Craftsman Offset Long Cut Aviation Snips

When I first picked up the Craftsman Offset Long Cut Aviation Snips (CMHT73564), I was struck by their solid construction and thoughtful design. These snips are built with a professional in mind but are user-friendly enough for a DIY enthusiast tackling various home improvement projects. With a full lifetime warranty, they promise longevity and reliability, instilling confidence in their performance right out of the box.

One of the standout features of these snips is the offset blade. Unlike traditional straight snips, the offset design keeps your hands clear of the material being cut, reducing the risk of accidental nicks and improving overall safety. This feature is particularly useful when working with sharp-edged metals, providing better visibility and control. I found this design to be especially beneficial when I was cutting through metal sheets and shingles for a roofing project. The offset kept my hands safe and allowed me to maintain a straight, precise cut without my knuckles constantly bumping into the workpiece.

The spring-assisted latch is another thoughtful addition, allowing for one-handed operation. This feature makes it easy to lock and unlock the snips, which is convenient when you’re in the middle of a project and need to quickly switch tools or adjust your grip. The auto-release mechanism ensures that the snips are ready to use with minimal fuss. These features combined make the tool intuitive and user-friendly, even if you’re using it for extended periods.

Comfort is key when it comes to hand tools, and the large handle rings on these snips do not disappoint. They are designed to accommodate various hand sizes comfortably, and the ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue. During my project, which involved cutting through downspout gutters and vinyl siding, I appreciated how the handles fit securely in my hand and provided a firm grip without causing discomfort. The handles' design also contributed to the precise control I had over each cut, making the job much more manageable and less tiring.

The induction-hardened cutting edges are another highlight. These edges are designed to maintain sharpness over a longer period, which is crucial when working with tough materials like stainless steel or cold-rolled steel. I tested the snips on a variety of materials, including aluminum foil, hardware cloth, and even some thicker metal panels. In each case, the snips performed admirably, cutting through the material with ease and leaving clean, burr-free edges. The long cutting blades are particularly useful for making extended, straight cuts, reducing the number of snips needed and making the process quicker and more efficient.

However, it’s important to note that while the snips are rated to cut up to 18ga cold-rolled steel and 22ga stainless steel, some users might find them less effective on the thickest materials. During my testing, I found that while they handled standard materials effortlessly, they did struggle a bit with thicker steel panels, requiring more force and precision to achieve a clean cut. This is something to consider if you frequently work with very thick metals.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the overall build quality. The snips feel robust and well-made, a testament to Craftsman’s reputation for durable tools. The materials used in the construction seem to be of high quality, promising longevity and consistent performance. Over the course of using these snips for various tasks, I noticed no degradation in their performance, and the blades remained sharp and effective.

One minor drawback I experienced was the initial difficulty in starting a cut on non-flat surfaces, such as corrugated metal roofing. The snips excel at straight cuts, but getting them started on uneven surfaces required a bit more effort and finesse. Once the cut was initiated, however, the snips performed as expected, providing smooth and controlled cutting action.

Despite this minor hiccup, the overall performance and versatility of the Craftsman Offset Long Cut Aviation Snips make them a valuable addition to any toolkit. They are particularly well-suited for tasks involving sheet metal, roofing, and other similar materials. The combination of safety features, ergonomic design, and cutting efficiency make these snips a reliable choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend the Craftsman Offset Long Cut Aviation Snips. They offer a blend of safety, comfort, and cutting power that is hard to beat. Whether you’re cutting through metal for a home renovation project or need precise cuts for professional work, these snips are up to the task. The minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by the numerous benefits and thoughtful design features, making these snips a tool you can rely on for years to come.