Diagonal Cutters

Diagonal cutters can also be known as 'side cutters' and have angled cutting edges that are designed to precisely and cleanly cut through softer wire, such as copper or aluminium wire. Diagonal cutters are small sized cutters, that fit in the operators hand and their size means they are useful when trying to cut wire in tight or hard to reach areas.

They are widely used by electricians, electronics technicians, piano technicians, DIYers and anyone needing to precisely cut soft metals.

Diagonal cutter blades range from flush cutters, which provide an accurate cut but have one of the blades ground flat, all the way through to ultra-flush cutters, which are used for PCB work and both of the blades are very finely ground for an extremely precise cut.

Frequently Asked Questions about Diagonal Cutters

Do diagonal cutters need any maintenance?

Yes, diagonal cutters do require some maintenance. The blades will periodically need to be sharpened, depending on what they have cut and how often they are used. The joint should be regularly lubricated with a light oil to prevent rust, otherwise the cutters moving parts will seize up, and always clean the blades after use.

When should I sharpen my diagonal cutters?

If you notice your cutters not cutting freely through the material they are specified to cut, then it may be time to sharpen them. The best way to do this is with a hand file or even a diamond file, filing both sides evenly, whilst keeping the blades parallel. Sharpen them too much though and you risk altering the geometry of the cutting blade, which will impact cutting performance.

Are diagonal cutters ESD safe?

Yes, many diagonal cutters are ESD safe, which means they reduce or dissipate electrostatic discharge. Because of this they are often used when working with electronic components, or for those working in laboratory settings. Not all diagonal cutters are ESD safe though, so check the product description for more information.

What are the main differences between flush cutters are ultra-flush cutters?

Flush cutters are designed to leave one side of the wire competely flat when cut, whereas ultra-flush cutters leave it all almost completely flat. Ultra-flush cutters provide the cleanest and smoothest cut but dull quickly, whereas flush cutters last a little longer. Many use semi-flush cutters, which are a middle ground between precision and longevity. As a guide, if you were cutting items such as cable ties, then flush cutters would be suitable, however if you are working on precision electronics or jewellery making, where precision is key, then we would recommend using ultra-flush cutters.

Can diagonal cutters be used for more than just cutting copper wires?

Yes, flush cutters can be used for cutting more than just copper wire. Flush cutters have one blade ground flat, which gives them more longevity than other diagonal cutters, and provides the ability for general purpose cutting of some plastics, such as cable ties and model sprues.

Complete Guide to Cutters

Making sure you choose the correct cutter for your needs can sometimes be a struggle. We’ve put together this handy tool guide to help you out with making sure you choose the right product for the job.