Metal shears are an ideal power tool used to provide precise, clean, and straight cuts of metal for construction needs (roof projects) and art & craft. With their scissor-like mechanism, they can cut through thick metal sheets, metal components, or heavy-duty materials with high precision. Working with sheet metals and general metalworks becomes quite difficult without this tool. They come with different gauge ratings and motor power, in which you have to choose the correct metal shear based on the type of metal/material you use. Here is a quick outlook of key factors to consider before investing in metal shears.
Motor Power – Since most of these metal shears are powered by an electric motor, checking their motor power is quite essential. In general, the motor power rating of corded models will be measured in amps (4 amps or 5 amps). While volts are used to measure the motor power for cordless models, which ranges from 12 volts – 20 volts. The higher the motor power, the better will be the tool’s performance. Gauge Rating – The gauge rating of a given metal shear will provide a clear idea of its performance that lets you know the compatible or supported metal sheet thickness that is cut by them. While some models can cut up to 14-gauge metal, others support 20-gauge metal. Usually, a 14-gauge (lower gauge) rating is better to cut thick metal sheets, whereas a 20-gauge (higher gauge) results in cutting thin metal sheets. Power Source – Even though all powered metal shears use electricity for power supply, the source of electricity will be different with different models. Some are corded models that need to be plugged directly into a power socket, while others are cordless models that use battery power to function. Out of these, corded versions are powerful, while cordless models are practical for portable usage.
To ease your shopping, we have done a lot of research and shortlisted some top-notch metal shear models in the market followed by a detailed Buying Guide. Read on to know about metal shears and how to pick the best option as per the cutting requirements.
Best Metal Shears 2023: List
6 Best Metal Shears Reviews
1. Dewalt Metal Shear
Dewalt is one of the oldest and most reputable brands of power tools out there that also happens to be making metal shears. The Dewalt DWASHRIR metal shears is present in the 1st position in this article as it is quite different from the various other options present in this article. This is simply due to the reason that this is not a standalone power tool, but an attachment accessory for your existing Dewalt impact driver power tools that use either 18 volt or 20-volt batteries. Despite being an accessory, you can cut up to 18 gauge metal sheets using these metal shears that is quite great when compared with other options out there. Its build quality is also quite great when compared with other options out there. And just like other Dewalt power tools, this accessory also comes with a 3-year long warranty that is always great to have. Best Features:
Manual metal shears accessory Gauge rating of up to 18 gauge 3-year long warranty Offers a great build quality
Pros:
Easy to use and attach Compatible with most Dewalt power tools Decent performance from an accessory
Cons:
Not a dedicated power tool Slightly on the expensive side
2. Wen Metal Shear
You can find a wide range of power tool offerings from Wen that are generally quite affordable and offer a high value for money. Wen’s 3650 metal shears is present in the 2nd position in this article as it is one of the most affordable options out there. And even then, it is able to offer a great build quality to the user along with a 2-year long warranty for peace of mind. In other words, you get a high value for money with these metal shears. Talking about its performance, you get a 4 amp electric motor in this power tool, as you can tell by its name. Although the gauge rating is just 18 gauge, that could have been certainly better for a corded metal shears model. Thankfully, the 360 degree fully adjustable head of these metal shears makes it quite easy to use. Best Features:
Motor power rating of 4.0 amps Gauge rating of up to 18 gauge 2-year long warranty Decent build quality for peace of mind
Pros:
High value for money with affordable price tag Decently powerful 4 amp motor Fully rotatable cutting head
Cons:
Gauge rating could have been better Slightly large in size
3. Genesis Metal Shear
Genesis also makes metal shears apart from its various other power tool offerings that generally offer a high user rating because of the various features that they come with. This Genesis GES40 metal shears is present in the 3rd position in this article as it offers decent performance with an efficient electric motor. Since it uses a 4.0 amp electric motor, you get comparatively lower power consumption. Even then, it is able to offer a gauge rating of up to 14 gauge for easily cutting thick metal sheets if needed. Just like most other metal shears out there, Genesis offers a 2-year long warranty with its model. Although, the build quality of this Genesis metal shears could have been certainly better. A great thing about it is that it comes with a variable speed trigger for optimum precision while cutting metal sheets. Best Features:
Motor power rating of 4.0 amps Gauge rating of up to 14 gauge 2-year long warranty Comes with a variable speed trigger
Pros:
Justified price tag for given performance Efficient electric motor with high performance 2-year long warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
Build quality could have been better Slightly short power cord
4. Malco Metal Shear
Malco is a small brand of power tools that mainly makes metal shears and related accessories that can be quite handy while cutting metal sheets. The Malo TSCM metal shears are quite similar to the Dewalt metal shears mentioned earlier in this article. This is possible simply due to the fact that this is not a standalone power tool. Instead, it is an accessory that is designed to be used with your existing power tools for high flexibility. It even offers high compatibility for easily connecting it with most power tools out there. While the build quality offered by it is quite good, the same cannot be said about its warranty. Unfortunately, Malco only offers a 30-day long warranty with its metal shears that can be an issue for a lot of users. As for its performance, you can use it to cut 24 gauge metal sheets if needed. In other words, it is not the most powerful option out there either. Best Features:
Metal shears accessory for existing power tools Gauge rating of up to 24 gauge 30-day long warranty Highly compatible and easy to use
Pros:
Great build quality Sharp blades for longevity Easy to connect and use
Cons:
Only a 30-day long warranty Gauge rating could have been better
5. Milwaukee Metal Shear
If you are looking for reliable cordless power tools, then Milwaukee is one of the best power tools brands out there. Milwaukee’s 2470-21 M12 cordless metal shears are the most durable and reliable option present in this article. This is possible due to the reason that you get a highly sturdy and strong build quality in it. When combined with its 5-year long warranty, you can easily rely on these metal shears for a long time for cutting all kinds of metal sheets quite easily. Moving over to its performance, since it is a cordless model, it uses a 12-volt battery system for powering its motor. This allows you to cut metal sheets of up to 20 gauge that is quite decent for a cordless model. Its battery life is quite decent when you consider its performance numbers. Best Features:
Motor power rating of 12 volts Gauge rating of up to 20 gauge 5-year long warranty Comes with an excellent build quality
Pros:
Most durable and reliable option with a 5 year long warranty Portable and compact cordless metal shears Offers decent performance with a 12-volt battery system
Cons:
A bit expensive for some buyers
6. Wild Edge Metal Shear
At the final position in this article, we have Wild Edge that mainly focuses on metal shears and related accessories that are generally powerful Wild Edge’s electric metal shears are most likely the most powerful option present in this article. This is simply due to the reason that you get a 5 amp electric motor in these metal shears. Since this motor is quite powerful, you can even use these metal shears to cut 14 gauge metal sheets if you wish to without running into any performance issues. While the build quality offered by these metal shears is pretty good for the given price, you only get a 1-year long warranty with it. In other words, you should look elsewhere if you want a highly durable and reliable metal shear model for you and your requirements. Just like most other options in this article, you get a fully rotatable tool head for high precision and accuracy. Best Features:
Motor power rating of 5.0 amps Gauge rating of up to 14 gauge 1-year long warranty Decent build quality for peace of mind
Pros:
Best performing metal shears model High power 5 amp electric motor Easily cut 14 gauge metal sheets
Cons:
Only a 1-year long warranty
How to Choose the Best Metal Shears
As a metalworker, you have to choose durable, versatile, and long-lasting metal shears. Choosing among the wide range of options can be a bit tricky. You have to take several essential factors into account to make your purchase the best and most worthwhile. Take a closer look at what factors to check while shopping for the metal shears.
1. Purpose
Metal shears are versatile tools that are used to perform a wide range of projects/applications. You have to ensure where you need to use it mostly before making its purchase. This will impact greatly your buying decision. Some metal shear models run great for roofing, while other models work best for automotive repair. Each model possesses a special field that makes it work best compared to others. Though a single model can be used for multiple projects, it is ideal to select a model that suits perfectly for your specific needs.
2. Types (Corded Vs. Cordless)
Corded and cordless are two main types of electric metal shears, in which each type has its set of pros and cons. Knowing about them will help you to make the correct buying decision. Corded Metal Shears – It is a most common and traditional type that needs to be plugged into a power source with outlets that runs on 110 – 120 volts. They have a powerful motor ranging from 4 – 6 amps, which are designed to make a quick cutting of steel materials on average of 22 – 18GA. They are a part of the core line-up of both DIYers and professionals to make it use efficiently. Cordless Metal Shears – Usually, cordless metal shears are mobile or portable versions of corded models. They run on rechargeable batteries. Both offer the same amount of power and closely provide the same kind of performance. A few modern versions can easily take on tougher materials, such as 14GA steel and thicker aluminum sheets. Verdict: Corded models are powerful, while cordless is a more convenient option for portable use.
3. Power Rating
Irrespective of its type (corded or cordless), it is essential to check and confirm that this power tool is strong enough to perform your tasks. This is particularly helpful while cutting thick metal sheets. So, the power rating of several metal shears is found on the pack. Usually, the power rating is measured in amps for corded models (4 – 5 amps), and in volts for cordless versions (12 – 20 volts). A general rule, in either case, will be the greater the power rating, the better the tool’s performance.
4. Rating of the Gauge
The gauge rating of specific metal shears will determine its performance. Thus, you came to know whether the metal sheet thickness is compatible or supported with your metal shears for its proper cutting. Some metal shears come with a gauge rating of 14-gauge, while others come with a gauge rating of 20-gauge. Among these two ratings, 14-gauge is a superior grade that is widely used to cut thick metal sheets. Simply say, thinner metal sheets come from a model with a higher gauge value, whereas thicker metal sheets resulted from a model with a lower gauge rating.
5. Double-Cut Vs. Single Cut Shears
Based on your work ethic, you have to decide whether you should choose single-cut or double-cut shear. There is a little bit of difference in the operating way of these configuration types. You need to remember about its resulting cuts and thereby your final product. Here is a detailed explanation of both these configuration types that help you decide the right type. Single-Cut Shears – Alike scissors, the single-cut shears will have a rapidly moving blade and a fixed blade, in which a moving blade cuts against the fixed for proper cutting through the material. However, this type of shear won’t produce any waste material, yet causes distortions like bends or dents quite often. Double-Cut Shears – They perform similarly as nibblers. With its two separate cutters, this double-cut shear removes a thin strip of material and leaves behind kerf. However, they leave behind small waste by-products, yet cut the material cleanly with minimal – no distortion. Verdict: We recommend you choose either type of shear based on your work requirement. Pick a single-cut shear when you like to cut cleanly and never mind about a bit of distortion. On the other hand, if you are a person that won’t bother by a bit of waste, yet don’t need distortions, then choose a double-cut model or a Makita cordless nibbler for performing more detailed work.
6. Blade
Apart from other parts and components, you have to check and ensure that the blades of these metal shears are made of good quality material, which is stronger and lasts longer. Though changing the blade can be done ultimately, you have to grab much usage out of this blade. A metal shear with a strong blade will definitely offer a better cutting experience. It is a fact that units, when sitting on the shelves idle for a long time, will get dull blades, even though it is a new product as well. So, avoid using those models to prevent the extra hassle of sharpening them at the time of use.
7. Cutting Speed
The spinning speed or cutting speed of the blade is another crucial factor to check while buying these metal shears. It would be difficult to cut through denser material when the blade won’t spin quick enough. Whereas the finish may be rough when the blade spins at top speed. So, the cutting speed of the blade is quite essential for proper cutting and finishing of the material. In general, the cutting speed of these metal shears will range from 0 – 2500 cuts per minute, and you will find a little bit of difference between professional and normal budget models. One can control the speed with a feature called variable speed dial or a pressure-sensitive trigger. To enhance or speed up the cutting motion, you have to hardly squeeze this pressure-sensitive trigger. We notice that models with the double blade have this variable speed feature, which provides up to 2500 strokes per minute (or more). Therefore, you need to check whether the model has a single speed or variable speed. It is always great to choose variable-speed models while working on different materials to prevent any accidental warp of the material, especially when it is too soft.
8. Weight
The weight of the tool matters a lot when you are making regular cuts or using this metal shear for a longer time. But it is not the main factor to consider for those who cut a single piece of metal and are not frequent users. A lightweight device is most preferred and suitable for frequent users, why because it is easy to hold and less prone to cause fatigue compared to heavyweight models. However, weight isn’t the only factor that lets you know whether or not the shears are comfortable to hold and use. All you need is to check for an ergonomic design like a rubberized grip for a handle. It further confirms a convenient grip and comfortable holding of these shears.
9. Auto Switch On
A model featuring an auto-switch-on mode will allow you to depress the power trigger fully and then press this auto-switch button. Then it turns on the power even if you leave the switch and thereby allows you to use the tool more comfortably. This auto-switch-on will free your hands to manipulate the workpiece for its proper cutting (or) allow you to hold shears in a position that offers better user comfort.
10. Swivel Head
A swivel head will let you turn the shears head in such a way that it can work in tougher corners or difficult areas. This further means, a swivel head will make the tool’s body not get in the way. Thus, it is a convenient feature that lets you work easily even in tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
11. Power Source
Irrespective of the type (corded or cordless or pneumatic models) you choose along with attachments used for the existing impact driver, you have to check the power source of the metal shears along with your work requirement before making its purchase. Cordless models are perfect for portability, while corded shears are ideal for long-time usage. Pneumatic models are good for heavy-duty tasks, whereas attachments are for light – medium-duty tasks.
12. Minimum Corner Radius
Though it is not quoted regularly, it is worth finding the option while doing a lot of curved cutting, particularly small radii before making its purchase.
13. Ease of Use
Are you feeling ergonomic while holding metal shears? Do they are easy to hold or slip? You should look for metal shear models that are comfortable with fewer vibrations. While a tool with pivoting features will help a lot in cutting corners and curves. So, prefer to choose a durable and lightweight model to carry it around easily.
14. Ergonomics
Ergonomics is referred to as the weight, size, and comfort to handle the tool while operating. Since it is a power tool, they can perform the work much faster. Yet prolonged use can still cause fatigue. So, it is essential to consider the ergonomics of a tool before making its purchase and ensure to pick the model having easy to work with.
15. Durability
Since metal shears are widely used to cut metal and other hard materials, their build quality is another essential factor to consider before buying them. Keep in mind that continuous usage will result in serious wear and tear on the tool. So, it is better to choose a model that easily takes a heavy load without breaking and can perform & complete several tasks efficiently and quickly.
16. Extra Features
Make sure the metal shear you choose should come with additional highlights to enhance its solidness, exhibition, and security. They incorporate bolster arms, ball moves, sharp edge hole modification ability, programmed lube framework, different sorts of edges, and cushions to disengage vibration. A metal shear with these extra features will let you work quickly and straightforward.
17. Brand
A model from a reputed brand will certainly be a high-quality product, which offers a better guarantee for its proper operation/working. Also, the branded products provide essential warranties and great customer support whenever the tool won’t work as mentioned or expected.
18. Price
The price of any product is mentioned based on several factors like features, build quality, brand, and others. The general price range of these metal shears will be from $20 – $350. Compare your requirements and budget range before making your purchase. Never go for a cheaper model or an expensive high-end model. The product you choose should balance your budget and requirements.
19. Warranty
The warranty duration of any given metal shear model is as vital as other factors or aspects mentioned in this guide. It is simply due to the reason if you wish to use your metal shears for a long time, you should go with metal shears that come with a long warranty duration. Most models come with a minimum warranty of 1-year, yet a few models offer a 2-year or up to 5 years long warranty in some cases. The higher the warranty period, the better you have peace of mind on its working condition.
Types of Metal Shears
There are several types of metal shears are available in the market. Yet we are going to focus on 4 different types – hand shears, hydraulic metal shears, pneumatic metal shears, and electric metal shears. Take a quick look at these types to underline how it works and make the tool popular. Hand Shears – Also known as metal scissors or tin snips. They are used to work on very thin material (like material used to make food cans), yet completely rely on muscle power. Even a strong person will make them tire quickly and easily. Also, these hand shears are uncomfortable to use for a longer time. Hydraulic Metal Shears – The floor-standing unit having a guillotine action are at the other spectrum’s end. These are a powerful yet not versatile option, which means you are unable to use them for any pre-fabricated shape or corrugated material, why because its work is crushed by the clamp holding the material in its place before cutting. Pneumatic Metal Shears (or) Air Shears – Either hand tools or floor-standing guillotine models, these pneumatic metal shears work the same as electric versions but need an air compressor to drive them. They generate enough air pressure in cubic feet per minute to power up the tool. It has certain benefits like they are powerful, lighter, and cheaper, yet won’t have any motor. It is cumbersome with the air hose and regular maintenance is required for its compressor. Electric Metal Shears – It comprises a basic motor having a gear head to convert rotary motion into a cutting action. These are lightweight (rarely over 5 pounds), maintenance-free, and powerful enough but the toughest metal-cutting tasks. Metal Shear Drill Attachments – Here the shear heads are the drill attachments that let you attach them to the power drill for transforming into cutting tools, such as dedicated metal shear. They work on both cordless and corded power drills, in which its output is determined by its own drill’s power. They are clever alternatives and consider the more situational instead of cheaper or essential DIY substitute.
Tips to Use the Metal Shears
Here are some tips that you have to follow for safe and effective usage of metal shears. Clear Marking of the Cut Lines – Marking the cut lines carefully is a key to success in all sheet-metal works. Pencil marks might easily rubbed off, instead try a proper metal scriber or dividers or odd-leg calipers (doing parallel work with an existing edge). If you are unable to see the marks, then paint a light coat of marking blue (or engineer’s blue) on the workpiece/surface. Mark the lines through that to clearly show up for proper cutting. Focus on a line 1/2-inch Infront of Blades – Most experts suggest you look at the cutting line a 1/2-inch in front of the blades, but not at blades to grab the maximum accuracy. Practice – Peculiarities are common in each electric model. You get acclimated to this quality only when you practice on a few pieces of scrap. Corrugated material and cutting curves are initially a bit challenging. Never stop and reposition the material before you continue doing the process. Use the Correct Tool – A suitable tool is required as per your work requirement. For instance, you can use electric shear to do several repetitive cutting of narrow material, yet a single-blade guillotine type will save time. While manual ones offer a lot of leverage when operated by a long arm. Use Sharp Blade – Working with a blunt blade will distort the cut edges and wander off the line. As blades replacement isn’t cheap and thereby you finally end up damaging your work. Work Careful – One has to be careful while using the metal shears, why because freshly cut sheet metal or any offcut has very sharp edges, which might even cut the fingers or hands.
Advantages of Using Electric Metal Shears
It is a must to know the benefits you can grab by using these electric metal shears before making their purchase. Here are a few listed below… Let you Make Straighter Cuts – It is quite difficult to cut straight lines physically/manually. But not with the electric metal shears, which allow you easily and constantly slice through the metal. Thus, it ensures to accomplish more consecutive lines. Enhance Cutting Pace – With its easy, quick, and trouble-free cutting, you can use this tool for any high-volume work and any type of cutting requirements. Better Option for Milder Metals – The metal shear prevents metals from getting overhandled or exhausted. Thus, it becomes a perfect cutting tool for milder metals. Offers Spotless and Exact Cuts – An electric metal shear will always let you make clean lines and cuts accurately without winding up the material that might harm someone. Efficiency – Electric metal shears let you quickly and efficiently cut to reduce the effort or work done manually. They let you do work with less effort, particularly while working with softer and lighter materials. Usually, a shear with a 4- or 5-amp battery will perform better than a lot of manpower. Limit Squander and Prevent Loss of Material – It allows you to cut with exactness by protecting the nature of the material and preventing the loss of material while doing the accurate cutting. Uniformity & Consistency – Create a cleaner and straighter cuts with these shears. Though a bit of deformation is there, yet follows linear and slight curved patterns easily. Thus, it helps to dictate the working pace to let you cut either slow or fast to get desirable results in metal sheets, flashings, and roofing. Reduce Waste – Though they won’t be any left-over material while using the electric metal shears. It reduces the waste that certainly maximizes the use of your roofing material to last-inch.
Material to be Cut by using Metal Shears
Here is the list of certain materials that can be cut with metal shears. Take a look at them to know what are those. Copper – A long-lasting roofing material type that is more expensive than zinc, and has less corrosion resistance. It is mainly used for visual purposes. Recommended GA: 0.016 – 0.027 inches. Galvanized Metal – It is a coated protection that is mostly found in agricultural roofing and old homes. It can easily rust on cut edges. Recommended GA: 25 – 28. Aluminum – It is naturally durable and lightweight that won’t require an extra paint coating. It is ideal for institutional and residential use. Recommended GA: 0.019 – 0.032 inches. Galvalume/Zincalume – A modern version of galvanized steel that offers extra protection, even on cuts done using metal shears. Recommended GA: 25 – 28. Zinc – Like aluminum, but with a little high-quality and durable material. It is a perfect option for roofing or wall material for schools, houses, or compounds. Recommended GA: 0.7mm – 0.8mm. Stainless Steel – Since it contains little carbon, stainless steel is harder, tougher, stain-resistant, and has less brittle with corrosion than steel. It is a less commonly used material to encounter, where it is used for small-scale applications like hand-rail construction or home paneling. Being tougher than mild steel, metal shears work better with thinner gauges. Mild Steel or Carbon Steel – A sturdy and largest steel producer that is used in various applications like manufacturing motors and other appliances. Since it is a common material, its raw steel material is enormous and makes a lot of material that electric metal shears to work. They resemble bond-paper for these shears, particularly the thinner gauged metals. Corrugated Steel – A popular material for performing metal roofing. Irrespective of its volume (thin or thick), it has a common pattern and shape of corrugated steel. Thus, it makes them a bit difficult to cut manually.
Conclusion
Cutting through a metal sheet can be quite difficult and time-consuming while working with manual cutting tools. And this is where metal shears come into play as they make things much easier. Hence, we have even mentioned some of the best metal shears in this article, along with their major features and options. You can also find a detailed buying guide in this article that will take you through the various things related to metal shears. Such factors are quite important to know before buying metal shears for yourself. Although, if you are still confused after going through this article, then you can consider buying metal shears from our recommendations:
Wild Edge Metal Shear is the most powerful option present in this article that is ideal for heavy-duty usage. It comes with a 5 amp electric motor that allows you to easily cut through 14 gauge thick sheets quite easily Although, if you want cordless metal shears that are also highly reliable and durable, then you can go with the Milwaukee Metal Shear. Apart from having a great build quality, you also get a 5 year long warranty with its 12-volt electric motor. You can also consider the Wen Metal Shear if you are on a budget. Even though it is the cheapest option present in this article, you get a decent 4 amp motor for cutting through 18 gauge metal sheets with ease with its rotatable head that rotates 360 degrees.
Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any! Comment * Name * Email * Website
Δ
