Updated May 08, 2019
The 10 Best Cable Cutters
This wiki has been updated 6 times since it was first published in May of 2019. Cable cutters represent the muscle in a proper collection of pliers. Sure, your side cutters or linesman will do just fine for snipping through light-gauge wire, but when you start getting into the heavier stuff – #6 AWG and up – you're going to want a tool in your pouch that packs a little more cutting power. For slicing through wire as large as 4/0 aluminum or 2/0 soft copper, we suggest these. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. If you'd like to contribute your own research to the Wiki, please get started by reviewing this introductory video.
Editor's Notes
May 08, 2019:
This Wiki is focused strictly on cable-cutting pliers. Like all tools, the cable cutters on this list will have their limitations. As a rule of thumb, you can expect any of the pliers on this list to cut through 2/0 soft copper or 4/0 aluminum conductors. If you're looking for a tool to cut through steel or aluminum conductor steel-reinforced cable, your needs might demand a larger investment in some ratcheting cable cutters. Depending on your budget, you might also want to consider a battery-powered cable cutter. Many top tool companies manufacture these, with designs that accommodate the 18-volt lithium ion batteries that you're used to seeing, in other cordless power tools.