Millers Forge 743C Steel Pet Nail Clipper
Experienced owners of small to medium dogs who want professional-grade cutting performance
Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer
Budget-conscious owners of small to medium dogs who want a reliable scissor-style trimmer
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose Millers Forge 743C Steel Pet Nail Clipper
Experienced owners of small to medium dogs who want professional-grade cutting performance
The Millers Forge 743C is the gold standard for small to medium dog nails — professional groomers have trusted these for decades, and the hardened steel blades maintain their edge far longer than any budget clipper. At $13, the performance-to-price ratio is outstanding. The lack of a safety guard and smaller sizing make it less suited for beginners or large dogs, but for its target audience, nothing cuts cleaner.
Strengths
- Professional-grade hardened steel blades stay sharp far longer than budget clippers
- Clean, precise cuts with no nail crushing or splitting — the standard groomers trust
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio at $13 for professional-grade performance
Limitations
- No safety guard — requires confidence and experience to avoid the quick
- Sized for small to medium dogs — handles and blade opening are too small for large breeds
- Basic handle design without rubber coating can be slippery with wet hands
When to Choose Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer
Budget-conscious owners of small to medium dogs who want a reliable scissor-style trimmer
The Safari Professional Nail Trimmer is a no-frills workhorse — the stainless steel blades cut cleanly, the scissor design feels natural in hand, and the sub-$10 price makes it an easy recommendation for anyone starting out with at-home nail trimming. The lack of a safety guard is the main drawback, but experienced trimmers will appreciate the unobstructed sight line.
Strengths
- Sharp stainless steel blades deliver clean cuts without nail splitting or crushing
- Scissor-style design offers intuitive control for first-time nail trimmers
- Under $10 price point makes it one of the best values in pet grooming
Limitations
- No safety guard or quick-stop guide — requires experience to avoid overcutting
- Scissor handles can cause hand fatigue during extended grooming sessions
- Not ideal for very large dogs with thick, dense nails
