World Construction Symposium

2 Metal Working Tools That Belong In Any Builder's Arsenal

1 April 2015 by Wallace Simmons

Most amateur builder's assume that working with metal is a skill best left to the professionals. Yet you don't have to be a metal fabricator to perform some basic tasks--so long as you have the right tools, that is. If you would like to learn more about what it takes to work with metal, read on. This article will introduce two must-have items for your toolbox.

Sheet Metal Snips

Cutting down large pieces of sheet metal is one of the most common tasks in any metal works project. Decent sheet metal snips should therefore be considered indispensable. These scissor-like hand tools are commonly sold in packs of three--one pair for cutting right turns, one for left turns, and one straight pair for cutting right down the middle.

If you're determined to invest in just one pair of sheet metal snips, go for a pair of offset compound snips. These snips have two main advantages. First, the blades are offset--in other words, located beneath the level of the handle--allowing you to keep your hand visible above the material being cut. This greatly reduces the likelihood of inadvertently hurting yourself during the cutting.

Second, the compound action permits you to generate more force with each cut. This means you'll be able to cut thicker sheet metal. But before getting down to work with metal snips, be aware that the edges of cut sheet metal can be as sharp as razors. Be sure to wear a pair of heavy duty work gloves at all times.

Jigsaw

While many people associate jigsaws with woodworking, the fact is that they are no less effective when used to cut metal--so long as you have the right blade, that is. One of the ways in which jigsaw blades differ is the number of teeth per inch. Blades meant for metal cutting usually have between 21 and 24 teeth per inch.

Despite the fact that most any jigsaw can be used to cut metal, there are certain features that make some saws better for the task than others. If you're serious about investing in a jigsaw for metal cutting, look for the following:

• Higher power rating (measured in either watts or amps).
• Long blade strokes, to maximize blade lifespan.
• Orbital cutting action (this generates more power by allowing the blade to move forward and backward, in addition to up and down). 

In addition, you should plan to invest in some lubricant designed to keep the blade clean and cool. Oils are the best type of lubricants for metal cutting. Drops of oil are placed along the cutting line, so that the blade remains constantly lubricated for the duration of the cut. This greatly helps to extend the lifespan of a given blade. To learn more, visit laser cutting Sheridan Metal Products Ltd. 

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