Snips are hand-held cutting tools that feature a pivot point and two handles, enabling clean and precise cuts through sheet materials. They excel in applications for HVAC, plumbing, electrical installations, and metalworking projects.

What are the various types of snips available?

Snips come in an array of types tailored to specific cutting needs. Aviation snips are ideal for cutting aluminum and steel sheets. Compound action snips provide high leverage for thicker materials. Straight snips offer precision cuts on soft materials like paper or plastic. Tin snips are designed specifically for cutting thin aluminum sheets.

How do I compare the cutting capacity of different snips?

The cutting capacity of snips is determined by the maximum thickness of material they can cut effectively. This capacity varies among snips and is typically measured in gauge or millimeters. Higher gauge numbers indicate thinner materials, while lower gauge numbers represent thicker materials.

What are the key features to consider when selecting a pair of snips?

When choosing snips, consider factors such as the type of material you'll be cutting, the thickness of the material, the blade material and hardness, the handle design for comfort and grip, and any additional features like auto-release mechanisms or spring-loaded handles for ease of use.

Snips | Zoro

About Snips

Snips are a type of hand tool used for cutting and shaping metal. They are typically composed of two blades joined at a pivot point, with handles on either side that allow for precise control over the cut. Snips come in many shapes and sizes, and can be used for a variety of applications.

Types of Snips

Aviation snips, also known as tin snips or shears, are designed to cut through thin sheet metal. There are left-handed and right-handed varieties to accommodate different user preferences. Metal cutting snips have longer blades than aviation snips and can handle thicker materials such as wire mesh or rebar. Malco vs Midwest snip is another type of hand snip tool that is commonly used in industrial settings.

How Snips Are Made

Snip tools are typically made from high-grade steel that has been forged into shape with heat treatment to increase strength and durability. The handles may be made from plastic or rubber compounds to provide comfort during use, while the blades may feature teeth along the edge for improved cutting performance.

Industries That Use Snips

Snips are commonly used in industries such as aerospace engineering, automotive repair, plumbing, electrical work, HVAC installation/repair, welding fabrication, construction framing/roofing/siding installation and more. Professionals often use them to cut through various types of metals like aluminum sheeting or copper piping.

Find the Snips You Need at Zoro

Looking for a specific item? Use our robust search tool to find it by name or keyword, or use our handy filters to narrow down our full assortment. You can also check out our whole selection of Snips along with other tools or equipment to ensure you have all you need to tackle the job, especially if you're taking on a DIY project for the first time.

Plus, when you shop at Zoro, you'll always enjoy competitive prices on tons of great brands you know and trust. We make the shopping experience as fast and seamless as possible with free shipping on orders over $50 for registered users, Net 30 payment terms for qualifying customers, and an unparalleled customer service experience.