The Professional 14 Best Diagonal Cutters
If you are not a general contractor and professional handyman or DIY enthusiast, a good pair of diagonal cutters will serve as an important part of your toolkit. Which is cut by shearing, the best diagonal cutters line works by indenting and wiring.
These special diagonal cutters are used for wire cutting. It can handle soft metals like copper, brass, aluminum, iron, and steel. Hard-tempered steel wire and piano wire usually require high-quality cutting made of hardened steel.
I am looking at the twelve best diagonal cutters that I have worked on as a contractor. We work with our team and the various toolsets that I assign to members after they join my team and write my reviews based on each person’s experience.
A good pair of diagonal cutting edges can cut easier and more efficiently than any regular pliers. In this article, it is your responsibility to find the best diagonal and side-cutting pliers for your project.
- The best diagonal cutters
You can use any type of pliers to cut it. But if you need more precision and skill, then side-cutting pliers or diagonal pliers are best for you.
01. Southwire – 58289440 Tools & Equipment DCP8D
Key Features
- Induction hardened cutting blades
- Double dipped molded grip
- Forged from 6150 alloy steel
- High leverage design
- Hot riveted pivot joint
Southwire isn’t such a big brand, but Southwear Cutters has the power to count. Among the cheapest and immortal diagonal cutters. Cutters pliers weigh a little over 310g and are designed with a rigid design.
Best Diagonal Cutters can be cut through a variety of things, including drill bits, without dulling the edges. This product offers a hot riveted pivot joint with a buttery smooth action and a little more leverage. The distance between the pivot and the opening for the cutters does not exceed 6.5 mm, which can positively affect the mechanical advantage of the tool.
Southwire side cutters have proven to be robust for you and pay good value for money. Can choose between a straight head and a curved head.
Pros
Cons
- Exceeds ANSI specification
- Nickel-chromium steel for use in harsh environments
- Cutting reliability-bringing hard edges
- ProTouch handles reduce user fatigue
- Makes pliers comfortable to use
- The machined jaw ensures maximum grip
- Diagonal Cutters may not be suitable for large hand
02. Knipex 7401250SBA Diagonal Cutters

This Knipex oblique cutter is an excellent tool if you have to cut it frequently. It has specially designed and high-leverage excel, which reduces the cutting force requirement by 20%. Your hands will not hurt as much when you use it in a cable installation project while you are working.
The Knipex diagonal cutter itself is made from oil-hardened chrome vanadium steel. This ensures that it will withstand the high-stress environment of construction and work sites. Its sharp edges are brought-hardened so that it is suitable for working with both soft and rigid materials.
A diagonal cutter fixed forged axle rivet joint has also been used. So that it ensures that the cutting process stays smooth throughout life. An excellent ergonomic form has been provided for this tool. Its optimal blade angle, transmission ratio and ability to reduce the pressure of your hand and arm when cutting the shape of the handle.
The only problem with the best diagonal cutter is that it is a heavy tool and can be quite difficult to use in tight spaces. Knipex is probably due to its heavy build quality, but it is a trade-off that you intend to use. You have a heavy and reliable tool that will not fail in the middle of a task. A driven cutter that cannot withstand heavy work pressure.
The thing about this tool is that it really takes into account the user. This allows you to work more efficiently and achieve more in the field while reducing your physical stress.
Pros
Cons
- Specially designed high-leverage axle cutting force
- Oil-hardened chrome vanadium steel to ensure extended life
- Bringing wire-cutting precise edges for wire cutting
- Fixed forged axle rivet joint which ensures smooth working throughout life
- Ergonomic blade angle, and handle shape reduces pressure
- It can be quite difficult to use in heavy tool space
03. IGAN DC7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

The IGAN DC7 diagonal cutting pliers are one of the first small diagonal cutters. Be able to start working professionally as a hand man. You will get this pair because it is designed for cutting power and up to 9 gauge copper wire and 1/16-inch thick steel wire. This allows you to have enough flexibility to cut any wires that you typically encounter in a normal job.
This diagonal cutting plier is imitated from tempered steel, so strength is not a problem. You can apply as much energy as you need without fear of breaking the axle or handle. The jaws are hardened by induction heating and extinguishing so that the cutters do not bend or break even after repeated use of the hard material.
The cutting pliers are designed with a spring-loaded mechanism that requires less effort to open and close pliers for repetitive work. Cutters have a full lifetime warranty. You can never break pliers and make them unusable. All you have to do is contact customer service and have them make a replacement.
Overall, this product will serve you well. You just have to have a latch to close the blade before storing it. These diagonal cutting pliers are top-notch in terms of performance and we gladly recommend it to your colleagues.
This pair of pliers will be preferred because of its ability to cut thick copper and steel wires and makes it suitable for almost all your projects. A lifetime warranty is also a great plus.
Pros
Cons
- Cut copper and 1/16-inch thick steel wires up to 9 gauge
- Forged from tempered steel for strength
- The jaw is stiffened by induction heating and conching
- Pliers open for the spring-load mechanism
- A complete lifetime warranty
- There is no latch to close the plier blade
04. Klein Tools D248-9ST Diagonal Cutting Pliers

This can be the best side cutter plier to work with your team of ironworkers. You’ll love it because it’s easy to use, even when wearing thick work gloves. The 13-degree angle allows the head to work in tight spaces and allows it to complete its tasks in less time.
Best Diagonal Cutters Soft annealed rebar tie is especially effective for its cutting. It is able to cut wires cleanly and in a smooth operation. Also, the cutter has small jaws that have a beveled cutting edge that allows closure. This ensures that the tie wire does not have sharp edges. Reduces the risk of injury and enables your people to work more efficiently.
The cutter handles are plastic-dipped to make it easy to hold and grip, and up to the sweaty palate. It is equipped with a hook handle, which naturally protects the tool in the palm of your hand when used. This pair of pliers will not accidentally fall out of your hand when you use it, whether your hand is big or wearing gloves.
One problem with diagonal cutters is the lack of insulation. If you want to cut hot wires, this item is probably not the best choice for you. If you do not plan to do this, then it is right for you.
For metal workers who work in tight spaces, you can’t recommend it. Considering its admirable qualities, its popularity among cutters and ironworkers is not surprising.
Pros
Cons
- 13-degree angular reduces working time
- Soft annealed rebar tie wire clean and smooth cutting
- Small jaw sharp edge with beveled cutting edge
- The plastic-dipped handles provide an effortless grip,
- Naturally secures the tool in the palm of your hand
- Insulation is not included
05. Irwin 2078306 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

My friend bought this pair of wire cutters about a year and a half ago when he took a member of a new construction team aboard. When she was buying accessories for her kit, she chose it because its specifications exceed ANSI standards. Although not everyone needs ANSI certification, my friend prefers to keep the whole team equipped with this type of tool.
The cutting pliers themselves are made of nickel-chromium steel. Makes them more durable and uses constants in harsh construction environments. Its cutting reliability is ensured with induction-hard edges and allows it to stay sharp for a long time.
You will also choose this pair because it is easier to use than other available diagonal cutters when you shop. Its ProTouch handles reduce user fatigue and make it more comfortable to use. The Best Diagonal Cutters machined jaws are designed for maximum grip so that the cut pliers do not slip during use.
It is important to note that these cutters are slightly smaller. If you have big hands, you may want to get something else. Be sure to check the dimensions first before buying.
The Irwin diagonal cut indicates an excellent direction for general construction use. You do not want to be frustrated if you cannot get the right pitch so invest in a good capo. But if this does not apply to you, you can take these pliers.
Pros
Cons
- Exceeds ANSI specification
- Nickel-chromium steel for use in harsh environments
- Cutting reliability-bringing hard edges
- ProTouch handles reduce user fatigue
- Makes pliers comfortable to use
- The machined jaw ensures maximum grip
- Diagonal Cutters may not be suitable for large hand
06. Milwaukee Diagonal Cutters – Best of Electrician

Although the Milwaukee leaders made some great Best Cutters in the Power Tool and one is the 8 inch Milwaukee Diagonal Cutter Pair. Wire cutters can be light and very versatile in your hand.
Milwaukee dykes are durable and sturdy and can cut a variety of materials, including electrical wires, metal sheets, and cable ties. The outer part of these cutters’ heads is specially made to recreate metal pipes and to smooth their rough edges.
The Best Diagonal Cutters are comfortable and provide a non-slip grip. They have serrations next to the pivot so you can use them as a gripper to pull the cables. This makes the Milwaukee 8-inch diagonal cutter the most versatile pair of dykes, and one that is perfect for electricians.
The downside of the product is that it does not provide the highest leverage. This is partly due to the relatively large distance between the centers of the pivot.
Pros
Cons
- Iron Carbide cutting edge
- Serrated head for reaming purposes
- Gripper between the handles
- Soft comfortable grips
- Insulation is not included
07. Channellock 338 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

One of the best diagonal cutting pliers you see, because the manufacturer’s excellent design ensures that it is perfect even in the smallest details. The company’s philosophy helps them create some of the best tools on the market.
The diagonal cutting itself is fine-machined and with anvil-style cutting edges. This ensures that the edges meet perfectly, and ensures a perfect cut every time. Laser heat treatment technology has been used to further enhance the cutting edge cutting power. Pliers are long-lasting through multiple projects.
Designed with high-carbon C1080 steel for tool body. This best diagonal cutting high-strength material offers superior performance compared to other metallic alloys. Your 100% guarantee that the tool will never fail due to breakage. Channellock also wraps the plier’s handles with its iconic comfortable blue grips, making sure they stand out in your toolbox.
You can see that the blunt tip design of this tool makes it almost impossible to reach tight places. You need to make sure the wire is already cut. Once the Channellock cutter is installed it cannot enter to trim.
You will love how Channellock makes its diagonal cutters. The design is well designed and suitable for most construction use. Just make sure the wire is pre-cut because you can’t use it in tight spaces.
Pros
Cons
- Ensures perfect build in almost every detail
- The precision with knife and avil style for superior performance
- The technology adds sophisticated power for durability
- Made with high-carbon C1080 steel material for the tool body
- The comfortable blue handle ensures grips
- Blunt tip design makes it difficult to reach tight spaces
08. Klein Tools D248-8 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

You can choose this model from Klein because it has material defects and a lifetime warranty on the tech. Choose products with such a guarantee because you can rely on the tools of your project. You can use any gadget during construction and it is not good for you if it breaks.
This pair of diagonal cutters are designed for cutting non-ferrous soft metal alloys. This makes it excellent in most cutting applications. Diagonal Cutters have made it difficult to bring the edge itself to be durable compared to ordinary cutting pliers. You can use and abuse this tool without worrying about breaking it.
The D248-8 diagonal cutting high-leverage rivet excel gives it 36% more cutting power than other designs. The joint ensures that it will work smoothly throughout your life without any shaking. These features allow you to work faster and more efficiently, and can do more in less time.
The problem you will encounter is that it can be quite stiff and difficult to open. However, it takes some time to relax. Nevertheless, this tool will work well and will last for you as long as you maintain it properly.
If you do a lot of work with wiring and cabling, this is one of the best electric side cutters. Cutters are specially designed for that application and if you maintain it properly, they will work as long as you need it.
Pros
Cons
- Material defects and manufacturer a lifetime warranty
- Designed for use in soft metal alloys
- Will last longer than normal pliers
- Cutters have 36% more cutting power than other designs of high-leverage rivet axles
- Smooth for life without swinging any handle ensured by the joint
- Can be quite stiff and difficult to open
09. Craftsman CMHT81718 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Craftsman CMHT81718 Diagonal Cutting Pliers Due to the special grips you can consider it as one of the best diagonal pliers you can hold. It can be used as two different materials in different sections to ensure absolute comfort and safety. You will enjoy using this pair of pliers, it is better to hold it with your bare hands or wear safety gloves.
The diagonal cutting plier also has a composite action design, which allows you to use it to cut harder materials. This is because this feature greatly increases your cutting power compared to ordinary cutting designs. If the composite excel fails, you are covered by a full lifetime warranty and can be replaced.
The pliers and the materials used in their cutting edges, and the process used to make them, ensure excellent strength and longevity. The pliers body and handles are made using the drop-forge process. The internal steel structure is rigid, and there are no weak points anywhere. Additionally, the edges of the pliers go through the induction stiffening so that they never become dull.
Your only problem with this diagonal cutting plier is that you have to open it wide to use its composite action design. This can be a hassle, especially if you are climbing a ladder. You will usually use it when specially hardened steel wires are cut in the ground, which is rare for you.
If you usually work with dense and hard materials, I recommend it for you. Its unique composite function is beneficial, and especially if you concentrate on steel wire and cable preparation.
Pros
Cons
- The grip section uses two different types of components for security
- Compound action design allows more force to be applied to cut hard metal
- A full lifetime warranty
- A drop-forge mechanism has been used to ensure a solid internal structure
- The cutting edges go through hardening of the induction
- You may need to open the pliers with both hands to use compound verbs
10. Mr. Pen Flush-Cut Wire Cutter

This (flush-cut wire cutter) is one of the oldest pairs of cutters in the kit. You can buy it when you get your first project as a contractor because you may want to work with new equipment at that time. You’ll love it because Diagonal Cutters’ corrosion-resistant nickel-chromium steel – it still doesn’t rust after many years of ownership and use.
These cutters are precision-grounded and can be operated, opened, and closed without much effort due to the surface. Non-slip hand grips are designed to be double-coated to provide better control and increase durability. You can work more efficiently, suffer less hand and arm fatigue and achieve more with these features.
You can use this wire cutter for almost all types of copper and soft wire up to 16 gauge. Best Diagonal Cutters Angled head is also suitable for making flash-cutting, clean and straight cut. Choose to use this pair of cutters when working with fine wires, as cutters are used to install complex chandeliers and lighting fixtures.
One complaint you may have is that while some cutters borrow tools they are not sharp enough to cut thick wires. I mean, it’s not designed to take hard steel, so I wouldn’t recommend it if you need to cut the wire for that application.
If you are looking for a pair of pliers to use for cutting complex wires, this is for you. Just make sure you don’t use it for hard materials because it’s not designed for that application.
Pros
Cons
- Made of corrosion-resistant nickel-chromium steel
- Works due to its perfect ground surface and construction
- Better control with double-coated non-slip hand grips
- Designed for copper and soft wire
- The angular head works perfectly for flush-cutting and fine wiring
- Up to 16 gauges
- Thick and stiff wires are not sharp enough to cut
11. Klein Tools D275-5 Diagonal Cutting Plier

Klein Tools D275-5 Diagonal Cutting Pliers This pair is suitable for those who need to work in a tight space. It has an ultra-thin profile that allows you to use it even in confined spaces like small outlet boxes. Due to its compact size, you can pick it up especially for your electrician’s kit.
You must choose a nicely designed grip, which allows the user to have more control over it. These Diagonal Cutters come with a steel return spring, so cutting can be done quickly with one hand. For those who work to install electrical and electronic wiring, these features make it ergonomically perfect.
This is a flush cutter, so it can cut up to 16 gauge continuously when making a flat cut. It can also be used to cut small wires, zip ties, and other light materials. If you want to work fast and precisely, this is the perfect cutting plier for you. You can get the job done more efficiently when you use it for your wiring needs.
Diagonal Cutters On the downside it is not recommended for use in more rigid materials such as hardened steel. It should be used with soft wire to finish it.
However, for fine applications like electrical and electronic wiring, you can recommend these pairs of cutters. You should not use it for hard materials, which can damage the pliers.
Pros
Cons
- Ultra-compact size to work in tight and confined spaces
- Excellently designed grip for greater control
- Makes one-handed operation quick and easy
- Cut 16 gauge wire with a flat cut
- Can also be used for small wires and other light materials
- Designed to fit specific tasks
- It is not for the use of more rigid materials
12. Crescent PS5429C Cutting Pliers

Crescent PS5429C Cutting Pliers The number one reason to buy this pair of pliers is that it weighs about one-third of the weight of all other pliers in your company’s tool kits. This pair of pliers is in your pocket whenever you are out and about to inspect the various construction projects currently underway.
Despite its minimal weight, the composite leverage design still provides a 50% increase in cutting power over the force you apply. Molded grips are 30% larger than even the most premium brands, allowing the load to spread over a wide area of your hand. It protects you with less stress and fatigue for the user.
Its overall construction with these Cutting Pliers chrome vanadium steel ensures that no part will fail throughout its lifetime. It also uses a heat-treated joint rivet and ensures that its two main sections remain tightly connected for continuous smooth operation.
Your problem with this tool may be that it is not the best for cutting hard and stiff material and the jaws are not designed to open too much. It’s perfect for more casual applications, but I can’t recommend it to you for heavy-duty use.
If you are looking for a pair of cutting pliers that are easy to carry then this is for you and for casual use, such as inspection, then I will help you to get this pair.
Pros
Cons
- Other pliers weigh about one-third
- 50% increase in composite leverage design power
- 30% large grips spread the load over a wide area
- No part will fail for the rest of its life
- Hit-treat joint rivets will have a smooth joint
- Not conducive to cutting through solid materials
13. TEKTON PCT00007 Diagonal Cutting Plier

If you are looking for the best side cutting pliers that can deal with different types of wires, then this pair of TEKTON PCT00007 diagonal cutting pliers is for you. It is designed for cutting aluminum, soft steel, and copper wires. These cutting pliers are also designed to cut cleanly whether you are tearing hard, stuck, or even braided wires.
Best Cutters have an 82-degree angle, which allows them to be strong and sharp and ensures that every cut you make is smooth with minimal effort. In the product, they have been hardened to the HRC 58-64 standard so that they hold their edge through years of use.
The handle profile is designed round to distribute the user’s hand pressure optimally. The cutters are also covered with a thin non-slip grip to ensure maximum controllability when using. The best thing about this Best Diagonal Cutters is that it weighs only 0.65 pounds. Its minimal mass allows it to be carried anywhere comfortably. Whether in your pocket or in your toolkit.
Where two halves meet, you may have a problem with rivet points. After several years of use, the mine may become loose, which makes it unreliable. Although you will believe that this will happen because you will use that wire cutter to accidentally cut heavy structural wires. I hope you rebuild it so it doesn’t get damaged by abuse.
Cutting Pliers are suitable for most wiring applications, so you can do a lot of work with electrical installations. I warn you not to abuse it as it may loosen the pivot point.
Pros
Cons
- Designed for cutting braided aluminum, copper, and soft steel wires
- The edges of the 82-degree blade retain sharpness while ensuring smooth cuts
- The edges of the HRC 58-64 blade remain sharp through years of use
- Round handle profile pressure on user’s hand
- Weighs only 0.65 pounds
- This makes it comfortable to carry anywhere
- The tool can become loose if misused
14. IExcell Cutting Diagonal Cutting Pliers

iExcell Cutter The diagonal cutting plier may be one of the smallest in your arsenal. It is suitable for electricians and repairmen who are focused on working with fine projects. You will use it when you need to make small LED lamps, for which sometimes you have to cut and solder fine wires.
The cutting pliers tool has undergone a non-acid thermal treatment to significantly increase its tensile strength. The cutting edges have been treated with high-frequency thermal radiation to make them more rigid. So that it does not lose its sharpness over time. The cutting pliers help ensure that these two pairs of diagonal cutters will last you a lifetime.
To prolong its service life, and protect the equipment with a fine layer of rust-resistant oil. The layer of this product is so thin that it will not have any adverse effect on the electronics you are working on.
However, one of the main reasons you buy these pliers is the soft PVC handles. Really comfortable to use, allows you to focus on what you do.
Although the main downside of this pair is that its spring-load mechanism means it is always fully open. While this will allow you to work easier and more efficiently, it does make storage a pain. The manufacturer would include a strap or locking mechanism to take up too much space in your toolbox.
This is probably the best option for you if you are repairing electronics or working with small electrical devices. It works very efficiently for use with light and portable and compact items.
Pros
Cons
- Suitable for electricians and repairmen
- Non-acidic thermal treatment increases the tensile strength of the tool
- Is treated with high-frequency thermal radiation
- Rust-resistant oil layer protects against erosion
- Using soft PVC handles
- The spring-load mechanism keeps the tool open at all times and makes it difficult to store
What time do you see buying diagonal cutters?

When you buy the best diagonal cutter, the number you will check is that it fits in your hand. There are different sizes available in the market, and you will make sure that the item you choose fits you well, whether you use it with your bare hands or with safety gloves.
You will also need to check if the cutter you are buying is rated to work with the materials you use. However, most diagonal cutters are designed for wire cutting, usually made of copper, aluminum, and other soft metals. If you plan to use it with structural wires like hardened steel, you need to make sure that it is rated for this type of material. Otherwise, it may be damaged while you use it.
So, depending on what you plan to use for it, what are the features of the diagonal cutter and you must check it. If it is nominated by some of your staff who have made the structural part, you can do so for those equipped with composite action levers. But if this is going to be used by your electrician, you will choose one with a self-opening spring.
- What is the diagonal cut specifically used for?
Italics are commonly used for cutting. You can see that there is no plane to hold its jaw. Its cutting edges intersect at an angle, hence the term “diagonal cut”.
The diagonal cutters indent the wire and then work to separate it. This results in a cleaner cut on top of the standard scissors, which uses a shearing action to cut.
- What could be the difference between side cutting and diagonal cutting?

Side cutters and diagonal cutters are usually of the same type. The main difference in the cut is how they are called in different countries. They are commonly referred to as oblique cutters in the United States but are referred to as side cutters in Australia. Meanwhile, in the UK and Ireland, these devices are called snips.
- How can you sharpen the cutting?
You can sharpen the diagonal cut after years of use. To get started you mainly need a smooth file, a visor, and some cleaning material.
- How to sharpen your cutters?
The first thing to do is to clean the blade. You can use a cleaner like WD40, or just use soapy water. You will be able to confirm that you have removed any rust during the cleaning process to prepare for sharpening. Make sure that it is completely protected. It does not rot when working on it and there is potential damage to the blade.
Now rub the blade with the file to one side in quick, and short movements. You, however, do not apply too much pressure, as you can remove too much metal and midline the edges. Your main goal is to have a smooth blade edge surface across its length to make it sharp again.
You repeat the above procedure on both sides of each blade, continuing to remove any burrs or kinks to smooth the surface.
Once done, some can cut the wire and test the pliers. If it cuts better than before, then you have successfully sharpened your oblique cutters. Clean the blades again to remove the extra material you have filed, then apply a layer of oil to protect the new metallic edges.
- Nipex and Klein Diagonal Cutter?
In my experience, I would say that I would recommend using a cleaner diagonal cutter than Nipex. Although I can’t say that one is superior to the other, your people usually like Klein because he is a well-known brand, a good track in your team.
If you can choose between the two with exactly the same specifications, you can simply go for the cheaper option. But if both are priced the same, you can probably go for Klein’s brand recognition.

- Conclusion
These are some of the cutters that are available in the market. You may have worked with all of these models before. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on its design application. If you are looking for ideal side cutters, decide how you are going to use them before buying the cheapest or most expensive option.
We all have different needs and different hands. If you have time to go to a store it is better to check how one pair will pay rent than the other. You can rely on my reviews to find the best diagonal cutter for each situation.
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5 thoughts on “The Professional Best Diagonal Cutters Reviews”
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