Craftsman Offset Left Cut Aviation Snips

Craftsman's Offset Left Cut Aviation Snips, model number CMHT73559, have proven to be a versatile and reliable addition to my toolkit. With a design that emphasizes both safety and precision, these snips are crafted to handle various thicknesses of stainless and cold-rolled steel. After putting them through their paces on multiple projects, I can confidently share my experience and insights into their performance.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of these snips is the offset blade design, which effectively keeps the material away from your hands while cutting. This not only enhances safety but also allows for smoother, more controlled cuts. The snips feel well-balanced in hand, and the ergonomic design ensures that they fit comfortably, even during extended use.

The induction-hardened cutting edge is another highlight, promising durability and a long-lasting sharpness that can handle tough materials. The 1/4-inch blade markings are a thoughtful addition, providing a useful guide for making precise cuts. These features collectively contribute to a tool that feels robust and capable right from the start.

Performance

In terms of performance, the snips excel in cutting through a variety of materials. I tested them on cold-rolled steel and stainless steel, and they performed admirably. The rated cut capacity is up to 18 gauge (1.2mm) for cold-rolled steel and 22 gauge (0.7mm) for stainless steel. True to their specifications, the snips handled these materials with ease, delivering clean and precise cuts without requiring excessive force.

The spring-assisted latch is a small but significant feature. It allows for one-handed operation, which can be incredibly convenient when you're juggling multiple tasks. The latch mechanism is smooth and reliable, adding to the overall ease of use.

Usability

Comfort and ease of use are critical factors for any hand tool, and these snips score highly on both counts. The handles are designed to minimize hand fatigue, which is a boon when working on larger projects. The smooth cutting action, combined with the ergonomic grip, makes the snips easy to control, even for users with smaller hands.

One of the real-world tests involved trimming angles on gutter shields and cutting metal sheets for storage buildings. In both cases, the snips performed flawlessly, making quick work of the tasks and significantly reducing the time required to complete them. The ability to make precise cuts with minimal effort is a testament to the tool's design and craftsmanship.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with hand tools, especially those subjected to heavy use. The Craftsman snips have held up well over multiple uses. The induction-hardened cutting edge has maintained its sharpness, and there are no signs of wear or damage to the blades. The overall construction feels solid, and the tool's weight is just right—substantial enough to feel durable, yet light enough to handle comfortably.

However, it's worth noting that while the majority of my experiences have been positive, there have been isolated instances where the snips struggled with thicker or more challenging materials. On rare occasions, the cutting performance was less than stellar, requiring more effort and resulting in less clean cuts. These instances were exceptions rather than the norm, but they are worth mentioning for a comprehensive review.

Value for Money

Considering the features and performance, the snips offer good value for money. They are priced competitively, especially given the inclusion of advanced features like the spring-assisted latch and induction-hardened cutting edge. The full lifetime warranty provided by Craftsman adds an extra layer of assurance, making the investment in these snips a sound decision.

Areas for Improvement

While the snips are generally excellent, there are a few areas where improvements could be made. The ends of the blades can be a bit blunt for cutting in tight corners, which can be a minor inconvenience depending on the task at hand. Additionally, some users might find the tool's performance inconsistent when dealing with particularly tough materials, although this is not a common issue.

Conclusion

Overall, Craftsman's Offset Left Cut Aviation Snips are a reliable and well-designed tool that performs admirably across a range of tasks. The combination of ergonomic design, durable construction, and precise cutting capability makes them a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, these snips are likely to meet your needs and expectations.

I would recommend these snips for their blend of performance, comfort, and durability. They have proven to be a dependable tool for cutting various metals, and the thoughtful design features enhance their usability. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall quality and functionality of the snips make them a worthwhile investment. If you're in the market for aviation snips that deliver on their promises, the Craftsman Offset Left Cut Aviation Snips are a solid choice.