Understanding the Difference Between Cable Cutters and Bolt Cutters

Cable cutters and bolt cutters are essential tools in various applications, each designed for specific cutting tasks. While both tools serve to cut through materials, they are distinct in their construction, capabilities, and intended uses. Understanding the differences between cable cutters and bolt cutters can help you choose the right tool for your specific cutting needs.

First and foremost, it is determined by the sort of material that will be cut. Most diagonal-cutting pliers are strong enough to cut through the wiring of varying thicknesses. Cable cutters, on the other hand, are designed to cut through thicker wiring, such as that used in telecommunications and networking. Finally, bolt cutters are particularly used for cutting through thick metals. That is why bike thieves frequently use bolt cutters to get through locks.

Cable Cutters

Design and Functionality: Cable cutters, also known as wire cutters or wire rope cutters, are designed primarily for cutting through cables, wires, and similar materials. They feature sharp blades that cleanly cut through metal wires without crushing or deforming them.

Applications:

• Electrical Work: Cutting electrical cables and wires during installation or maintenance.
• Telecommunications: Trimming cables in networking and communication installations.
• Industrial Use: Handling steel cables and wire ropes in construction and manufacturing.

Bolt Cutters

Design and Functionality: Bolt cutters, also known as bolt croppers or bolt cutters, are heavy-duty cutting tools designed to cut through tough materials like bolts, chains, padlocks, and hardened steel rods. They exert considerable force to shear through these materials.

Applications:

• Construction and Maintenance: Cutting through bolts, chains, and padlocks in construction, renovation, or maintenance projects.
• Security: Emergency services and law enforcement use bolt cutters to access locked areas or remove obstructions.
• Automotive: Cutting through metal components and rods in automotive repair and customization.

Key Differences

1. Purpose: Cable cutters are specialized for cutting cables and wires cleanly and precisely, while bolt cutters are designed for heavy-duty cutting of thick and tough materials like bolts and chains.
2. Blade Design: Cable cutters have precision-ground blades to prevent damage to cable strands, whereas bolt cutters have hardened steel blades for cutting through hardened materials.
3. Size and Strength: Bolt cutters are generally larger and heavier, with longer handles for increased leverage to cut through tough materials, compared to the more compact and ergonomic design of cable cutters.

So, which cutting tool is best for your job?

Again, it is dependent on the material you are dealing with, including its hardness and shape. However, all three tools are useful and keeping a bolt cutter and diagonal pliers around the house is a good idea.

Unihosen is your one-stop shop for the greatest industrial cutting tool prices and choices. We have a wide range of bolt cutters, diagonal cutting pliers, cable cutters, and other tools.