Aviation Snips

About Aviation Snips

Aviation snips, also known as aviation shears or compound tin snips, are specialist hand-cutting tools engineered for precision cutting of sheet metal, plastic, and other thin materials. Originally developed for the aircraft industry—hence their distinctive name—these versatile cutting tools have evolved into essential equipment across numerous trades. With their characteristic compound leverage mechanism and hardened, sharp blades, aviation snips deliver clean, accurate cuts through materials up to 1.2mm thick without causing distortion or leaving rough, jagged edges that require extensive finishing work.

Modern aviation snips are distinguished by a standardised colour-coding system that indicates cutting direction: left-cutting models feature red handles for anticlockwise curves and left-edge trimming, right-cutting versions have green handles for clockwise curves and right-edge work, whilst straight-cutting snips sport yellow handles for linear cuts and gentle curves in either direction. This intuitive colour system allows tradespeople to quickly identify the correct tool for each task. Tooled-Up.com stocks professional-grade aviation snips from trusted manufacturers including Stanley, Irwin, Bahco, DeWalt, Faithfull, Bessey, Milwaukee, and Draper, with options ranging from individual snips to comprehensive three-piece sets covering all cutting directions.

Whether working with aluminium, copper, mild steel, vinyl siding, or HVAC ductwork, aviation snips provide superior control and cutting performance compared to traditional tin snips or hacksaws. Features such as compound leverage systems that reduce cutting effort by up to 40%, ergonomic soft-grip handles that minimise hand fatigue, spring-loaded blade action for automatic opening, and hardened steel cutting edges ensure these tools deliver professional results on site or in the workshop, making them indispensable for any tradesperson working with sheet materials.

Jargon Buster

• Compound Leverage – A mechanical advantage system incorporating multiple pivot points that multiplies cutting force, allowing users to cut through tougher materials with significantly less hand pressure. Quality compound aviation snips require approximately 40% less effort than standard tin snips, reducing fatigue during extended cutting tasks.
• Throat Depth – The distance measured from the cutting edge to the back of the snips, which determines how far into a sheet you can cut without obstruction from the tool body. Greater throat depth provides increased versatility for complex cutting patterns and working away from material edges.
• Gauge Rating – The maximum thickness of material the snips can safely cut, typically expressed in millimetres or sheet metal gauge numbers. Most aviation snips handle 18-24 gauge mild steel (0.5-1.2mm), though capacity varies by model and material type, with softer metals like aluminium allowing thicker cuts.
• Serrated Blades – Cutting edges featuring small teeth that grip the material firmly during cutting, preventing slippage and providing enhanced control, particularly beneficial when cutting curved or circular patterns where maintaining the cutting line is critical.
• Spring-Loaded Action – An internal spring mechanism that automatically reopens the blades after each cut, reducing hand fatigue during repetitive cutting tasks, improving productivity, and maintaining consistent cutting rhythm throughout the workday.
• HRC Rating – Hardness Rockwell C scale measurement indicating blade hardness, with professional aviation snips typically featuring cutting edges hardened to 60-62 HRC for superior edge retention and durability when cutting demanding materials.

Who Uses Aviation Snips?

Aviation snips are essential tools across numerous trades and industries:

• HVAC Engineers – cutting and fabricating ductwork, ventilation systems, metal housing components, and air conditioning installations
• Roofers – trimming and shaping flashing, guttering, metal roofing materials, and soffit installations
• Sheet Metal Workers – precision cutting and fabrication of various metal products, components, and architectural metalwork
• Plumbers – cutting copper sheet, pipe clips, metal securing straps, and radiator backing plates
• Electricians – trimming cable trunking, metal conduit, electrical enclosures, and consumer unit housings
• Motor Mechanics – cutting sheet metal during bodywork repairs, custom fabrication, and restoration projects
• Builders and Carpenters – cutting metal studs, tracks, drywall components, and general site metalwork
• Cladding Installers – trimming metal cladding panels, flashings, and weatherproofing components
• Sign Makers – cutting aluminium composite panels, thin sheet materials, and precision trim work
• DIY Enthusiasts – home improvement projects involving guttering, flashing, sheet materials, and general maintenance

How to Choose the Right Aviation Snips

Cutting Direction: Determine whether you require left-cutting (red), right-cutting (green), or straight-cutting (yellow) snips based on your typical work. For comprehensive versatility, consider a three-piece set from brands like Bessey, BlueSpot, or Irwin that includes all cutting types. Left-cut snips excel at anticlockwise curves and trimming left edges, whilst right-cut versions handle clockwise curves and right edges. Straight-cut snips work best for linear cuts and gentle curves in either direction.

Material and Gauge Capacity: Check the maximum material thickness and type the snips can handle. Standard aviation snips typically cut up to 1.2mm mild steel, whilst heavy-duty compound models can tackle thicker materials. Consider the materials you work with most frequently—stainless steel demands more robust blades than aluminium or vinyl. Always verify the manufacturer's specifications for your intended applications.

Handle Design and Comfort: Look for ergonomic handles with soft-grip coating, particularly if you're performing extended cutting tasks. Professional models from DeWalt, Stanley, and Milwaukee incorporate cushioned grips that reduce hand fatigue, prevent blisters during prolonged use, and maintain control even when wearing work gloves.

Compound vs. Standard Leverage: Compound leverage aviation snips significantly reduce the effort required for each cut, making them ideal for professional tradespeople working with tougher materials or performing high-volume cutting. Standard models available at Tooled-Up are perfectly adequate for occasional use and lighter gauge materials.

Blade Quality: Professional-grade aviation snips feature hardened, forged steel blades (typically 60-62 HRC) that maintain their cutting edge longer and resist damage from demanding materials. Look for models with serrated edges for improved grip, and consider snips with replaceable or sharpenable blades for extended tool life and better long-term value.

Spring Mechanism: Quality aviation snips incorporate robust spring-loaded action that automatically reopens the blades after each cut. This feature dramatically reduces hand fatigue during repetitive work and maintains consistent cutting performance throughout the day.

Brand Reputation: Established manufacturers including Bahco, Bessey, Facom, and WISS offer reliability, consistent quality, and warranty support. Professional tradespeople often prefer recognised brands for dependable performance and readily available replacement parts or accessories.

Popular Accessories

• Tool Belts and Pouches – purpose-designed holsters and pouches for carrying aviation snips safely on site, keeping them accessible whilst preventing damage
• Cut-Resistant Safety Gloves – protective gloves to shield hands from sharp edges, metal burrs, and potential cuts during material handling
• Metal Files and Deburring Tools – for smoothing cut edges, removing sharp burrs, and achieving professional finishing on freshly cut materials
• Measuring and Marking Tools – scribers, permanent markers, metal rules, and straight edges for accurate marking of cutting lines
• Cutting Oil and Lubricants – to maintain smooth blade action, reduce friction, prevent rust formation, and extend tool lifespan
• Tool Storage Solutions – Stanley FatMax, DeWalt TSTAK, or Milwaukee PACKOUT organisers to protect and organise your snips collection
• Safety Glasses – essential eye protection against flying metal particles and fragments created during cutting operations
• Sharpening Stones and Files – fine-grit stones for maintaining optimal cutting edge sharpness and blade performance
• Blade Guards – protective covers for safe storage and transportation of aviation snips
• Work Gloves – general-purpose work gloves for material handling and improved grip during cutting tasks

Safety Information

Aviation snips create sharp edges and metal fragments that present genuine injury risks. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses to protect against flying metal particles and sharp burrs. When cutting, position the material securely on a stable work surface and keep hands and fingers well clear of the cutting path at all times.

Freshly cut metal edges are extremely sharp and can cause serious lacerations—always deburr cut edges immediately using a file or dedicated deburring tool before handling. Be particularly cautious when cutting spring steel or similar materials that may snap back unexpectedly during the cutting process. Store aviation snips with blade guards fitted or in protective pouches to prevent accidental cuts and maintain blade sharpness between uses.

Regularly inspect your aviation snips for damage, particularly checking that pivot points are secure, blades are properly aligned, and the spring mechanism functions correctly. Damaged or loose tools can slip during cutting, potentially causing injury. The HSE recommends maintaining hand tools in good working order and replacing any that show signs of excessive wear, damage, or compromised safety features.

When working at height or on ladders, ensure aviation snips are secured in a tool belt or pouch to prevent dropping them onto people below. Never use aviation snips for purposes beyond their design specification, such as cutting hardened materials, wire, bolts, or materials thicker than the rated capacity, as this can cause blade damage and potential injury from tool failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between aviation snips and regular tin snips?

Aviation snips feature compound leverage mechanisms that multiply cutting force through additional pivot points, making them significantly more powerful and easier to use than traditional tin snips. They also incorporate spring-loaded action for automatic blade opening, ergonomic handles for extended comfort, and typically offer cleaner, more controlled cuts with less material distortion. Aviation snips are designed for precision work and can cut tighter curves, whilst standard tin snips are generally limited to straight cuts and gentle curves in either direction.

Can I sharpen aviation snips when they become dull?

Yes, aviation snip blades can be sharpened using a fine metal file or sharpening stone, though this requires care to maintain the correct blade angle (typically around 85 degrees). Work along the existing bevel with consistent pressure and angle, taking care not to overheat the blade. However, heavily worn or damaged blades are best replaced rather than sharpened. Some professional models from brands like Bessey and Bahco offer replacement blade assemblies for cost-effective tool maintenance.

Why do aviation snips come in different colours?

The colour-coding system (red, green, and yellow) indicates cutting direction and blade orientation: red handles cut left curves and anticlockwise circles, green handles cut right curves and clockwise circles, whilst yellow handles are designed for straight cuts and gentle curves in either direction. This standardised colour system allows tradespeople to quickly identify the correct tool for each job, improving efficiency on site and reducing the likelihood of selecting inappropriate snips that could damage materials or produce poor-quality cuts.

What's the maximum thickness of metal I can cut with aviation snips?

Most standard aviation snips cut up to 1.2mm mild steel (approximately 18 gauge), though capacity varies by model, brand, and material type. Softer materials like aluminium, copper, and vinyl can typically be cut at greater thicknesses than mild steel or stainless steel. Heavy-duty compound models may handle up to 1.5mm or slightly more. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for your particular model, and never exceed the rated capacity as this can damage the blades, compromise cutting quality, and create safety hazards.

Do I really need all three types of aviation snips?

For professional tradespeople regularly working with sheet metal, having all three types—left-cut, right-cut, and straight-cut—provides maximum versatility and efficiency for various cutting tasks. However, DIY users or those performing occasional cutting tasks may find that straight-cutting (yellow) snips meet most needs adequately. If you frequently cut complex shapes, circular ductwork, or need to trim material edges in various directions, investing in a three-piece set from manufacturers like Irwin, BlueSpot, or Draper offers excellent value and ensures you always have the right tool for professional-quality results.