Responsa על ויקרא 19:27

Regarding cutting sidelocks. Did the Torah forbid this even with the use of scissors? The Torah only says "Do not round off" (Leviticus 19:27), not 'do not destroy.' Is there any sense in the argument to permit this, based on the source in the Tosefta,¹cf. Sifra Kedoshim 6:4, Makkot 21a:6 whereby the laws pertaining to haircutting are juxtaposed to the laws pertaining to beard-shaving, and in both cases, one is not liable unless a razor-blade is used²This argument is rejected by Tosafot on Shevuot 2b:12.

They responded: The Torah declared "Do not destroy the corners of your beard," (Leviticus 19:27) - referring to anything that can destroy. And to the destroyers, go tell them: Where is your King and the Rock of your strength?²cf. Deuteronomy 32:37. A commandment that can be fulfilled so easily, and you have forgotten it?