Are you a DIYer looking to upgrade your work tools for better work output? If yes then you should consider getting a metal shear. In this guide, we would be reviewing the best metal shears to buy. Read through this guide to find out the best metal shears.
Metal Shears
Power shears for sheet metal come in two main variants: single cutting types, which look fairly similar to nibblers, and double cutting types which commonly resemble a drill or reciprocating saw with a strange metal contraption bolted onto the end.
Single Cut Shears
The action of a single cut shear is essentially the same as a pair of scissors (or shears, for that matter). As the machine is advanced through the material a sharpened moveable blade rapidly cuts against a fixed, or anvil, blade, with the metal in between.
This slices cleanly through the sheet metal without creating any waste material, though it will usually distort (ie warp or bend) the material to some degree as it cuts through it.
For this reason, they are not usually the first choice if the metal needs to be kept flat, or is being used for an application with specific tolerances. Single cut shears can cut curves but usually require a wider turning circle than nibblers, and if pushed beyond their capabilities they will leave a jagged and distorted edge.
One of the primary advantages of single cut shears is their cut capacity. They are usually capable of more heavy-duty cutting tasks than either double-cut shears or nibblers; for example, the Makita JS3201 offers a max cut of 3.2mm in mild steel, more than double the rated capacity of most tools in the other two camps.
Double Cut Shears
Double cut shears are so-called because they use two separate cutters which remove a thin strip of material as the tool is advanced through the material. In this respect, they leave a wider kerf, like nibblers, but are much easier to clean up after.
They also cut with minimum distortion, as long as they are kept fairly straight; double-cut shears do not excel at curved cuts and are not suitable for heavier duty applications like single cut shears.
However, for many applications in light gauge sheet metals, they provide a quick, easy way of producing a clean cut that preserves the shape and structure of the metal without creating excess waste.
METAL SHEARS BUYER’S GUIDE
This buying guide has a wide range of aspects and factors related to metal shears. In other words, you can easily buy the perfect metal shears for you after going through this buying guide until the end:
Tool Type
You can find a wide range of metal shears out there since these are so handy for cutting metal sheets and metal objects.
Due to this, all of the various models out there differ from each other in terms of their functionality. Apart from having different features, different metal shears are ideal for different applications.
While some of them are standalone power tools with inbuilt electric motors, others might be an accessory for your existing power tools. You can choose either of these as per your ease of use and power requirements.
Power Type
If you are going with standalone metal shears that come with an inbuilt electric motor, then you can further find different power type options in such metal shears. Even though all powered metal shears use electricity for power, the source of electricity can be different with different models.
While some of them are corded models and plug directly into a power socket, others might be cordless models and use battery power to function. Out of these two, corded models are generally more powerful, with cordless models being more practical for portable usage.
Power Rating
Whether you are buying a corded or a cordless power tool, making sure that it is powerful enough is quite important. This is especially true for metal shears if you want to cut thick metal sheets. Hence, you can find the power rating for most of the metal shears models out there.
For corded models, this power rating is given in amps as 4 amps or 5 amps. On the other hand, cordless metal shears have a power rating of either 12 volts or 20 volts. And in both of these cases, the higher rating generally results in better performance.
Gauge Rating
Another way to get an idea of the performance offered by your metal shears is to check its gauge rating. This essentially tells you the supported or compatible metal sheet thickness that you can cut through using given metal shears. While some metal shears have a gauge rating of 14 gauge, others might have a gauge rating of 20 gauge.
When compared with each other, the 14 gauge rating is better for cutting thick metal sheets if needed. In other words, a higher gauge rating results in thinner metal sheets, and a lower gauge rating results in thinner metal sheets.
Warranty
The warranty duration of any given metal shears model is as important as any other factor or aspect mentioned in this buying guide. This is simply due to the reason if you wish to use your metal shears for a long time, you should go with metal shears that come with a long warranty duration.
Almost all of the metal shears out there come with a 2-year long warranty. Although you can also find slightly better models with a 5-year long warranty in some cases.
Cost
What is the budget that you had planned to use in buying a metal shear? Compare various metal shears and choose one that suits your financial status. Cheap is expensive, and you should avoid that. However, a metal shear being costly doesn’t guarantee it will be of good quality. Check the features it has and weighs that against the price it’s selling. This way, you will avoid buying something expensive that is not of good quality or something cheap that won’t perform or last long.
BEST METAL SHEARS
| NAMES | FEATURES | WHERE TO BUY |
| WEN Electric Metal Shear 3650
|
Pressure-sensitive trigger cuts anywhere from 0 to 2500 strokes per minute
Attack up to 20 gauge stainless steel and 18 gauge sheet metal Lightweight design limits fatigue during operation Utilizes a powerful 4-amp motor, curling the metal as it cuts Swiveling head rotates a full 360 degrees to meet the needs of any project |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Genesis Corded Swivel Head Metal Shear GES40
|
Three-Blade Cutting System Reduces Metal Deformation
Cutting Radius of 5-1/2″ and Larger Lock-On Switch for Extended Use Built-in Belt Clip Includes: Hex-Key for Easy Blade Replacement |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Gino Development TruePower Metal Shear 01-0101
|
SPEED: 1800 SPM (no load); cuts up to 150 in. Per-minute in 24 gauge mild steel
Maximum cutting capacity: 18 gauge mild steel, 22 gauge stainless steel Includes: metal Shears, cutting blades, hex key, spare carbon brushes, instruction Manual |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| XtremepowerUS Metal Shear
|
360 degrees rotating head swivel
Neat and smooth cut from any angle Variable speed control ranging from 0 to 2500 RPM Powered by an electric motor |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Grizzly Sheet Metal Shear H5503
|
Has a cutting speed of 150 inches per minute
All-round adjustable swivel head Variable speed control of up to 2500 SPM The electric motor of 2500 RPM for fast and tireless shearing |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Metal Shear (DCS491B)
|
360-degree tool free swivel head which allows user to access tight quarters while maintaining comfort.
Cuts 7/32″ strip which continuously curls out of the cutting area providing consistent and accurate cuts. Cordless shears allow users to take the tool to the workplace. |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Milwaukee Electric Tool Metal Shear 2470-21
|
Quick-return blade helps to increase productivity when making repetitive cuts
Stainless-steel blade and aluminum jaw are impacts, water, and rust-resistant Variable speed trigger gives a controlled cut in both cold and warm weather On-board fuel gauge displays remaining battery charge and run time (battery not included) |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Dewalt Metal Shears (DWASHRIR)
|
Cuts up to 18GA material including but not limited to Sheet metal, corrugated sheet metal, duct, asphalt shingles, steel mesh, vinyl siding, wire, plastics, cardboard, and rubber.
360-degree swivel head allows for maneuverability when cutting Works with most 18V-20V impact driver and drill tool brands |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| Wild Edge Metal Shear
|
The motor power rating of 5.0 amps
Gauge rating of up to 14 gauge 1-year long warranty Decent build quality for peace of mind |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
| DEWALT Metal Shear, Swivel Head, 18GA (DW890)
|
Powerful, 5.0 Amp, all ball-bearing motor for long life
Variable speed permits cutting of a wide variety of thickness Head swivels 360° for cutting convenience Cuts 7/32-in strip which continuously curls out of the cutting area for a clear line of sight |
GET IT ON AMAZON |
WEN Electric Metal Shear 3650
The lightweight 4.7-pound design limits fatigue during operation while the powerful 4-amp motor makes easy work out of a variety of metals. The pressure-sensitive switch adjusts the speeds of the cut anywhere from 0 to 2500 strokes per minute depending on the force applied.
The pivoting head rotates a full 360 degrees to allow for cutting at any angle or direction without having to have an awkward or uncomfortable hold on the shear’s handle. And, because it’s a WEN Product, your purchase comes backed by a two-year warranty, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer phone line all to make sure you remember WEN.
| PROS | CONS |
| Incredible price | Clunky swiveling |
| Variable speed trigger | |
| 4-amp motor | |
| Swiveling head |
Genesis Corded Swivel Head Metal Shear GES40
This is a stylish metal shear that can be a good choice for simple shearing tasks in your home. However, this doesn’t mean you cannot use it for professional tasks. It will give a smooth and neat trimming or cutting with its variable speed of 0 to 2500 SPM.
You can cut comfortably from any angle using the swiveling head that has 360 degrees rotating capability. This will give you complete control and comfort when using this metal shear. Metal deformation is reduced by the three-blade cutting system of this tool.
| PROS | CONS |
| Variable speed ranging from 0 to 2500 SPM | none |
| Three blades system | |
| All-round corded swivel head | |
| Cutting capacity of a maximum of 14 gauge | |
| Powered by a 4 amp motor |
Gino Development TruePower Metal Shear 01-0101
This is one of the cheapest metal shears that you will find in the market. Its low price should not cheat you on its performance. It is a powerful tool that can withstand being subjected to demanding tasks regularly. Its powerful capability is exhibited by the fact that has a cutting capacity of 18 gauge for the mild steel and 22 gauge for stainless steel. This is the highest you will get in the market.
It is electrically powered which means you will have an easy time shearing surface. This is good for newbies to the shearing world or the people who will regularly be shearing and for long periods. You won’t get tired easily.
| PROS | CONS |
| On/off switch for comfortable control | none |
| Provides flexible and quality performance | |
| Cutting speed of 150 inches per minute | |
| Has a no-load speed of 1800 SPM |
XtremepowerUS Metal Shear
This metal shear will help you make sharp, precise cuts and make smooth, clean finishes. It is electrically powered meaning you will not use a lot of energy to use it. The user-friendly construction of this metal shear makes it a good choice for those starting in shearing and those that will frequently be shearing.
The tool has a swivel head that can rotate all-round. This makes it a flexible tool that will give you the comfort to shear from any angle. The flexibility and comfort ensure you won’t damage the material you are shearing or hurt yourself in the process.
| PROS | CONS |
| 360-Degree Swivel Head | none |
| Cut up to 14-Gauge Metal | |
| Variable Speed Operation | |
| Lightweight Design | |
| Double Cut Design |
Grizzly Sheet Metal Shear H5503
This Electric Sheet Metal Shear features a 1/2 HP, 110V, 2500 RPM, 3.8 amp motor, a 360-degree adjustable swivel head, and variable speeds from 0 to 2500 SPM. Cuts up to 14 gauge in mild steel and 18 gauge in stainless, at up to 150 inches per minute. Weighs 5 lbs.
Grizzly metal shear specially designed to use on sheets in circles with a radius of 12 inches and above. If you want to slice, cut, or trim a metal sheet, fast and flawlessly, this metal shear can be a good option to go.
| PROS | CONS |
| Sturdy | none |
| Easy to use | |
| Good for use on corrugated sheets | |
| Lightweight |
DEWALT 20V MAX Metal Shear (DCS491B)
The 20V MAX* 18 Gauge Swivel Head Shears (Tool Only) by DEWALT® has a 360-degree tool-free swivel head that permits access to tight spaces. They are cordless and portable, so easy to transport around the jobsite. The gear has a cutting capacity of up to 18-gauge mild steel and 20-gauge stainless steel, with a minimum cutting radius of 5.5 inches and a stroke-per-minute rate of up to 2,300. The shears can cut a 7/32 inch strip which continuously curls away from the cutting space for accuracy and consistency.
| PROS | CONS |
| The minimum cutting radius of shears is 5.5 inches, allowing room to work | none |
| Stroke rate ranges from 0-2,300 strokes per minute, which provides speed and power | |
| DEWALT cordless swivel head shears are cordless transport to work sites easily | |
| The tool has a cutting capacity of up to 18-gauge mild steel and 20-gauge stainless steel for harder jobs |
Milwaukee Electric Tool Metal Shear 2470-21
The M12™ Plastic Pipe Shear Kit with the powerful M12™ 12-Volt Lithium-Ion battery included can slice through a 2-inch schedule 80 PVC in just 3 seconds. The pipe shear kit is compatible with M12™ lithium-ion batteries, giving you more than 200 cuts on a single charge. The stainless steel blade and aluminum jaws are impact and water and rust-resistant. The ultra-sharp M12™ plastic pipe shear with pierce point makes burr-free cuts, allowing you to cut faster, cleaner and closer than traditional shears. PVC close to a wall or mounted to a stud is no challenge for the quick-return, offset blade for maximum efficiency on repetitive cuts.
| PROS | CONS |
| 5-year limited warranty | A bit expensive for some buyers |
| Portable and compact cordless metal shears | |
| Offers decent performance with a 12-volt battery system | |
| Compatible with all M12™ batteries & chargers |
Dewalt Metal Shears (DWASHRIR)
The Dewalt DWASHRIR metal shears are present in the 1st position in this article as it is quite different from the various other options present in this article. This is simply due to the reason that this is not a standalone power tool, but an attachment accessory for your existing Dewalt impact driver power tools that use either 18 volt or 20-volt batteries.
Despite being an accessory, you can cut up to 18 gauge metal sheets using these metal shears that are quite great when compared with other options out there. Its build quality is also quite great when compared with other options out there. And just like other Dewalt power tools, this accessory also comes with a 3-year long warranty that is always great to have.
| PROS | CONS |
| A decent performance from an accessory | Not a dedicated power tool |
| Easy to use and attach | Slightly on the expensive side |
| Compatible with most Dewalt power tools |
Wild Edge Metal Shear
Wild Edge’s electric metal shears are most likely the most powerful option present in this article. This is simply due to the reason that you get a 5 amp electric motor in these metal shears. Since this motor is quite powerful, you can even use these metal shears to cut 14 gauge metal sheets if you wish to without running into any performance issues.
While the build quality offered by these metal shears is pretty good for the given price, you only get a 1-year long warranty with it. In other words, you should look elsewhere if you want a highly durable and reliable metal shear model for you and your requirements. Just like most other options in this article, you get a fully rotatable tool head for high precision and accuracy.
| PROS | CONS |
| High power 5 amp electric motor | Only a 1-year long warranty |
| Easily cut 14 gauge metal sheets | |
| Best performing metal shears model |
DEWALT Metal Shear, Swivel Head, 18GA (DW890)
The DEWALT DW890 18 Gauge Swivel Head Shear is the model you’ll want to get if you’re looking to get the best overall performance out of an electric metal shear. This model comes with an all ball-bearing motor, which greatly lowers the friction that takes place in the engine and increases its life a lot relative to the competition. Plus, this model comes with a 360-degree head, which allows you to keep working no matter how awkward the angle gets. Plus, it comes with a lock-on option for the trigger so you can free up some hands for more accurate blade placement to ensure an accurate cut.
This model also comes with a variable-speed drive, so you can go quickly when the cut quality doesn’t matter, and slow down to get it just right when it does. This is a tool that ends up saving most professionals a lot of time versus manual shears, so it’s worth a try.
| PROS | CONS |
| 360-degree head | No case |
| Variable speed drive | |
| Lock-on trigger | |
| All ball-bearing motor |
CONCLUSION
Metal shears are not only meant for professionals but also useful tools to add to your garage to help you with minor repairs like roofing, car body repair, and many more applications. When you go out in the market to choose one, you may end up being confused due to the wide range of brands and models you will get. The above guide can help you make an informed choice and choose a metal shear that will best suit your needs.