the blades, while generally useful, can sometimes be a bit too easy, especially when cutting tricky materials like clamshell packaging. This could potentially lead to the blades coming apart accidentally during use, which can be slightly frustrating.

Another point is the serrated lower blade, which occasionally causes materials to bunch up while cutting. This is a minor inconvenience that doesn’t significantly detract from the overall performance but is worth mentioning for those working with fine, precision-based projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Black & Decker Crafting Shears Scissors, model number BDHT20002, are a standout tool for any DIY enthusiast, crafter, or homeowner looking for a versatile and durable pair of shears. Their robust construction, sharp blades, and comfortable usage make them a reliable choice for a wide range of tasks. While the additional features may not be essential for everyone, they add a layer of functionality that could be handy in various situations.

I would highly recommend these shears to anyone in need of a high-quality, multipurpose tool. They excel in their primary function of cutting and offer additional utility that can come in handy in unexpected ways. Whether you're crafting, cooking, or tackling household projects, these shears are a solid and dependable addition to your toolkit.