Cut-resistant glove ratings are written into ANSI/ISEA 105. The number after the A relates to grams of force a blade has to apply before it cuts through the glove material. Higher number = more cut resistance, generally lower dexterity.
A1-A3. Low cut resistance. Light handling, package work. Most general-duty cut gloves are A2-A3.
A4. The default for most trades. HVAC, sheet metal, glass handling, automotive, construction with metal handling. Resists most accidental cuts from sharp edges. Good dexterity for normal work.
A5-A6. Step up for heavier metal, glass, and meat-cutting environments. Less dexterity than A4 — you'll feel the difference in finger work.
A7-A9. Heavy-duty. Large glass plates, automotive recycling, heavy metal stamping. The dexterity drop is real — you can't easily handle small fasteners in A9 gloves.
What we sell most. A4. The HexArmor and similar offerings at A4 hit the sweet spot for HVAC and general construction. Gym contractors, glass guys, and meat handlers go A6. A9 is a small audience.
If a foreman is buying gloves for a crew of 10 and asks what level, the answer is A4 unless the work specifically calls for more. Buying A9 because more is better is wasted money — you'll get worse dexterity, the guys won't wear them, and you'll have a box of unworn gloves in the trailer.