The 10 Best Cable Cutters

The Klein 63050-EINS (about $62) blends the flashy aesthetic of the J63050 with a three-layer insulation, resulting in an impressively lean tool that combines a comfortable grip with great cutting power and a top-shelf insulation rating.

The Ideal 35-9052 (around $75) was the first insulated tool to be tested and classified by Underwriters Laboratories. Its drop-forged, high-carbon steel construction provides excellent durability, and its hardened edges are precision ground, offering exceptional cutting accuracy.

The Klein 63050-INS (about $61) are the beefiest of the company's cutters and an industry standard in excellence. With each pair individually tested, ensuring they exceed IEC standards for insulated tools, you can count on these to make a powerful addition to any tradesman's pouch.

The Channellock 911CB (around $31) are a step up from the company's 911 model. While still 9-1/2 inches long, manufactured in the USA, and finished with an electronic coating that promotes rust prevention, these also have "code blue" grips to enhance their comfort and durability.

These Milwaukee 10" (appx. $26) are a half-inch longer than many comparable models, allowing you better leverage to cut through stubborn cables. The signature red handles will give you a comfortable grip, and you're also likely to be comfortable with the price tag.

Although the Klein J63050 (about $33) are part of the company's journeyman series, most professionals will prefer the company's slim or standard designs due to their 1,000-volt ratings. But for somebody who isn't working with live power, these might be a sensible option.

The Greenlee 727M (about $33) incorporate cushion-grip, fiberglass handles into the 9-1/4-inch design of the manufacturer's standard model. The end result is superior to the 727, in that they're just as hard on the cables you're cutting, but a little easier on your hands.

Made of high carbon steel, with handles colored the company's signature shade of baby blue, the Channellock 911 (around $23) are 9-1/2 inches long, with knife-and-anvil-style cutting edges that are hardened through laser heat-treatment to help maximize their life expectancy.

At 9-1/4 inches long, the Greenlee 727 (about $28) is a basic pair, brought to you by a trusted company. Its steel handles are coated with green PVC, and its high-leverage design should offer enough power to cover the average user's basic needs.

The Klein 63050 (appx. $30) represent the baseline of quality in this category. These come in at a competitive price, but are ergonomically inferior to other models by this manufacturer. Also, the absence of a voltage rating is prohibitive for professionals working with live power.