ONE SHEAR® Trauma Shears – Care & Sterilization Guide
ONE SHEAR® — Care Guide
Care & Sterilization Guide
Proper sterilization and maintenance keeps your ONE SHEAR® performing at its best and preserves the integrity of the DLC or Black Oxide coating for years of reliable service.
Steam Sterilization
Autoclave Parameters
ONE SHEAR® handles are rated for autoclave sterilization. Follow these parameters to maintain coating integrity and blade performance.
Temperature
121°C
250°F
Max Time
15 min
Per cycle
Pressure
15 psi
Standard gravity cycle
Do
Keep shears slightly open during the cycle for effective sterilization of the blade and pivot.
Use a short drying cycle or allow to air-dry after the steam cycle.
Allow shears to cool naturally at room temperature after each cycle.
Don't
Do not quench under cold water after autoclaving — rapid thermal shock stresses the blade and coating.
Avoid prolonged dry heat — extended drying cycles can cause minor coating wear over time.
Limit excessive autoclave frequency — DLC and Black Oxide coatings are durable but not impervious to cumulative heat exposure.
Note: Repeated autoclaving will maintain sterility but may gradually affect the finish over hundreds of cycles. For high-frequency sterilization needs, cold sterilization methods below will extend the life of the coating.
Low-Temperature Methods
Cold Sterilization Alternatives
For highest coating longevity, consider cold sterilization. These methods achieve full sterilization without thermal stress on the DLC or Black Oxide finish.
01
Cidex OPA Soak
Ortho-Phthalaldehyde
High-level disinfection soak widely used in endoscopy and surgical instrument reprocessing. Effective against bacteria, viruses, and mycobacteria without heat exposure.
02
Hydrogen Peroxide Plasma
STERRAD® Gas Plasma
Low-temperature, low-moisture sterilization ideal for moisture-sensitive tools. No toxic residuals, no need for aeration, and fully compatible with metal instruments.
03
Ethylene Oxide
EtO Gas Sterilization
Industry gold-standard for heat-sensitive instruments. Penetrates packaging materials and achieves full sterilization at low temperatures. Requires aeration time after cycle.
Day-to-Day Care
Cleaning & Maintenance
Between sterilization cycles and after every use, proper cleaning keeps the blade, pivot, and coating in top condition.
Hand Wash — Recommended Method
Mild soap and warm water after every use. Do not use abrasive scrubbers — they scratch the DLC coating. Rinse thoroughly and dry before storage.
Disinfectant Wipes
Safe for quick cleanings between uses in clinical environments. Compatible with standard hospital-grade disinfectant wipes. Let air-dry after wiping.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Do not use bleach, highly alkaline cleaners, or solvents. These degrade the DLC and Black Oxide coatings over time, accelerating wear and reducing corrosion resistance.
Pivot Lubrication
Apply a single drop of medical-grade lubricant to the pivot point as needed — typically every few weeks with regular use. Wipe away any excess. Keeps the action smooth and prevents binding in the hinge.
Between Uses
Storage Recommendations
Proper storage prevents oxidation, blade damage, and coating wear when the shears aren't in use.
Dry Environment Only
Always store in a dry location after sterilization. Residual moisture accelerates oxidation at the pivot and along the blade spine — even on coated steel. Ensure fully dry before holstering or bagging.
Use the Kydex Holster
Store in your ONE SHEAR® Kydex holster or a sheath when not in use. The holster protects the blade edge, prevents incidental contact damage, and keeps the shear secure and accessible on your kit.
MOLLE & Field Storage
For tactical and field use, mount in a MOLLE-compatible carrier with the retention loop secured to a lanyard or carabiner. Prevents loss during high-activity operations.
Need a Replacement or Upgrade?
Shop the full ONE SHEAR® lineup — Tier 1 Elite, BUS, and Kydex holsters.
