This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I too use a Fiskars heavy-duty shear to cut manes -- the large utility shear sold for workshop use. I think it's under $15 USD. The points of both blades are dull, not sharp. One blade is, oh, about 1/4" longer than the other so the blades do not cut all the way to the tip. This design is a little odd, but I figure it keeps me from inadvertently cutting someone, including myself.
I also use a brush or comb to smooth the mane out as I cut, so the stray hairs (at least some of them!) get cut. I also hold the back of the brush or comb against the mane when I do a final finish cut -- seems to give me a straighter line. I've seen barbers do that when they cut bangs. I sometimes use a lighter, smaller scissor to cut the stray hairs on and around the ears -- gives me more control. I never clean the hair completely out of the ears like you see on Quarter Horses or Arabs at shows. I personally think that is too much for a Fjord. Just a light trim of the ear hair so the hairs are flush with the outer edges of the ears -- I've heard it referred to as a "pony trim". For what it's worth, I clip the "goat" hairs under the jaw, but I don't cut the heavy whiskers right under the chin. I never trim the fetlocks or feathers on the legs -- just a good brushing is enough for me. I keep the tail cut even with the back of the fetlock joint -- long enough to be a good flyswatter and to look pretty, but short enough so it doesn't get stepped on or get much mud in it. DeeAnna
