Diagonal cutters, commonly known as side cutters, are essential tools for any electrician, hobbyist, or DIY enthusiast.

These versatile tools are designed for cutting wire, trimming plastic components, and various other applications.

Over time, the blades of diagonal cutters can become dull, reducing their effectiveness and precision. Properly sharpening your diagonal cutters not only extends their lifespan but also ensures clean, accurate cuts every time.

In this guide on how to sharpen diagonal cutters, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively sharpen your diagonal cutters, keeping them in optimal condition for all your cutting needs.

What is Sharpening?

Sharpening is the process of restoring the sharpness and edge of a blade or tool. Over time, cutting tools like diagonal cutters can become dull due to repeated use, wear and tear, or improper storage.

Sharpening helps maintain the effectiveness and precision of these tools by removing any nicks or imperfections on the blade’s edge and creating a sharper cutting surface.

It’s essential to regularly sharpen your diagonal cutters, as using dull tools can not only affect their performance but also lead to safety hazards.

Tools Required for Sharpening Diagonal Cutters

Before we dive into the sharpening process, let’s first take a look at the tools you’ll need:

Diamond File:

A diamond file is a versatile tool that can be used on various materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. It’s ideal for sharpening diagonal cutters as it offers a fine grit surface that effectively removes any nicks or burrs on the blade.

Sharpening Stone:

A sharpening stone is another tool commonly used for sharpening blades and tools. It comes in different types such as natural stones, oil stones, and water stones. For sharpening diagonal cutters, we recommend using an oil stone as it provides a smooth finish to the blade.

Lubricant:

Using a lubricant, such as WD-40 or mineral oil, can help prevent the build-up of metal shavings on your tools while sharpening. It also helps cool down the blade and prevents it from overheating during the sharpening process.

Safety Equipment:

When sharpening diagonal cutters, it’s crucial to protect yourself by wearing safety gear such as gloves and safety glasses. These tools are sharp and can cause injury if not handled carefully.

8 Steps on How to Sharpen Diagonal Cutters

Step 1: Clean the Blades

Before you begin sharpening, it’s essential to ensure that the blades of your diagonal cutters are clean. Dirt, debris, and rust can interfere with the sharpening process and lead to suboptimal results.

Start by wiping the blades with a clean cloth to remove any loose dirt or grime. If the blades have rust or stubborn residues, use a wire brush or steel wool to scrub them clean.

For particularly tough spots, applying a small amount of lubricant can help loosen and remove the debris.

Once the blades are clean, thoroughly dry them with a cloth to prevent any moisture from causing rust or corrosion in the future. With clean blades, you’re now ready to proceed with the sharpening process.

Step 2: Secure the Cutters

To sharpen the blades accurately and safely, you need to secure your diagonal cutters in a stable position.

Using a bench vise or a clamp, firmly hold the cutters in place with the blades facing up and the handles pointing down. This setup will keep the cutters steady, allowing you to apply consistent pressure while sharpening.

If you don’t have access to a vise or clamp, you can also secure the cutters on a flat surface using a heavy object to keep them from moving.

Ensuring that the cutters are securely immobilized is critical for both the effectiveness of the sharpening process and your safety. Once the cutters are properly secured, you’re ready to start sharpening the blades.

Step 3: Identify the Bevel Angle

The bevel angle is the angle at which the blade of your diagonal cutters is sharpened. It’s essential to identify this angle before you begin sharpening, as it determines how you’ll hold and position your tool while sharpening.

Most diagonal cutters have a bevel angle ranging from 15 to 30 degrees. To determine the precise angle of your cutters, refer to your manufacturer’s manual or do a quick online search.

Once you know the bevel angle, mark it on the blade using a permanent marker for reference during the sharpening process. This step will help you maintain a consistent angle on both blades, ensuring an even and precise sharpening.

Step 4: Start Sharpening with the Diamond File

Using your marking as a guide, position the diamond file at the same angle as your bevel and start sharpening one blade at a time.

Using firm and gentle strokes, work the file along the entire length of the blade, from its base to its tip. Repeat this process several times until you’ve removed all nicks and burrs on that side of the blade.

Once you’re satisfied with one side, flip over your cutters and repeat the same process on the other blade. Remember to maintain the same angle on both blades for an even sharpening.

Step 5: Switch to the Sharpening Stone

After you’ve completed the initial sharpening with the diamond file, it’s time to switch to the sharpening stone to refine the blade’s edge.

Begin by applying a small amount of lubricant, such as mineral oil, to the surface of the oil stone. The lubricant will help create a smoother sharpening action and prevent metal shavings from clogging the stone’s pores.

Position the diagonal cutters at the same bevel angle you used with the diamond file. Using firm, consistent strokes, run the blade along the sharpening stone, moving from the base of the blade to the tip.

Apply even pressure and ensure that the entire length of the blade makes contact with the stone. Repeat this process several times on one blade until you achieve a smooth, sharp edge.

Once you’ve sharpened one side, repeat the same procedure on the other blade. Consistently maintaining the bevel angle is crucial for achieving an even and precise sharpening.

After both blades have been sharpened with the stone, wipe away any excess lubricant and metal shavings with a clean cloth. At this stage, your diagonal cutters should have a finely honed edge, ready for precise and effective cutting.

Step 6: Test the Blades’ Sharpness

After you’ve sharpened both blades with the sharpening stone, it’s important to test their sharpness before proceeding. Carefully release the diagonal cutters from the vise or clamp, ensuring you handle them by the grips to avoid accidental injury.

To test the sharpness, find a piece of scrap wire or similar material that you typically cut with your diagonal cutters. Position the wire between the blades and make a cut. Pay attention to how easily and cleanly the blades slice through the material.

A properly sharpened pair of diagonal cutters should cut through the wire smoothly and with minimal effort, leaving clean edges on the cut material. If you notice any resistance or rough cuts, it might indicate that some areas of the blade require additional sharpening.

In such cases, re-secure the cutters and use the sharpening tools to touch up the blades as needed. Once you’re satisfied with the sharpness, proceed to the next steps in the maintenance process to ensure your diagonal cutters remain in optimal condition.

Step 7: Clean and Store Your Diagonal Cutters

Once you’ve finished sharpening and testing your diagonal cutters, it’s crucial to clean and dry them thoroughly before storing them away.

Start by wiping the blades and handles with a clean cloth to remove any debris or excess lubricant. If necessary, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to disinfect the blades and prevent rust.

After cleaning, allow the diagonal cutters to air dry completely before storing them in a cool, dry place. Be sure to store them securely to avoid damage or injury.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance

To keep your diagonal cutters in top condition, it’s essential to regularly maintain their sharpness. This upkeep will prevent nicks, burrs, and dulling from occurring and prolong the life of your tools. You can follow the same sharpening process outlined above every few months or as needed, depending on how frequently you use your cutters.

In addition to sharpening, it’s also crucial to keep your diagonal cutters clean and free of any rust or debris. Regularly wiping them down with a clean cloth after use and storing them in a dry place will help prevent corrosion and maintain their sharpness. With proper maintenance, your diagonal cutters will continue to be a useful tool for all your cutting needs.

Following the steps on how to sharpen diagonal cutters outlined above will ensure that your diagonal cutters are always sharp and ready to tackle any cutting task. Remember to prioritize safety by securing your cutters in a vise or clamp before sharpening and handling them carefully at all times.

With proper maintenance, your diagonal cutters will last for many years, making them a valuable addition to any toolbox.  Keep exploring different techniques and tips for maintaining various tool types to improve your DIY skills and efficiency. Happy sharpening!

Conclusion

Maintaining the sharpness and overall condition of your diagonal cutters is essential for optimal performance and longevity. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide on how to sharpen diagonal cutters, you can ensure that your tools remain precise, efficient, and safe to use.

Regular cleaning, proper sharpening techniques, and diligent storage practices are key to preserving the functionality and integrity of your diagonal cutters.

With consistent care and attention, your tools will serve you well, making your cutting tasks easier and more effective.

Investing time in maintenance not only extends the life of your cutters but also enhances the quality of your work, allowing you to achieve the best possible results with every cut.