Pipe Cutter

Unless you might be involved in a business that requires having a pipe cutter handy in the tool chest, these are items that tend to fall into the category of 'it's better to have it, and not need it, than to need it, and not have it.' These are tools that meet a specific need like no other option really can. The challenge is to determine a good overall sized cutter to meet most household tasks that may arise. With the variety of designs out there, finding one that's comfortable for you to use, and easily stored when not needed, is probably the basic concerns for most homes. These cutters are able to cut through galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, PVC and aluminum of various sizes and thickness. Sometimes, it will matter if measuring the O.D. (outside diameter), or the inner diameter, when considering the capacity of a cutter. Because pipe walls come in various thickness, the ratings can be a major factor.

Let's consider some of the designs available. There are models that are compact enough to be held in the palm of the hand. These are mostly designed in various shapes of small 'C'-clamps. They will have a dial that will be turned to apply continuing pressure on the cutting wheels. It is necessary to turn the pipe by hand and re-tighten the screw to complete the cuts. The other variety, usually designed for larger pipe diameters, might include a handle for added leverage. They are also available in pliers-like designs. For large pipes, you will find an adjustable chain and the cutting wheels incorporated into a handle that will tighten by a ratcheting action.

By chance, if considering a long-term remodeling project, or if a professional plumber or contractor, a company to take a look at is Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. They offer a set of 12-volt cordless tools that includes a copper tubing and PVC cutter. For working in close quarters and making precise, quick cuts almost effortlessly, these are some powerful tools for big projects. They claim as many as 200 cuts can be had on a single charge. The tool comes with a 5-yr. warranty and a 2-yr. warranty on the batteries.

Along the lines for the average user, Superior Tools has several cutters for the most common sized tubing and pipe used. If copper tubing is going to be the focus of your project, the "7/8-Inch O.D. Mini Tubing Cutter" will accept hard or soft tubing to as small as 1/8 inch O.D. It weighs less than 5 oz. and is small enough for most toolboxes. They also offer two other tube cutters that will handle 1/8 inch O.D. to 1 1/8, or another for up to 1 1/4 inch O.D. The larger model features an enclosed feed mechanism to protect the threads against dirt and damage. For pipe and tubing, the "ST-2000 Tubing/Pipe Cutter 5/8-Inch-2 1/8-Inch and 1-Inch Pipe" model might be the best bet. It has a comfortable, non-slip, Polymer grip in an I-beam design and can used on conduit or steel fencing as well. All of the cutter wheels in each model can be replaced. Sturdy quality and good prices make these tools a real value.

Obviously, you can find a pipe cutter from any number of tool manufacturers to meet your project demands, to have in the toolbox for the little things that come up, or that leaking-pipe situation. It is really just a matter of finding the design you are most comfortable working with and a company you trust.