How to use tin snips?

3rd March 2020

How to use tin snips


	Shop for Tinsnips and Aviation Snips


		Step 1 – Choose snips Always purchase the correct snips for the task you want to complete. You may need two or three types of tin snips for different stages of an application.

		The majority of tin snips are designed to be used in the right hand. However, if you are left-handed then the red-handled aviation snips or the left hand cranked universal snips are ideal.

		Step 2 – Place material in blades To begin cutting, open the blades as far as possible and place your sheet metal right into their clasp, where the two blades meet, as this will make the cutting process easier on your hands.

		Step 3 – Position snips The flat part of the inner blade should always be parallel with the sheet metal or the cut will be slightly bent.

		Step 4 – Keep snips upright Keep the tin snips upright as you cut, to avoid damaging them. If the tin snips are over-bent (twisted or turned horizontally) while cutting, the connecting bolt will be stretched and the tin snips will then be useless.

		Step 5 – Start cutting Squeeze the handles to start cutting through the metal. Do not close the jaw completely when cutting or the blade’s tip may produce dimples on the metal.

		Always keep the blades in contact with the metal, sliding the tool smoothly along as you cut, in order to prevent damage to the material’s edge. Constantly pulling the tin snips away from the metal in between cuts will give your sheet metal dimples and roughen your cut line.

		Step 6 – Hold waste Make sure to hold any wastage material out of the way as you continue.

		If used correctly, snips should leave a clean finish on your metal. Despite this, there is always a danger of causing tiny metal fractures along the edge of the metal during the cutting process. To avoid losing any wanted metal, cut just outside of your guideline. This means that if the metal needs filing down after the shearing is completed, then your metal will still be the required shape and size.