If you’re a small game hunter, you know that processing squirrels requires the right tools—especially when it comes to making quick, clean cuts through bone, hide, and sinew. That’s where the best game shears for squirrels come in.
Unlike regular kitchen scissors, these specialized shears are engineered for the rigors of field dressing, offering features like bone notches, serrated blades, spring-loaded handles, and easy-clean designs. A quality pair of game shears can save you time, reduce mess, and even improve safety by minimizing slips and hand fatigue.
When shopping on Amazon, you’ll find a wide range of options—from heavy-duty, multi-function models to lightweight, take-apart designs ideal for the field. Some shears double as multi-tools with built-in bottle openers, nutcrackers, and screwdrivers, while others focus on streamlined performance and easy maintenance.
As a seasoned outdoor reporter and lifelong hunter, I’ve field-tested dozens of shears on everything from squirrels to pheasants. In this guide, I’ll break down the top 10 game shears for squirrels available on Amazon today, highlighting their unique strengths and what sets them apart for small game processing. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, investing in the right pair of shears will make your next squirrel hunt cleaner, safer, and more efficient.
How to Choose the Best Game Shears for Squirrels
Selecting the best game shears for squirrels isn’t just about picking the sharpest pair. Here’s what I look for as a professional field tester:
- Blade Material & Sharpness: Stainless steel or titanium-bonded blades resist rust and stay sharp longer—crucial for cutting through bone and hide.
- Bone Notch: A dedicated notch makes it easier to snip through squirrel bones without dulling the blades.
- Serrated Edge: Serrations grip slippery tissue and provide extra cutting power, especially for tough joints.
- Spring-Loaded Handles: These reduce hand fatigue during repetitive cuts, a big plus when processing multiple squirrels.
- Take-Apart Design: Shears that disassemble are much easier to clean, preventing bacteria buildup and prolonging tool life.
- Sheath or Safety Lock: A sheath or locking mechanism keeps blades protected and your gear bag safe.
- Multi-Function Features: Extras like bottle openers, nutcrackers, or screwdrivers can be handy in the field but aren’t strictly necessary for squirrel processing.
- Ergonomics: Comfortable grips are essential for control and safety, especially with wet or bloody hands.
Prioritize features based on your hunting style and frequency. For most squirrel hunters, a sharp, rust-resistant blade with a bone notch and easy cleaning mechanism will be the most valuable.
10 Best Game Shears for Squirrels (Reviews)
01. Camillus 9" Multi-Function Game Shears
The Camillus 9" Multi-Function Game Shears are a standout for versatility and durability. Featuring titanium-bonded 420 stainless steel blades, these shears are up to three times harder than untreated steel, ensuring long-lasting sharpness and excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. The 4-inch blades are serrated for enhanced grip on slippery tissue, and a dedicated bone notch makes quick work of squirrel joints. What sets these shears apart is their multi-tool functionality: integrated jar opener, nutcracker, bottle opener, saw blade, and two flathead screwdrivers. The handles detach for thorough cleaning, and a custom-molded sheath with a belt clip keeps them secure and accessible in the field. Camillus, a trusted name since 1876, backs these shears with a lifetime warranty, making them a reliable investment for any serious hunter.
02. Gerber Vital Take-A-Part Game Shears
Gerber’s Vital Take-A-Part Game Shears are a favorite among small game hunters for their simplicity and efficiency. The 8-inch shears feature 2.5-inch 420J2 stainless steel blades—one plain, one fully serrated—with a bone notch for tackling tougher materials. The ergonomic handles, made from thermoplastic with rubber Kraton overlays, provide a secure, comfortable grip even when wet. A unique take-apart pivot allows for easy cleaning, an essential feature when processing multiple squirrels. The shears come with a high-visibility orange handle and a fabric belt sheath, making them easy to spot and carry in the field. Lightweight and compact, these shears excel at delicate snipping and precise cuts, making them ideal for squirrel hunters who value portability and straightforward performance.
03. Outdoor Edge Game Shears
The Outdoor Edge Game Shears are built for heavy-duty field dressing, offering robust performance for small game like squirrels, rabbits, and birds. These shears feature full-tang 420 stainless steel construction, spring-action handles, and a serrated cutting edge for extra power. A special bone-breaking notch makes snapping through squirrel bones effortless. The Bakelite handles are durable and provide a solid grip, while the spring-loaded design reduces hand fatigue during extended use. At 10 inches long and weighing just over 10 ounces, they are substantial yet manageable. The included Cordura nylon sheath ensures safe storage and transport. While a bit bulkier than some models, their cutting power and durability make them a top choice for hunters who process a lot of game in the field.
04. Kershaw Taskmaster Shears
Kershaw Taskmaster Shears combine straight-blade precision with a suite of built-in tools. The 3.5-inch stainless steel blades feature a spear-point design, with one plain edge and one partially serrated, plus a bone notch for added versatility. The finger-loop style grips are overlaid in black Kraton for comfort and control. Beyond cutting, these shears include a lid lifter, bottle opener, screwdriver, nutcracker, and jar opener—making them a true multi-tool for the field or camp. Weighing just over 5 ounces and measuring 8.875 inches overall, they strike a balance between portability and functionality. The take-apart pivot allows for easy cleaning, and the shears are robust enough for repeated use on tough squirrel joints and bones.
05. Smith’s Edgesport Bait & Game Shears
Smith’s Edgesport Bait & Game Shears stand out for their innovative design and multi-functionality. The 3-inch curved stainless steel blades—one plain, one serrated—are complemented by a built-in fish scaler, making these shears ideal for hunters who also process fish. The handles feature a thumb and finger hole with black Kraton overlays for grip and comfort. Additional functions include a nutcracker, screwdriver, bone notch, and cap lifter. At 8.5 inches long and weighing 5.25 ounces, these shears are lightweight and easy to handle. While there’s no included pouch, the take-apart design makes cleaning straightforward, and the tool versatility makes them a smart choice for multi-species hunters.
06. Gerior Spring Loaded Poultry Shears
The Gerior Spring Loaded Poultry Shears are praised for their robust construction and ease of maintenance. The heavy-duty stainless steel blades are designed to cut through bone and tough tissue, making them well-suited for squirrel processing. A spring-loaded mechanism reduces hand fatigue, and the blades separate for easy cleaning and sharpening. Users highlight the ergonomic design, which allows for precise cuts around bones and joints. While primarily marketed for poultry, these shears have proven effective on small game, offering both power and control. The price point is reasonable, and the overall build quality receives high marks from users, making them a solid, budget-friendly option for hunters.
07. Camillus Titanium Bonded Game Shears
Camillus Titanium Bonded Game Shears are a budget-friendly yet reliable choice for small game hunters. These shears feature titanium-bonded blades for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring they stay sharp through repeated use. The design is straightforward, focusing on effective cutting power and easy maintenance. They are versatile enough for fish cleaning and other small game, making them a handy addition to any hunter’s kit. Lightweight and easy to carry, these shears are ideal for those who want a dependable tool without extra frills.
08. Outdoor Edge Game Shears (Cordura Sheath Version)
This version of the Outdoor Edge Game Shears comes with a Cordura nylon sheath for added protection and portability. The shears feature full-tang 420 stainless steel blades, spring-action handles, and a serrated edge for gripping tough materials. The bone-breaking notch is particularly effective for squirrel joints, and the Bakelite handles offer durability and comfort. The included sheath makes it easy to attach the shears to your belt or pack, ensuring they’re always within reach during hunts. These shears are a great choice for hunters who value both performance and convenience in the field.
09. Gerber Vital Take-A-Part Shears (High-Visibility Handle)
This variation of the Gerber Vital Take-A-Part Shears features a high-visibility orange handle, making them easy to locate in dense brush or low light conditions. The take-apart design allows for thorough cleaning, and the ergonomic grip ensures comfort during extended use. The 8-inch shears are lightweight and compact, ideal for hunters who prioritize portability. The included fabric belt sheath adds another layer of convenience, making these shears a practical and reliable choice for squirrel hunters who want to minimize lost gear in the field.
10. Generic Heavy Duty Game Shears
For hunters seeking a no-nonsense, affordable option, generic heavy-duty game shears available on Amazon can deliver solid performance. Look for models with stainless steel blades, a bone notch, and a take-apart design for easy cleaning. While they may lack the brand recognition or extra features of higher-end models, these shears often provide the essential cutting power and durability needed for squirrel processing. They’re a good backup to keep in your kit or vehicle, ensuring you’re never without a functional tool when you need it.
Top Game Shears for Squirrels - My Conclusion
Choosing the right game shears for squirrels can make a world of difference in your hunting experience. Prioritize sharp, rust-resistant blades, ergonomic grips, and easy-clean features to ensure your next field dressing session is quick, safe, and efficient.
