A hair clipper is an electric grooming tool designed to cut hair efficiently and uniformly. Here's a detailed breakdown of its core features and uses:

1. Core Function
Blade-Based Cutting: Uses oscillating metal blades (one stationary, one moving) to trim hair like scissors, but faster and more consistent.
Adjustable Length: Interchangeable guard combs snap onto blades, allowing control over hair length (e.g., 1mm buzz cut or 25mm textured style).

2. Key Components
Motor: Powers blade movement (common types: magnetic/pivot motors for home use; rotary motors for heavy-duty cutting).
Blade Assembly: Sharpened steel or ceramic blades (ceramic stays cooler but chips easily).
Guard Combs: Plastic attachments that lift hair and set cutting distance from the scalp/skin.
Housing: Ergonomically shaped body (corded or cordless) with grip zones for control.

3. Primary Types
Human Hair Clippers:
Designed for scalp/beard trimming.
Quieter motors, finer blades (e.g., T-blades for fades), and skin-safe rounded tips.
Pet Grooming Clippers:
Built for animal fur.
Wider blade teeth to handle dense undercoats, higher torque motors, and noise-reduction features.
Multi-Use Trimmers:
Smaller devices for detailing (e.g., sideburns, necklines, pet paws).

4. Common Applications
Human Use:
Barbering: Creating fades, undercuts, and full-head cuts.
Beard Shaping: Precision edging and bulk reduction.
Body Grooming: Chest/back hair trimming (with specialized guards).
Pet Use:
Coat Maintenance: Seasonal shaves, breed-specific patterns.
Medical Prep: Shaving fur around wounds or for surgery.
Sanitary Trims: Paws, ears, and hygiene areas.

5. Critical Safety Features
Blade Guards: Prevent direct skin contact to avoid nicks.
Overheat Protection: Auto-shutoff if motor overheats.
Low-Vibration Design: Reduces hand fatigue and pet stress.

6. Limitations
Not for Wet Hair: Most clippers malfunction if used on damp hair/fur (exceptions: waterproof pet models).
Avoids Thick Mats: Clippers jam on tangled hair/fur—always detangle first.
Not a Razor Substitute: Leaves hair slightly stubbly; doesn't achieve "smooth-skin" results.