Pet Clipper Training: Learn, Choose and Maintain Like a Pro

Types of Clippers

A5 / Universal System

These clippers are the most widely used in professional dog grooming. They are designed for demanding tasks on thick or dirty coats thanks to their powerful motor and sturdy build. They use interchangeable A5 system or universal blades, known for their durability and cutting efficiency.

Main Components:

  • Lever: Moves the blade laterally to perform the cut.
  • Hinge: Secures and correctly positions the blade on the clipper.
  • Latch: Holds the blade in place, preventing it from shifting under pressure.
  • Hinge release button: Allows the blade to be removed when pressed.
  • On/off button: Turns the motor on and off.
  • Body: Ergonomic grip area housing internal electronics.
  • Power source: Can be either corded or powered by a removable battery.

 

Trimmers

Lighter, quieter, and lower-resistance clippers compared to the A5 system. Each model has its own blade format (non-universal), typically height-adjustable and not re-sharpenable. They are usually battery-powered.

Main Components:

  • Motor shaft: Moves the blade with a rotating motion.
  • Blade attachment system: Fits and securely holds the blade.
  • Blade fitting: Slot where the blade tab is fixed.
  • Height lever: Adjusts the blade to change cutting length.
  • On/off button: Turns the clipper on or off.
  • LED screen: Displays battery status and speed.
  • Charging port: Input for recharging the internal battery.

 

Detail Clippers

Small, lightweight, high-precision clippers. They are intended for specific areas and finishing touches. They use fixed blades with extreme precision, not re-sharpenable. Powered by battery or disposable batteries.

Components similar to trimmers, adapted to a more compact format.

 

2. Power System: Cord or Battery

The most common format today is battery-powered, offering greater freedom of movement. They can be classified into:

  • Integrated batteries: Lighter and more compact, but require recharging when depleted.
  • Removable batteries: Allow switching charged batteries without interrupting work.

Charging methods:

  • Direct charging: Connecting the charger directly to the clipper.
  • Charging base: Allows safe charging and storage of the clipper.

Important: Batteries lose performance in very cold environments.

 

3. Batteries and Performance

Lithium batteries are the most common due to their efficiency, fast charging, and durability. The choice between integrated or removable depends on mobility needs and continuous working time requirements.

 

4. Motor Types: Brushed vs Brushless

Lithium batteries are the most common due to their efficiency, fast charging, and durability. The choice between integrated or removable depends on mobility needs and continuous working time requirements.

 

4. Motor Types: Brushed vs Brushless

Brushed Motors (Conventional)

These motors use brushes (carbon brushes) to transfer energy to the rotor, creating movement. They have been widely used in traditional clippers due to their good power-to-price ratio.

Features:

  • Good starting power.
  • More economical to manufacture.
  • Require periodic maintenance, such as brush replacements.

Disadvantages:

  • Generate more heat during operation.
  • Limited lifespan.
  • Higher noise levels.
  • Progressive wear of internal components.

Brushless Motors

They operate through electronic control, without friction parts such as brushes. Typically found in mid-high range and professional models.

Advantages:

  • Longer durability due to no internal wear parts.
  • Less heat generation, even during prolonged use.
  • Quieter operation with fewer vibrations.
  • Greater energy efficiency, translating into better battery performance.
  • Maintain constant power even when the battery begins to discharge.

 

5. Speeds

The speed of a clipper is measured in Revolutions Per Minute (RPM):

  • Trimmers and Detail Clippers: High speed (up to 7000 RPM), ideal for fine finishes. Blades do not easily overheat.
  • A5 System: Operate between 2500 and 5000 RPM. Above 2500 RPM, blades tend to overheat and require more frequent lubrication.

 

6. Correct Use According to Clipper Type

  • Ideal for dense, dirty, or voluminous coats.
  • Use at low speed when the coat is dirty or tangled.
  • Lubricate frequently to prevent blade wear.
  • On clean and detangled coats, speed can be increased and comb attachments used for specific lengths.

Trimmers and Detail Clippers

  • Designed only for use on clean coats.
  • Using on dirty coats greatly increases blade wear.
  • Not recommended for knotted coats.
  • For cutting without comb attachment, use low speed. For better finishes with comb attachments, higher speeds are recommended.

 

7. Clipper and Blade Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures equipment longevity:

Avoid Forced Use:

  • Do not press excessively or move the clipper too fast.
  • Use the appropriate blade for the coat type.
  • Do not work with dull blades.
  • Clean and lubricate blades regularly (preferably with the teeth facing down to avoid oil entering the motor).

Causes of Premature Wear:

  • Clipping very dirty coats without pre-washing.
  • Using dull or unlubricated blades.
  • Applying too much pressure.
  • Using clippers not suited for the coat type.

Technical Check-up:

  • Professionals should send their clippers for service at least once a year.
  • The user may replace worn parts like lever, latch, or hinge, always with original spare parts.