This style of scissors has been made for over 300 years in China. Hand forged, they have a hard steel layer (for the sharpened edge) laminated to a softer iron backing that supports the more brittle hardened layer. They come razor sharp. Their blade strength and sharpness make them useful in the shop, the garden or the kitchen, or for crafts. They also help you resist the temptation of using the sewing scissors. Overall lengths are 140 to 216mm. An excellent buy in traditional tools.