DIY Network

Pocket Holes and Cutting Tools: Cutting Tools Pocket Holes and Cutting Tools: Cutting Tools From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-244

Host David Thiel offers tips for cutting various types of wire and metal.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

• Use diagonal cutters (figure A) to cut electrical wires up to a certain gauge. These cutters have an angled head for cutting right down to a surface. They have scissor-like handles that make them easier and safer to use than your pocketknife. Diagonal cutters also result in a cleaner cut on the wires than a knife. You can cut several wires at a time with this tool. Heavier wires such as baling wire can also be cut with this tool.

• Use end nippers (figure B) instead of diagonal cutters when it comes time to cut staples and nails. Longer handles provide more leverage and a broad head provides a bigger cutting surface. Rock end nippers back and forth against a surface to remove staples or nails. If you try you cut wire rope with end nippers, it will fray. Use wire rope cutters instead.

• The jaws of wire rope cutters (figure C) pull the wire rope into them and trap the cable so that the ends cannot spread. Wire rope cutters are only useful when cutting wire rope. Remember to use the proper connectors when working with wire rope; do not attempt to tie it off.

• Use bolt cutters (figure D) to cut off locks. Bolt cutters come in different sizes for different-sized locks. The legs of the bolt cutters are designed to send a large amount of torque to the cutting head to make cutting thick metal locks easy.

Resources:

Channellock Diagonal Cutters
Channellock Inc.
1306 South Main Street
Meadville, PA 16335
Phone: 800-724-3018
Email: pliers@channellock.com
www.channellock.com

Felco Cutting Tools:
Pygar Incorporated
P.O. Box 3147
Kirkland, WA 98083
Phone: 425-488-3263
Email: info@felcousa.com
www.felcousa.com