Tips for choosing cutters
Pro Tip: Always consider the job before reaching for any wire cutter. All are engineered for a range of metal thicknesses, and the cutting edge or type of joint on the cutter may fail if you use them for the wrong purpose.
Pro Tip: Cutters with lap joints will have two overlapped sections of metal that are fastened together to produce a continuous or flush surface. Lap joints will withstand medium force.
Pro Tip: Single joint cutters are constructed with half the thickness of metal on each handle milled away so that they lay into each other. Use this style of cutter for light duty work in thin gauges of wire.
Pro Tip: In a box joint cutter, one handle is slit and the other handle is pushed through the slot. This style of cutter joint can withstand intense pressure and is the most preferred style of join for all heavy-duty cutters and pliers.
HELEN I. DRIGGS is an experienced metalsmith, lapidary and studio jewelry instructor and has appeared in 6 instructional jewelry technique videos. Her book, The Jewelry Maker’s Field Guide was published in 2013.