Bolt cutters
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A bolt cutter is a scissors-like tool used for cutting heavy chains, bolts and wire mesh. They typically have very long handles and short blades, in order to maximize leverage and cutting force.
There are different types of cutting blades for bolt cutters. Angle cut, center cut, shear cut, and clipper cut.
Angle cut is having the cutter head angled for easier insertion. Typical angling is 25 to 35 degrees. Center cut is having the blades equidistant from the two faces of the blade. Shear cut is having the blades inverted to each other (such as normal paper scissor blades). Clipper cut is having the blades flush against one face (for cutting against flat surfaces).
Bolt cutters are available usually in 12", 14", 18", 24", 30", 36" and 42" length. The length is measured from the tip of the jaw to the end of the handle. Many companies now manufacture bolt cutters with fiber glass handles which can be used for cutting live electrical wires and are extremly useful during rescue operations. The fiber glass handles have another advantage of being lighter in weight than the conventional drop forged or solid pipe handles.
[edit] See also
- Kryptonite bicycle locks have a bolt-cutter resistant design.
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