Sharpen side cutters?

[kelpaso1]

I have a pair of Snap on cutters here that are dull. I got new ones on warranty and they let me keep my old ones. Seems like a waste to just throw them away. They still work fine, and are still tight, just dull. Anyone try sharpening them?

 

[yhprum]

I have done this with a diamond file and light oil. Just hold the file to the same angle on the cutting edge and stop when you have sharp edge. When both edges are done check there is full contact when closed, adjust as required. It wasn't too bad to a job, prob 15-20 minutes at most.

 

[Bunit98]

I've tried this also on a pair and I took my time( half hour) but they turned out Great and haven't dulled since

 

[Wamsutta]

The only way to do it right is to have a flat file that is as wide, or wider than the cutting edge of the cutters. You have to have the cutters opened up as far as they will go and clamped in a vice. Push the file across the edge perpendicular to the length of the cutters (like a bow across violin strings) making sure to carefully follow the factory angle of the cutting edge. Push the file, let up, and then push the file across the edge again. Never pull a file. It also helps to have a file that is smooth along one edge so that you're not eating into the hinge joint as you're sharpening the cutters.

 

[383 240z]

use a diamond hone. the jaws are hardened. A file wont cut a hardened edge.

I use one like this at the shop for dressing end mills, reams, and the like. I like them because I can grind them if I need clearance. Keith

 

[1950mercury]

Sell them someone will buy them

 

[383 240z]

Sorry, forgot to attach the photo

 

[Wamsutta]

Sorry, forgot to attach the photo

You have the right idea, but that diamond hone you have pictured looks too thick; it would never be able to fit in between the cutting edges of the pliers.

 

[383 240z]

It's really pretty thin. I have them down to 1/8 x 3/16 the biggest I have is about 3/8 x 3/8. Thats a random pic from the web. I'm too lazy to run out to the shop and take a pic. Keith

 

[joelowrider]

I agree sell them now you have a new pair, at that I would buy them and take them to the guy I have sharpen saw blades

 

[srmofo]

I've sharpened them with files in the past

 

[Rusty32]

I tried buying a new pair my snapon guy said why? Its warrenty and gave me a new pair.

 

[trackwelder]

Chuck them in the garbage.

 

[popparoach]

send them back to snapon and get another pair.

 

[ex-x-fire]

Don't cut very well? Squeeze tighter.