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Are different types of side cutters really necessary?
There's nothing wrong with a basic toolbox for the occasional job, and that's what most of us have, so why are there so many different types of side cutters available?
For anybody who undertakes only occasional jobs on their layout or whilst constructing models, a good general-purpose pair of quality side cutters will tackle most jobs well enough. Where different types of side cutters come to fruition is when a specific task is to be undertaken repetitively or a precision that's unique to the task at hand is required.
When it comes to side cutters, there often seems to be a trade-off between durability and precision. The many types of side cutters available simple lie in a different place along that trade-off spectrum making them better at performing or surviving particular jobs.
A good example is a difference between metal precision side cutters and plastic frame side cutters. The former is hardy enough to tackle white metal sprues but less precise than the latter, which will make incredibly fine cuts but only to plastic sprues.
Although both of the above are handy for their intended use, it would not be a good idea to attempt any track or piano wire cutting with them as their bladed jaws will soon become pitted. For those jobs, specially hardened track cutters or the virtually indestructible hard wire cutters would be much better options, but don't expect much in the way of finesse.
As mentioned earlier, if you only have a couple of pieces of track or a few sprues to cut, save your money and make do with the trusted pair in your toolbox, but if you have many hours of track cutting or precision model making ahead of you, it's best to get the right tool for the job.
Posted in: Best practices
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