Are you looking for an easy, effective way to sharpen your aviation snips? Look no further!

Sharpening aviation snips is essential to maintain their efficiency and precision over time. These versatile cutting tools, commonly used for slicing through sheet metal, require regular maintenance to ensure clean and accurate cuts. Dull blades can lead to rough edges and make the task more physically demanding. You can extend their lifespan and enhance their performance by investing a little time in properly sharpening your aviation snips. As a bonus, sharpening your aviation snips also helps you save money by avoiding frequent replacements.

In this guide on how to sharpen aviation snips, we’ll walk you through the steps needed to keep your aviation snips in top condition, helping you achieve optimal results in your projects. Let’s get started!

What Will You Need?

You must gather a few supplies before we delve into the sharpening process. You may already have some of these items on hand, but if you still need to, they are readily available at most hardware or home improvement stores.

• Aviation snips
• A flat file
• A diamond sharpening stone
• Safety glasses

Once you have all the necessary tools, let’s begin the sharpening process.

10 Easy Steps on How to Sharpen Aviation Snips

Step 1: Inspect Your Snips

Begin by carefully inspecting your aviation snips under good lighting to identify any signs of damage or wear on the blades. Look for nicks, dents, or any unevenness along the cutting edge, as these imperfections can affect the tool’s performance. Ensure the pivot bolt is tight and the blades open and close smoothly. If the blades are covered in built-up residue or rust, clean them thoroughly with a cloth and mild solvent before proceeding.

This initial inspection helps you determine the extent of sharpening needed and ensures your safety by identifying potential issues early. Lastly, check the grips and handles for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them if needed to maintain a secure and comfortable grip during use.

Step 2: Secure the Snips

To sharpen your aviation snips effectively and safely, securing them properly is crucial. Use a bench vise or a clamp on a stable work surface to hold the snips in place. Position the snips so that the blades are accessible and stable, avoiding any unnecessary movement during the sharpening process. This setup ensures that you have complete control over the tool, reducing the risk of slipping and potential injury while allowing you to focus on achieving a precise and even edge. Double-check that your safety glasses are on, and proceed confidently to the sharpening phase.

Step 3: Start Filing the Blades

With your snips securely in place, take the flat file and start filing the cutting edges of the blades. Hold the file at a consistent angle that matches the existing bevel on the blade, typically around 10 to 15 degrees. Use smooth, even strokes, moving the file outward from the pivot to the tip of the blade. Apply gentle pressure to avoid removing too much material, and maintain a steady rhythm as you work across the cutting edge.

This process helps to remove any imperfections and restores the sharpness of the blades. It’s crucial to periodically check your progress and ensure that the edge is becoming smooth and even. Repeat the filing on both blades, ensuring they have a uniform sharpness before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Use the Diamond Sharpening Stone

Next, refine the blade’s edge with a diamond sharpening stone. Lightly coat the stone with honing oil to reduce friction and facilitate smoother sharpening. Hold the stone at the same angle you used with the flat file, about 10 to 15 degrees, and gently slide it along the cutting edge from the pivot to the tip. Ensure consistent pressure and stroke length to ensure a uniformly sharp edge. Pay close attention to the condition of the blade, and adjust your technique as needed to achieve an even sharpness. This step polishes the edge, enhancing the blade’s cutting ability, and prepares it for any precision work. Repeat this process on the opposite blade, ensuring both edges are equally sharp.

Step 5: Clean and Test the Snips

After sharpening, cleaning the blades of any metal filings or remnants of honing oil is essential. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the blades thoroughly, making sure to remove all debris that could interfere with their performance. Once clean, test the snips on a piece of scrap material similar to what you typically work with, such as a piece of sheet metal.

This test will help confirm that the sharpening was successful and that the snips can cut smoothly and accurately. Observe the cut edges for cleanliness and precision, and make any final adjustments to your sharpening technique if necessary. If you are satisfied with the test cut, your aviation snips are now ready for use in your next project.

Step 6: Lubricate the Pivot Mechanism

Once you’ve tested and confirmed that your aviation snips are adequately sharpened, it’s essential to ensure smooth operation by lubricating the pivot mechanism. Apply a few drops of lightweight machine oil to the pivot point, which will help minimize friction and wear during use. Gently open and close the snips several times to allow the oil to penetrate and spread evenly throughout the pivot area. This prolongs the tool’s lifespan by reducing mechanical wear and ensures that the snips operate smoothly and efficiently. Regular lubrication as part of your maintenance routine will keep your aviation snips in top working condition for future projects.

Step 7: Check the Alignment

Checking the alignment of the blades is a crucial step to ensure your aviation snips cut accurately and effectively. Carefully examine the blades and ensure they meet evenly throughout their length when closed. If you notice any gaps or misalignment, adjust the pivot bolt slightly and test the adjustment by opening and closing the blades a few times. Proper alignment guarantees a clean cut and reduces the risk of tool misperformance. Once you are confident in the alignment, your snips are ready to return to service, delivering precise and efficient results on your projects.

Step 8: Store the Snips Safely

Proper storage of your aviation snips is essential to maintaining their condition and ensuring safety. Keep them dry to prevent rust and other damage from moisture. It’s advisable to store them in a tool belt or toolbox with a dedicated slot or pouch to minimize movement and accidental contact with other tools. Consider using blade covers or sleeves to protect the sharp edges when the snips are not in use, preventing them from becoming dull or causing accidents. By storing your snips securely and safely, you extend their lifespan and maintain their readiness for future projects.

Step 9: Maintain Your Snips Regularly

Regular maintenance is vital to keeping your aviation snips in optimal condition. Implement a routine check-up schedule, inspecting the blades for sharpness, alignment, and cleanliness. Lubricate the pivot mechanism frequently to ensure smooth operation and minimize wear over time. Also, the handles and grips should be monitored for any deterioration or damage, replacing them as necessary to maintain comfort and control. By dedicating time to regular maintenance, you not only extend the lifespan of your snips but also ensure they perform reliably and safely throughout your projects.

Step 10: Replace Worn Components

Over time, specific components of your aviation snips may become worn or damaged, affecting overall performance. Inspect parts like the pivot bolt, spring mechanism, and handles for any signs of excessive wear or fatigue. If you notice any degraded components, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or a professional for proper replacement procedures. Using replacement parts that match the original specifications helps ensure that your snips maintain their precision and functionality. By addressing worn components promptly, you can prevent more significant issues from arising and keep your aviation snips in top working condition.

With these steps, you can maintain your aviation snips and ensure they provide precise, efficient cutting for all your projects.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using a Bench Grinder: Avoid using a bench grinder to sharpen aviation snips, as it can remove too much material and alter the snip’s precision edges. This can lead to uneven cuts and reduce the tool’s effectiveness.
2. Ignoring the Pivot Point: Sharpening the blades without addressing the pivot point can lead to misaligned blades. Ensure the pivot is appropriately adjusted to maintain the tool’s cutting efficacy.
3. Applying Excessive Pressure: Excessive pressure when sharpening can damage the blade’s edge and compromise its cutting ability. Use light, consistent strokes to ensure a clean, sharp finish.
4. Not Cleaning Blades First: Failing to clean the blades before sharpening can cause dirt and debris to dull the sharpener or scratch the blades further, leading to suboptimal sharpening results.
5. Using Inappropriate Tools: Avoid using inappropriate tools like rough files or sandpaper, which can damage delicate cutting edges. Always use a specialized sharpening tool designed for precision blades.

Conclusion

How to sharpen aviation snips involves a detailed process that ensures the tool remains effective and precise for cutting various materials.

By following the comprehensive steps outlined—from testing the sharpness to regular maintenance—you can keep your snips in peak condition. Proper sharpening, alignment, and lubrication are key components in extending the equipment’s longevity and maintaining its functionality. Remember to avoid common pitfalls, such as excessive pressure or improper sharpening tools, as these can compromise the snips’ effectiveness.

With regular care and attention, your aviation snips will continue to perform at their best, ensuring precision in every cut.