7 Best Side Cutters

Side cutters are essential tools in any garage or workshop, offering precision and reliability for various cutting tasks. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, having the right side cutters can enhance your efficiency and effectiveness. In this article, we’ll explore the top seven side cutters that excel in terms of quality, durability, and performance.

Side cutters, also known as diagonal cutting pliers or wire cutters, are handheld tools designed to cut wires, cables, and other materials with precision. They feature sharp, angled jaws that provide a clean cut without fraying or damaging the material. Side cutters are indispensable for tasks such as electrical work, automotive repairs, and crafting projects.

In a garage or shop setting, side cutters play a crucial role in cutting wires, zip ties, and small components with ease. Their versatility and precision make them essential tools for any toolkit, enabling users to tackle various tasks efficiently and effectively.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Side Cutters

Before selecting side cutters for your needs, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose the right tool:

Material and Durability

Look for side cutters constructed from high-quality materials such as hardened steel or chrome vanadium. A durable construction ensures longevity and reliable performance, even under heavy-duty usage.

Cutting Capacity

Consider the maximum cutting capacity of the side cutters, which determines the thickness of the materials they can cut. Choose side cutter with a cutting capacity suitable for your intended tasks.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Opt for side cutter with ergonomic handles and comfortable grips to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use. A comfortable grip allows for better control and precision when cutting materials.

Top 7 Side Cutter for Garage or Shop Use

After careful consideration of the above factors, here are the top seven side cutter that stand out in terms of quality, performance, and user satisfaction:

1. IGAN-P6 6-inch

Experience precision cutting with our Ultra-Sharp Wire Cutters featuring an extra-long 13/16” cutting edge for snipping electrical wire up to 12 AWG. With specialized flush cut blades, they provide a smooth, flat, and clean cut, making them ideal for various applications such as crafting, floral wire, electrical wire, artificial flowers, cable ties, plastic, and edge banding. Crafted from high-hardness CR-V (chrome vanadium) tool steel, these 6-inch wire cutters are heat-treated and precision ground for exceptional durability. Designed for maximum efficiency, they offer labor-saving benefits with perfect length for great leverage and a spring-loaded mechanism to minimize hand fatigue.

2. BOOSDEN Wire Cutter,6.5 inch Side Cutter

BOOSDEN Wire Cutters are crafted from special high-carbon steel, with blades high-frequency hardened for ultra-sharpness. Perfect for professionals, they effortlessly snip wires up to 12 AWG. Versatile and easy to use, these diagonal wire cutters are ideal for cutting soft copper wire, plastic wire, small cable, aluminum wire, and more. Featuring a rubber handle for comfort and protection, along with an ergonomic design, they provide a comfortable grip even in tight spaces. With a spring-loaded mechanism, these wire cutters reduce fatigue and improve efficiency, making them suitable for users with arthritis or grip issues.

3. Klein Tools D275-5 Pliers

Introducing our Diagonal Cutting Pliers, designed to effortlessly snip wire up to 16 AWG, providing a flat, flush cut every time. With precise pinch cutting feature, cutting effort is reduced, and fly-off minimized. Enjoy greater tool control with smooth action grips, even in confined areas, thanks to the slim profile. Crafted for long-lasting durability, these pliers are heat treated for increased strength. Plus, the steel return spring enhances comfort during repetitive cutting, making them ideal for cutting zip ties, small wire, and other fine materials with ease.

4. Hakko-CHP-170

Precision Flush-Cut Wire Cutter

Effortlessly cut wires up to 16 gauge with our durable 21-degree micro cutter. Crafted from heat-treated carbon steel for longevity, it features precision-ground surfaces for smooth operation. Enjoy comfortable, nonslip grips and enhanced corrosion resistance.

5. IRWIN 2078306

ProTouch Steel Cutters: Reliable & Comfortable

Crafted from durable nickel chromium steel, our cutters feature ProTouch grips for comfort and reduced hand fatigue. With an induction-hardened cutting edge and machined jaws, they offer superior gripping strength. Meeting or exceeding ANSI specifications ensures quality and reliability.

6. WORKPRO 7-Inch Diagonal Pliers

These durable diagonal pliers are crafted from 50CrV steel with a heat-treated, corrosion-resistant surface for superior toughness and cutting strength. The bi-material handle provides a comfortable, non-slip grip, while the hardened cutting edges make wire cutting quick and easy. Ideal for precision work, they also feature a sleek design and a rust-resistant coating for long-lasting performance.

7. CRAFTSMAN Pliers

Built for comfort and durability, these pliers feature multi-zone bi-material grips for excellent control. The induction-hardened cutting edges stay sharp longer, while the drop-forged steel construction ensures strength. A corrosion-resistant finish adds extra durability for everyday use.

How to Properly Use and Maintain Side Cutter

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your side cutters, follow these tips for proper usage and maintenance:

• Always use the appropriate size and type of side cutters for the material you’re cutting.
• Cut materials at a right angle to ensure clean and precise cuts without damaging the blades.
• Avoid cutting materials that exceed the maximum cutting capacity of the side cutters to prevent damage.
• Clean the side cutters after each use to remove debris and prevent buildup that can affect cutting performance.
• Store side cutters in a dry environment away from moisture to prevent rust or corrosion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right side cutter for your garage or shop can significantly impact the outcome of your projects. By considering factors such as material, cutting capacity, and ergonomics, you can select side cutters that meet your specific needs and preferences. The top seven side cutters recommended in this article offer exceptional quality, performance, and user satisfaction, making them valuable additions to any toolkit.

FAQs

Are side cutter and wire cutters the same thing?

Yes, side cutter are often referred to as wire cutters because they are commonly used to cut wires, cables, and other materials.

Can side cutter cut through thick materials?

It depends on the cutting capacity of the side cutter. Some models are designed to cut thicker materials, while others may be better suited for thinner materials.

What is the difference between diagonal cutting pliers and side cutter?

Diagonal cutting pliers and side cutter are essentially the same tool, with angled jaws for cutting wires and other materials at a diagonal angle.

Can side cutter be used for cutting plastic materials?

Yes, side cutter can be used to cut various materials, including plastic, rubber, and soft metals, depending on their cutting capacity and design.

How often should side cutter be sharpened?

Additionally, side cutter should be sharpened regularly to maintain their cutting performance. Depending on usage, sharpening may be required every few months or as needed to ensure clean and precise cuts.