Craftsman Straight Long Cut Aviation Snips

As a frequent user of various cutting tools, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Craftsman Straight Long Cut Aviation Snips, model CMHT73561. This tool is designed specifically for cutting sheet metal and other thin materials, and it features a straight, long blade to facilitate making long, straight cuts. My experience with this tool has been a mix of impressive performance and a few minor frustrations.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about these snips was their solid construction. The tool feels robust in hand, thanks to its sturdy build and the use of high-quality materials. The induction-hardened cutting edge is particularly noteworthy. After several uses, the blades remained sharp, which is a testament to the durability of this tool. The full lifetime warranty offered by Craftsman adds an extra layer of confidence in the product's longevity.

Usability and Comfort

One of the standout features of these snips is the spring-assisted latch, which allows for fast one-handed operation. This is particularly useful when you need to make quick, repetitive cuts. The latch mechanism, however, did have a tendency to come undone occasionally, which could be a bit annoying when you're in the middle of a project. That said, it's a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things.

The handles are ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended use. However, I did find that the tool requires a fair amount of hand strength to operate effectively, especially if you have smaller hands. This might not be ideal for everyone, but it's worth noting that the tool's performance makes up for this small drawback.

Cutting Performance

When it comes to cutting, the Craftsman snips shine. They are capable of cutting up to 18 gauge cold-rolled steel or 22 gauge stainless steel, which makes them versatile for various applications. I used these snips primarily for cutting metal roofing, ductwork, and some lightweight roof flashing. In all cases, the tool performed admirably, making clean, precise cuts with minimal effort.

The 1/4-inch blade markings are a thoughtful addition, allowing for quick and precise cuts. This feature is particularly useful when you need to make multiple cuts of the same length. I found this to be a real time-saver on several occasions.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, this tool does have a few limitations. The most significant issue I encountered was the tool's tendency to struggle with thicker materials or overlapping joints. For instance, when trimming a section of ductwork with an overlap joint, the snips had a hard time making a clean cut. This limitation might make the tool less suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

Another point of concern is the cutting span. The tool cuts less than half an inch per snip, which can be time-consuming for longer cuts. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of if you have a lot of material to cut.

Versatility

One of the surprising aspects of this tool is its versatility. While it's primarily designed for cutting sheet metal, I found it useful for a variety of other tasks. For example, I used it to cut heavy-stemmed artificial flowers, and it performed exceptionally well. This makes it a handy tool to have in your toolbox for various cutting needs.

Maintenance

Maintaining the Craftsman snips is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point will keep the tool in good working condition. The induction-hardened blades require minimal maintenance, retaining their sharpness over a long period.

Conclusion

The Craftsman Straight Long Cut Aviation Snips are a solid addition to any toolbox, especially for those who frequently work with sheet metal or other thin materials. The tool's durable construction, sharp blades, and ergonomic design make it a reliable choice for various cutting tasks. While it has a few limitations, such as the need for considerable hand strength and its struggle with thicker materials, these are relatively minor issues compared to its overall performance.

I would recommend this tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable pair of snips for light to medium-duty tasks. Its versatility and durability make it a worthwhile investment, especially given its reasonable price point. Just be aware of its limitations and consider complementing it with other cutting tools for more demanding projects.