Foot shear

A foot shear is a type of metal cutting tool that operates by means of a foot-operated lever mechanism. This tool is widely used in the field of blacksmithing to cut metal sheets with great accuracy and precision.

Foot shears are designed to cut metal sheets with thicknesses ranging from 14 gauge up to 16 gauge and can cut up to 52 inches in length. The tool is made up of a base plate, a stationary blade, and a moving blade, which is operated by the foot pedal.

One of the primary advantages of using a foot shear is the level of precision it provides. The tool helps ensure that the cuts are made at the desired angle and that the edges are clean and straight. Additionally, the foot pedal feature of the tool allows for hands-free operation, which is especially useful when working with large or heavy sheets of metal.

Another significant advantage of using a foot shear is the speed at which it can cut through metal sheets. The tool is capable of making multiple cuts in a single motion, which can significantly reduce the amount of time required to complete a project.

In blacksmithing, foot shears are commonly used to cut metal sheets into the desired sizes and shapes required for different types of fabrication projects. This tool enables blacksmiths to produce high-quality metalwork that meets the required specifications.

In summary, foot shears are a highly specialized cutting tool that offer several advantages when working with metal sheets, especially in blacksmithing. They provide a high degree of precision, speed, and versatility that allow blacksmiths to create complex and intricate metalwork with ease.

How to Use:

  1. Start by making sure the foot shear is securely placed on a stable surface.
  2. Adjust the blade clearance to the desired thickness of the material to be cut.
  3. Place the material to be cut between the blades ensuring it is aligned properly.
  4. Step on the foot pedal to engage the shear and cut through the material.
  5. Release the foot pedal once the cutting is complete.
  6. Remove the cut material and inspect the quality of the cut edges.
  7. Repeat the process for additional cuts as needed.

Trades where use foot shear:

Blacksmithing Blacksmithing

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Known Brands of foot shear:

Baileigh Industrial

Peddinghaus

Edwards

Jet

Grizzly

Bolton Tool

Erie Tools

Kaka

Eastwood

Woodward Fab