By using hand tools such as cable cutters, you can quickly, without the use of physical force, cut all the wires in the cable. At the same time, after its application, an incision with even edges is obtained at the notch site, making it easy to clean and solder. You can buy this hand tool in specialized stores that sell cable products. You can also buy a cable cutter in online stores.
Which company is the best cable cutter to buy, how much does such a tool cost? The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for your attention an overview of the rating of the best cable cutters as of 2020. The rating is based on user feedback and the characteristics of this handheld tool. Thanks to the information presented in the rating, you can easily choose the most suitable tool for yourself that will meet all the tasks assigned to it.
Content
Description
Cable cutter is an indispensable tool for craftsmen who perform a variety of repair or construction work related to the broaching and installation of various communication systems. It will also be useful in domestic applications when it becomes necessary to replace or repair communication systems in the house.
There are models that allow you to bite even those wires that are energized. Handles of these models are specially equipped with a thick layer of insulating material that protects the user from electric shock. However, even in spite of this, it is possible to use such devices to work with live wires only in special protective gloves made of rubber or other dielectric materials.
Cable cutters are a device that is used to cut cables during electrical work. They are available in different designs, so they are adapted to work with a specific type of product that is used during installation work.
Sharp jaws act as a working part of this tool (1 or 2 pieces, depending on the design of the device). The jaws work like a scissor and easily cut the wires as they are squeezed. In addition to cutting cable products, these devices can also be used to strip conductors from insulation applied to their surface.
Advice! The function of stripping conductors from insulation is not present in all models of cable cutters, although it is very common. Therefore, when buying, you must immediately check with the seller about the availability of such a function.
What wires can you work with
Cable cutters allow you to work with all types of wires. There are both compact models for working with small wires, and devices that can be used to cut a reinforced cable with a large wire cross section.As a rule, such models (for working with reinforced cable) are used by specialists during work on laying power lines. The cable cutter can be used while working with these types of wires:
- Coaxial;
- Fiberglass;
- Copper;
- Armored;
- Fiber optic;
- Twisted;
- Aluminum;
- Reinforced.
On a note! There is no universal model of a cable cutter that could simultaneously work with all types of wires. Therefore, a separate model must be purchased for each type of wire. Otherwise, if the device is used for other purposes, its blades wear out quickly, and as a result, it quickly becomes unusable.
What varieties are there
What kind of cable cutters are there, how to choose such a tool, what to look for when buying? Manufacturers offer a large selection of a wide variety of cable cutter models. They can be conditionally divided into several subgroups:
- Electrohydraulic devices;
- Mechanical tool;
- Hydraulic devices.
Devices from these categories may differ from each other both in cost and in such parameters as functionality (availability of additional functions), convenience, ease of use. Models belonging to the mechanical type are best suited for everyday, domestic use. They are designed to work with wires located directly inside the room. Hydraulic and electro-hydraulic models are professionally used during the laying and installation of reinforced cables.
Unlike mechanical models, hydraulic cable cutters are professional grade tools. Thanks to their use, it will be very difficult to make neat cuts of thin wires, for example, when installing an outlet. They are designed for cutting powerful cables of large diameter, which are actively used in the installation of overhead or underground power lines.
Reference! Hydraulic models are heavy. On average, their weight is about 7 kg. However, the more massive and heavier such a tool, the higher the compression force of its blades.
The principle of operation of electrohydraulic models is approximately the same as that of its hydraulic counterparts. The only difference in this case is the device of the mechanism responsible for squeezing the hydraulic cylinder. In such a device, an electric motor is installed as a replacement for the lever, which must be pumped every time during operation. A special mechanism, which is installed on the electro-hydraulic cable cutter, pumps the hydraulic fluid itself after pressing the start button. Electric models can use both an electrical network (network) and a storage battery (rechargeable) as a power source.
Best cable cutters for 2020
Cable cutters allow you to quickly and conveniently simultaneously cut all the cores that make up the cable. At the same time, the place of the cut is neat and even. Therefore, thanks to their use, it is convenient to clean the conductors of insulation and carry out their subsequent installation.
What are the selection criteria, which is better to buy a cable cutter? There are several different types of such devices (mechanical, hydraulic, electro-hydraulic). Each individual type is designed to perform a variety of tasks and work with cables of different lengths, made from different materials (copper, aluminum, and so on).
In addition, there are special dielectric models that allow you to work with wires that are energized. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing such a device, it is necessary to take into account both its technical and functional characteristics, as well as reviews, as well as recommendations from other buyers.
Cordless cable cutter MILWAUKEE M12 CC - 0
This device uses a removable storage battery (accumulator) as a power source. Thanks to its use, it is possible to work with a cable whose maximum diameter does not exceed the 32 mm mark.With its powerful pliers, this device is capable of handling thick cable products.
The duration of work without recharging is about 60 cuts (when cutting wires made of 4x35 copper). The cutting procedure is verified with a special automatic release lever.
Advantages:
- Compact, mobile;
- Long battery life;
- Good blade geometry;
- Power;
- Special overload protection.
Disadvantages:
- Price (the average cost is 30,500 rubles);
- Poor bundle (no charger and battery included).
Gross 78450
A small, compact mechanical device that is perfect for daily, household use. The grip covers are made of two-component material. Thanks to its use, it is possible to work with wires made of aluminum or copper. Also, this model is equipped with a handle lock, which is used in the closed position. The maximum cable diameter that can be handled with this device is 14 mm.
Advantages:
- Lightweight (weighs 474 grams);
- Compact (length 240 mm);
- Acceptable cost (1198 rubles).
Disadvantages:
- Suitable for working with materials made from aluminum and copper only;
- Not suitable for large cable diameters.
Hydraulic cable cutter CIMCO 10 5510
It is used for precision cutting of cables made of aluminum or copper. The maximum wire diameter with which this device can be operated is no more than 85 mm. The cutting part, during work, can be rotated at an angle of 270 degrees. The rapid movement of the head is provided by two-cylinder hydraulics equipped with a pressure limiter. Equipped with a lock located at the cutting edge. Country of origin - Germany.
Advantages:
- Compactness;
- Quality;
- Functionality;
- Thick cable can be used.
Disadvantages:
- Too high cost (245,021 rubles);
- Large weight (13 kg).
Rating of the best popular models for small cables
Devices of this type belong (depending on the model) to both household and professional hand tools. As a rule, they are used in cases where the cut width is 10-18 mm.
Thanks to these tools, it is possible to work with both antenna cables and power supply lines located in large houses. The cost of such cable cutters primarily depends on the type of steel used during their production, as well as parameters such as functionality and ease of use.
ZUBR 23331 - 24
The most optimal, acceptable for simple household use option from the best domestic manufacturer. It has good functionality characteristics and at the same time quite acceptable cost (in comparison with the models that are produced in Europe).
The working part is made of high quality alloy, suitable for cutting wires made of aluminum, copper. Additionally equipped with a special dielectric coating. The maximum diameter that can be used with this tool is no more than 15 mm.
Advantages:
- Compact (length is only 240 mm);
- There is no backlash during operation;
- Low cost (average price is 765 rubles);
- There are special stops on the handle that limit the position of the hand.
Disadvantages:
- It is impossible to adjust the axial screw according to the stiffness of the stroke;
- No case included;
- Not suitable for working with materials made of steel.
Irwin 10505518
This tool is one of the most suitable options for a wide variety of small panel room jobs. Its length is only 20 cm. The blades of this device, at the end, have a rounded shape. Thanks to this, they can work neatly even in small spaces, with just one hand.
The handles are covered with covers made of two-component material. Thanks to the high stop, which is located in front of the cutting part, hands will not move out when cutting wires.
Advantages:
- Designed for stripping, cutting cables, the diameter of which does not exceed 1.6 mm;
- Cuts copper and aluminum wire well;
- The cutting head is made of durable material.
Disadvantages:
- Cost (1598 rubles);
- Not suitable for cutting cables, springs and bolts;
- Not suitable for cutting materials made of steel.
Rating of the best, best cable cutters for working with large diameter cables
Such hand tools are used when it becomes necessary to cut cables that contain a large number of large conductors. The maximum diameter of such wires that can be used with such a device is about 120 mm. When choosing such devices, first of all, it is recommended to pay attention to the grade of steel from which the instrument is made, as well as to the degree of their dilution.
ZUBR 23341 - 80
One of the best inexpensive popular models, according to buyers, is of domestic production, which is suitable for cutting large-diameter wires (up to 30 mm). The maximum wire section that can be used with this tool is 30 mm2. The length of this tool is 800 mm and the handles are made of multi-component material.
Advantages:
- Ergonomic handles:
- Provides a smooth cut;
- Can be used when working with large diameter cables;
- Relatively low cost (average price is 1861 rubles).
Disadvantages:
- To cut a thick wire, you will have to work with both hands;
- Bulky (length 800 mm).
Mechanical cable cutter К1012
Equipped with special telescopic handles. Designed for cutting both copper and aluminum wires. Can be used to cut flexible thin wires. This tool must be used with both hands. Equipped with a replaceable cutting head and a special lever mechanism. Its length is 930mm and the cutting range should not exceed 38mm. Country of origin - USA.
Advantages:
- The blades are made of durable steel;
- There is no axle backlash;
- Design;
- The long length allows you to reach the most distant wires.
Disadvantages:
- High cost (18705 rubles);
- It takes great effort to cut a large wire.
Rating of the best, quality models of dielectric cable cutters
Dielectric models are used when cutting a cable under voltage up to 1000 V. Quite often they are used during repairs of power grids, when there is no possibility of disconnecting the entire communication. Thanks to reliable insulation, the master can cut the wires that are under electrical voltage without risking life. However, work with such a tool must be carried out strictly observing safety precautions, having previously put on protective, rubberized gloves.
SHTOK 1000V 08108
One of the best budget, small dielectric cable cutters for professionals, thanks to the use of which you can quickly and easily cut, cut wires under voltage up to 1000 V. This tool is equipped with thick insulation and rubberized coating. In front of the hinge of the device there is a high board - a stop, which prevents the hand from sliding to the live parts of the tool.
Advantages:
- Working edges are made of thick steel;
- Convenient to operate;
- Compact;
- The maximum cutting diameter is no more than 12 mm;
- Equipped with two slots (for cutting thick and thin cables);
- Good assembly (the hinge does not play);
- Affordable cost (497 rubles).
Disadvantages:
- In the compressed position, jamming is possible;
- Cannot be used for cutting steel;
- A short length can affect the convenience of use if it is necessary to cut a cable that is remote in the shield.
Dielectric cable cutter 160 mm Felo 58401640
Designed for cutting cables, when performing construction and locksmith work, the diameter of which does not exceed 16 mm. The length of this tool is 160 mm. Not suitable for cutting steel wires, aluminum alloy or cold drawn copper wire. In the manufacture of the working part of this tool, forged tool steel was used. The handles are covered with a two-component material that has increased anti-slip characteristics.
Advantages:
- Chrome plated;
- Good build;
- Dielectric coated;
- High indicators of ergonomics;
- Made from durable materials;
- Simple and easy to use.
Disadvantages:
- High cost (2990 rubles);
- Short length (160 mm).
Comparative characteristics of instruments
| Name | Description (type) | Maximum cutting diameter (mm) | Dimensions (weight, length) | Cost, rub.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MILWAUKEE M12 CC - 0 | Rechargeable | 32 | Not indicated | 30500 |
| Gross 78450 | Mechanical | 14 | Weight - 474 grams; Length - 240 mm | 1198 |
| CIMCO 10 5510 | Hydraulic | 85 | Weight - 13 kg | 245021 |
| ZUBR 23331 - 24 | Mechanical (for small cables) | 15 | Length - 240 mm | 765 |
| Irwin 10505518 | Mechanical (for small cables) | 16 | Length - 200 mm | 1598 |
| ZUBR 23341 - 80 | Mechanical (for large diameter cables) | 30 | Length - 800 mm | 1861 |
| K1012 | Mechanical (for large diameter cables) | 38 | Length - 930mm; Weight - 4.19 kg | 18705 |
| Felo 58401640 | Dielectric | 16 | Length - 160 mm | 2990 |
| SHTOK 1000V 08108 | Dielectric | 12 | Not indicated | 497 |
The domestic market is represented by a large number of various types of hand tools such as cable cutters. One of the main factors that has a direct impact on the progress and quality of the work carried out is the correct selection of the tool. First of all, you need to choose it according to the type of material you will have to work with (wires, wires, cables).
Also, such a tool must be correctly selected depending on the material for which it is purchased for cutting (copper, aluminum, steel, steel weaving). If you have experience using cable cutters presented in our rating or you use a tool of another model, please share your opinion with us and leave your feedback in the comments.
