Barber Implements, Tools and Equipment Questions
NIC gives implements and equipment 10% of the barber theory exam: what each tool is for, how it is held and cared for, and how to use it safely.
60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free implements, tools and equipment drill- 28 original implements and tools questions, every answer explained
- NIC domain: Implements and Equipment Used in Barbering (10% of the exam)
How should the headrest of a barber chair be prepared for each client?
What the implements and tools questions test
- The thumb moves the moving blade of the shears; the ring finger rests in the finger grip of the still blade and the little finger on the tang. The pivot screw joins the blades.
- Thinning shears have teeth on one or both blades and remove bulk without changing length much.
- A hone sharpens a conventional straight razor; a strop smooths and polishes the edge. Changeable-blade razors take a new blade for each client.
- Clipper motors are magnetic, pivot or rotary. Blades are brushed clean, disinfected and oiled; hot blades are cooled before they touch the skin.
- Electrical safety: GFCI outlets near water, UL-listed appliances, and taking frayed or damaged tools out of service.
- Every tool that touches a client is cleaned and disinfected between clients, and anything dropped on the floor is cleaned and disinfected before use.
Start the free implements and tools drill · NIC barber theory mock exam
Drill implements and tools, then sit the full exam
60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free implements, tools and equipment drillCommon questions
What is the difference between honing and stropping a razor?
Honing grinds a sharp edge on an abrasive hone. Stropping on leather or canvas smooths and polishes that edge.
How are clippers disinfected?
Brush out the hair, clean the blades, spray or wipe them with an EPA-registered disinfectant for the label contact time, then oil them.
60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free implements, tools and equipment drillMore barber topics
- Infection control and safety
- Anatomy and physiology
- Hair, scalp and skin disorders
- Barbering chemistry
- Consultation, shampoo and scalp care
- Haircutting and styling
- Hair color and chemical services
- Shaving and facial hair design
- Facials, massage and electrotherapy
- NIC Barber Theory Practice Test
- Texas Barber Practice Test
- California Barber Practice Test
- Florida Barber Practice Test
Domains and format: NIC: National Barber Theory Examination CIB (effective June 1, 2025) · NIC: National Barber Styling Theory Examination CIB (effective June 1, 2025), checked November 2026.
NIC exam names belong to the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology; PSI and Pearson VUE are trademarks of their owners. Original independent practice. Every question is written for practice to the published content outlines and the cited statutes and rules. Not affiliated with or endorsed by NIC, PSI, Pearson VUE, TDLR, the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, the Florida DBPR, the Florida Barbers’ Board or any state board.