Cutting thickness
The cut thickness of scissors is the largest thickness of metal that they can handle normally.
This parameter is directly related to the type of instrument (see the relevant paragraph). So, manual shears for sheet metal mainly have a cut thickness of up to 1.5 mm (with some exceptions), and in powerful
lever models and bolt cutters this figure can exceed 15 mm. When choosing, note that, other things being equal, a large cut thickness means a larger, heavier and more expensive tool. So it’s worth choosing with some margin, in case of unforeseen situations, but this margin should not be too large.
Also note that in the basic characteristics, the cut thickness is usually indicated for a certain type of metal, and when working with other materials, it may be less than the claimed value. These nuances must be specified according to the instructions and other detailed information of the manufacturer.
Blade length
The length of the cutting part of the scissors; in manual and similar models (see "Type") the cutting part is called sponges, in lever and guillotine models — blades.
When working on sheet metal, the long blades/jaws allow you to make a long cut in one bite, but impair the manoeuvrability of the scissors. Therefore, models with relatively long jaws (from 50 mm) are mainly used for straight cuts, and short scissors are more convenient for curly lines. Also note that in bolt cutters and other tools designed for large thick parts, the jaws are also made short — this design is optimal for working at high forces.
Length
The total length of the tool.
This parameter is specified for manual sheet metal shears (see "Type") and tools of a similar design. In addition to dimensions, it determines another important point — the working force. The greater the length of the scissors, other things being equal, the greater the length of the lever that the user acts on, and the greater the force transmitted to the jaws with the same pressing force. Accordingly, tools for working with thick and hard materials inevitably turn out to be long (for example, the length of a bolt cutter can exceed 1 m). And short handles make the scissors easy to store and transport, but require more effort when working.
