bench shear blades and build

[VonMoldy]

I would like to build a small bench shear out of steel to cut sheet metal.

I will buy the steel to make the blades and use angle iron and tubing and whatever else I could scrounge around the house and make a shear for not much more than the cost of the metal for the blades. I would like to know what sort of tool steel would be good to use for making the blades?

 

[danski0224]

I don't see how it could be cheaper to make it compared to buying a used shear.

The really old Pexto 30" jump shears usually aren't too expensive used, they will not cut full widths of 36" or 48" metal and they lack blade guards.

 

[why worry]

Looks like there is several on flea bay that could be had for about a grand. By the time you build a bed and acquire the blades I agree with danski0224 that it would be cheaper to buy one and you will probably be happier in the long run.
A retired tinner. Dave

 

[BD1]

I'm with the rest ; spend the $$$ and your ready to use it. Less aggravation too.