Tin Snips
Using Tin snips to cut sheet metal requires less effort than using tin snips for the same task: a compound lever mechanism on the tool provides greater control with less hand pressure. The serrated jaws prevent slippage and withstand heavy use. Lugs on the handles help protect your hands from being cut. A metal latch on the side of the tool holds the jaws closed when the snips are not in use.

Using Tin Snips
Mark a cut line on the metal. Use aviation snips as you would use scissors on heavy cardboard. As you cut, open the jaws of the snips fully, and make cuts as long as possible; if you snap the jaws closed completely at the end of the cut, you'll nick the edges of the metal. Use an awl or a sharp nail to scribe precise cutting lines on sheet metal.

Cutting Inside Curves
First drill or punch a starter hole. Then, using right- or left-cutting aviation snips, make a first cut close to the line to remove most of the waste material. Make a second pass to snip precisely along the cutting line.

Tin snips are generally available in a length of 10 inches. All aviation snips cut straight lines, but some are intended specifically for cutting either right-hand or left-hand curves. Grips are color-coded: yellow for a tool that makes combination cuts, red for left-hand curves, and green for right-hand curves.

Caution:
Sheet metal, particularly the cut edges, can be very sharp. Be sure to wear heavy work gloves when handling or cutting it (leather gloves offer the greatest protection).

Author: Carl Robinson
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