Flush cutter recommendations needed

[Thewintersoldier]

I have been using the klein flush cutters pictured below for about a year and a half and they are at the end of their life span. I have had to sharpen them a couple times and although they generally cut well for the  $9 I spent on them I want to get something harder that will last longer and cut better. What do you use and recommend?

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[madbean]

If you want to get a pro level tool, I've had three of these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001T4O2C8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pretty expensive but you'll probably never want to use anything else after it.

[EBK]

What are you cutting that is dulling these?  You aren't cutting guitar strings with them, are you?

I use Xuron 170-II cutters.  Also dirt cheap, but they've cut a ton of component leads without wearing out.

[mauman]

+1 on Erem.  If you are patient, you can sometimes snag a pair of Erem pliers for a reasonable price ($20-50) rather than retail.  They're lifetime tools, and a real pleasure to use.  Watch eBay (use "Erem new" as the search term") and buy them fast if you see them for the right price. Don't bother with used, they're probably worn out discards from Boeing, etc.  Erem has been sold a couple of times (Apex, Cooper, now Weller) and the newer tools are at a lower price point, so YMMV.  There are downloadable catalogs available that detail the gauge and hardness of wire that each cutter model is rated for (some are up to stainless steel wire, others are for cutting very soft material only.) 

[Thewintersoldier]

I'll check ebay for. Avoid price on the erem cutters. Ebk, no cutting guitar strings just component leads and 24awg wire. On occasion I will snip a piece of 18guage buss wire. I notice the most damage on diode leads that are thicker like some zeners. I don't abuse my tools by any means. I was also looking at these Aven 10825F Accu-Cut Tapered Head Cutter
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Aven-10825F-Accu-Cut-Tapered-Cutter/dp/B003E48F5Q&ved=2ahUKEwic7bX2xpztAhWMylkKHXE8C1cQFjAJegQIHxAB&usg=AOvVaw3h446MPubORhnU4mfmSXkZ

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[gtr2]

I have the Erems Brian posted but I actually prefer these for daily use.
KNIPEX Tools - Electronics Super Knips
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EXOF8Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[Caedarn]

I use the micro cutters from Hakko.  I don't build nearly as much as the rest of you but these have held up well so far.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZPDG1K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[mattc]

This question came up a while back, and the Erems were recommended.  When my wife used my old cutters to cut up some wire hangers, I used that as an excuse to get the Erems, and I'm glad I did. 

[gordo]

I have the same Hakko's and they're cheap and work very well.  That said I'd like a pair of the Erems.

[jimilee]

I have the same Hakko's and they're cheap and work very well.  That said I'd like a pair of the Erems.

Ditto. I broke mine cutting something bigger than a lead.


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[drezdn]

I have been using the klein flush cutters pictured below for about a year and a half and they are at the end of their life span. I have had to sharpen them a couple times and although they generally cut well for the  $9 I spent on them I want to get something harder that will last longer and cut better. What do you use and recommend?

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Is this one of the Klein tools that has a lifetime warranty? If so, you might be able to exchange them for free at a Klein dealer that carries them.

[alanp]

I wish I knew what brand my sidecutters are. I'm serious here. There is no branding, whatsoever, at all on them. Not imprinted on the metal, not dyed into the handles, nothing. And they're one of the toughest tools I have, have taken more than a decade of abuse, and are still really sharp.

[davent]

I wish I knew what brand my sidecutters are. I'm serious here. There is no branding, whatsoever, at all on them. Not imprinted on the metal, not dyed into the handles, nothing. And they're one of the toughest tools I have, have taken more than a decade of abuse, and are still really sharp.

We need a picture Alan.
dave

[njkmonty]

hakkos are nice ,but I find i go through a lot , If you can afford them go the Knipex! a pleasure to use!

[alanp]

Attached, as I said, no markings