Weller 170MN Xcelite General Purpose Shearcutter | 170MN

If you do low volt work, you need to at least try these. I think I'm up to 5 or 6 pair now. While I don't make cables anymore for a living, these were essential when I did. I found them to offer the best control, precision, predictability and end result. I still occasionally use them for cables, and they always put a smile on my face. They're used around the house and garage mostly these days, and always manage to make themselves useful.For field repair inspections, I generally just took a pouch with me with a few items - small screwdriver, electrician scissors, flashlight - stuff like that. 9 times out of 10, these came out for something. They'll strip wire jackets all day and are absolutely essential when working with RJ terminations and small shielded cable. Maybe their best trick though is cutting zipties. Not only just cutting them off, which they do so well, but cutting them flush at the clasp. It not only gives a clean look, but eliminates the little razor blades you get from using any other cutter. If you've ever been cut by a ziptie, you know what I mean. If you haven't, you aren't living.

I have used these cutters since I got into electronics in the mid 60's. I came across the Weller brand recently and thought I would abuse them for a while. I have used many different brands and usually it is my fault they need to be replaced. However, when one side of the jaw breaks off, you tac the handles together. And then wrap the handles with rubber sheet or leather to make a nice small scraper.

This may be the best tool in my whole toolbox. I’m not sure if this pair of flush cutters is better than any other brand, but it sure is better than not having any flush cutters.

These side cutters are amazingly sharp and cut very smooth. This is my second pair. I was trying to cut some heavier copper and managed to snap a jaw off them. Not the fault of the cutter as I am sure they are not designed to take the abuse I gave it.

It cuts flush! Cost a little more than cheaper models, but I feel that it's at least a bit more durable.

They are extremely sharp and feel quality made but mine broke after about 2 weeks of use from accidentally trying to cut capacitor prongs on a pcb that had solder hiding a small metal clip. They are awesome clippers just fragile. One of the entire blades broke off. It was my mistake be careful with them.

They are what they are

Been using these cutters for years. There is no better way to flush cut a zip tie than by using these. Good quality, and easy to use. Just remember that these are not bolt cutters. They are designed for small wires, etc.