Electrical hand tools built for safe wire cutting under live voltages, the S&R VDE Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter is VDE-tested for use up to 1000V. Comfortable two-component insulated grips and sharp, hardened cutting edges make repetitive cutting less tiring and more accurate. Is the combination of compact size, durability and electrical safety right for professional electricians and keen DIYers?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Cutting Quality: Sharp, hardened cutting edges handle medium-hard wire up to Ø2.3mm and hard wire up to Ø1.5mm with high-leverage jaws for clean cuts
- • Best for: Electricians and installers who need insulated pliers for wiring tasks up to 1000V
- • Not ideal for: Cutting cables thicker than the stated capacities, such as larger power or armoured cables
VDE-tested insulated diagonal side cutter rated for 1000V with a compact 160mm length. Constructed from chrome-vanadium steel with phosphated and galvanic-coated finish and fitted with two-component anti-slip insulated handles.
Safe Live-Voltage Work – thanks to VDE-rated insulation
VDE testing confirms insulated handles designed for electrical installation tasks up to 1000V, reducing the risk when working near live conductors. Insulation is applied to the handles as part of the two-component design.
Permits safer handling of conductors during installation and maintenance, helping users feel more confident when working on live or near-live circuits.
Precise Wire Cutting – with hardened cutting edges and high-leverage jaws
Cutting edges are hardened for durability and shaped to manage medium wire up to Ø2.3mm and hard wire up to Ø1.5mm, while high-leverage geometry reduces the force required. Jaws measure 21mm to provide focused cutting action.
Delivers clean, controlled cuts that reduce fraying and make subsequent stripping or termination neater and faster.
Long-Lasting Durability – thanks to chrome-vanadium steel and protective coatings
Manufactured from high-strength chrome-vanadium (Cr-V) steel with a phosphated and galvanic-coated surface to resist corrosion and wear. Construction aims to preserve edge sharpness under frequent use.
Maintains performance across regular trade use, giving reliable service in busy installation environments.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for S&R VDE Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter
- Ergonomic insulated handles – Reduce hand fatigue and improve grip during prolonged tasks
- Chrome-vanadium steel construction – Resist corrosion and maintain strength in heavy use environments
- High-leverage jaw geometry – Lower required hand force for cleaner cuts with less effort
- Compact 160mm form factor – Access tight spaces and fit comfortably in trade toolboxes
(Exactly 4 points. Feature in bold, then em dash, then benefit. Benefit must be concrete and measurable. No repetition of subheadings, but summary.)
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Diagonal side cutter (insulated)
- Length: 160mm
- Jaw width: 21mm
- Cutting capacity (medium wire): Ø2.3mm
- Cutting capacity (hard wire): Ø1.5mm
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the tool safe to use on live electrical circuits?
A: VDE testing certifies the insulated handles for work up to 1000V, making the tool suitable for electrical installation tasks within that rating.
Q: What wire thickness can it cut cleanly?
A: Hardened cutting edges handle medium-hard wire up to Ø2.3mm and hard wire up to Ø1.5mm, with high-leverage jaws to reduce required hand force.
Q: Are the handles comfortable and durable for repeated use?
A: Two-component anti-slip grips provide comfortable, secure handling, while the chrome-vanadium steel and coated finish enhance durability for frequent use.
🏆 Our Verdict
The S&R VDE Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter suits electricians and serious DIYers who need insulated, reliable cutting tools for installation work. VDE-rated insulation combined with hardened cutting edges and durable Cr-V construction makes it particularly attractive for trade use. Robust build and thoughtful ergonomics deliver long-term value for regular users.
