Which Is Better: Cable Cutters Or Bolt Cutters?

Cable cutters, bolt cutters, and diagonal cutting pliers are common instruments for cutting thick, heavy-duty wiring, metals, and cables. However, cutting tools exist in a range of shapes and sizes, each with its own function. It is critical to select the appropriate cutting tool for the job at hand. A bolt cutter, for example, is not the right tool for cutting through electrical wiring. A set of robust diagonal cutting pliers, on the other hand, might be a more convenient solution. So, which cutting tool is best for you?

First and foremost, it is determined by the sort of material that will be cut. Most diagonal-cutting pliers are strong enough to cut through the wiring of varying thicknesses. Cable cutters, on the other hand, are designed to cut through thicker wiring, such as that used in telecommunications and networking. Finally, bolt cutters are particularly used for cutting through thick metals. That is why bike thieves frequently use bolt cutters to get through locks.

COMMON CUTTING TOOL TYPES

There are numerous cutting tools available, each in a different size and shape. In general, you should match the cutting tool to the thickness and hardness of the material being cut. Larger cables, for example, necessitate cable cutters with wider openings. Furthermore, all cutting tools are organized by length. In general, the more force that can be applied, the longer the handle. As a result, for heavy metals, a cutting tool with a longer handle would be required.

The following are examples of common cutting tools:

1.       Diagonal Cutting Pliers

These look like regular pliers and are frequently used by electricians. They are generally used for cutting wire - indeed, they may be referred to as wire cutters - and feature a vice grip. Wire cutters, like pliers, have two jaws with a wedged blade in each.

7 Inch Heavy Duty Diagonal Pliers

Most diagonal pliers can cut through crooked nail heads as well as aluminium, steel, brass, iron, or copper wiring. However, softer metal pliers might be broken if used on hard materials like piano wire. Furthermore, some diagonal pliers are specifically developed for use with electronics. These have narrower blades and are designed to cut wires flush rather than diagonally, allowing the wire to be soldered subsequently.

2.    Ratcheting Cable Cutter

Diagonal cutting pliers are incapable of severing thick wiring. Heavy-duty cable cutters suited for thicker materials are required in these situations. Ratcheting cable cutters resemble bolt cutters in appearance, but their cutting blades are crescent-shaped rather than flat. This allows them to handle rounded cabling and wiring. When using the cable, place it between the cutting blades and apply pressure to the handles. Sharpening the cable cutter's blades on a regular basis is essential to keep them from dulling.

Ratcheting cable cutters are another form of cable cutter. This cable cutter includes two crescent-shaped blades that lock into a circle around the cable. The blades then progressively come together utilizing a specific ratcheting mechanism. As a result, an operator does not need to use physical force to cut through a cable. Both types of cable cutters have handled that range in length from 1-4 feet and have variable jaw capabilities.

3.     Bolt Cutters

Bolt cutters, sometimes known as lock cutters, are similar to cable cutters. The significant difference, though, is in the jaws. The blades of bolt cutters are flat. These are designed to cut through thick metals such as locks, cables, and heavy wiring. They can also be used to cut wood, such as branches or dowels. Bolt cutters have handles that can be up to 4 feet long, and the longer the handle, the more force can be used.

Compact Bolt Cutter

So, which cutting tool is best for your job?

Again, it is dependent on the material you are dealing with, including its hardness and shape. However, all three tools are useful and keeping a bolt cutter and diagonal pliers around the house is a good idea.

WORKPRO is your one-stop shop for the greatest industrial cutting tool prices and choices. We have a wide range of bolt cutters, diagonal cutting pliers, cable cutters, and other tools.