I've only used these once! The Hattori Hanzo HH3 Ayako is one of the mainstays of the Hanzo line of swivel shears. We developed our swivels with a focus on ergonomics along with an emphasis on technique. A swivel shear allows the stylist independence in the thumb, which relieves pressure on the wrist. As the stylist opens the shear, the thumb is permitted to swing outward and keep the top of the hand still and the rest of the arm in a much more straight and neutral position. The swivel focuses on making the thumb the primary moving muscle. Since the thumb swivels, it also allows the user to rotate the shear 180 degrees to promote channel cutting and creative shear techniques with more comfortable pointing with ergonomic control.