Shears

About Shears

Power shears are specialised cutting tools designed to slice through sheet metal, plastics, and other tough materials with precision and minimal distortion. Unlike traditional hand shears or aviation snips, powered shears deliver consistent cutting force through electric or battery-driven motors, making them essential for professionals working with metal fabrication, roofing, HVAC installation, and automotive repair. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from compact 3.6V rotary cutters and scissors for detailed work through to powerful 18V brushless metal shears capable of cutting through 1.6mm mild steel and heavier gauge materials.

The collection includes straight shears for linear cuts, offset shears for improved visibility and clearance, swivel head models for curved cutting applications, and universal shears with nibbler action for corrugated materials. Modern cordless models from leading manufacturers like Makita, Bosch Professional, and DeWalt feature brushless motors for extended runtime, tool-free blade changing systems, and ergonomic designs that reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Whether you're a professional tradesperson requiring daily reliability or a DIY enthusiast tackling home improvement projects, MyToolShed offers shears to match every application and budget.

Applications

Power shears serve numerous trades and industries including:

• Roofers and Cladding Specialists: Cutting metal roofing sheets, flashing, guttering, and corrugated materials on site
• HVAC Engineers: Fabricating ductwork, cutting sheet metal for ventilation systems and air conditioning installations
• Metal Fabricators: Precision cutting of steel, aluminium, and other metals in workshops and manufacturing environments
• Automotive Body Repair Technicians: Trimming replacement panels, modifying body parts, and cutting through vehicle metalwork
• Electricians: Cutting cable tray, metal conduit, and electrical enclosures during installation work
• Shopfitters and Joiners: Working with metal frames, aluminium sections, and mixed materials in commercial fit-outs
• Agricultural and Fencing Contractors: Cutting corrugated sheeting, mesh, and metal panels for building and repair work
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects involving guttering installation, garage repairs, and general metalwork

Choosing The Right Shears

Power Source and Voltage: Cordless models at 3.6V-12V offer excellent portability for lighter-duty work with reduced weight, whilst 18V systems deliver greater cutting capacity and sustained power for demanding professional applications. Consider whether you're working from existing battery platforms like Makita LXT or DeWalt XR to maximise battery interchangeability.

Cutting Capacity and Head Type: Match the shears' cutting capacity to your typical material thickness—most professional models handle 1.2-1.6mm mild steel comfortably. Straight shears suit general cutting tasks, offset models provide better visibility in tight spaces, whilst swivel head shears excel at curved and circular cuts. Universal shears with nibbler action handle corrugated materials and offer greater versatility.

Motor Technology: Brushless motors deliver approximately 50% longer runtime per charge and greater longevity than brushed equivalents. For professional daily use, brushless technology quickly pays dividends through reduced downtime and extended tool life.

Blade Availability: Check that replacement blades are readily available for your chosen model. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks blade sets for popular models including Makita, Bosch, and DeWalt shears to minimise work interruptions.

Safety Information

Power shears generate sharp metal fragments and swarf that pose significant eye injury risks. Always wear appropriate safety glasses conforming to EN166 standards when operating these tools. Cut-resistant gloves meeting EN388 standards protect hands from sharp material edges whilst maintaining adequate grip and dexterity.

The cutting action produces burrs and sharp edges on cut materials—handle freshly cut metal with care. Always disconnect batteries or unplug corded models before changing blades or performing maintenance. Ensure workpieces are properly secured before cutting, and never reach across the cutting line. Replace worn or damaged blades immediately as they compromise cutting quality and increase the risk of tool kickback.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between metal shears and nibblers?

Metal shears cut material using a scissor-like action with minimal material removal, producing cuts approximately 2-3mm wide. Nibblers remove small crescents of material with each stroke, creating a kerf of 4-6mm but generating less distortion in the surrounding material. Nibblers excel at corrugated materials and tight curves, whilst standard shears provide faster, cleaner cuts in flat sheet metal.

Are cordless shears powerful enough for professional use?

Modern 18V cordless shears with brushless motors deliver performance rivalling corded models for the vast majority of professional applications. They typically handle 1.2-1.6mm mild steel continuously throughout a full battery charge, with the mobility and convenience benefits usually outweighing any marginal power advantage of corded models.

How often should I replace shear blades?

Blade life varies based on material type, thickness, and cutting frequency. Professional tradespeople cutting daily may replace blades monthly, whilst occasional users might achieve years of service. Replace blades when you notice increased effort required to cut, rougher edges, or material distortion. Dull blades strain the motor and reduce battery life, so regular replacement proves more economical long-term.