Diagonal cutters make an essential part of your toolkit. Whether you are a handyman, general contractor, Networking engineer, or just a DIY enthusiast, a quality pair of higher-quality cutters makes your work easier.
This particular tool is mainly used for cutting cables. Unlike scissors, Diagonal cutter work by wedging and indenting the line. With the help of a cutter, you can easily cut soft materials like aluminium, copper, brass, steel, and iron. For harder metals such as piano wire and tempered steel cables, you need a higher-quality cutting plier made with hardened steel.
You will come across various brands in the market. But choosing the right one for your toolkit can be an overwhelming task. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the best diagonal cutters available in the market.
Best Diagonal Cutter Review
We have handpicked the ten diagonal wire cutters for you to choose from. Go through the details of the mentioned products and choose the most appropriate one for yourself.
1. KNIPEX – 74 01 250 SBA Tools – High Leverage Diagonal Cutters: Our Top Pick
- High Leverage Diagonal Cut
- High Leverage Diagonal Cut
- High Leverage Diagonal Cut
Our top pick is the Knipex diagonal cutters which are specially built for the high-leverage axle. This product is the best choice for anyone looking for a high-quality diagonal cutter.
Why is it Unique?
With a high-leverage axel design, it reduces the 20% cutting force needed compared to other conventional cutters of the same length.
This amazing tool is designed for cutting harder materials and wires, thus, providing up to 25% more cutting power. Due to the long side of the cutter, it can easily access confined spaces.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers appreciate the oil-hardened chrome vanadium steel construction of the cutter. It is a highly durable tool that is designed to last a lifetime.
The fixed forged axle rivet joint allows for continuous smooth operation with no wobbling effect. With the help of this tool, you can cut a wide range of materials, ranging from soft to hardened metals.
PROS
- It reduces cutting force needs by up to 20%.
- It is highly durable.
- It can cut both hardened and soft materials.
- It has an ergonomic cutting angle.
CONS
- It is a heavy tool.
Best Fit For
With this diagonal cutter, you can cut both hardened and soft materials. It can easily cut materials like steel, aluminium, iron, copper, brass, etc.
2. Klein Tools D248-9ST Diagonal Cutters with High Leverage Design: Best Choice
- Ironworkers' pliers for soft annealed rebar tie wire
- Short jaws and beveled cutting edges permit close cutting of wire
- Hooked handle for reduced slippage
With a full 5-star rating, the Klein Tools D248-9ST is one of the best Klein diagonal cutters available out there. This cutter is especially useful in cutting annealed rebar tie wire. It provides smooth action and cuts metal wires with ease.
Why is it Unique?
These cutting pliers come with a 13-degree angled head which makes them suitable for confined spaces. Besides that, it has a hook handle to provide a solid grip and reduce the chances of the tool slipping from your hands.
Since this is a high-leverage cutting plier, you can expect it to deliver more cutting power.
Buyer’s Experience
This product has received a lot of positive reviews from buyers. Unlike other cutters, it allows for smooth operation, with no wobbling or weakening effect.
Buyers also like the plastic-made handles as they find them comfortable to use. Besides that, the steel construction of the tool indicates the kind of workmanship that has been put into this product.
PROS
- It has a 13-degree angled head.
- It is good for working in tight spaces.
- It has a hook handle for comfortable use.
- It comes with plastic-made handles for better grip.
CONS
- It has no insulation.
Best Fit For
These cutting pliers are great for all professional users, especially for ironworkers. It is highly recommended for people who often work in small and confined spaces.
3. IRWIN VISE-GRIP Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best Durable
- Durable nickel chromium steel construction
- ProTouch grips provide extra comfort and reduces hand fatigue
- Induction hardened cutting edge stays sharper, longer
If you are looking for a durably constructed diagonal cutter, the IRWIN VISE-GRIP diagonal cutting tool could be the best choice for you. It is made of nickel-chromium steel and comes with ProTouch grips for reduced hand fatigue.
Why it is Unique?
First of all, these diagonal cutters are constructed with nickel-chromium steel, which makes them more durable than other cutters. Due to its solid construction, it can easily withstand harsh construction jobs.
These cutters are great for constant use and will give you the best results every time. The induction-hardened edges help keep the cutter sharper for a long time.
Buyer’s Experience
The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Diagonal Cutting Pliers are trusted by users because it reduces hand fatigue. It provides a comfortable grip, so you can use it for longer hours.
It has machined jaws that are built for better grip so that the cutters won’t slip during use.
PROS
- It is made with nickel-chromium steel.
- It reduces hand fatigue.
- It has machined jaws for better grip.
- It is excellent for constant use.
CONS
- The size of the tool is small.
Best Fit For
These diagonal cutters are great for construction environments. They are not only comfortable to use, but they also cut well and can withstand constant use.
4. Channellock 338 Diagonal Cutting Plier: Premium Choice
- Country of Origin:United States
- Package length:8.2"
- Package width:2.3"
For the best cutting experience, you can rely on the Channellock 338 diagonal cutting plier. It comes with anvil-style cutting edges for perfect mating and excellent cutting-edge life.
Why is it Unique?
This cutting plier is built for high performance. The electronic coating prevents the pliers from getting rusted over time. It features a blue-coloured handle, which not only provides a good grip but also feels comfortable to use.
If you are looking for big cutting pliers, this could be the best choice for you. It comes with an anvil-style blade edge and knife to give you a precision cut every time. It also uses laser heat treatment technology to improve cutting-edge power. This enables you to use it for multiple projects.
Buyer’s Experience
According to buyers, this is a highly durable wire cutter. They love the fact that it is made of high-carbon C1080 steel. It adds durability and makes the tool long-lasting.
This amazing tool is made for high performance and gives you a 100% guarantee that it won’t break during use. It also provides a comfortable grip to reduce hand fatigue.
PROS
- It is built for excellent performance.
- The body is made of high-carbon C1080 steel material.
- It provides a comfortable grip.
- It is best for construction purposes.
CONS
- It is not suitable for tight spaces.
Best Fit For
These diagonal cutters are great for construction purposes. It is durable and comfortable to use and thus, makes a perfect choice for professionals.
5. IGAN DC-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best Design
- 1.Ultra Tough and Durable Side Cutters: Forged from tempered CR-V Steel, the jaws are hardened by...
- 2. Spring-loaded dikes pliers, High-leverage design, minimizes hand fatigue from repetitive work. A...
- 3. Wire Cutters Heavy Duty: The long jaws can cut steel wire up to 1.6 mm/0.063 inch and copper wire...
Made with tempered high-carbon steel, this is yet another powerful diagonal cutter you can add to your toolkit. This is a versatile tool that can be used for multiple projects. It is suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
Why is it Unique?
The first thing you will notice about these cutters is the hardened cutting edges. It is designed for superior cutting ability with no weakening effect.
It features a high-leverage design that helps in improving cutting efficiency. It also includes padded handles to reduce hand strain and fatigue and strain. This makes it an ideal tool for hard and repetitive cutting.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers find this cutting plier to be ultra-tough and durable. The jaws are hardened by induction quenching and heating for increased cutting efficiency.
This cutter is designed for high performance and can be used for hard cutting. Many users have claimed that the spring-loaded mechanism helps reduce hand fatigue, while the padded handles provide a comfortable grip.
PROS
- It is made from tempered steel.
- The spring-loaded mechanism reduces hand strain.
- It has padded handles.
- It can cut thick wires.
CONS
- It lacks a latch for closing handles.
Best Fit For
You can use these cutters to cut thick steel and copper wires. Unlike many other cutters, this one is suitable for almost all types of projects. It is also provided with a lifetime warranty and provides great value for money.
6. CRAFTSMAN Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best Performance
- INCREASED CUTTING FORCE: Compound action design of diagonal cutting pliers
- COMFORT AND CONTROL: Multi-zone bi-material grips on safety wire pliers
- INDUCTION HARDENED: Cutting edges of CRAFTSMAN pliers stay sharper longer
CRAFTSMAN diagonal cutting pliers feature a compound action design that is useful in increased cutting force. Besides that, it has multi-zone bi-material grips that make it comfortable to use the pliers.
Why is it Unique?
The best thing about these cutting pliers is the construction. It is made from forged steel for durability and strength. It also has induction-hardened edges that extend the life of the blades.
It uses different materials to ensure maximum safety and comfort. With the help of this plier, you can even cut tougher materials.
Buyer’s Experience
Many buyers have claimed that the tool vastly increases the cutting force compared to other cutters. They also mentioned that this cutting plier is made for a long-time service.
The handles and body of the cutter are constructed with the help of a drop forge method. This is why it has a solid steel structure on the inside, with zero weak points.
PROS
- It is made using a drop forge process.
- It has hardened cutting edges.
- It is highly durable.
- It features a compound action design.
CONS
- It requires two hands to open the pliers.
Best Fit For
If you are someone who often works with tough and thick materials, you will find this product very useful. It is best suited for cutting steel cables and wires.
7. Crescent 8″ Pro Series Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best Lightweight
- 9" Crescent Pro Series diagonal compound action pliers
- Made with co-molded grips for added comfort
- Compound leverage design provides 50% increase in cutting power
The Crescent 8″ Pro Series diagonal cutter is one of the lightest tools available out there. Despite its minimal weight, it provides increased cutting power.
Why is it Unique?
This is a lightweight diagonal plier that is designed for enhanced cutting power. It comes with a compound leverage design and 30% bigger moulded grips than those found in the premium brands. This helps reduce the fatigue and stress in your hands.
This tool is made of durable chrome vanadium steel that will make it last a lifetime. The heat-treated joint rivet connects the two major sections for a consistently smooth operation.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers have highly rated this product because of its performance. This is a long-lasting tool made of chrome vanadium steel.
Due to the minimal weight of the pliers, you can easily carry them around without any hassles.
PROS
- It is a lightweight cutting plier.
- It is made with chrome vanadium steel.
- It is designed for smooth operation.
- It provides increased cutting power.
CONS
- The jaws don’t open widely.
Best Fit For
If you want a pair of cutting pliers for casual use, this could be the best choice for you. These pliers are easy to carry around and can be used for a variety of projects.
8. iExcell 4.5″ Diagonal Wire Cutting Pliers: Best Affordable
- Spring Loaded Handles,Convenient to Use;
- Soft PVC Covering the Steel Handles,Comfortable to Use;
- For Cutting Ty-Rap,Zip Ties,Thin Wire, Headpins, Eye Pins, Small Chain, Tiger Tail, Cords,...
If you want an affordable pair of diagonal cutters that will give you the performance of a premium tool, then this one is for you. The iExcell 4.5″ is one of the smallest diagonal tools around.
Why it is Unique?
The entire tool has undergone a non-acidized thermal treatment to increase its tensile strength. Not just that, but even the cutting edges of the tool are hardened using high-frequency thermal radiation. This helps retain the sharpness of the blades for a long time.
To further extend the service life, the tool’s surface is covered by a fine layer of rust-poof oil. Since they apply a very thin layer, it will not have any adverse effect on the electronics you use it.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers claim that the tool is convenient to use. They love the spring-loaded handles as it allows them to work comfortably, without feeling any fatigue.
The handles are also covered with soft PVC for extra comfort. This makes a great tool for jewellers or electricians.
PROS
- It is rust-proof.
- The steel handle is covered with soft PVC.
- It has more tensile strength.
- It is ideal for electricians.
CONS
- It is difficult to store.
Best Fit For
These cutting pliers are the best when it comes to repairing any electronic items. You can also use it on small electrical devices and cutting and soldering fine wiring. This is a portable and lightweight tool that is easy to carry around.
9. TEKTON 7 Inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best for Wiring
- Cuts copper, aluminum, and soft steel wire in solid, stranded, and braided forms
- Blades are induction hardened to HRC 58-64 for superior cutting performance and durability
- Stout, strong build won't bend or twist under stress
If you want a diagonal cutting plier that is suitable for a large variety of wires, then this could be the best choice for you. It is a versatile piece tool that makes a great addition to your toolkit.
Why is it Unique?
This is a durable pair of cutting pliers that is great for cutting copper, aluminium, and soft steel cables and wires. With the help of this tool, you can easily braid, snipe, and strand cables.
It features an 82-degree angle cutting edge that makes them stronger and sharper. With these cutters, you can achieve smooth and accurate cuts every time.
Buyer’s Experience
Unlike other cutters, this one comes with hardened cutting edges that will last you for years.
It has rounded handles that help distribute the pressure evenly. Not just that, but the handles are covered with non-slip grips to provide increased control during use.
PROS
- It provides maximum control.
- It is best for most wiring applications.
- It is lightweight & portable.
- It has hardened blade edges.
CONS
- It is not suitable for heavy-duty purposes.
Best Fit For
The good thing about these cutters is that it is extremely lightweight. You can carry it wherever you go. It is best suited for cutting soft steel, copper, and aluminium wires. You can use this tool when working with electrical installations.
10. Klein Tools D275-5 Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Best Ultra-Slim
- Flush Cutter Pliers with improved knife design snips wire up to 16 AWG, producing a flat, flush cut
- Pliers' pinch cutting greatly reduces cutting effort and minimizes fly-off
- Grips designed for greater tool control
We have yet another Klein diagonal cutter on the list and this one is equally good as the previous one. If you need a pair of slim cutters, you can consider opting for this one.
Why is it Unique?
These cutters are designed to work in confined and small spaces. This is made possible because of its ultra-slim profile which gives you easy access to even the tightest spaces.
It also provides you with a better grip, so you can use the pliers comfortably. Its steel return spring allows you to cut quickly with just one hand.
Buyer’s Experience
The majority of the buyers have voted in favour of the ergonomic design of the pliers. They find this cutting plier to be very user-friendly and convenient to use.
With the help of these cutters, you can work on most types of electronic wiring. Last but not the least, buyers also like this product because it is heat-treated for increased durability.
PROS
- It has an ultra-slim design.
- It can access the smallest spaces.
- It is suitable for precise work.
- It provides greater efficiency and control.
CONS
- It is not suitable for rigid materials.
Best Fit For
This cutting plier is best for delicate applications. You can use it for various electronic applications. It should be pointed out that these pliers are not suitable for harder materials.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Diagonal Cutters?
When it comes to buying quality and higher-quality cutters, there are a few important things you need to take into consideration. To give you a better understanding, we have laid down the details below.
- Size
Like any other tool, diagonal cutters are also available in different sizes. Different cutter size is suitable for different purposes, which means you need to choose a size based on the task you want to use it for.
It should be pointed out that the size of the diagonal cutters influences both the ergonomics and the applications that are possible with the tool. This tool usually ranges from 6 to 9 inches in terms of size. Therefore, you should be able to find the perfect size required for your project.
- Build Quality
Building quality of the cutters is probably the most important thing. When buying a diagonal cutter make sure that you are getting a quality tool. A reliable cutter will last you for years and deliver a flawless performance every time.
You must also check the quality of the blades as they tend to wear out over time. Consider the materials used for the construction of the blades.
- Comfortable Grip
The cutting plier you are buying should have a comfortable grip. It should be designed in a way that will reduce stress and fatigue in your hands.
Cutting pliers are manual tools. It requires you to apply force by hand for it to work. Therefore, you need a plier that offers a strong ergonomic grip, so you can cut accurately every time.
- Design
Diagonal cutters are usually designed in such a way that you can use them for wedging or crimping applications. However, they still have different blade and handle designs. For instance, a cutting plier with straight blades will give you straight cuts, but for more precision, you need angled blades.
When buying a diagonal cutter, make sure you check the design of the tool. You need a design that is suitable for your application.
Types of Wire Cutters
Before you set out to buy wire cutters, you need to know the different types available out there. We have explained some of the most common types of wire cutters below.
- Side Cutters
These types of cutters work by wedging and indenting the cable apart. With a side cutter, you can achieve a cleaner finish. However, these cutters are not suitable for harder items such as screws or nails. You can use a side cutter for splicing, holding, or cutting leads.
- Diagonal Cutters
Diagonal cutters are designed for wedging or crimping cables. You can achieve accurate and precise cuts with diagonal cutters. These types of cutters are widely used on soft materials like copper and aluminium. It is ideal for cutting, gripping, and stripping insulation from cables.
- End Cutters
These cutters are also known as nippers and have flat heads. Due to its flat head design, it can cut close to the surface of the material, without digging into it. It is best suited for springs, leads, rivets, nails, and bolts.
- Cable Cutters
These types of cutters are commonly used in electrical applications, and therefore, they are insulated well. You can also use cable cutters for industrial applications.
- Flush Cutters
Flush cutters feature pincers that are narrow and angled. These types of cutters are best suited for semi-hard and soft metals. It should be pointed out that flush cutters are only used on flat surfaces. It is ideal for eye pins, headpins, trimming, and beading wire.
How to Sharpen Diagonal Cutters?
If you are wondering whether you can sharpen your diagonal cutters, the answer is yes, you can. To sharpen your cutters you must follow these steps:
- Take a File
First of all, you will need a hand file with a fine grain.
- Clean the Blades of the Pliers
The next step is to clean the blades of the pliers in soap water. Make sure you dry the blades properly before starting with the sharpening process.
- Secure the Pliers in a Vice
Place the handles of the cutting pliers in a vice with the jaws pointing upwards. Make sure it doesn’t move.
- Rub the Blades with the File
Start with one side of one blade. Rub the file along the angle of the blade making short, quick movements. You need to apply only a little pressure, or else you will end up removing too much metal from, the blades.
Now repeat the same thing for both sides of each blade. Keep doing it till the blades are sharp again.
- Test the Pliers
Once you are done, test the pliers by cutting a piece of wire. If it works smoothly, then the process is successful. Or else, you will have to sharpen it again.
- Apply Oil
After you are done with the above methods, wash the blades again in soapy water. Now dry the blades and apply a thin layer of oil. You can also use rubbing alcohol.
Before you store them away make sure that the blades are dried properly.
Popular Brands?
You will come across several brands in the market. But the point is to choose a reputable brand, so you can get quality products. We have listed the most popular brands in the section below. This should help you find the diagonal cutters for yourself.
- Knipex
Knipex is one of the best brands when it comes to buying diagonal cutters. The brand is popular for its wide range of pliers. They make high-quality tools that are available with a high price tag. But Knipex tools are built to last for years. They make durable cutting pliers for all types of applications.
- Klein
Klein diagonal cutters are designed for high performance. Compared to Knipex, Klein products are more affordable. But in terms of performance, Klein diagonal cutters are second to none. Klein cutters are trusted by professionals all around the world.
- iExcell
iExcell is yet another brand that is extremely popular among buyers. If you want affordable diagonal cutters, this is the brand for you. Despite the low price tag, they make quality products to last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the uses of diagonal cutters?
Ans: Diagonal cutters are mainly used for cutting wires, cables, and small pins in tight and confined spaces. Because the cutting edges are set diagonally, these can cut objects flush with a surface.
Q2. What makes diagonal cutters different from side cutters?
Ans: The main difference between the two types of cutters is that diagonal cutters are more suitable for smaller and delicate cutting tasks, whereas side cutters are best for larger-scale applications.
Q3. What materials can be cut with diagonal cutters?
Ans: You can use diagonal cutters for cutting various materials like brass, copper, steel, iron, and aluminium. For tempered steel, you need high-quality cutters with hardened jaws.
Q4. How are diagonal cutters made?
Ans: These cutting pliers are made using drop forging, tempering, and plastic injection moulding processes. The diagonal cutting pliers are tempered to harden the metal.
Q5. How do diagonal cutters work?
Ans: Diagonal cutters use lever action to create enough force to cut through small pieces of metal. The blades of diagonal cutters are in line with each other, so they can cut by squeezing the material and pushing it apart.
Final Words
Having the best diagonal cutters makes your work easier. It enables you to operate smoothly and gives you precision cuts every time. The products mentioned in this post are highly rated by customers. If you want a durable cutting plier for excellent performance, you can pick any of these products.
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