Bolt Cutters

About Bolt Cutters

Bolt cutters are heavy-duty cutting tools designed to shear through tough materials including metal bolts, chains, padlocks, wire mesh, and threaded rod. Using a compound lever action mechanism, these powerful tools multiply the force applied at the handles to deliver exceptionally strong cutting action at the jaws. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks 28 different bolt cutters ranging from compact 200mm mini models to professional-grade 1050mm versions, with brands including Knipex, Bahco, Facom, Stanley, and Draper.

The range includes various jaw configurations for specific applications: centre cut bolt cutters with jaws that position material centrally for maximum cutting force; clipper cut models with curved jaws ideal for wire and fencing; and specialist offset bevel designs for flush cutting against surfaces. Available cutting capacities range from light cable work to cutting through 13mm hardened steel, ensuring there's a suitable tool whether you're a facilities manager removing old padlocks or a construction professional cutting reinforcement bar.

Applications

Bolt cutters are essential tools across numerous trades and industries:

• Construction Workers – cutting reinforcement bar (rebar), wire mesh, and temporary site fencing
• Facilities Managers – removing old padlocks, cutting damaged chains, and maintenance work
• Metalworkers and Fabricators – cutting metal rod, bar stock, and various profiles in workshops
• Electricians – cutting cable trays, metal conduit, and cable armour
• Fencing Contractors – cutting chain-link fencing, wire mesh, and metal fence components
• Security Professionals – emergency access, lock removal, and security installation
• Emergency Services – fire and rescue operations requiring rapid cutting access
• Agricultural Workers – repairs to gates, fencing, and farm equipment
• DIY Enthusiasts – home security projects, garden work, and general maintenance tasks

Choosing The Right Bolt Cutters

Handle Length and Cutting Capacity: Longer handles provide greater leverage – a 450mm model might cut 6mm mild steel whilst a 900mm version can tackle 13mm hardened steel. Match the tool size to your typical materials, remembering that larger models become heavier and require more storage space.

Jaw Type: Centre cut jaws offer versatility for general bolts, chains, and padlocks. Clipper cut designs with curved jaws excel at wire and cable work. For cutting items flush against surfaces, choose offset bevel models like the Draper Expert 30° range.

Material Quality: Professional-grade models from Knipex, Bahco, and Facom feature drop-forged steel jaws with hardened cutting edges (around 64 HRC), significantly outlasting budget alternatives. Tubular arm designs reduce weight whilst maintaining strength, reducing user fatigue during extended use.

Adjustability and Maintenance: Better quality bolt cutters feature adjustable jaw tension, allowing you to compensate for wear. Models with replaceable cutting edges, like those available in the Bolt Cutter Accessories range at MyToolShed.co.uk, offer excellent long-term value for professional users.

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate eye protection meeting BS EN 166 standards when using bolt cutters, as cut metal can produce sharp fragments. Inspect cutting edges before use – damaged jaws may cause the tool to slip or material to shatter unexpectedly. Never exceed the manufacturer's stated cutting capacity, as this can damage the tool and cause sudden failure.

When cutting materials under tension such as chains or cables, ensure both ends are secured and position yourself clear of potential whip-back. Be particularly cautious with hardened materials like padlock shackles, which may shatter rather than cut cleanly. Maintain a firm grip on both handles with stable footing, and never cut above head height where falling material could cause injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size bolt cutters do I need for cutting padlocks?

For standard brass or laminated padlocks, 450-600mm bolt cutters with centre cut jaws are usually sufficient. Heavy-duty padlocks with hardened steel shackles require 750-900mm models to generate adequate cutting force. Always check the cutting capacity specification matches your padlock's shackle diameter – typically 8-10mm for security padlocks.

What's the difference between centre cut and clipper cut bolt cutters?

Centre cut jaws position material centrally between flat cutting edges, providing maximum force for bolts, rods, and chain links. Clipper cut (or angle cut) jaws feature curved cutting edges that excel at gripping and cutting round materials like wire and chain-link fencing. Centre cut models are more versatile for general trade use.

How do I maintain bolt cutters to keep them cutting effectively?

Keep the pivot point clean and lightly oiled with general-purpose tool oil. If jaws have adjustable tension, tighten them periodically as wear occurs. Store in a dry location to prevent rust, and apply cutting oil to blades when cutting metal regularly. Replace jaws when cutting performance deteriorates – replacement parts are available from MyToolShed.co.uk for many professional models.