Using Different Kinds of Scissors

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Snips & Bolt Cutters Safety Tips

Always wear safety glasses when using snips or bolt cutters.

Always wear gloves when using snips or bolt cutters.

Do not use cheater bars or hammer the handles of snips or bolt cutters for extra leverage.

Snips are designed to cut sheet metal up to .062 inches in thickness. Never use snips to cut sheet metal that is thicker than this.

Different snips are designed to cut different thickness of sheet metal. Make sure you are using the right size for the thickness of metal you’re cutting.

Snips are designed to cut soft metal only, never hardened metal.

Keep the nut and bolt on the snips oiled and properly adjusted at all times.

If the tool comes equipped with a locking clip, such as aviation snips, be sure to use it when not in use.

Wipe the cutting edge of the snips with a lightly oiled rag after each use

Aviation Snips

Also called compound leverage snips.

Available in right-handed, left-handed or straight models corresponding to the various directions of the cut.

Cuts easier because of double fulcrum, compound leverage action.

Bolt Cutters

Are heavy-duty cutters that cut bolts, threaded rods, cables and other metals from 1/16" to 5/8" thick.

Made from drop-forged tool steel and range from 12" to 36" long. 24” and 30” are most common.

The longer cutters have greater strength.

Special leverage joints allow great pressure to be applied with minimum effort.

End-cut cutters operate similarly to end-cut pliers, with special jaws available to cut special metals.

Offset Snips

Have offset handles to keep hands above work.

Cut easier because of compound leverage.

Designed especially for long, inside cuts and are available for right or left cutting direction. However, both models will make straight cuts as well.