What Are Snips?
Snips (often called aviation snips or tin snips) are hand tools designed to cut sheet metal and similar thin materials. They use compound leverage to multiply hand force and typically feature serrated blades for grip and clean cuts.
Which Type of Snips Do I Need?
- Left-Cut (Red handle) – Best for counter-clockwise curves and straight cuts; ejects waste to the left.
- Right-Cut (Green handle) – Best for clockwise curves and straight cuts; ejects waste to the right.
- Straight-Cut (Yellow handle) – General-purpose straight cutting; many models also handle gentle curves.
- Offset / Angled Snips – Keeps knuckles above the work for long cuts and better clearance over the sheet.
- Long-Cut – Longer blades for extended straight runs in thinner material.
How to Choose Snips for Your Material
- Match capacity: Verify the tool’s gauge rating (e.g., 18–22 ga CR steel, thinner for stainless).
- Pick cut direction: Choose left/red or right/green for tight curves; yellow/straight for general cuts.
- Select blade style: Serrated blades reduce slip; smooth blades can leave a cleaner edge on soft metals.
- Handle/ergonomics: Spring-assist, lock, and cushioned grips reduce fatigue on repetitive cuts.
Common Applications
- HVAC ductwork, sheet-metal fabrication, roofing and flashing
- Electrical enclosures, gutter and downspout trimming
- Plastic laminate, vinyl siding, and light aluminum trims (within rating)
Safety & Care
- Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection, sheet edges can be sharp.
- Let the snips do the work; don’t twist the tool through the cut.
- Wipe blades after use and lightly oil the pivot; store with the latch closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the red, green, and yellow handles mean?
Red = left-cut, green = right-cut, yellow = straight-cut. The color coding helps you grab the correct snips for the cut path.
Can straight-cut snips cut curves?
Yes, many straight-cut models handle gentle curves, but tight radii are easier with the matching left/right snips.
Will these snips cut stainless steel?
Only if the tool is rated for stainless and within the specified gauge. Stainless requires more force and dulls blades faster.
What are offset snips used for?
Offset (angled) snips keep your hand above the sheet for long straight runs and reduce interference with the workpiece.
How do I get cleaner edges?
Use sharp, quality snips matched to material thickness, maintain steady pressure, and avoid over-closing the blades at the end of each stroke.