Review of professional (manual) metal cutting scissors

Expert: Andrey Nikolaevich Kuznetsov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Metal shears are actively used on construction sites, when renovating apartments and houses, as well as in various workshops. With their help you can cut in a straight line or cut aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, cermets and other materials. The tool is used for cutting profiles for drywall, trimming metal tiles, and corrugated sheets. Other models are capable of cutting steel bars, nails, and bolts.

To navigate this diversity, we have prepared a rating of the best metal scissors, based on reviews from craftsmen, builders and ordinary users. Our experts contributed to the assessment of goods by examining the characteristics of the instrument. The information provided will help you choose the right scissors for cutting metal of a specific thickness and shape.

Makita JN 1601

Main characteristics:

• Type of tool - notching (nibbler);
• Power - 550 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 2200 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 45 mm;
• Weight - 1.6 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Corded electric cutting shears have a working head with four fixed positions in 90-degree increments. Special grooves are used to determine the maximum thickness of workpieces made of different materials.

Working head Makita JN 1601.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is suitable for cutting steel, depending on its strength, with a thickness of 0.8 to 1.6 mm and aluminum with a thickness of up to 2.5 mm. The minimum radius of a figured cut is 45 mm. The 550 W motor provides a cutting frequency of 2200 strokes per minute. The model is used for roofing work with flat and corrugated sheets.

Ease of use. The machine has a narrowed plastic body that acts as a handle. The rough surface and thickening in the front part prevent the hand from slipping. The lockable start button is designed for continuous operation. If the carbon brushes wear out, you can replace them yourself. The power cable is long enough and does not become dull in the cold.

Pros of Makita JN 1601

1. High quality build.
2. Convenient shape.
3. Good maneuverability.
4. Versatility.
5. Easy replacement of punch and die.
6. Double insulation of current-carrying elements.

Cons of Makita JN 1601

1. Expensive components.
2. A sharp die cut that must be collected immediately.
3. When working with aluminum, soft waste jams the mechanism.

Benefits of using scissors

1. Professional hand-held metal scissors allow you to work with material without connecting to an electric current source. This tool is mobile and very easy to use.
2. The price of hand-held cutting devices is much lower than that of guillotine shears or a plasma cutting machine, so even for a novice craftsman it will not be difficult to purchase such a tool.
3. Using hand scissors allows you to obtain a curved cut of metal, which is almost impossible when using complex structures with a long flat knife.
4. A significant drawback is the limitation on the thickness of the processed material, which for most models is 0.8 mm.

Bosch GSC 75-16

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 750 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 5200 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 35 mm;
• Weight - 1.7 kg.

Type of scissors and design. These corded sheet metal shears are equipped with a 750W electric motor to ensure high performance. The upper and lower knives are square-shaped with four cutting edges that can be easily deployed if they lose their sharpness.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is designed for straight and shaped cutting of steel sheets up to 1.6 mm thick with a material strength of no more than 400 n/mm. The stroke rate under load reaches 4000 movements per minute. The minimum turning radius of 35 mm is not inferior in maneuverability to most analogues.

Figure cutting Bosch GSC 75-16.

Ease of use. This model weighs 1.7 kg. It has an elongated plastic body that can be held with one or two hands. A special plate protects the brush from possible damage. The start key has two fixed positions, which is convenient for long-term work.

Pros of Bosch GSC 75-16

1. High cutting speed.
2. High quality build.
3. Availability of service repairs and ease of replacement of knives.
4. Reliability.
5. Ease of management.
6. No waste.
7. Low vibration level.

Cons of Bosch GSC 75-16

1. High price.
2. Poor view of the cutting area.

How to make the right choice?

Before we start studying the rating, let's talk about recommendations for selecting scissors. These include:

1. Characteristics of the cut. The instrument can be right-handed, left-handed, or straight. The difference will be in which hand it is held.
2. Connection point. Scissors can be fastened with bolts or rivets. Fixation will be convenient for short cuts, eliminating ends and ends. If the center of the tool is offset, then it can be used to make longitudinal cuts.
3. Blades and their material. The crown is usually made from an alloy. The most durable will be chromium-nickel alloy.
4. The size of the material being cut. It is indicated on the pack and indicates the maximum value. The indicator can even reach 16 mm.
5. Lever. If you do not perform the procedure often, you can select a 1-component handle. If you constantly use the device in construction, then choose a two-component design. This will allow you to hold the tool securely.
6. Length. Scissors for cutting metal can reach 95 cm in length. The larger the value, the larger you can cut with one click. In some options, scissors can save effort and time.
7. Drive unit. Scissors can be manual or extended. Everything will depend on the material processed by the master.

Also, scissors are divided by purpose - professional or for amateurs, which will be described in each option and in reviews.

Makita JS 1601

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 380 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 4500 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 250 mm;
• Weight - 1.4 kg.

Type of scissors and design. The tool is equipped with a spline type working head. It has a reliable gearbox in a metal casing and a thin plastic body that can be held in one hand. Weighing 1.4 kg, the model is lighter than most analogues, which is important for intensive work. The 380 W motor is connected to a standard 220 volt network.

Working head Makita JS 1601.

Functionality and purpose. The machine is used for cutting sheet steel and aluminum. Due to its large turning radius, it is best used for straight cuts. The model is suitable for precise and accurate work in cramped conditions and hard-to-reach places.

Ease of use. The product has a pointed working head with a good view of the cutting area. The shape of the body prevents the instrument from slipping out of your hands. The slide-type starting switch is fixed in extreme positions. The resulting chips are carefully twisted and taken to the side.

Pros of Makita JS 1601

1. Quite high performance.
2. Ease.
3. Ergonomics.
4. After passing through the material, smooth and non-sharp edges are obtained.

Cons of Makita JS 1601

1. Not suitable for shape cutting.

Tool structure

The design resembles an angle grinder in appearance. The body is made of ABS plastic. An engine is installed inside it. The front part is equipped with a multi-stage gearbox, which is protected by a metal casing. Its function is to convert the rotational motion of the spindle into reciprocating motion. Thanks to this, the equipment comes into action.

The working unit consists of a static element and moving parts. When metal is passed between them, its structure is destroyed along the cut line.

The design of electric scissors also includes:

• protective plate-shield;
• handle;
• electrical cable.

Makita JN3201J

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 710 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 1300 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 120 mm;
• Weight - 3.4 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Weighing 3.4kg, these nibblers are equipped with a powerful 710W motor. The manufacturer has made this model more compact in length by increasing the thickness of the body, so a special D-shaped handle is provided for gripping. The design of the working head allows for quick replacement of the matrix and punch. Transverse notches make it easier to determine sheet thickness before cutting, which reduces the risk of mechanism failure.

Working head Makita JN3201J.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is suitable for straight and shaped cutting of sheet metal up to 3.5 mm thick. The turning radius starts from 120 mm. Movement frequency is 1300 cycles per minute.

Ease of use. For a secure grip, the handle is equipped with embossed rubber pads. The start key has an on-state lock. You can replace the motor brushes yourself without disassembling the tool body.

Pros of Makita JN3201J

1. Great power.
2. Smooth ride.
3. Reliable materials.
4. Easy maintenance.
5. Minimum waste.
6. Case for storage and carrying.

Cons Makita JN3201J

1. High price.
2. Considerable weight.

GRAPHITE 59G402

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 500 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 1800 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 25 mm;
• Weight - 2.3 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Sheet shears weighing 2.3 kg have a plastic cylindrical body with a 500-watt motor, a reliable gearbox in a metal casing and a compact cutting unit with tetrahedral knives. When abrading the cutting edge, it is enough to rotate the part 90°.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is suitable for cutting sheet steel up to 2.5 mm thick and aluminum up to 3 mm in a straight line or arc with a radius of at least 25 mm. The working head oscillates at a frequency of up to 1800 movements per minute.

Ease of use. The start button is equipped with a lock against accidental start and an on-position lock. The operator's hand is protected from damage by a small metal shield. A 5 meter long power cable allows you to move freely with the machine inside the workshop.

Pros of GRAPHITE 59G402

1. Good performance.
2. Simple and reliable design.
3. Long cord.
4. Suitcase for compact storage.
5. Affordable price.

Cons of GRAPHITE 59G402

1. Tangible weight.
2. The motor brushes are located inside the housing.
3. Difficult service repairs.

conclusions

Electric scissors can save their owner a lot of effort and time.

Sheet shears are the simplest and most reliable, but limited in functionality.

Nibbler and spline tools are best suited for making radial cuts and working with profile workpieces.

For periodic use at home, a cheap tool like TITAN PPN55-16 will be sufficient.

For professional work with thick metal, the Fein BLK 5.0 nibblers are best suited

PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 500 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 2600 strokes/min;
• Weight - 2.95 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Sheet-type electric shears powered by a 220-volt network and having a cylindrical shape. The housing is made of impact-resistant plastic, and the gear housing is made of metal. The product weighs 2.95 kg. The shape of the cutting unit ensures that parts of the cut sheet are moved apart to the sides, eliminating the possibility of jamming. The knives are easily replaced with new ones using a hex key.

Working head PIT PDJ 250-C PRO.

Functionality and purpose. The tool is designed for straight and shaped cutting of flat metal sheets or corrugated sheets up to 2.5 mm thick. The 500 W motor is effectively cooled by forced air flows, which facilitates long-term continuous operation under load. The intensity of the knife movement is 2600 vibrations per minute.

Ease of use. The body, which acts as a handle, has a flange that prevents slipping. The slide-type starting switch is fixed in both positions, without forcing the master to waste effort and attention on holding it while working. A special shield protects your hands from damage. The model is equipped with spare brushes that can be replaced without contacting a service center.

Pros of PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

1. Reliable design.
2. High performance.
3. Ease of use.
4. Good overview of the cutting area.
5. Low price.

Cons of PIT PDJ 250-C PRO

1. Tangible weight.
2. Not everyone likes the position of the start button on the side of the tool.

The best universal electric scissors

Universal electric scissors will provide high-quality cutting of soft and hard materials.

This tool is lightweight, compact and mobile thanks to its battery power.

Makita CP100DZ

The Makita CP100DZ universal cordless electric shears are a reliable and powerful tool that guarantees high-quality and fast cutting of various sheet materials.

The device provides a speed of movement of the equipment up to 300 strokes per minute.

The device is equipped with self-sharpening knife blades for precise and fast cutting, an ergonomic handle with an anti-slip coating for comfortable holding of the tool when performing various tasks, a protection system against overloads and deep discharge of the battery.

The battery and charger are not included in the package and must be purchased separately.

Specifications:

• power supply - battery;
• speed - 300 strokes per minute;
• maximum cutting thickness - 6 mm;
• battery parameters - Li-Ion, 18 V;
• equipment weight - 0.88 kg.

Advantages

• light weight, compact dimensions;
• compatible with many battery models;
• high quality workmanship;
• good cutting thickness.

Flaws

• poor equipment;
• low speed;
• not a reasonable price tag.

BOSCH 0.601.9B2.904

Universal electric scissors BOSCH 0.601.9B2.904 powered by a battery will ensure fast and high-quality cutting of a variety of materials up to 11 mm thick.

The model is equipped with a productive self-sharpening knife, a protection system against overload, overheating and deep battery discharge.

The device is equipped with a two-position slide control switch, soft body pads, battery charge indicators, and built-in engine ventilation.

A special protective casing is responsible for the safety of the operator.

The device is equipped with two batteries, a charger and a plastic case. Battery charging time is 30 minutes.

Specifications:

• power supply - battery;
• speed - 700 strokes per minute;
• maximum cutting thickness - 11 mm;
• battery parameters - Li-Ion, 10.8 V;
• equipment weight - 1 kg.

Advantages

• light weight;
• high-quality cut;
• decent equipment;
• Large maximum cutting thickness.

Flaws

• high price;
• low maximum speed;
• long battery charging time.

Bison ZNL-500

Main characteristics:

• Tool type - sheet (cut);
• Power - 500 W;
• The number of strokes at idle speed is 1800 strokes/min;
• Minimum cutting radius - 40 mm;
• Weight - 2.5 kg.

Type of scissors and design. Electric sheet shears of a domestic brand. They have a durable body made of metal and high-quality plastic. The model is equipped with a good 500 W motor, so it weighs 2.5 kg. The cutting unit is equipped with two tetrahedral knives made of hard alloy. They can be adjusted and replaced using a set of hex keys included in the kit.

Working head Zubr ZNL-500.

Functionality and purpose. The tool produces high-quality straight cuts on sheet metal up to 2.5 mm thick and can follow an arc with a radius of at least 40 mm. The upper knife moves at 1800 oscillations per minute to ensure a smooth edge at high cutting speeds. An effective engine cooling system prevents overheating even during intensive use.

Ease of use. The model has a narrow body that is comfortable to hold with one or two hands. The start switch is located in a niche, which eliminates the possibility of accidental pressing. The metal visor protects the operator from being cut by sharp cutting edges. The manufacturer has taken care of a spare set of electric motor brushes that you can replace yourself. The entire set is sold in a plastic case, designed for neat storage and transportation of the tool.

Pros of Zubr ZNL-500

1. Simple and reliable design.
2. Durable knives.
3. High cutting speed.
4. Good review.
5. Acceptable price.

Cons Bison ZNL-500

1. The gearbox is heating up.
2. Questionable ergonomics of the start button position.

Which metal scissors are best to choose?

Well-known manufacturers of manual electric metal shears, when developing their products, take into account the conditions of future operation and the technical characteristics required for a particular type of work. In many ways, the capabilities of the tool are determined not only by the power of the electric motor, the quality of the gearbox, but also by the operating principle of the working head.

Sheet, slotted or die-cut

Structurally, the cutting part of electric scissors is a mechanism of one of three types.

Sheet shears

The operating principle of such a tool largely reproduces the operation of ordinary household scissors. It has a supporting element, often resembling a horseshoe in shape, on which a static knife is fixed. Paired with it is a movable blade that performs reciprocating movements.

By adjusting the gap between the cutting edges and the amplitude of movements, you can adapt the device to the size of the material being processed. In this way, steel sheets up to 4-5 mm thick are cut.

This type of tool produces an accurate straight cut without chips or other waste. It is quite productive. It can be used to perform shape cutting, but the turning radius is limited. They can only start working from the edge of the workpiece. Often the cutting knife of such models has several working edges, which can be easily replaced if they become dull by simply turning the part.

Sheet electric shears.

Slotted electric shears

Electric scissors of this type are also equipped with a pair of knives. The top one has the shape of the letter “P”, with two inner edges sharpened. The lower one, when moving, enters the gap, cutting out thin chips, which are moved to the side and then bit off.

This cutting method does not lead to deformation of the processed sheet. Machines of this type are able to work in cramped conditions, for example, during body repair. They cope well with uneven surfaces of the material and easily maintain the given direction.

The disadvantages of this design include small cutting thickness, limited productivity and the need for frequent replacement of the movable knife.

Slotted electric scissors.

Safety precautions

The metal being processed has a thin edge that can easily cause injury. In addition, notching and slotting shears produce sharp shavings during operation, which can get into your eyes.

Therefore, in order to avoid injuries and injuries, when working with electric scissors, you should follow safety precautions:

• Before turning on, check the reliability of fastening of the cutters, inspect the working unit and power cable for cracks.
• Manipulate with protective gloves and goggles.

• During operation, do not touch the gearbox to avoid getting burned.
• It is forbidden to touch a cut of metal with bare hands, especially if it is formed with sheet-type scissors - in this case, the edges of the metal are flattened and become razor-sharp.

Safety precautions are an important aspect when working with electric scissors; do not neglect them under any circumstances!