How to use diagonal cutting pliers

Shop for Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Step 1 – Open jaws

Open the jaws of the diagonal cutting pliers by moving the handles apart. The pliers may have a spring that does this for you or you may have to pull them apart yourself.

Step 2 – Place object between jaws

As a general rule the object you wish to cut should be placed as far down the blades as possible, close to the joint.

Step 3 – Squeeze handles together

With the wire firmly in place, squeeze the handles together (you should only need one hand for this). The blades will push through the wire and cut it in two.

Step 4 – Troubleshooting

If you find you are struggling to cut the wire, check for damage on the blade which could prevent a clean cut and then try moving the wire closer to the joint. If that fails, it is likely you need a stronger pair of diagonal cutting pliers for the job.