Snip Color Code Meaning
Aviation snips are color-coded by cut direction. Using wrong snip creates jagged edges.
Green / Field Check1st yearBatch 2
What You Might Be Looking At
three pairs of snips with red, green, and yellow handles
Apprentice words: tin snips, metal cutters, sheet metal snips, cutting pliers
Trade terms: aviation snips, compound snips, tin snips
Check First
Cutting direction?
Red=left cut, Green=right cut, Yellow=straight. Cutting with or against blade offset?
What Not To Do
Don't use snips as pry bars. Don't cut thicker than snip rating. Don't use dull snips.
What can go wrong: Jagged cuts, hand fatigue, uneven edges, extra grinding, wasted material
Better Foreman Question
For this cut direction, red or green snips? Sharp enough for this gauge?
Verify With
Reference type: manufacturer instructions
Source to verify: Snip manufacturer catalog (Wiss, Midwest)
Safe wording: Color coding is industry standard but may vary slightly by manufacturer.