I've long been a fan of good tools. A few years ago, I got a good pair of side cutters and it was sort of a revelation for me compared to the junk ones I've been using for years.
This year, my trusty Erem 2432E pliers needed to go back to the manufacturer for a spring change (although they just ended up giving me a new set). While they were away, I decided I needed a backup. That let to this:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/pickdropper/Electrical%20Equipment/SideCutters_zpsecf26195.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/pickdropper/media/Electrical%20Equipment/SideCutters_zpsecf26195.jpg.html)
Believe it or not, everything in the above photo is different (and awesome!).
These are just the side cutters, not pliers. So as not to completely expose my insanity, I didn't show any of the backups that I have to the cutters in the picture. :o
The different geometries make them useful for so many different things that they all have a place in assembly for me. I've been digging the PCB cutters, which trim the leads and leave exactly 0.040" of exposed lead. In the past, I've had a tendency to cut the leads too short and this helps me avoid that.
I laughed for a while, then I went to amazon and saw the price of those... that's over 200$ in side cutters! :o
Quote from: micromegas on December 03, 2014, 04:39:32 PM
I laughed for a while, then I went to amazon and saw the price of those... that's over 200$ in side cutters! :o
Actually, at full price, those 8 pairs would be well over $500-600 dollars.
Quote from: pickdropper on December 03, 2014, 04:40:54 PM
Quote from: micromegas on December 03, 2014, 04:39:32 PM
I laughed for a while, then I went to amazon and saw the price of those... that's over 200$ in side cutters! :o
Actually, at full price, those 8 pairs would be well over $500-600 dollars.
I want your job... and your cutters. :)
Seems like a good problem to have...
Quote from: micromegas on December 03, 2014, 04:43:08 PM
Quote from: pickdropper on December 03, 2014, 04:40:54 PM
Quote from: micromegas on December 03, 2014, 04:39:32 PM
I laughed for a while, then I went to amazon and saw the price of those... that's over 200$ in side cutters! :o
Actually, at full price, those 8 pairs would be well over $500-600 dollars.
I want your job... and your cutters. :)
Well, I didn't pay anywhere near full price for most of them. I found deals where they could be had.
First step is admitting you have a problem. Next step is hiding it from others so you can continue. Let me be "that guy" to tell you that you need a few more pairs. Lol
Cody
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 03, 2014, 05:10:01 PM
First step is admitting you have a problem. Next step is hiding it from others so you can continue. Let me be "that guy" to tell you that you need a few more pairs. Lol
Cody
Already have my eye on another type Hehe
All kidding aside, these high precision cutters really are much nicer. 8 different types isn't necessary, but they are worth the cost. I paid $60 for my first set and never looked back.
And he's trying to get me hooked as well. Bastard sent me a pair of those not that long ago. ;D
The first one is free......
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
"Hi My name is Dave and I do overdose on sidecutters and things..."
(nodding chorus and mumbling from the group... "hello Dave, welcome to the group"...) ;)
Nice problem to have... nice tools they are! :)
Quote from: cooder on December 03, 2014, 06:17:29 PM
"Hi My name is Dave and I do overdose on sidecutters and things..."
(nodding chorus and mumbling from the group... "hello Dave, welcome to the group"...) ;)
Nice problem to have... nice tools they are! :)
"My name is Dave and I have a problem. Let me cut to the quick......."
You're not alone my friend.
Good sidecutters are an invaluable tool. I started out with a good quality pair of general purpose mini side cutters (i.e. not specifically for electrical components). They worked OK. Since then, I've gone with micro cutters from Crescent, Xcelite, Hakko and a few others.
My current arsenal is three Hakko cutters (micro, small, and medium), a flush cut pair of Crescents, a heavy duty generic set and a heavy duty flush set. I use each one for different purposes (i.e. the heavy duties for cutting off tabs/socket pins, micros for resistors, mediums for wire and bigger diodes, etc).
One piece of advice for all - NEVER, EVER, EVER reach for your pedal building pliers when you're restringing your guitar in a pinch. One cut will ruin a good set.
Interesting. Are your Hakko cutters forged or stamped? Mine are cheap stamped cutters and are the disposable pair I use for things I don't care about. Perhaps they have a higher end line I don't know about.
Mine look like this:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71QGl0rv6rL._SL1500_.jpg)
And yes, you are totally right; don't cut guitar strings with cutters unless they are hardened. The nicer ones I have are precision cutters made for for soft metals.
I highly recommend you try a set of Erems or Lindstroms. Excelta makes some decent ones as well, but they vary. They are usually a cut above (pun intended) the Cresecent, Xcelites and Hakkos.
Quote from: culturejam on December 03, 2014, 05:27:59 PM
And he's trying to get me hooked as well. Bastard sent me a pair of those not that long ago. ;D
Quote from: pickdropper on December 03, 2014, 05:33:15 PM
The first one is free......
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
He did the same thing with me... :o 8)
Yeah, I'd say you have a problem. An affliction I could easily share! I resolve to stick to my Klein cutter/strippers and Xcelite sidecutters.
I have a set of lindstroms from 15 years ago. Awesome stuff.
I use my pair of sidecutters for EVERYTHING. Cutting wire, trimming toenails, taking the little squares off OSH boards, taking the tabs off Alpha pots, trimming guitar headstocks :P ... I used to use them for stripping as well until I unclenched my wallet and bought some strippers.
Quote from: alanp on December 04, 2014, 04:21:08 AM
I use my pair of sidecutters for EVERYTHING. Cutting wire, trimming toenails, taking the little squares off OSH boards, taking the tabs off Alpha pots, trimming guitar headstocks :P ... I used to use them for stripping as well until I unclenched my wallet and bought some strippers.
I am fascinated at the possible process of trimming a guitar headstock with side cutters.
I meant wires, mind on too many things...
Being addicted to quality tools isn't a problem...it's an inspiration. :)
I bought a pair of diagonal cutters 40 years ago and cut strings and wires with them all this time. They are still the best I have.. What happened?
Good side cutters are one of the keys to happiness in this hobby (along with a clean tip). I use some cheap-ish ones that are about £10 a pop. As soon as I get a sniff that they're getting blunt, I get another set.
Now look what you've done...buying toys for myself instead of the family!
(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/23NPt3.jpg)
Out of all those pictured, which ones do you use the most?
I've gone through several pairs of those stamped CHP-170 side cutters (and one pair came with my Hakko iron), and they work ok until they get dull. And then I just buy another for $5.
But I love good tools as well- so If you had to just have *one* pair of high-end side cutters, which one in particular would it be?
Quote from: dadler on December 11, 2014, 10:12:25 AM
Out of all those pictured, which ones do you use the most?
I've gone through several pairs of those stamped CHP-170 side cutters (and one pair came with my Hakko iron), and they work ok until they get dull. And then I just buy another for $5.
But I love good tools as well- so If you had to just have *one* pair of high-end side cutters, which one in particular would it be?
Of all of them, the Erem 2422E and 776E get the most use. The 2422E is more standard size with an oval head. The 776E is very small and has a tapered relieved head. If I were to recommend one, I think the 2422E would probably be a good choice as an all around cutter.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: miter53 on December 11, 2014, 07:44:03 AM
Now look what you've done...buying toys for myself instead of the family!
(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/23NPt3.jpg)
Very cool. Excelta makes some nice stuff. I hope you like it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I have used the same pair of side cutters since I started building about 8-9 years ago! I still use the same pair.
Why the need for so many different pairs of cutters? Is there an advantage?
Quote from: pickdropper on December 03, 2014, 07:15:07 PM
Interesting. Are your Hakko cutters forged or stamped? Mine are cheap stamped cutters and are the disposable pair I use for things I don't care about. Perhaps they have a higher end line I don't know about.
Mine look like this:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71QGl0rv6rL._SL1500_.jpg)
And yes, you are totally right; don't cut guitar strings with cutters unless they are hardened. The nicer ones I have are precision cutters made for for soft metals.
I highly recommend you try a set of Erems or Lindstroms. Excelta makes some decent ones as well, but they vary. They are usually a cut above (pun intended) the Cresecent, Xcelites and Hakkos.
I have the same one that you Pickdropper
and it does the job really well.
Mich P.
Quote from: Govmnt_Lacky on December 11, 2014, 01:09:42 PM
I have used the same pair of side cutters since I started building about 8-9 years ago! I still use the same pair.
Why the need for so many different pairs of cutters? Is there an advantage?
Well, I will be the first to admit that there is a little bit of lunacy involved with this.
But there are some advantages. Small, tapered relieved head cutters can get into much tighter spaces. Oblique cutters can cut top down, which can help if there are tall components around the leads you want to cut. PCB cutters trim leads to a defined length (.030 or .040 usually) which help if you are trying to conform to IPC standards. Angled cutters can also be useful at times. Super flush can help if you want to trim something is close as possible.
You can usually do what you need to do with one good set of cutters. Most folks here have learned or will learn to angle standard cutters to make them work and it's fine. The other, more specific cutters make certain cuts easier to make, which is especially helpful when you are building a lot. Not absolutely necessary, but helpful.
The only exception I'd list are the PCB cutters. I have difficulty cutting to a specific lead length when cutting with side cutters. The top cutting PCB cutters are more accurate than me. That could simply my be my own personal failing, however.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: Mich P on December 11, 2014, 01:21:57 PM
Quote from: pickdropper on December 03, 2014, 07:15:07 PM
Interesting. Are your Hakko cutters forged or stamped? Mine are cheap stamped cutters and are the disposable pair I use for things I don't care about. Perhaps they have a higher end line I don't know about.
Mine look like this:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71QGl0rv6rL._SL1500_.jpg)
And yes, you are totally right; don't cut guitar strings with cutters unless they are hardened. The nicer ones I have are precision cutters made for for soft metals.
I highly recommend you try a set of Erems or Lindstroms. Excelta makes some decent ones as well, but they vary. They are usually a cut above (pun intended) the Cresecent, Xcelites and Hakkos.
I have the same one that you Pickdropper
and it does the job really well.
Mich P.
That's cool. It's always nice when you find tools that you like.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
You have a problem? Let me tell you about problems! I keep reading this thread and I still can't decide what to buy for my first pair of quality sidecutters (my cheap ones are mangling things ... again) or where to buy them here in Canada ... does anybody have some advice for this Google-challenged hack?
I pair I just got (pictured above) I picked up on EB for $20 + shipping.
Quote from: miter53 on December 11, 2014, 04:50:08 PM
I pair I just got (pictured above) I picked up on EB for $20 + shipping.
Awesome. I've bought some of them on eBay. There can be risk involved because tools can sometimes be worn out (or resharpened too many times) but overall I've had more good luck than bad.
I've also founds some really good deals on eBay on NIB cutters. Those are worth looking out for as well.
Quote from: brucer on December 11, 2014, 03:31:26 PM
You have a problem? Let me tell you about problems! I keep reading this thread and I still can't decide what to buy for my first pair of quality sidecutters (my cheap ones are mangling things ... again) or where to buy them here in Canada ... does anybody have some advice for this Google-challenged hack?
Active Tech carry Hakko and Xcelites but it appears none of the higher end brands. I've a pair from Xcelite and they're not at all impressive. Love to find a Canadian source as well.
http://www.active123.com/Brands.html
edit
As good as being in Canada, Digikey carry Erems & Xcelite but they also have a US brand called Swanstrom mid-priced side cutters, any opinions on those?
http://www.digikey.ca/product-search/en?FV=fff40013,fff8022f,fffc00e8&chp=0
Quote from: davent on December 11, 2014, 07:54:57 PM
Quote from: brucer on December 11, 2014, 03:31:26 PM
You have a problem? Let me tell you about problems! I keep reading this thread and I still can't decide what to buy for my first pair of quality sidecutters (my cheap ones are mangling things ... again) or where to buy them here in Canada ... does anybody have some advice for this Google-challenged hack?
Active Tech carry Hakko and Xcelites but it appears none of the higher end brands. I've a pair from Xcelite and they're not at all impressive. Love to find a Canadian source as well.
http://www.active123.com/Brands.html
edit
As good as being in Canada, Digikey carry Erems & Xcelite but they also have a US brand called Swanstrom mid-priced side cutters, any opinions on those?
http://www.digikey.ca/product-search/en?FV=fff40013,fff8022f,fffc00e8&chp=0
In general, it's more about how the tools are made than the name on the tools. I usually buy the ones I do because I have had experience with them and know them to be high quality. I've had very good luck with the Swiss made tools in general.
Most of the cheaper cutters out there are stamped. These deform rather easily with use. They are also usually fairly cheap, which makes replacing them a bit more tolerable. The jaws often don't match up as well and they usually aren't quite as sharp.
Drop forged are usually ground to be more precise. How precise and how sharp depends on the manufacturer. The style of cut (semi-flush, vs flush vs full flush) depends on how they grind the jaws to mate. Some of the nicer ones even have user definable stops so you can't press too hard and grind the jaws against each other (which will dull them over time). Some of the companies have fancy marketing terms such as "precision drop forged' which usually means that they were ground by a CNC instead of by a person. Other companies, like Erem, claim it isn't drop forging but a proprietary process (that looks an awful lot like drop forging). I don't know enough about the process to know if that is true or not. Their cutters are top notch as long as you know that most are made for cutting soft metals. Their tungsten carbide cutters are made for harder metals but I can't bring myself to pay $150-200 for a set of them.
As far as Swanstrom, it depends which ones you get. I've seen a couple at work that were pretty decent for the money. The first one on the Digikey link is the same OEM model that Hakko sells, it just has the Swanstrom name on it (they are sold under many many names). It is an inexpensive stamped cutter, which is fine, but you should know what you are getting.
The rest of them are $25-35. For around that price, you can probably find a NIB Erem on eBay, which would be my recommendation. For example, here are a few I found that look like really good deals:
Erem 2422e NIB - Currently $20 + $5.80 shipping
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Erem-2422E-5-Oval-Head-Full-Flush-Cutter-/221632046087?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item339a4ca407
NIB cutters pop up all the time on eBay. You can find them if you look.
There are also used cutters available that can be worth trying out if you are willing to accept that there is risk involved.
Unfortunately with ebay listings shipping to Canada is not so nice.
That NIB $20 listing shipped to canada shows $15.80 shipping $7.35 import charges and those are $us so official exchange rate turns it all to $50cdn.
dave
Ugh. I would skip that too.
Probably a better bet would be to find somebody in the US to buy a set and ship them to you. If you can wait until after the holidays, I can help you out.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: pickdropper on December 11, 2014, 12:58:40 PM
Of all of them, the Erem 2422E and 776E get the most use. The 2422E is more standard size with an oval head. The 776E is very small and has a tapered relieved head. If I were to recommend one, I think the 2422E would probably be a good choice as an all around cutter.
Thanks-On your recommendation, I ordered a set of the 2422E from Amazon.
An aside: In the past, I have never received counterfeit Apex Tool Group products from Amazon (have purchased a lot of the green-handled Xcelite electronics pliers without issue). Hoping all will be good here as well.
Amazon used to be my go-to place for almost everything, but now I second guess my purchases after receiving a few counterfeit items. And they also keep a running ratio of your returned item count to ordered item count, and if you exceed a magical unpublished threshold, they ban you forever. So I have become more judicious in my purchasing, and often order from other vendors even if it costs a bit more to avoid headache. /Rant.
Interesting. I didn't realize they had a magic threshold of returned items, although I can't say it's completely surprising.
Let me know what you think of the cutters. Hopefully you like them.
Here they are on Amazon.ca- $161cdn. (+$24 shipping) Top seller i'm sure!
http://www.amazon.ca/Erem-2422E-2400-Full-Flush-Cutters/dp/B00EBZWLBQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418337789&sr=8-2&keywords=erem+2422e
Amazon appears to have them in their store for $71 but out of stock at the moment.
Digikey, well, well $65.
Ebays looking good again!
Dave , Thank you very much for the offer! I'm ok for now, was just casting about seeing if i could find anything to help Brucer out. We have to be ever vigilante searching out the locals and vendors south, with good cross borders deals.
Thanks!
dave
Quote from: davent on December 11, 2014, 10:57:59 PM
... was just casting about seeing if i could find anything to help Brucer out.
Woo Hoo! Thanks for the suggestions and research. Now I can have a problem too!
Quote from: brucer on December 12, 2014, 02:13:09 AM
Quote from: davent on December 11, 2014, 10:57:59 PM
... was just casting about seeing if i could find anything to help Brucer out.
Woo Hoo! Thanks for the suggestions and research. Now I can have a problem too!
Yes, yes, misery loves company, one for all, all for one, we must all suffer together!
This thread has finally persuaded me to get a proper set of cutters.
I have in the past bought cheap pairs and got rid as soon as they have blunted.
Getting a proper set should work out far more cost effective in the long run.
The Captain Samuel Vimes 'Boots' Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness only works if you buy ONE pair of $50 boots.
Quote from: raulduke on December 12, 2014, 02:34:15 PM
This thread has finally persuaded me to get a proper set of cutters.
I have in the past bought cheap pairs and got rid as soon as they have blunted.
Getting a proper set should work out far more cost effective in the long run.
Yes, plus the drop forged ones can usually be resharpened 2-3 times before the edge gets too thin. Resharpened is cheap (about 5 USD); the trick is finding a resharpener that will do one at a time. The one I contacted wanted batches of 10.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
damn it.. I'm in.
just ordered a pair of Erem 2422E
Cody
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 12, 2014, 06:52:19 PM
damn it.. I'm in.
just ordered a pair of Erem 2422E
Cody
Those do look sweet. Do they make a version with a return spring?
Quote from: Leevibe on December 12, 2014, 07:13:57 PM
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 12, 2014, 06:52:19 PM
damn it.. I'm in.
just ordered a pair of Erem 2422E
Cody
Those do look sweet. Do they make a version with a return spring?
Here is their catalog
http://www.apexhandtools.com/erem/PDF/Erem%20Gloabl%20Catalog%202008.pdf (http://www.apexhandtools.com/erem/PDF/Erem%20Gloabl%20Catalog%202008.pdf)
Quote from: Leevibe on December 12, 2014, 07:13:57 PM
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 12, 2014, 06:52:19 PM
damn it.. I'm in.
just ordered a pair of Erem 2422E
Cody
Those do look sweet. Do they make a version with a return spring?
The spring is internal. It works really nicely.
Be a bit careful with their pliers. They are nice, but their jaws don't open as wide as some others. They do it on purpose for ergonomic reasons, but there are times it just doesn't work. I do have a pair of their 542 flat bill pliers that are my favorite pliers for lead bending, but I can't use them for everything.
Well, I guess I may not be out of the woods yet.
Erem Oblique Cutter (didn't have one of these yet). Found a great deal on a NIB one
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/pickdropper/Electrical%20Equipment/EremOblique_zps10eab24b.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/pickdropper/media/Electrical%20Equipment/EremOblique_zps10eab24b.jpg.html)
Erem 0.8mm PCB cutter. This was NIB and really cheap (under $10) based on the 80's style Sci-Fi font on the box, I think this has been sitting around for a while.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/pickdropper/Electrical%20Equipment/EremVintagePCB_zpse3d45229.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/pickdropper/media/Electrical%20Equipment/EremVintagePCB_zpse3d45229.jpg.html)
Quote from: alanp on December 12, 2014, 02:52:29 PM
The Captain Samuel Vimes 'Boots' Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness only works if you buy ONE pair of $50 boots.
Good point. I believe the Captain/Commander/insert_rank_here also noticed that the rich got richer because they had houses full of stuff, so they never needed to buy things. This is where a dynasty begins - generations of Pickdroppers will never need to buy cutters!
Quote from: pickdropper on December 11, 2014, 10:23:41 PM
Let me know what you think of the cutters. Hopefully you like them.
Got them in the mail-These cutters are amazing. The spring pressure is perfectly consistent throughout the range of motion (hard to describe), and there is a definite stop at full-close and full-open. It just *feels* nice to use these things. Same feeling I get when I use my snap-on stuff. :D
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/uj97on5x7lc36mt/erem_2422e.jpg)
Fantastic! I am glad you like them.
It sounds silly to get excited about side cutters, but if you do a lot of electronics work, it's really nice to have good quality cutters.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I am super happy with mine also. I love a good tool, for sure. I want to pick up a pair of needle nose next.
Cody
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 08:36:31 PM
I am super happy with mine also. I love a good tool, for sure. I want to pick up a pair of needle nose next.
Cody
I like the pliers for certain things, but the "ergonomic" jaws don't open as wide as some others and the jaws can bend if you try to use them for hard things like SS wire.
But they are fantastic for lead bending and wire bending. I would just keep a backup set of throw down pliers for rough materials.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: pickdropper on December 18, 2014, 08:52:16 PM
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 08:36:31 PM
I am super happy with mine also. I love a good tool, for sure. I want to pick up a pair of needle nose next.
Cody
I like the pliers for certain things, but the "ergonomic" jaws don't open as wide as some others and the jaws can bend if you try to use them for hard things like SS wire.
But they are fantastic for lead bending and wire bending. I would just keep a backup set of throw down pliers for rough materials.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Great info thanks.
Cody
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 08:53:19 PM
Quote from: pickdropper on December 18, 2014, 08:52:16 PM
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 08:36:31 PM
I am super happy with mine also. I love a good tool, for sure. I want to pick up a pair of needle nose next.
Cody
I like the pliers for certain things, but the "ergonomic" jaws don't open as wide as some others and the jaws can bend if you try to use them for hard things like SS wire.
But they are fantastic for lead bending and wire bending. I would just keep a backup set of throw down pliers for rough materials.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Great info thanks.
Cody
To clarify a bit, my Erem 542 pliers might be my favorite pliers. They are small and great for electronics work. At work, I have a pair of Erem 2422p and Erem 2411p pliers and I don't like those quite as much. They are longer and I find the jaw opening a bit too narrow for some things I want to do and they are a bit big for precision work (at least to me). At home, I have a pair of Klein pliers I use for anything that might damage my Erem 542 pliers and those work fine.
Quote from: selfdestroyer on December 18, 2014, 08:36:31 PM
I am super happy with mine also. I love a good tool, for sure. I want to pick up a pair of needle nose next.
Cody
I am pretty happy with my Xcelites, for pliers at least. Not as nice as the Erems, but still made in the USA and high quality. I think Apex tool group owns all thse brands now, Xcelite, Erem, Weller, Crescent, Wiss, etc. Although most of the sub-brands seem to be relatively autonomous and have maintained quality for the most part.
Anyways, for electronics pliers I have the following, which I use all the time:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN8R1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN9THI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN8V7W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN9TY6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UNFE9U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN8UNW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UNG83G/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Erem 530E10 PCB cutter
Only one pair left at a good price:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/one-pair-Anti-shock-PCB-Cutters-Erem-530E10-UP7B-/231241549857?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35d7120821
Quote from: dadler on March 15, 2015, 07:22:11 PM
Erem 530E10 PCB cutter
Only one pair left at a good price:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/one-pair-Anti-shock-PCB-Cutters-Erem-530E10-UP7B-/231241549857?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35d7120821
I have a pair of these. Useful things and that is a good price.
Okay, .....sold out and bought some Erem 2422E.
Used but from legit seller.
Quote from: pickdropper on March 15, 2015, 08:31:41 PM
Quote from: dadler on March 15, 2015, 07:22:11 PM
Erem 530E10 PCB cutter
Only one pair left at a good price:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/one-pair-Anti-shock-PCB-Cutters-Erem-530E10-UP7B-/231241549857?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35d7120821
I have a pair of these. Useful things and that is a good price.
Yeah Amazon wanted $80+. There were two left when I found the auction last night, so I bought one (probably should have bought both! Hehe).
I have a pair of Tandy cutters that I bought over 25 years ago. I've been using them for guitar string cutting for a long time. Now I use them for electronics. This is what is possible. They are still working great! the last set I bought had gauge ratings and other bologna about how I could use them. Is there still a diagonal cutter that justs cuts?
I got mine on ebay au, there were 2 sellers,
One seller (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/191518282114?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT) sells for 45 saying they are new (doubtful, but mine looked dam good condition)
The other (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Erem-2422EB-Oval-Head-Tapered-Full-Flush-Cutter-5-/291407562145?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item43d93e85a1)sells second hand for $35 but I suspect the picture is worse then what you get
I'd suspect they are coming from ex-telecommunications or jewellery making demos / classes...not sure, but they are legit and in good nick (the first ones were atleast).
You guys are a bad influence on me. ;D
Just picked up a pair of 2422E on eBay. Used for $12.50, but what the hell... Looking forward to checking these out.
Quote from: dadler on March 15, 2015, 11:34:10 PM
Quote from: pickdropper on March 15, 2015, 08:31:41 PM
Quote from: dadler on March 15, 2015, 07:22:11 PM
Erem 530E10 PCB cutter
Only one pair left at a good price:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/one-pair-Anti-shock-PCB-Cutters-Erem-530E10-UP7B-/231241549857?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35d7120821
I have a pair of these. Useful things and that is a good price.
Yeah Amazon wanted $80+. There were two left when I found the auction last night, so I bought one (probably should have bought both! Hehe).
$80 is a bit steep for a single pair. I have 3 different pair of PCB cutters and I didn't pay that much for all three of them combined and all were new.
The erem one is nice as it has an adjustable stop so you don't mess up the blade. It's different cutting motion so it takes a bit of getting used to. The tip of the cutter faces the solder joint and it sheers the lead at a defined length. It's useful for production work as it prevents you from cutting the lead too short, which can create stress on the joint. At least that's what the smart industry folks say.
I think I will love the erem cutters when they arrive.
Not to derail this topic entirely...but on a similar theme, my favorite type of pliers to use when populating PCBs is a right angle needlenose similar to the picture below. It is great when pulling leads through PCB holes or trying to grab switches etc. I still use my right angle tweezers for most final wiring.
(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/$(KGrHqQOKk!E3v6Mu14+BOFVEmo!mQ~~0_35.JPG)
I was wondering if erem or another brand makes a "good" set of these right angle needle nose? The ones I have are ok but it would be nice to have something similar in quality to the erem stuff. Thanks!
The Erem pliers are nice, but not made for heavy duty use. They are great for lead bending, however.
I don't know of any right angles versions, but I seem to recall seeing some from Lindstrom. If not, Klein almost certainly makes some. Klein isn't as high precision as Erem or Lindstrom, but that's less important for pliers than cutters.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Not exactly the same, but I use these curved nose pliers all the time when populating PCBs: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UN8V7W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Cheap enough to be throw away and made in the USA. Not as nice as the high end brands but still good stuff.
Came home to find the Erem 2422E in my mailbox. Holy @$($ these are awesome. Got them "used" for $12.50 USD on eBay but they are like new. Comparing them to my $4.00 Hakkos is not even a fair fight. Highly recommended.
Downsides so far...
1) Have to learn the secret "Erem" owner's club fist bump
2) All my other pliers/cutters feel like total crap now and I must replace them
Aren't Erem tools made in Switzerland? my sister lives there... maybe I can try and see if they're cheaper there. Usually everything is more expensive, but with their taxes you never know..
Quote from: rullywowr on March 23, 2015, 02:40:59 PM
Came home to find the Erem 2422E in my mailbox. Holy @$($ these are awesome. Got them "used" for $12.50 USD on eBay but they are like new. Comparing them to my $4.00 Hakkos is not even a fair fight. Highly recommended.
Downsides so far...
1) Have to learn the secret "Erem" owner's club fist bump
2) All my other pliers/cutters feel like total crap now and I must replace them
same here, I think you and I might have got them from the same seller.
While they are awesome, there is no friggin way I would pay $60-$80 for them. Unless I was a pro like pickdropper. It's not like the same difference in a cheap soldering iron vs. a nice one where the difference is night and day.
Quote from: peAk on March 23, 2015, 04:12:45 PM
Quote from: rullywowr on March 23, 2015, 02:40:59 PM
Came home to find the Erem 2422E in my mailbox. Holy @$($ these are awesome. Got them "used" for $12.50 USD on eBay but they are like new. Comparing them to my $4.00 Hakkos is not even a fair fight. Highly recommended.
Downsides so far...
1) Have to learn the secret "Erem" owner's club fist bump
2) All my other pliers/cutters feel like total crap now and I must replace them
same here, I think you and I might have got them from the same seller.
While they are awesome, there is no friggin way I would pay $60-$80 for them. Unless I was a pro like pickdropper. It's not like the same difference in a cheap soldering iron vs. a nice one where the difference is night and day.
Yeah, $80 is an awful lot for a pair of side cutters. I have paid over $50 for them in the past, but now I tend to scout deals as I've got enough to last me for a long time (maybe forever).
Glad you like them, Ben. They certainly are a cut above the norm. Har har.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: micromegas on March 23, 2015, 03:17:03 PM
Aren't Erem tools made in Switzerland? my sister lives there... maybe I can try and see if they're cheaper there. Usually everything is more expensive, but with their taxes you never know..
Yep, they are Swiss as is Lindstrom.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: pickdropper on March 23, 2015, 04:21:13 PM
Quote from: peAk on March 23, 2015, 04:12:45 PM
Quote from: rullywowr on March 23, 2015, 02:40:59 PM
Came home to find the Erem 2422E in my mailbox. Holy @$($ these are awesome. Got them "used" for $12.50 USD on eBay but they are like new. Comparing them to my $4.00 Hakkos is not even a fair fight. Highly recommended.
Downsides so far...
1) Have to learn the secret "Erem" owner's club fist bump
2) All my other pliers/cutters feel like total crap now and I must replace them
same here, I think you and I might have got them from the same seller.
While they are awesome, there is no friggin way I would pay $60-$80 for them. Unless I was a pro like pickdropper. It's not like the same difference in a cheap soldering iron vs. a nice one where the difference is night and day.
Yeah, $80 is an awful lot for a pair of side cutters. I have paid over $50 for them in the past, but now I tend to scout deals as I've got enough to last me for a long time (maybe forever).
Glad you like them, Ben. They certainly are a cut above the norm. Har har.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
yeah, they are really nice and I am glad you mentioned them here. I am just glad they sell second hand cheap for us non-pro guys :D
Quote from: pickdropper on March 23, 2015, 04:21:13 PM
Glad you like them, Ben. They certainly are a cut above the norm. Har har.
I like the "cut" of your jib. ;)
With all the $$ I "saved", I ordered a pair of Lindstrom bent nose pliers. These look great, just wondering if they will be grippy enough to pull leads through holes as they are smooth (no serrations) in the jaws.
(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTI1OVgxNjAw/z/nLwAAOxyAs9SS41N/$T2eC16d,!yUFIblRgF0JBSS41Nede!~~60_57.JPG)
Thanks to PickDropper and everyone I am very happy with these :)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/a945d5940ffe3eaa74573e8baa3372ca.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/faf0a391d3f8dfcc9765f938c43fadaf.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/70819b7c2eb39c533b46cc41a60f79e3.jpg)
Erem 2422E cutters
Erem 530e PCB cutters
Lindstrom 7892 bent nose smooth jaw pliers
I think my favorite is the 2422E. Incredible action. The PCB cutters are nice to get everything the same length. Lastly, the Lindstrom pliers are a huge upgrade and are awesome for pulling leads through holes or grabbing on to a small part or wire. I can't believe I waited so long to get some nicer tools - they just make the task so much more enjoyable.
Right on, Ben. Nice, useful collection there.
The 530 PCB cutters take a bit of getting used to, but they are great for production work.
Can i get a fast resume of what the pcb cutters could do for me?
Excuse this ignorant question, but the top pair with the 90 bent tip, what are those for?
Quote from: GrindCustoms on April 01, 2015, 01:07:39 AM
Can i get a fast resume of what the pcb cutters could do for me?
They allow you to cut the leads of through hole components all the same length. Not too long and not too short.
Before cutting
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/1983f646eec4cc4f7a36a688f11e81e3.jpg)
Cut long
EDIT: This step is optional...you can skip right to the PCB cutters..(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/6b80e1266979b62851aa59b329325bbe.jpg)
Cut with PCB cutters
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/ae83494bd922bbdadb30e7e1d47d9c07.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/d2b3cae360854c6129e3364a6315fd8b.jpg)
Ahhh.....nice.
Thanks for the quality pics.
I want one!! :o
Quote from: peAk on April 01, 2015, 01:44:46 AM
Excuse this ignorant question, but the top pair with the 90 bent tip, what are those for?
They are bent nose pliers. I love them and use them pretty much exclusively when working with PCBs. Bent nose allows you to tuck wires underneath, hold on to parts at a different angle, and pull leads through PCBs. Kind of like bent nose tweezers...indispensable. I was afraid these were going to slip as they are smooth jaw but they work fantastic. Here are my old cheap pair I used for a long time next to the new ones:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/b8b13b00b9035e39c7c71c099d3ae9e8.jpg)
I also like to use full size ones when working on my vehicles...awesome for taking off spring hose clamps and the like. ;)
Here's an action shot:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/12490ff0687c5656ec609ddfa80bad9a.jpg)
I suppose tweezers also do the trick ;)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/31/3af78adf25afe676f010219edf6be982.jpg)
That means one added handling.... not convincing me....
I think you can have an enough steady hand to not over-short the lead or cut through the solder bell.
Too fancy for me! But i could'nt live without my 2422E tho....
I also fancy bent long nose for working in the pedals that matched with small O-Ring tools... full handling over any wire or when working wires from under the pcb.
....I want one.... :O
Quote from: GrindCustoms on April 01, 2015, 01:53:47 AM
That means one added handling.... not convincing me....
I think you can have an enough steady hand to not over-short the lead or cut through the solder bell.
Too fancy for me! But i could'nt live without my 2422E tho....
I also fancy bent long nose for working in the pedals that matched with small O-Ring tools... full handling over any wire or when working wires from under the pcb.
Actually, this is my first time with these. Apparently they work just fine without cutting the lead before hand...still getting used to them. I do love my 2422E though!
Quote from: rullywowr on April 01, 2015, 03:05:35 AM
Quote from: GrindCustoms on April 01, 2015, 01:53:47 AM
That means one added handling.... not convincing me....
I think you can have an enough steady hand to not over-short the lead or cut through the solder bell.
Too fancy for me! But i could'nt live without my 2422E tho....
I also fancy bent long nose for working in the pedals that matched with small O-Ring tools... full handling over any wire or when working wires from under the pcb.
Actually, this is my first time with these. Apparently they work just fine without cutting the lead before hand...still getting used to them. I do love my 2422E though!
Yeah, you don't need to cut twice. It a bit strange cutting perpendicular to the normal cutting operation, but you get used to it.
I thought the pcb cutters were for cutting the leads (when through the pcb) before you soldered the lead to the pcb, ?
dave
Got a problem with my 2422e's :(
Was cutting through a trimpot leg, the economy tayda type. When the blades made the cut, they must of hit each other and now are way out of alignment. No amount of stuffing about with the nuts can get them straight again (unless im missing something?).
Anyone know how to realign the blades? Seems like as soon as i make the last turn on either of the 2 nuts to tighten the blades, they go out of alignment again (and when they are even slightly out, they dont cut!)
Thanks for any help!
I felt your heart sinking, a tremor in the force... sorry i can't offer any advice but know the feeling...
dave
If you bought them new, contact Erem. I sent one back after having it for years and they replaced it free of charge.
2nd hand...wheres the crying emoticon...
Can you take a picture? I've seen pairs chip because they were used to cut harder metals (bad idea) or were used to pry something (even worse idea) but I haven't seen that type of misalignment yet. I am not sure I can help, but I'd like to see the problem.
I know when people sharpen them, they carefully put them on a mill and machine them. Depending on how bad it is, you might be able to find a resharpener who can do that.
The unfortunate thing with second hand cutters is that they may have been resharpened once or more times. Erem says they can be resharpened two or three times, but after that the metal is thin enough that it is compromised. It's possible that's what happened with your pair (although I have no idea if that's the case). I've purchased second hand cutters that have obviously been resharpened. One pair of Excelta cutters broke with very little use, likely because the metal was compromised at the cutting area.
I have a feeling this guys selling / refurbing them. A trimpot leg is a bit tough, but im shocked at how little effort it took to break them.
lol thats got to be the most awesome random moody photo i think ive ever taken. Although, ive been a bit moody since they busted so...
You can see there, they are missing by a long shot. Dont worry about that blue stuff around the nut. That was my attempt at trying to STOP the blade from passing the other as i tightened the nut. They just dont line up! Maybe i can find a washer or something to use as a spacer...kills me to do it but they are pretty well bin worthy at the moment. Even then, dont think i could accurate space it so they line up properly...
That's one good thing about my cheapo sidecutters that I use for everything from toenails to wires to SMD packaging, they're practically made of mithril as far as indestructibility goes
it might be time for me to admit that i believe i can get by just fine with my $10 plato flush cutters and the Stanley mini pliers set i bought around 7 years ago at walmart. ;)
Spent hours trying to get those blades lined up. Contacted the ebay seller, making it his problem. I dont believe that i have mishandled them. A trimpot leg...seriously...
I can't remember seeing anything like that before on a pair of these (and I've seen a lot of them). Usually, if the blades hit each other too hard or cut something too hard the blade is nicked. Something went seriously wrong for such a misalignment to happen. Was the cutting action loose at that point? The only thing I can think of is that there is something off about the assembly. The only other explanation I can think of is that they are bent, but these are really hard; they usually chip before bending. Of course, if they were resharpened I suppose the metal could be thin enough to bend.
Weird.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: alanp on April 12, 2015, 04:36:27 AM
That's one good thing about my cheapo sidecutters that I use for everything from toenails to wires to SMD packaging, they're practically made of mithril as far as indestructibility goes
I've had more cheap side cutters fail on me than expensive ones. The stamped blades can chip fairly easily. The key with the expensive ones is to get them rated for what you are cutting. I'd still like to pickup a pair of carbide cutters but I've put it off because they are quite expensive for an occasional use tool.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Bizarre hah!? Its almost like...when the blades were flash, they weren't in their natural position. Took little encouragement to knock them out of wack.
When i cut through the trimpot leg i was using a bit more then normal force, admittedly, albeit only slightly. It made the cut, then one blade went up the side of the other. Now there is no way to get them back to alignment position again...bent maybe? Seriously though the 'force' wasn't that much, imagine cutting 3 x 1n4001 legs at once, approximately. I'd classify this particular set of cutters as fragile.
Their going back, this guy can give me a new pair / refund.
What kind of trimpot was it? Cutting 3 x 1n4001 simultaneously would require a decent amount of force. I wouldn't expect that to break them, but it's more than a standard lead cut.
It's hard to say if it's the fault of the seller. It sounds like a bit of bad luck on a used tool. I would ask him if they've been resharpened and if so, how many times.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
one of these: http://www.taydaelectronics.com/potentiometer-variable-resistors/trimmers/6mm-top-adjustment.html
I dont believe that these side cutters could become strap metal from cutting a leg of one of these trimmers. Anyway, ill send them back and the seller can check them / fix / refund or whatever he feels like. Its back to my old $5 set in the meantime...which mind you, has no issues cutting those trimmer legs...
Quote from: chromesphere on April 12, 2015, 09:40:32 PM
one of these: http://www.taydaelectronics.com/potentiometer-variable-resistors/trimmers/6mm-top-adjustment.html
I dont believe that these side cutters could become strap metal from cutting a leg of one of these trimmers. Anyway, ill send them back and the seller can check them / fix / refund or whatever he feels like. Its back to my old $5 set in the meantime...which mind you, has no issues cutting those trimmer legs...
Yeah, I wouldn't expect those legs to cause an issue. They might be a bit thicker than is ideal for precision cutters, but I've cut things like that with mine without an issue. They are rated to cut metals a bit over 1mm as long as it's soft (like component leads).
The beater cutters are great to have around for some of the heavier duty things. It damages them, but it doesn't matter because you can replace them cheaply.
Oh yeah, just remembered, these weren't listed as used...they were listed as new ("without box") ::)
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/191518282114?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
so far, my used ones have been great.
I hope the don't fail like this :o
Seller said they are probably faulty. I wouldn't take my experience with these side cutters as normal. See what happens with the next pair! That's right, I will get another. Up to the point that they failed they were excellent cutters.
Very cool that the seller is standing behind them. I hope you have better luck with the next pair.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thanks Dave and thanks for your help mate! I'm not discouraged by Erem because of this incident at all. I'm using my old sidecutters at the moment and its so difficult to go back to them...their just rubbish... :(
UPDATE: Just to update on the problem I had. Sent them back to the seller and he sent through a refund. I asked him if he knew what happened or had seen this sort of problem before and he said he had been selling the 2422e for 2 years now and had never seen it happen before. Sounded like he didn't even know WHAT had actually happened. Anyway, I got a refund.
I will be getting another set, just trying to decide where from. I have gone back to using my old sidecutters (aka toenail clippers) since these broke...yeah...its just not same is it...
Quote from: chromesphere on April 17, 2015, 05:23:37 AM
UPDATE: Just to update on the problem I had. Sent them back to the seller and he sent through a refund. I asked him if he knew what happened or had seen this sort of problem before and he said he had been selling the 2422e for 2 years now and had never seen it happen before. Sounded like he didn't even know WHAT had actually happened. Anyway, I got a refund.
I will be getting another set, just trying to decide where from. I have gone back to using my old sidecutters (aka toenail clippers) since these broke...yeah...its just not same is it...
Sorry to hear of your issues, but I am glad the seller is making good on it. 2422e are hands down my favorite cutters ever. So smooooth and comfortable.
Ditto Ben! Oh! Ill be getting another pair, just depends on WHERE :)
Lucky we lost that last 6 months worth of posts so you guys couldn't quote me on that comment "I have every handtool I will need for the rest of my life".
Come on though...we knew it was going to happen.
Quote from: chromesphere on February 03, 2016, 02:18:26 AM
Lucky we lost that last 6 months worth of posts so you guys couldn't quote me on that comment "I have every handtool I will need for the rest of my life".
Come on though...we knew it was going to happen.
Does that pull regular width ICs or is it for the significantly wider, higher pin count ICs.
I had a set similar to that a while back, but it was for the wider ICs and I don't often come across those so I sent it back.
Yep same as mine. Didnt realise till i got them home. Might have to rig up something to decrease the jaw size currently filled with hotglue and carved it to work at about half width with the adjustment screw at minimum. I got these on amazon for 15$ (!!!) so no big deal ill be able to make them work somehow.
Well, after a fairly long remission, it was time for a new set of Erem cutters.
I think these might be my new favorites:
(https://www.antistat.com/shopimages/products/normal/cutters-2476tx2-4-1_2in-diagonal-tip.jpg)
They are tungsten carbide cutters. These are commonly used in the medical industry because they can cut harder wires (like the stainless steel used in stents). I've never really considered them because they hover around the $200 a pair mark, which I can't justify. Recently, I ran into an eBay seller who had a lot of 5 clean used pairs for cheap, so FFX bought us all new pliers.
So far, I'm really digging them. I've had a different pair of Erem tungsten carbide cutters, but they didn't cut as smoothly as my other Erems that were designed for. These cut very smoothly but I don't have to be as careful with them.
Ive got a new pair of side cutters coming today from Amazon. I've been using a pair of really old ones I stole from my dad about 10 years ago which I previously used when changing strings. Decided I wanted something a bit better so ordered a set of these
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00ONEVUF8/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1467552891&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=engineer+side+cutters&dpPl=1&dpID=41XxxcgYLKL&ref=plSrch
I bought a solder sucker from the same brand a few months ago and really liked it so thought I'd give them a go. I'd love a set of those erem jobbies but can't justify that kind of cash... yet.
I'm heading to Switzerland in August for work (26 hrs travel from home!). I'm hoping to get some cutters and pliers while I'm there... :)