Here are the main features of a plaster shear:

1. Heavy-Duty Blades

• Made of hardened stainless steel or high-carbon steel for cutting tough materials like orthopedic plaster or fiberglass.

• The blades are thick and strong to resist bending or dulling.

2. Serrated Edge

• One blade often has a serrated (toothed) edge.

• The serration grips the plaster material, preventing slipping while cutting.

3. Blunt (Rounded) Tips

• The tips of the blades are usually blunt or rounded to protect the patient’s skin from accidental injury during cutting.

4. Angled or Offset Blades

• Many plaster shears have blades that are angled or offset relative to the handles.

• This design improves ergonomics, allowing easier access to the cast surface without awkward wrist positions.

5. Long Handles for Leverage

• Handles are typically longer than regular scissors.

• This provides greater mechanical leverage, making it easier to cut through dense materials with less effort.

6. Ergonomic Grip

• Handles are often coated with rubber or made with molded ergonomic grips to reduce hand fatigue.

• Some models are made to fit both right- and left-handed users.

7. Durability and Rust Resistance

• High-quality models are corrosion-resistant and can withstand repeated sterilization (autoclaving).

8. Locking Mechanism (Optional)

• Some heavy-duty versions come with a locking mechanism to keep the blades closed safely when not in use.

9. Size Variations

• Available in different lengths (typically 18 cm to 24 cm) depending on whether they’re used for small pediatric casts or large orthopedic applications.