Wahl Professional

Overview

Wahl Clipper Corporation, operating as Wahl Professional, manufactures clippers, trimmers, shavers, and personal care devices for professional beauty and barber salons, consumer home use, and animal grooming. Founded in 1919, it holds a leading position in the global grooming products market with distribution in approximately 165 countries. The company maintains six global manufacturing facilities and eleven sales offices.

History

Wahl Clipper Corporation was founded in 1919 by Leo J. Wahl after patenting the first practical electric hair clipper. In 1921, Wahl purchased the Wahl Manufacturing Company and incorporated it as Wahl Clipper Corporation. Key innovations include the first cordless clipper in 1966, the first cordless beard trimmer in 1984, and acquisitions like Moser Elektrogerate GmbH in 1996. The company expanded internationally with facilities in multiple countries and products available in 165 nations.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Wahl manufactures clippers and trimmers in its own factories, primarily in Sterling, Illinois, USA, with additional international plants in China, England, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, and Japan. Parts are sourced from Germany, England, China, and Hungary. Production is in-house across these facilities.

Notable Products

• Original Wahl Clipper - First practical electric hair clipper patented in 1919, foundational product.
• Magic Clip - Cordless clipper popular for fades and blending in professional barbering.
• Detailer Trimmer - Precision trimmer used for clean lines and necklines.
• Groomsman Beard Trimmer - First cordless consumer beard and mustache trimmer from 1984.
• Trim N Vac - Vacuuming beard trimmer patented in 2001.
• Cordless Vacuum Clipper - 1965 innovation for cape-free haircutting.

Reputation

Wahl Professional is regarded by barbers and stylists as the industry standard for reliable, durable clippers and trimmers due to its long heritage of innovation. Professionals praise the ergonomic design and consistent performance in high-volume salon use. Some users note that certain consumer models require frequent blade maintenance compared to competitors, though professional lines are favored for longevity.