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How to choose an electric scissors: professional advice

Choosing the perfect electric scissors can be a daunting endeavor. This article provides helpful advice on what to look for when selecting the right electric scissors for your unique needs. It emphasizes the importance of checking the blade’s specs as well as the model’s ergonomics, build quality, and positioning of power buttons and cords. It also highlights the benefits of electric scissors, such as improved safety, greater accuracy, and better control. With the right electric scissors, you can be sure to get the job done right, making the selection process well worth the effort.

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What are electromechanical shears? How do they work? What may be the design differences, and what does this affect? Which model is better? What to look for in a store? As always, together we will try to answer all important questions, and the experience of practicing masters will help us in this..

“Everything in the world is made of plastic, and around there is plastic life …” – a juicy metaphor from a famous rock band. And in the literal sense there is something in this. But the guys, roofers, body shop workers, “facade workers”, plumbers, ventilation installers, masters of many other industries, who every day “fight” with sheet metal, will object to us. These people know very well that in their business there is no alternative to metal, since no other material can be so strong and pliable at the same time. After all, it is impossible to take everything into account in advance and make a full set of parts in the factory. The special properties of the metal make it possible from typical elements (it does not matter what it is: a profiled sheet, ready-made boxes or special fittings) to assemble structures of incredible complexity directly in the field, on construction sites, where real workshops are often deployed. Cutting, adjusting, eliminating roughing defects – everything is done locally. Tinsmiths have not racked their brains for a long time with the question “what to cut?” Everything is predictable:

  • performance is significantly higher;
  • thickness is not a problem (3 mm, 5 mm or more);
  • you can make curved parts, including a template;
  • the cut is clean and accurate;
  • the material is not deformed, the workpiece remains undamaged;
  • hands do not get tired (in the past there were cuts from burrs and seemingly eternal calluses have disappeared somewhere).

Makita DJN161RMJMakita DJN161RMJ

By the way, polymers and composites, non-ferrous alloys can also be cut with such a tool. One comrade (due to the unexpected lack of an alternative) even adapted to cut thin plywood with nibbling scissors. In general, you get used to good things quickly, and then you are no longer afraid to pay $ 250–400 for a new device if you know how useful it is for your favorite craft.

What are electric shears

Outwardly, this tool looks like a small grinder – usually it is an elongated narrow body with a motor (fits in the palm of your hand), which is made of durable structural ABS plastic. It is difficult to grip larger machines, therefore, outboard handles are used in their layout. In the front part, we have a multi-stage gearbox enclosed in a metal casing – here the rotational movement of the spindle is converted into reciprocating, which is exactly what is needed for the cutting equipment. The working unit, as in the case of a hand-held mechanical tool, consists of a static and movable element, between which the sheet material passes and is divided. Some electric scissors deform metal according to the principle of household (they are called knife), and some – according to the principle of a clerical punch (punching).

Note that manufacturers of such units use different terms to denote a certain type of electromechanical shears, simultaneously using both the designation criterion and the constructive criterion. But there is still some regularity, so for clarity, we will apply the following list:

  1. Cutting.
  2. Knife.
  3. Leafy.
  4. Slotted.

Punching (nibbling) scissors

It is essentially a mobile miniature die-cutter that can be hand-guided over the material. Even the elements of the working equipment of such shears have names from the field of stationary metalworking equipment – these are the notorious dies and punches. The matrix is ​​a fixed element of a certain shape, which is fixed on the matrix holder. A punch is a punch, a reciprocating movable part of the tooling, which is fixed in a slider that performs reciprocating movements transmitted from the crank mechanism. The shape of the punch can be round (for thin materials – up to 3 mm) or square (for more massive workpieces) cross-section, they say, there are powerful two-kilowatt monsters that easily “gnaw” a steel sheet 10 mm thick. In any case, both mold halves (matrix and punch) are geometrically fully matched to each other and can only be replaced in pairs. Interestingly, the working parts of the nibbling shears can be steplessly rotated around their axis through 360 ° – therefore it is very easy to make a curved cut, since the tooling is constantly directed towards the tool feed. Also, the matrix can be fixed at 90 ° intervals, which allows the machine to crawl into rather tight places (Makita JN1601).

Makita JN1601Makita JN1601

During the operation of the punching machine, the punch cuts a track in the sheet with each move, leaving a groove equal in width to the diameter of the punch (“trunk”, as the craftsmen affectionately call it). Thus, we have some material consumption. In the process of work, the carved metal falls down like sickle shavings, abundantly sprinkling the operator’s clothes with sharp confetti – this circumstance somewhat annoys many. The disadvantages of such machines, seasoned tinsmiths include difficulties in maintaining a straight cutting line and poor permeability through thickness differences (for example, when biting a fold).

Makita JN1601

The advantages of the electromechanical punching shears are obvious:

  1. They do an excellent job with cutting corrugated and profiled (including metal, trapezoid), double sheets.
  2. It is possible to perform curved and pattern cuts (including various holes).
  3. Turning radius of the machine – minimum.
  4. High maneuverability (thanks to swivel equipment).
  5. Possibility of quick replacement of cutting elements (extended functionality).
  6. Excellent view of the working area.
  7. They can cut both at the edge and in the middle of the workpiece (you only need to drill a hole).
  8. The cut is very clean, the metal does not deform.
  9. Good efficiency in terms of workpiece thickness (they tend to be powerful).

Electromechanical sheet shears

In terms of design and operation, this tool most closely matches the word scissors. A static knife in the horizontal plane is fixed on a rigid support sole made in the form of a horseshoe (Milwaukee S 2,5 Q). The movable knife reciprocates in a vertical (perpendicular) plane. Reinstalling the support platform changes the distance between the knives, which allows you to adjust the tool for working with various materials (“Interskol NN-2.5 / 520”).

Knife scissors for metal

Shears can only start working from the edge of the sheet – this is their main disadvantage. Some experts blame the formation of “steps” in a straight cut at low speed. They are not particularly distinguished by their maneuverability – that is, curvilinear cuts and profiled (square waves) blanks are far from their diocese. Many people consider them cumbersome and “heavy”.

Interskol NN-2.5 / 520Interskol NN-2.5 / 520

And here’s what sheetfed machines love for:

  1. Provide decent cutting accuracy in a straight line and with some types of shaped cutting.
  2. High speed of work (effectively used for dismantling).
  3. Convenient to bite the material (folds, wire …).
  4. No waste of material (no small, no long spiral chips).
  5. Decent thickness of the cut sheet (up to 4-5 mm).
  6. The ability to use one cutting blade for a long time (knives are square, with four edges – they scroll if one of them is dull).

Slotted electromechanical shears

There are two knives here too. One is stationary (in the form of the letter “P”), it is fixed from above and has two cutting edges. The other (lower knife) moves from bottom to top and enters the groove of the static tooling element, carving thin spiral chips from the material. Naturally, the gaps are also adjustable here, so you can adapt the process to a specific metal thickness. On well-designed models, the chips are guided up and to the side without scratching the workpiece or obstructing the view. As a rule, it can be periodically trimmed with special cutting pliers..

Makita JS1601Makita JS1601

Slotted scissors have drawbacks. Firstly, they are the weakest of all, since the maximum thickness of the cut material is 2 millimeters. Secondly, they have a relatively large turning radius. There is a comment from the experienced that the movable knife fails too quickly.

Slotted shears advantages:

  1. You can start work not only from the edge of the workpiece (suitable for making holes).
  2. Local irregularities of the material (folds) pass well.
  3. Do not deform the sheet.
  4. Keep the line well.
  5. Convenient to work in hard-to-reach places (narrow nose).

Makita BJS130RFEMakita BJS130RFE

A separate item is the “pistol” type electric shears. They are based on a powerful cordless screwdriver. But instead of a chuck, a swivel head with a cutting part is installed there – an exact copy of the angle hand scissors. DeWalt DW941K has distinguished itself, there is also a similar option – Makita BJS130RFE. Such machines are the most “nimble”, and are perfect for cutting galvanized profiles of frame systems.

Choosing electromechanical scissors

The main selection criterion is the specifics of the prevailing jobs. Many experienced users who have worked with different types of scissors believe that the most versatile are sheet-cutting machines, and they will be able to cover many other positions (for ventilation installers – the best option). Die-cut models are the best suited for working with corrugated board, tiles, corrugated surfaces (roofers). Slotted devices are, according to the general opinion, more of a cut-out tool, it is good if there is a thin sheet as the main material to be processed, and you need to operate in pinched places (body work).

Rechargeable or mains.Roofers unanimously declare that mobility is everything for them, because there are no sockets on the roof. Another point is the danger of damage to the power cord. How seriously the manufacturers approached the issue (meaning a long and super-protected power cable), and then, the tinsmiths regularly cut it over the edges of a freshly cut sheet. It is clear that a mobile tool will completely save us from the problem of electric shock (Bosch GSC 10.8 V-Li).

Bosch GSC 10.8 V-LiBosch GSC 10.8 V-Li

As for the restrictions, they are. The first is the thickness of the metal – a steel sheet of 1–1.5 mm will be the “ceiling”. Second, this is the number of cutting meters per charge – here, as a rule, figures in the region of 50–70 meters appear (most craftsmen have enough), but much depends on the manner in which the operator feeds the tool and the specifics of the material. Business continuity issues are governed by the availability of spare batteries and a fast charger. The issues of high prices are gradually leveled by manufacturers, there are scissors that can be bought without batteries at all (much cheaper) if there is another mobile tool of the same company (Makita BJS161Z).

Power characteristics.The power of the average scissors is rather modest, it fluctuates between 300-650 watts (Makita JS1660 – 0.3 kW). Naturally, this indicator cannot but affect the performance of the units (mainly on the maximum metal thickness), but for omnivorousness and functionality you will have to pay with a large turning radius (due to large knives) and a solid weight of the product (from 1.5 to 5-7 kg).

Makita JS1660Makita JS1660

Tool stroke frequencysignificantly affects the speed of the process and its “purity”. The faster the scissors, the neater the cut will be. Manufacturers put the parameter of power and speed in a direct relationship – a high-torque unit is almost always slower than a lightweight. Bosch GNA 3.5 – 620 W – 1000 strokes per minute and Bosch GNA 16 – 350 W – 1600 strokes / min. It makes sense to compare only indicators of models of the same type (for example, only sheet, or only nibblers). Some electromechanical shears can have an adjustable stroke rate to adapt to different conditions and special material characteristics. The BJS130RFE boasts an electronic frequency control system.

Bosch GNA 3.5Bosch GNA 3.5

Maximum cutting thickness.This characteristic of functionality can be considered one of the main ones, since it is categorically not recommended to overcome this limitation. It is interesting that it is determined not only by the output power, but also by the design feature. It is very important how powerful the rig is installed by the developers, and how long it has a stroke. In theory, only the stroke can indicate the limits of the tool. All manufacturers indicate acceptable sheet thickness for machining, usually in the format “hard steel / mild steel / aluminum”. You should be very careful about these numbers so that it does not hurt excruciatingly for wasted money.

Maneuverability.If you often have to work with curved parts, then it is worth considering the turning radius of a particular model. Passports indicate the minimum radius, which is not less than 30 mm, many models significantly exceed this limit, especially those that are more powerful. For example, Makita JN1601 is 45 mm. Do not forget that sheet-fed machines can only start from the edge of the sheet, punching machines can rotate relative to the cutting line and work with a profiled product, and slotted machines, in turn, get well into narrow places.

Ergonomics.By default, scissors are a one-handed tool. It makes sense as the second hand can be useful for gripping and fixing the workpiece, especially when working on site. Therefore, close attention should be paid to the shape and design of the case (thickness, corrugations, lining). Manufacturers often complete the tool with removable or stationary handles – Bosch GSC 2.8 (fungus), Sparky BN 503 (straight), Makita JN3201 (D-shaped with a trigger). This allows you to take the machine with both hands and make a perfectly accurate cut on the clamped workpiece..

JN3201Makita JN3201

We pay special attention to the execution of the launch unit. Usually this is a slider, as in a small grinder, but there are trigger options (Makita JN3201). The main thing is that the switch is fixed in the operating mode. Be sure to check that the slider does not knock out when vibrated. The button should be within the range of your fingers, but so that there is no possibility of accidental on / off.

To protect the user’s hands, a special shield plate (Hitachi CE16SA) helps a lot – it is not available in all models.

Hitachi CE16SAHitachi CE16SA

Cutting unit functionality.Here it is worth looking at the range of adjustments for the gaps between the knives, and whether there is such a possibility at all. The second point is to evaluate the ease of replacing the tooling (dies, punches, knives), the SDS-technology from Bosch, which does not require additional keys for this, can be considered a special chic (Bosch GNA 3.5). To determine the thickness of the workpiece on the “head” sometimes there is a special marking – a very useful thing. Pay attention to whether there is a spare accessory included, how easy it is to purchase it separately, whether it is suitable from tools from other manufacturers.

Those craftsmen who at least once tried to cut sheet metal with electromechanical shears have become their fans forever. Despite the fact that all units are designed for approximately the same purposes, their functionality is different. Therefore, many professionals, who are engaged in “metal cutting and sewing” every day, assemble a complete set of two knife and one nibbler. Well, for us, ordinary builders, it makes sense to focus on specific, our work and choose already one thing. We hope we have given you enough information to think about..

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Comments: 4
  1. Larkin

    What are the key factors to consider when selecting electric scissors? Are there specific features or specifications that differentiate the professional-grade ones? Any expert recommendations or tips to ensure making the right choice?

    Reply
    1. Carter Jordan

      When selecting electric scissors, several key factors should be considered. First, evaluate the power source and battery life to ensure it fits your needs. The cutting capacity and blade material are important for different types of fabrics or materials. Look for scissors with adjustable speed and cutting settings to accommodate various tasks. Professional-grade electric scissors usually have higher power, durability, and ergonomic designs for comfortable extended use. It is advisable to research and read customer reviews to determine the reliability and performance of different models. Consulting with experts or professionals in the field can provide valuable recommendations and tips to make the right choice for your specific needs.

      Reply
      1. Brooklyn Nguyen

        When choosing electric scissors, it is crucial to consider factors such as power source, battery life, cutting capacity, blade material, speed settings, and durability. Professional-grade models are often more powerful and ergonomic for long-term use. Researching and reading customer reviews can help ensure reliability and performance. Consulting with experts can provide valuable insights for selecting the right electric scissors for your specific needs.

        Reply
  2. Mia Price

    Can anyone offer professional advice on how to choose the right electric scissors? I’m looking for tips and factors to consider before making a purchase. What features should I prioritize and are there any specific brands or models that are highly recommended? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

    Reply
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