Metal Shears

About Metal Shears

Metal shears are essential cutting tools designed to slice through various gauges of sheet metal and other metallic materials with precision and control. Whether you're working with steel, aluminium, copper, or tin, the right metal shears deliver clean, burr-free cuts without distorting the material. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of metal shears from trusted brands including Expert by Facom, Sealey, Stanley, and Sirius, catering to both professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts.

From handheld aviation snips and universal shears to bench-mounted disc cutters, these tools are engineered for durability and performance. Many models feature titanium coatings for enhanced edge retention, ergonomic handles for reduced fatigue, and specialised blade geometries for straight cuts, curves, or chamfering operations. MyToolShed offers both manual and powered options to suit different workshop requirements and cutting volumes.

Applications

Metal shears are indispensable across numerous trades and industries:

• Sheet metal workers and fabricators - cutting ductwork, flashings, and custom metalwork
• Roofers - trimming and shaping metal roofing sheets and guttering
• HVAC installers - preparing ventilation ducts and air conditioning components
• Automotive body shops - panel modification and repair work
• Plumbers - cutting metal pipes and protective sheeting
• General fabrication workshops - prototype development and small-batch production
• Maintenance engineers - on-site repairs and modifications
• DIY enthusiasts - home improvement projects involving metal materials

Choosing The Right Metal Shears

Selecting appropriate metal shears depends on several key factors:

• Material type and thickness - verify the maximum cutting capacity matches your typical workpiece gauge; most handheld shears handle up to 1.2mm mild steel
• Cut direction - universal shears cut straight, whilst left-cut and right-cut models suit curves and tight radii
• Blade design - straight blades for general work, chamfer shears for angled edges, and offset patterns for improved hand clearance
• Handle comfort - ergonomic grips and cushioned handles reduce hand strain during extended use
• Blade material - titanium-coated or hardened steel blades maintain sharpness longer in demanding applications
• Bench-mounted vs handheld - disc cutters provide greater cutting capacity and are ideal for repetitive workshop tasks
• Power requirements - if considering powered models, ensure compatibility with your 240v workshop supply

Safety Information

Metal shears create sharp edges and generate swarf that can cause injuries. Always wear safety glasses to protect against flying metal particles, and use cut-resistant gloves when handling freshly cut materials. Ensure shears are properly maintained with sharp blades, as dull cutting edges require excessive force and increase the risk of slipping. Keep fingers clear of the cutting path, and secure workpieces firmly before cutting. Store shears with blade guards fitted to prevent accidental contact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between universal and specialist metal shears?

Universal metal shears feature straight blades and can cut in any direction, making them versatile for general tasks. Specialist shears like left-cut or right-cut models have offset blades designed for cutting curves, whilst chamfer shears create bevelled edges for welding preparation. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both types to suit different applications.

How thick a material can metal shears cut?

Most handheld metal shears comfortably cut mild steel up to 1.0-1.2mm thick, stainless steel to 0.7mm, and softer metals like aluminium to 1.5mm. Bench-mounted disc cutters typically handle thicker gauges. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for precise cutting capacities.

Do metal shears require regular maintenance?

Yes, periodic maintenance extends tool life significantly. Keep pivot points lubricated, tighten any loose fasteners, and occasionally sharpen or replace blades when cutting performance deteriorates. Clean accumulated metal particles from the blade area after heavy use to maintain smooth operation.