Which tool is primarily used for fading short hair?

The clipper is primarily used for fading short hair because it is specifically designed to cut hair at various lengths while maintaining a seamless transition between different hair lengths. The clipper's various guard attachments allow barbers to achieve precise fading, creating a smooth blend from shorter to longer hair sections. This is particularly important in modern barbering styles, where fades are a popular trend, as they require an expert hand to transition between lengths smoothly and quickly.

In contrast, shears are mainly used for cutting longer hair or for texturizing, which does not contribute as effectively to fading. The razor, while it can create texture and softness in the hair, is not typically employed for fading techniques where a clean gradient is required. The comb serves as a tool for sectioning and styling hair but does not cut hair directly. Thus, the clipper stands out as the tool of choice for achieving faded hairstyles efficiently and effectively.