Static field route #377

What do I do when using dull snips and mangling metal?

Tools, Fasteners, Hardware & Material HandlingTools / hardware starter — verify approved material and method

If dull snips are folding, chewing, or tearing the metal, stop and switch tools before the piece gets ruined.

Open in Field Rescue Open category

Field checklist

Check if the snips cut cleanly at the tip and jaw.
Look for folded edges, burrs, and twisting.
Try the correct snip direction first.
Use shears/cut station if the material is too heavy.
Tag or separate damaged/dull snips.

Ask foreman

These snips are chewing the metal. Do you want different snips or a shear for this piece?

Do not

Do not keep cutting with dull snips just because the cut is almost done.

Why it matters

A bad tool turns a simple cut into scrap, leaks, sharp edges, and ugly finished work.

Search words: tools fasteners material tool condition dull snips mangling metal folded edge burr shear dull snips mangling metal folded edge burr shear tools hardware