TM 9-243
TYPES AND USES
WARNING
BOLT CUTTERS ARE CONSIDERED
SECURITY ITEMS. ALWAYS SECURE,
THESE TOOLS WHEN NOT IN USE.
Bolt and cable cutters come with a variety of cutting
edges which are designed for specific applications.
They are shaped like giant shears with short blades and
long handles. The handles are hinged at one end. The
cutters are at the end of extensions, which are jointed in
such a way that the inside joint is forced outwards when
the handles are closed. This forces the cutting edges
together with great force. Bolt cutters are made in
lengths from 18 to 36 inches. The larger ones will cut
mild steel bolts and rods up to 1/2-inch diameter.
CENTER CUT CUTTER
The center cut cutter is used for all general-purpose
cutting. The cutting jaws are firmly fixed in line with the
handles. The cutting edges are in the center of the jaw
between equal levels. The longer the handle, the
greater the cutting capacity. The cutting capacities
range from 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch for medium steel, and
from 5/16 inch to 11/16 inch for soft steel. The handles
range from 14-inch to 42-inch lengths.
CLIPPER CUT CUTTER
The cutting edges of the clipper cut cutter are in line with
the handles and beveled almost entirely from one side.
These cutters allow very close cutting of projecting
ends. The cutting capacities range from 1/4 inch to 9/16
inch for medium steel, and from 5/16 inch to 11/16 inch
for soft steel. The handles range from 14-inch to 42-inch
lengths.
SHEAR CUT, FLAT BAR, AND
STRIP CUTTER
Shear cut, flat bar, and strip cutters are used to cut
flat-soft, medium-hard bar, and strip stock. The cutting
edges of the jaws pass each other in the manner of
scissors, making a complete shear cut.
32-2
