13 best chain cutters

Chain cutters, or bolt cutters, are powerful hand tools designed for cutting through materials like chains, bolts, padlocks, and wire mesh.They fall under the category of cutting tools and are commonly used in various applications, including construction, automotive repair, and locksmithing. Here are some key features and considerations:

  1. Design: Chain cutters typically consist of two long handles with jaws at the end. The jaws have sharp blades that can be brought together by squeezing the handles. The design allows for leverage, making it easier to cut through tough materials.

  2. Materials: The blades of chain cutters are made of high-quality hardened steel to ensure durability and sharpness. The handles may be made of steel or other strong materials to withstand the force applied during cutting.

  3. Size and Capacity: Chain cutters come in various sizes, and their capacity to cut through materials depends on the length and design. Smaller bolt cutters are suitable for cutting thinner materials, while larger ones can handle thicker and stronger objects.

  4. Handle Design: The handles of chain cutters are designed for ergonomic use, providing a comfortable grip. Some models come with padded handles to reduce hand fatigue during extended use.

  5. Cutting Mechanism: The cutting mechanism often involves a compound action, where a relatively small amount of force applied to the handles results in a much larger force at the jaws. This makes it easier to cut through tough materials.

  6. Usage: Chain cutters are commonly used in situations where other cutting tools may not be effective. They are handy for emergency situations, such as cutting a lock or chain when access is needed quickly.

  7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as keeping the blades clean and lubricated, ensures optimal performance and extends the life of the tool.

When using chain cutters, it's important to follow safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. Additionally, choosing the right size and type of chain cutter for the specific material you are cutting is crucial for efficient and safe use.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best chain cutters on the market
  

WORKPRO W017004A Bolt Cutter, Bi-Material Handle with Soft Rubber Grip, 14", Chrome Molybdenum Steel Blade

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This WORKPRO bolt Cutter is featured with molybdenum steel jaws, compound cutting action requires less effort. Bi-material soft handle for comfortable cutting.

  • Note: cutting locks is not recommended
  • Drop forged chrome molybdenum steel and powder coated jaws for sure, efficient cutting and long life. Ergonomic bi-material Anti-slip grips provide greater control and comfort in cutting
  • Classic lever-fulcrum design and precisely aligned blades deliver added leverage with less effort
  • Cutting Capacity: HRC≤42: 7/32-inch(5mm Maximum);HRC<25: 1/4-inch(6mm Maximum)
  • Ideal for cutting soft metal, bolts, rods, rivets and chain

User questions & answers

Question: What size workpro bolt cutter would be right for an 8mm bolt? will the 24" cutter work? would like to hear from the seller, if possible
Answer: Get the biggest one you can handle the small ones don't have enough leverage.
Question: Roofing nails protruding through sheathing in garage attic. Can I use this bolt cutter to snip them off
Answer: Bolt cutters won't work--you CAN NOT cut them off flush and it will look crummy. I had the same problem with roof nails protruding into my attic by a poor roofing job--looked like a porcupine. I cut the nails flush with 14" "hoof nippers" made by Diamond Tool and Horseshoe in Minnesota. You will need 14" inch for the leverage. They work great!--but they are kinda spendy... but will last a lifetime.
Question: Will these cut a large(14/0) fishing hook
Answer: It can cut the wire with diameter of 3/16-inch, could you compare with your fishing hook? If your hook is thicker than 3/16-inch, it's hard to cut.
Question: What size would be best for cutting bike locks, say 15 per night, for months
Answer: The best option would be a 14-in size bolt cutter. Just large enough to cut a large lock but not so heavy that you can't run fast when holding it. Great question

Product features

WORKPRO W017004A 14-Inch Bolt Cutter

Using the WORKPRO 14-inch bolt cutter to cut bolts,rods, wires, rivets and chains up to 3/16 inch wide.

AnySizeBasket 44-0 Model 44 Hydraulic Chain and Cable Cutter, Capacity Up to 3/8" High Test Chain

Three M Tool

Product description

Self-contained hydraulic chain and cable cutter with a smooth and powerful hand-pumped cutting action that's ideal for a retail store, loading dock or small shop environment. Fully illustrated bi-lingual instructions and user-friendly controls to guide users through the safe and proper cutting operation. Keyed lock on the pump handle limits unauthorized use. The hand-operated hydraulic cutting action powers the hardened steel cutting blades smoothly and safely through all types of sash chain, weldless chain, welded chain, coated and uncoated cable up to the capacity. On larger welded chain, the blade action continues in one motion through the cut to bend open the link for easy separation of the cut piece (without the need to reposition the link for a dangerous second cut). Capacity: Chain up to 3/8" dia. "High Test" Grade (and all smaller sizes and lower grades). Steel cable up to 3/8" actual dia. The unit is 4-1/2"W x 10"L x 12"H. The 11 gauge welded steel chassis has standard mounting points of two 3/8"-16 threaded holes on 6" centers on both sides. Cutter can be bottom mounted on any secure horizontal shelf, bench, cart or pallet rack decking (with Horizontal Mounting Kit #7216 sold separately). (Manufacturer's Part #44-0, UPC #731882464337).

Detacher Breaker Cutter Fit for #25#35#41#40#50#60 415H,428H, 520,530 Roller Chain Motorcycle Bicycle Go Kart ATV Chains Replacement (Black)

KZNANZN

Based on 756 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔Material: High Carbon Steel, Compound Strengthening;
  • ✔Adjustable:Cut chain into the length your need without any other tools easily;
  • ✔Processing:Design Universal Chain Breaker Tool Replaceable Press Pin is Heat Treated And Hardened;
  • ✔Package:Free 1 Extra Niddle Pin Included;
  • ✔Applicable:Roller Chain Detacher Breaker Cutter for Motorcycle Bicycle Go Kart ATV Chains Replacement;

User questions & answers

Question: is this strong enough to use on a motorcycle chain
Answer: Yes, I use it on 530 size motorcycle chain and it works great
Question: Will this tool put the chain back together also
Answer: Yes it will: How to replace a roller chain : 1.Find the chain on you old chain. 2.Turn the handle to bring the pin up from breakers jaws. 3.Turn the chain breaker to push the rivet out of the chain. 4.Apply pressure slowly to each rivet,auddenly applying excessive pressure to the rivet will cause the connecting rod to bend and damage the chain.
Question: Will this chain breaker also press the chain back together
Answer: Yes: How to replace a roller chain : 1.Find the chain on you old chain. 2.Turn the handle to bring the pin up from breakers jaws. 3.Turn the chain breaker to push the rivet out of the chain. 4.Apply pressure slowly to each rivet,Suddenly applying excessive pressure to the rivet will cause the connecting rod to bend and damage the chain.
Question: will this work on a double roller chain
Answer: Yes it will. I used to break down ten foot boxes of 50-2R and 60-2R chain into 16 pitch lengths and make our own coupling chains using one of these tools.

ATLIN Bicycle Chain Breaker Splitter Tool for 7, 8, 9, 10 and Single Speed Chains

ATLIN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ATLIN Bicycle Chain Breaker Tool is a must have multi-tool for performing essential bicycle maintenance. This chain splitter tool is specifically designed to remove and install chain pins in 7, 8, 9, 10 and single speed chains. The chain breaker tool also comes with a built-in chain hook for holding your chain in place while performing maintenance. Along with all of these useful features, this bicycle chain tool comes with a spare push bolt, features an ergonomic handle to ensure maximum grip, has been manufactured with durable, long lasting materials, and manages to pack all of this into a compact form factor for easy portability. Instructions are included with the bike chain removal tool.

  • The chain breaker is specifically designed to remove and install pins in 7, 8, 9, 10 and single speed bicycle chains
  • This bicycle chain tool includes a built-in hook for holding the bike chain in place while performing maintenance
  • Chain tool instructions are included
  • The chain splitter tool is small and lightweight for easy portability
  • The bike chain removal tool is crafted from durable, long lasting materials

User questions & answers

Question: How do I know what speed my bike is? It is a 93Ose dynasty
Answer: Count the number of cogs (or rings of gear nubs) on the cassette on the rear hub. Generally, there are 7 to 11 rings on the cassette. That number is how you refer to the number of speeds of your bike for maintenance purposes. You then multiply that number by the number of chain rings (or sprockets) on the crank set; generally, it's 2 or 3. For example, if there are 3 chain rings on the crank set and 9 rings on the cassette, then your bike is a 27-speed. However, for maintenance purposes, it's a 9-speed.
Question: What diameter is the pin
Answer: I don’t know the exact diameter but it fit tightly in the space of the pin in the chain
Question: Is there replacement Push pin available to purchase for this tool
Answer: Hi, We do not sell push pins on their own, but in the event you need another we are happy to ship replacement units to previous customers.
Question: What is the pin installed in the side of the handle used for
Answer: This product has two push pins. One is pre-installed in the rotating handle. This is used to push the chain pin out of the chain - effectively breaking the chain. Due to the heavy-duty use of this product, wear and tear happens, so we include a spare pin inside of the rubber handle. It can be swapped out very simply by hand.

WORKPRO Bolt Cutter, 24-Inch, Chrome Vanadium Steel Blade for Cutting Pad Locks, Soft metal,Rivets and Chain, Bi-Material Handle with Soft Rubber Grip, W017015A

Based on 183 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The bolt Cutter features with strong, hardened CRV steel jaws for long-lasting blade life. Classic lever-fulcrum design and precisely aligned blades deliver added leverage with less effort. Long handles with bi-Material grip add not only high leverage but also greater control and comfort while cutting. Ideal for cutting pad locks, soft metal, bolts, rods, rivets, chain.

  • Drop forged chrome vanadium steel and powder coated jaws for sure, efficient cutting and long life
  • Classic lever-fulcrum design and precisely aligned blades deliver added leverage with less effort
  • Ergonomic bi-material anti-slip grips provide greater control and comfort in cutting
  • Cutting Capacity: HRC≤19: 3/8-inch(11mm Maximum);HRC<48: 5/16-inch(8mm Maximum)
  • Ideal for cutting pad locks, soft metal, bolts, rods, rivets and chain

Product features

WORKPRO W017015A 24-Inch Bolt Cutter

The bolt cutter features with strong, hardened CRV steel jaws for long-lasting blade life. Classic lever-fulcrum design and precisely aligned blades deliver added leverage with less effort. Long handles with bi-material grip add not only high leverage but also greater control and comfort while cutting. Ideal for cutting pad locks, soft metal, bolts, rods, rivets, chain.

Chrome Vanadium Steel Jaws

  • The bolt cutter features with sturdy CRV steel jaws which provides strength and durability

Comfortable Handle

  • Strong tubular handles with bi-material grips for non-slip comfort
  • Ergonomic handle allows you to comfortably and securely hold onto cutter with reduced hand fatigue

Multi Cutting Application

  • Suitable for cutting through multiple types of materials including chains, bolts, rods, padlocks, and much more around the home or in industrial settings

Cutting Capacity

  • HRC≤19: 3/8-inch(11mm Maximum)
  • HRC<48: 5/16-inch(8mm Maximum)

TEKTON 8" Bolt Cutter | 3386, Black

TEKTON

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cut bolts, chain, threaded rod, and heavy gauge wire up to 3/16 in. Diameter with the TEKTON 8 in. Mini bolt and wire cutter.

  • Forged and Hardened alloy steel jaws
  • Compound cutting action requires less effort
  • Rolled steel handles with cushioned nonslip rubber grips
  • Cuts bolts, chain, threaded rod, and heavy gauge wire up to 3/16 in. Diameter

User questions & answers

Question: would these cut through a padlock
Answer: It of course depends on the size of the padlock and the type of steel, but I do not think the 8-inch Tekton would do the job. These are fairly small. I have a "big brother" to the 8-inch Tekton and it might not even be enough. Look at the product description; many times the recommended size/diameter of wire/steel rod that the tool can cut is listed. Sorry that I could not provide a better answer.
Question: Would the 12" work for cutting Closetmaid shelving racks
Answer: I have the 9" and it cuts the clothes wire hangers real easy, but I don't have the 12" although the 12" is good for cutting bolts and locks so I think it shouldn't have problem cutting wire shelf hangers.
Question: How come the 8-inch capacity is 3/16" and the 12-inch is 5/32"? 3/16" is bigger than 5/32", correct
Answer: If you look at the pictures the 8" has a slightly different jaw design than the rest of the line. You'd have to take some measurements but the jaw geometry is probably slightly different allowing a larger opening (if scaled down proportionally like the rest of the line, it'd only have a 1/8" opening which isn't too useful. For wires or bolts that thin you could use any other cutting tool as well, so they probably had to change things up to make an 8-inch sized cutter useful.
Question: Does it cut a master padlock
Answer: I tried it on a ABUS 64TI/40 Titalium Aluminum Alloy Padlock and the Nano Protect Steel Shackle and the padlock just laughed at me while putting indentations on the bolt cutter blades.

Product features

TEKTON 8-Inch Mini Bolt and Wire Cutter | 3386

Cut bolts, chains, threaded rods, and wires up to 3/16 in. wide using the TEKTON 8 in. Mini Bolt Cutter.

Mini Bolt and Wire Cutter

Cut bolts, chains, threaded rods, and wires up to 3/16-inch.

Compound Hinge

Compound cutting action and drop forged hardened alloy steel jaws deliver superior cutting power.

Comfortable Grips

Strong, high-leverage tubular steel handles won't twist or give under load. Soft rubber grips offer non-slip comfort.

Exhaust Pipe Cutter, Universal Exhaust Tailpipe Tube Cutting Pliers Carbon Steel Tubing Cutter with 15 Blades

Based on 78 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specification:

Material: Carbon steel

Color: Black + blue

Size: As pictures shown

Package Weight: Approx. 716g / 25.3oz

Note:

1.Not applicable to stainless steel.

2.Please allow slight error due to manual measurement.

3.Monitors are not calibrated same, item color displayed in photos may be showing slightly different from the real object.

Please take the real one as standard.

  • Made of high quality carbon steel, sturdy, not easy to damage and extremely durable. Cushion grip handles and non-slip, easy to operate
  • The cutter could cuts pipes with diameters of 3/4 to 3 inches
  • The 15 blades effectively cut the pipe, so complete cutting takes only 1/4 circles
  • The cutter with 13.7" chain works well in areas that are hard to reach
  • Designed for both on and off car cutting.Double wall tube will not be cut

User questions & answers

Question: Will it cut steel
Answer: Yes.
Question: Will this cut pvc and abs type plastic tubing
Answer: It may not cut all the way through. The blades have a depth level before the material hits the chain links while cutting.
Question: Does this product cut through geods
Answer: No. A cheap wet tile saw will do that job very well.
Question: Will this cut pvc and abs type plastic tubing
Answer: Yes it will, just depends on size, it won't cut 1/2" and I don't know about 3/4" , but 1" and up it will

PGN - Roller Chain Cutter Breaker Detacher Splitter Tool for Chain Size # 25 35 40 41 50 60 420 415 415H 428H 520 530#

PGN

Based on 107 reviews Check latest price

Product description

PGN - Roller Chain Cutter Breaker Detacher Splitter # 25 35 40 41 50 60 420 415 415H 428h 520 530 #

User questions & answers

Question: Where is it made
Answer: China!

8 inch Mini Wire Cutter – Wire Cutter for Chain/Mesh/Threaded Rod/Heavy Gauge Wire by NIDAYE

Based on 240 reviews Check latest price
  • ★This wire cutters is drop forged hardened alloy steel jaws
  • ★Our cable takes compound hinge, compound cutting action requires less effort to cut more
  • ★Bolt cutter cuts chains, wire, mesh, threaded rod, bolts, heavy gauge wire and more wires up to 3/16-inch
  • ★Our wire stripping tool has comfortable grip, strong & high-leverage tubular steel handles won't twist or give under load. Soft rubber grips offer non-slip comfort
  • ★If you have any problem, please don't hesitate to contact us, we'll reply within 24 hours

User questions & answers

Question: which mimi bolt cutter works best for metal wreath frames
Answer: We receomment another mini bolt cutter in our store, ASIN is B07DLMK8TW, it should meet your requirements.
Question: I have a few screws which went through the carpet of a staircase. It's a tight squeeze. Would these be easy to cut them out
Answer: They are not that heavy duty for screws. I would use them for anything beyond a fence.
Question: Will these cut cattle panel
Answer: We're not sure, but you could have a try, we accept return at anytime, also we have another heavy duty bolt cutter in store, you could also have a try.
Question: Can this cut through pig fence
Answer: Hello, it depens on the size of pig fence, usually our mini bolt cutter coul cut through bolts, chains, threaded rods, and wires up to 3/16-inch. Hope it will help you.

24 inch Industrial Heavy Duty Bolt Chain Lock Wire Cutter Cutting Tool

Based on 76 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tolsen industrial 24 inch bolt cutter is ideal tool for cutting rods, rivets, locks and chains. The adjustable bolts always ensure that the blades are properly aligned. Hardened steel cutting head cuts a steel rod up to 3/8" (1 cm) thick.

Features:

  • Drop forged hardened steel blades
  • Compound cutting action requires less effort 
  • Tubular steel handles with cushioned Non-Slip rubber grips 
  • Adjustable and replaceable jaws 
  • Cuts bolts, chain, threaded rod, cable wire and more

Specifications:

  • Brand: Tolsen
  • Model: 10244
  • Made of: steel
  • Cutting ability up to 3/8 inch or 1cm
  • Length: 24inch or 600mm
  • Weight: 5lb or 2.26kg

Package includes:

  • Tolsen 24 inch bolt cutter
  • Retail packaging

  • Drop forged hardened steel blades
  • Compound cutting action requires less effort
  • Tubular steel handles with cushioned Non-Slip rubber grips
  • Adjustable and replaceable jaws
  • Cuts bolts, chain, threaded rod, cable wire and more

User questions & answers

Question: Are these made in USA
Answer: Distributor is in USA, but the product was made outside of US. There is not much US makes those days.
Question: What is the maximum size chain this will cut
Answer: Cutting ability up to 3/8 inch or 1cm
Question: Is the cutting head- center cut (std) or 'Clipper' cut (side or flush cutting
Answer: Standard cut, not flush.
Question: Will this cut a pad lock
Answer: People buy this tool to cut container seals, steel wire and other. Cutting ability of this tool is up to 3/8 inch or 1cm. Just make sure that the locking ubolt is under cutting ability specifications and it's not made from special material. Most school locker locks would surrender to this bolt cutter. The larger the cutter, the less force needed in order to cut.

Upgraded 8 inch Heavy Duty Mini Wire Cutter – Wire Cutter for Chain/Mesh/Threaded Rod/Bolts/Heavy Gauge Wire

Based on 119 reviews Check latest price
  • ★This wire cutters is upgraded, drop forged hardened alloy steel jaws
  • ★Our cable cutter takes compound hinge, compound cutting action requires less effort to cut more
  • ★Bolt cutter cuts chains, wire, mesh, threaded rod, bolts, heavy gauge wire and more wires up to 0.5inch
  • ★Our wire stripping tool has comfortable grip, strong & high-leverage tubular steel handles won't twist or give under load. Soft rubber grips offer non-slip comfort
  • ★If you have any problem, please don't hesitate to contact us, we'll reply within 24 hours

User questions & answers

Question: Lost the keys to my shotgun bolt lock, would these cut the lock
Answer: We suggest you buy our bolt cutter for a try, if it's not working, we'll accept return.
Question: cut chain link fence
Answer: I bought mine to cut clothesline.
Question: Will these cut a gun rifle lock, lost my keys
Answer: no
Question: Will these cut through small nails and screws
Answer: It's depends on what kind of nails and screws you're going to cut, it's may not work on stainless steel, but it should work on metal.

Tech 8” Mini-Bolt Cutter, Wire, Cable, Chain, Spring Loaded Return, Comfortable Grips, Snips, Hand Tools, 8-inch

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tech 8 inch mini bolt cutters feature heavy-duty chrome vanadium jaws and compound action, along with spring loaded return and TPR grips. The 6.1mm maximum opening can handle 3/16” thick material. Depth-of-cut adjustment screw. Built-in handle lock for convenient, compact storage. The Tech Team 8-inch mini bolt cutters are ideal for cutting wires, cables, chains, chain link fences, wire mesh, threaded rods, chicken wire fencing, fish hooks, and much more. The heavy-duty chrome vanadium jaws and compound action maximize cutting power, while the comfortable, spring-loaded return grip make these bolt cutters easy to use.

  • Heat treated, chrome vanadium jaws can cut through bolts, threaded rod, wire, mesh, chain links, wire fence, and more.
  • Compound action for cutting power with a spring-loaded return that opens the cutter between each cut.
  • TPR (Thermo Plastic Rubber) handles for comfort and ease of use.
  • 6.1mm maximum opening can handle 3/16” thick material. Depth-of-cut adjustment screw. This is a perfect kitchen drawer and hobbyist tool. For cutting most graded bolts and chain link fencing you need to step up to our 12 or 14 inch cutters
  • Built-in handle lock for convenient, compact storage.

User questions & answers

Question: what is blade thickness, need to get into an 1/8" gap
Answer: It appears to be EXACTLY 1/8" thick at the tips which are slightly flared. I don't know if there is any wiggle room for you to work it in or not or how much effort you are willing to put into this project but If you have a file or grinder you could take the micro amount of material off the sides if it was too snug of a fit.

Tolsen Bolt Cutters Heavy Duty, Bolt Cutter for Padlocks, 42-inch Heavy Duty Bolt Cutter, Chain, Rods, Rivets, Locks and Wire Cutter - Ergonomic Non-Slip Handle Bolt Cutter - 42'' Bolt Cutter

Tolsen

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tolsen 42 inch Industrial Heavy-Duty Bolt Cutter is an ideal tool for cutting rods, rivets, locks and chains. The adjustable bolts always ensure that the blades are appropriately aligned. Long arms 1050mm / 42'' offer high leverage to save efforts. Compound cutting action with an ergonomic PVC grip handle saves you more effort, ensures a comfortable non-slip grip and lessens the pressure of your arms for long time use. Features: Drop forged, hardened steel blades Compound cutting action requires less effort Tubular steel handles with cushioned Non-Slip rubber grips Adjustable and replaceable jaws Cuts bolts, chain, threaded rod, cable wire and more Specifications: Brand: Tolsen Made of: drop forged, hardened steel Cutting hardness ability: under HRC42 Length: 1050mm / 42'' Weight: 6.61lb or 1.48kg Package include: Tolsen 42-inch Industrial bolt cutter

  • [HARD STEEL JAWS] This heavy-duty bolt cutter is made of strong, drop-forged hardened steel jaws for long-lasting blade life and has an adjustable bolt mechanism for proper blade alignment.
  • [CUTS THICK STEEL] Designed and manufactured for maximum durable blade life
  • [CENTER CUT DESIGN] Centered blades with slightly rounded cutting edges that are beveled on both sides to cut with precision. The jaws are adjustable and replaceable. Cut through soft, medium and hard metals with confidence using these bolt cutters.
  • [ERGONOMIC GRIPS] Our bolt cutter features ergonomic handles and comfortable nonslip rubber grips fit down over steel handles for enhanced strength and comfortable controlled cutting of metals.
  • [100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE] You are protected with our 100% No Questions Asked Guarantee for either a replacement or refund. We love Our customers that’s why we care about only putting out high quality products that satisfies your needs

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