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What's the difference between FC and ST blades?

When selecting the right blade for dog grooming, you’ll often come across two types: FC (Finish Cut) and ST (Skip Tooth). Understanding their differences is essential for achieving the best results, whether you're a professional groomer or maintaining your pet's coat at home.

What Are FC and ST Blades?

FC (Finish Cut) Blades: Also known as Fine Cut, these blades feature teeth that are all the same length, delivering a smooth, even finish. They are ideal for precision grooming and safe for most coat types.

ST (Skip Tooth) Blades: These blades alternate between short and long teeth, allowing more coat to feed into the cutting edge. They are particularly useful for bulk removal, blending, and working through thick or matted fur.

Key Differences:

FC and F Blades Are the Same: Some brands use F while others use FC, but both indicate a Finish Cut blade. For example, a 7F and a 7FC perform the same way.

Shorter Blades Are Always FC: Blade sizes #10, #15, #30, #40, and #50 only come in FC for precise, safe clipping.

Blades Longer Than #10 Come in Both ST and FC: Sizes #7, #5, #4, and #3 are available in both variations. If a blade doesn’t specify FC or ST, checking the teeth can help determine its type.

Choosing the Right Blade for the Job

FC (Finish Cut) Blades Are Best For:

  • Achieving a polished, even trim

  • Grooming sensitive areas with extra safety

  • Less experienced groomers who need a controlled, precise cut

ST (Skip Tooth) Blades Are Best For:

  • Removing thick or matted fur efficiently

  • Pre-clipping before a bath to reduce drying time

  • Blending layers for a more natural transition

  • Creating a hand-stripped look on certain breeds

Grooming Safety Tips

FC blades provide more protection against accidental nicks, making them the recommended choice for beginners.

ST blades require experience to use safely, as they allow more hair—and potentially skin—to enter the cutting area.

Always pull the skin taut when grooming to prevent accidental nicks, uneven cutting, and ensure a smooth finish.

What do ST and FC blade teeth look like?

ST and FC blade teeth

On the left is an FC or Finish Cut blade. The teeth are all the same length for a smoother, finer finish. On the right is an ST or Skip Tooth blade. Every second tooth is shorter. Finish Cut blades almost always say F or FC on the face of the blade. ST blades usually do not say ST on the blade.

By understanding the differences between FC and ST blades, you can select the best option for each coat type and grooming task. Choosing the right blade ensures professional-quality results while keeping pets comfortable and safe throughout the grooming process.