Metalworking Tools
Shears, Nibblers, Rivet Tools, and Rod Cutters
This metalworking tools collection gathers powered tools for cutting and joining sheet metal, pipe, and rod. Milwaukee leads with the M12 FUEL 16-gauge nibbler, M12 pop rivet tool, M12 PVC shear and copper tubing cutter, M18 single and double cut shears, the M18 threaded rod cutter, and an M12 600 MCM cable cutter. DeWALT adds 20V MAX rivet tools, a 14-gauge swivel head shear, fiber cement shears, and a shear drill attachment. Makita offers a 12V max CXT multi-cutter and an 18V LXT metal cutting saw.
What to Look For
- Material and gauge. Each shear and nibbler lists a maximum gauge. Size for the heaviest sheet you cut.
- Cut type. Nibblers turn and follow curves; shears give straighter, faster cuts with less waste.
- Rivet size. Check that the rivet tool handles your rivet diameter. Jaw sets are sold separately for some models.
- Battery platform. Stay on the system you already own to share packs across M12, M18, 20V MAX, or Makita tools.
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Metalworking Tools FAQ
What does a threaded rod cutter do?
It shears all-thread rod cleanly with a pair of dies, leaving threads that accept a nut without filing. That is faster than a saw for overhead hangers and strut work.
Can these tools cut fiber cement or plastic pipe?
Yes, for specific models. The DeWALT DCS498 is made for fiber cement siding, and the Milwaukee M12 PVC shear cuts plastic pipe. Use those dedicated tools rather than a metal shear.