Wire cutters are a basic but indispensable tool that can be used in a wide array of different ways. However, wire cutters can become dull over time, making it necessary to sharpen them. But how do you sharpen side cutters properly?
As the area of metal on side cutters that will require sharpening is quite small, a fine hand file should be used. The file should be rubbed gently against each blade, not rubbing too long or not long enough, as too much can cause the removal of the blade’s surface area and will result in the cutters being unable to work or close properly.
The good news is it easy enough to sharpen your side cutters without having to hire the services of a professional.
Sharpening side cutters
A degree of skill is required to sharpen side cutters correctly. It is not a particularly risky job, but it is still a good idea to wear your work gloves and safety goggles to ensure your eyes are protected.
A good eye is required for spotting problem areas on a side cutter, so it is important to make sure your work area has a sufficient degree of light to help with the sharpening process.
Types of hand files
Complicated or high-performance tools are not required to sharpen side cutters, and as mentioned above, the process can be executed with a simple hand file.
There are a variety of different hand file types that their texture can recognise. A rougher texture will inevitably deplete the surface it is being used to rub more than one with a finer texture, which is why the latter should be used to sharpen a side cutter. An extremely hoarse hand file will only end up damaging the side cutter as the areas that need sharpening on a side cutter are very small.
Rubbing
The next step is to commence the sharpening process. Only one blade should be done at a time, with the hand file being rubbed on the blade swiftly but without too much force, as gentle rubbing will be sufficient.
Testing
After all of the blades on the side of the cutter has been sharpened, it is important to test it to ensure it is functioning correctly. Try using the tool to cut wires, and if it can do so without too much effort having to be put in, then the sharpening was a success. If not, then more sharpening will be required.
Cleaning
Once the appropriate level of sharpness has been reached, the process should be stopped. The final step is to clean the blades of the side cutter. A wire brush should be used to clean both the blades and the side cutter’s inner portions.
Side cutters can be sharpened on numerous occasions, but the cutter should be cleaned after each use to increase the lifespan of the blades with soap water and alcohol. Correct maintenance will prevent the side cutters from having to be sharpened so often.
