Thread: Metal Shears

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I am thinking about buying a pair of metal shears to cut sheet metal with. What is the best kind to get and what gauge should I get. Or should I put it this way, on a budget, what is the least guage you would buy.

Thanks,
Tau44

Also, is this the best way to cut sheet metal to fabricate things? Is there a better tool out there? Band saw?

On a budget and need best bang for buck.

Thanks,

Tau44

I still use compound shears to cut a lot of tin, 20 ga. and 22 ga. I use a "nibbler" to rough cut, then my hand shears for the final fit. You will need a left cut, right cut, and a straight cut shear, don't waste your money on the cheap dime store junk ones, spend the bucks for the good ones the first time. If you take care of them they will last a long time.

What is the difference in a pair of electric or air shears and a electric or air nibbler?

Thanks,

Les

Electric or air shears use two blades and cut the metal like you would with a regular pair of scissors. Tho in short fast strokes. A nibbler uses a punch and die and cuts a zillion little "C" shaped pieces out of the material. This leaves a wider "Kerf" or path thru the material. Nibblers turn sharp corners better than shears. Most are rated for 18-22 Ga. sheet mild steel. I have cut thicker stuff with nibblers.

So if you were going to buy a pair would you go nibblers or shears? What brand and model also would you go with. I am on a budget so I know I can't afford the best but I don't want the worst either. I just want a good quality pair. Also would you go electric or air or manual?


Thanks,
Les

Originally posted by Tau44
So if you were going to buy a pair would you go nibblers or shears? What brand and model also would you go with. I am on a budget so I know I can't afford the best but I don't want the worst either. I just want a good quality pair. Also would you go electric or air or manual?


Thanks,
Les

if i didnt have but 1 choice id go with the air nibbles. JMO

What brand air nibblers would you go with? Also what gauge would you get?

Thanks,
Tau

Originally posted by Tau44
What brand air nibblers would you go with? Also what gauge would you get?

Thanks,
Tau

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/w...17&R=200305417

this would do just fine to start with.

my nibbler is an Ingersoll Rand, had it for years, still works great, just don't use it on aluminum !!!!

What is the minimal gauge nibbler you would buy? I just want it to do some fabrication work on race car bodies and cars.

THanks,

Les

I can't afford a plasma cutter right now, although I would love to have one. I am just looking for the best electric or air shear or nibbler in the 150 -200 dollar range I can get. Also what gauge should I get.

I just bought a new Miller welder so funds are low.

Thanks,

Tau

Kett model KD-440 up to 14 gauge, had mine for years and works wonderful, about $195, just do a search for Kett shears and you'll come up with several mail order suppliers....