Many groomers and pet owners struggle when choosing between "F" and "FC" clipper blades, fearing uneven cuts or skin nicks.
Using the wrong blade can lead to tugging, irritation, or even cuts, damaging pet comfort and client trust.
In this article, we break down the real differences between F and FC, compare them to skip-tooth blades, and introduce a premium A5-compatible blade solution to make your grooming smoother and safer—keep reading!
Are F and FC Blades the Same?
In dog grooming, “F” and “FC” both denote “Finish Cut” blades featuring closely spaced, uniform teeth for a smooth and safe trim. The only difference is branding—some manufacturers use “F,” others “FC.” All full‑tooth blades deliver consistent, plush results and reduce the risk of skin nicking. Whether labeled F or FC, they serve the same function and are ideal for achieving a polished finish.
Curious how skip‑tooth tools, length choices, and A5 integration factor in? Keep scrolling for deep-dive insights and pro advice.
What is the difference between skip tooth (ST) and regular blade (FC)?
Skip tooth blades (also called ST or “standard” in some listings) have alternating short and long teeth. This design lets more hair pass through per stroke, making them excellent for bulk reduction, tackling thick or matted coats, and creating texture in wire or hard-coated breeds. For example, when prepping a dense terrier coat, a skip tooth leaves a natural, rugged appearance.
But this efficiency comes with risk. Those wide gaps may catch on skin folds or tendons if the pet moves unexpectedly, and they tend to leave a rougher finish. Therefore, skip tooth tools are best paired with follow-up refinement via full tooth blades.
Regular blades (F or FC) feature uniform, fine teeth, resulting in a smooth, even cut—perfect for final pass or sensitive areas. Since all teeth are the same length, they glide more safely over the skin. For general grooming, FC blades are safer, more forgiving, and deliver polished results.
In practical workflows, professionals often use a skip tooth blade first, especially on thick coats, then switch to an F/FC blade for finishing touches. This combination balances speed and smoothness—ideal for both heavy-duty grooming and aesthetic outcomes.
For more details, please refer to the related article：
Which clipper blade is best for shaving cats: 4F, 10, or 1F?
When grooming cats—delicate animals with thinner skin and finer coats—safety and precision are paramount. Here’s how the three blades compare:
1F blade (~1.5 mm): Offers a short cut while maintaining slight hair length. Safe for general coat trimming if done carefully.
10F blade (or 10FC, ~1.2 mm): Ideal for very close trimming in sensitive or sanitary areas (ears, paws, belly), deploying full‑tooth safety.
4F blade (~9.5 mm): A longer finish blade that leaves noticeable length—best for full-body trims where a natural, plush finish is desired.
For whole‑body cat trims, 4F provides a safe yet ample length. For very short or detail work, 10F is safest. Use 1F if you prefer almost bare but still smooth coverage. Always start with gentle strokes, keep skin taut, and finish with a full‑tooth blade to avoid irritation.
What is the difference between 7 and 7FC blade?
Both blades cut to approximately the same length (~3.2 mm), but the 7 blade is skip‑tooth, meaning its alternating teeth pattern speeds through dense hair but leaves a rougher texture. In contrast, the 7FC is a full‑tooth finishing blade with uniform teeth, offering a smooth and consistent cut.
The typical pro workflow: start with the 7 skip‑tooth blade to reduce bulk, especially on thick coats, then transition to 7FC to refine and polish for a salon-quality finish. This sequence ensures efficient grooming with a professional, sleek look.
Looking for a reliable pet grooming product manufacturer?
Introducing LILIPROPET – Founded in 2009 by Zhongpai Smart Industry (Foshan), with a 10,000 ㎡ factory and 100+ staff. We develop 80+ products yearly and distribute 2.4 million units across 50+ countries. Trusted by salon professionals, mobile groomers, and veterinary clinics worldwide.
We specialize in A5 clipper blades, pet clippers, and grooming accessories, all built to strict quality standards (ISO/SGS) and crafted for long-term durability and precision.
We are actively seeking global agents and distributors to partner with us. If you're interested in collaborative growth—whether in salons, clinics, or retail—let’s connect:
WhatsApp: +86‑13437826086
Email: mahon@lilipropet.com
Recommended Product:
LILIPROPET Professional A5 Detachable Clipper Blades
Fits all A5 systems (Andis®, Oster®, Wahl®)
Blades available: 10, 40, 3F, 4F, 5F, 7F (self‑sharpening, high‑carbon stainless steel)
Benefits: precise, safe, long-lasting—rounded tips protect skin
Use case: comprehensive solution—skip-tooth + finishing blades in one A5-compatible kit
Click here to explore LILIPROPET A5 Blades and experience the professional difference!
How do you choose the right A5 pet clipper blade wholesale supplier?
Compatibility: Verify A5 system compatibility—it’s universal across LILIPRO®, Andis®, Wahl®, Oster®, etc.
Material & Finish: Look for high-carbon stainless steel with micro‑honed, self‑sharpening teeth for durability and edge retention.
Production capacity & certifications: LILIPRO offers ISO/SGS certification, 10k ㎡ factory, and 2.4M annual output.
Service support: Ensure responsive logistics, warranty programs, and easy replacement/after-sales services.
Value proposition: Find suppliers balancing strong brand recognition and competitive pricing. Ideal partners offer customization and ongoing R&D support.
How to Use Pet Grooming Clipper at home?
Preparation: Bathe and thoroughly dry your dog. Brush out any mats or tangles.
Choose the Right Blade: Use adjustable or snap-on blades depending on your desired length. For beginners, start with longer guards to avoid accidental nicks.
Comfortable Setup: Have your dog stand on a non-slip surface. Use treats and soothing tones.
Clipping Technique: Start from the neck and move toward the tail in smooth strokes. Avoid going over the same area repeatedly to prevent irritation.
Sensitive Zones: Use a smaller trimmer or careful scissors around the face, ears, paws, and genitals.
Check Blade Heat: Stop periodically to touch-test the blade. If it’s hot, let it cool or switch blades.
Aftercare: Wipe your dog down, check for missed spots, and reward them with praise or a treat.
Using equipment from a dog trimmer factory like LILIPROPET ensures reliability, safety, and comfort for both you and your pet.
For more details, please refer to the related article：How to Use Pet Grooming Clipper?
Is a 10 blade shorter than a 7F?
Yes. The 10Finishing blade cuts to ~1.2 mm, offering a very close trim ideal for paws and sanitary areas. In contrast, the 7F blade trims to ~3.2 mm—leaving slightly more coat for body grooming. So if you want skin‑tight shaving, the 10 blade is shorter; 7F provides a short yet even coverage.
Conclusion
“F” and “FC” are identical—they mean full‑tooth finishing blades. Skip‑tooth excels at bulk and texture, but F/FC is safer for the final groom. Choosing the right A5-compatible blades—like those from LILIPROPET—ensures efficient, polished, and pet-friendly results. Partner with us for premium grooming tools.
