Difference in Oster A5 Models

The John Oster Manufacturing Co. is known for its small appliances. While the company is widely known for its motorized kitchen appliances, Oster began in 1924 making hand-powered hair clippers for men. In 1928, it introduced the motor-powered clipper. Today, Oster produces a number of different hair-clipper models. The A5 model is designed for use by professional animal groomers, veterinarians, equine enthusiasts and livestock competitors.

  1. Varying Models

    • The Oster A5 series of hair clippers are designed for professional use and they run between $250 and $300. They can be divided into two categories: the Golden line and the Turbo line. Within each of these categories, the Golden and Turbo clippers differ depending on the varying speeds that each set of clippers offers. Depending on intended use, particular versions of the A5 model may be more effective than others.

    Blade Movement

    • The Golden A5 single-speed clipper is the most basic of all the models. The Golden A5 two-speed Clipper offers an extra high-speed setting. The Golden models are good for both basic grooming needs and precision clipping, according to the Oster website. The Turbo is also offered in both single-speed and two-speed. The Turbo A5 single-speed runs 3,100 strokes per minute. The Turbo A5 two-speed runs 4,000 strokes per minute. Both Turbo models offer wide blade sweeps and are good for thicker coarse hair.

    Blade Size

    • Both the Turbo and the Golden models can be purchased with the standard blade with or without the wider, size 10 blade. The wider blade width helps the user maneuver the clipper through tangled, matted hair. The Equine Golden A5 model comes with the size 10 blade as well, but it is specifically designed for use on horses. This particular model is designed to smooth out bridle paths, manes and fetlocks. The Golden A5 single-speed Vet Clipper model comes with a size 50 blade and is ideal for surgical preparation.

    Appearance

    • All Oster A5 clippers are equipped with a casing designed to be "virtually indestructible," according to the Oster website. The A5 design is meant to provide comfort to the user while reducing noise and increasing airflow so as to prevent the clippers from overheating. The color of the clippers varies between the models. Different colors include blue, green, gray and black.