A home improvement tool designed for neat, burr-free cuts in aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel. Comfortable rubberised grip and straightforward controls keep longer runs manageable for DIYers and tradespeople. Does the Makita DJN161Z Nibbler bring enough control and safety to become a regular workshop companion?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Cutting Quality: Burr-free, neat cuts on aluminium and corrugated steel; defined thickness limits
- • Best for: DIYers and tradespeople performing sheet-metal trimming and panel work
- • Not ideal for: Heavy structural steel or thicknesses above the specified capacities
Cordless 18V LXT nibbler intended for precise sheet-metal cutting. Simple controls, anti-restart and a battery warning lamp support safe, continuous operation.
Precise, finish-ready edges – with specified cutting capacities
Cutting capacity is listed as mild steel 1.6mm, stainless steel 1.2mm and aluminium 2.5mm, giving clear maximums for each material. The nibbler action produces consistent cuts suited to thin sheet metals.
Neat, burr-free edges reduce finishing work on aluminium and corrugated steel, making panels ready for installation or painting.
Safer, more controlled operation – with slide on/off switch and anti-restart
A slide-type on/off switch includes a lock-on function for continuous running while the anti-restart feature prevents the motor starting unexpectedly after a battery is reconnected. These elements combine mechanical control with electronic safety.
Long cutting runs are easier to manage and the risk of accidental starts during battery swaps is lowered, improving workshop safety.
Long runs with clearer battery awareness – thanks to a capacity warning lamp and ergonomic grip
A battery capacity warning lamp gives a visual indication of remaining charge while a rubberised soft grip improves hold and reduces vibration transfer to the hand. Batteries and charger are not included, so performance depends on the chosen 18V Li-ion LXT supply.
Users can plan work around remaining charge and stay comfortable during extended use, cutting down interruptions and fatigue.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Makita DJN161Z Nibbler
- Slide on/off switch with lock-on - Keeps continuous cutting steady during long runs and reduces hand fatigue
- Anti-restart function - Prevents accidental start after battery change, improving safety
- Rubberised soft grip - Improves control and comfort for precise, extended cutting sessions
- Battery capacity warning lamp - Shows remaining charge so users plan longer cutting runs
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Home Improvement, Nibbler
- Power: 18V Li-ion LXT platform (batteries not included)
- Battery: Batteries and charger not included
- On/off switch: Easy-to-operate slide type with lock-on function
- Safety: Anti-restart function
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are batteries and a charger included?
A: No, batteries and charger are not included with the tool.
Q: What materials and thicknesses can it cut?
A: Cutting capacities are specified as mild steel 1.6mm, stainless steel 1.2mm and aluminium 2.5mm.
Q: Is there a warranty and any special conditions?
A: A one year manufacturer warranty applies, with a further two years when registered within 30 days; the guarantee does not apply if non-genuine or incompatible batteries and chargers are fitted.
🏆 Our Verdict
Best suited to DIYers and tradespeople who need neat, finish-ready cuts in aluminium and light steels. Practical safety features, a rubberised grip and clear capacity indicators make sustained cutting straightforward and predictable. Although the initial purchase represents an investment, the extended warranty when registered points to solid long-term value.
