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10 Best Metal Shears 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear - Bare tool

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,104
Cutting Capacity
Type of Shears
Blade Material

Most important from
160 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Cuts like a champ, accurate and efficient, even through 26 gauge sheet metal.
Type of Shears
Great tool for making cutting or trimming small gauge metal with ease.
Blade Material
The blade removes a 1/4” chunk of material, but it curls up out of the way, ensuring precise cuts.
Cutting Speed
Ideal for HVAC work, making quick work of ducted systems.
Ergonomics
Easy to use and cuts well.

The Milwaukee 2635-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Double Cut Shear is a versatile and durable tool that is easy to use and handle. It is designed for those who need a reliable shear for cutting metal, with a solid construction made from high carbon steel and alloy steel materials, ensuring longevity. The 18-volt cordless power source allows for mobility and convenience, ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts working in various locations without easy access to power outlets.

The tool's weight of just under 4 pounds makes it relatively lightweight for extended use without causing significant fatigue. However, it should be noted that this is a bare tool, meaning it does not come with batteries or a charger, which requires a separate purchase if not already owned. The high carbon steel blade material ensures sharpness and durability, which is beneficial for precise and clean cuts. The ergonomics of the shear are well-considered, with an ambidextrous handle design that makes it comfortable for both right and left-handed users.

The cutting capacity of 18 gauge is suitable for a wide range of metal cutting tasks, though it may not be enough for thicker materials. A 5-year warranty adds to its appeal, providing peace of mind against manufacturing defects. This shear is a robust and dependable option for those needing a portable and effective metal cutting tool, though the additional cost for batteries and a charger should be considered.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,104
Cutting Capacity
Type of Shears
Blade Material

Most important from
160 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Cuts like a champ, accurate and efficient, even through 26 gauge sheet metal.
Type of Shears
Great tool for making cutting or trimming small gauge metal with ease.
Blade Material
The blade removes a 1/4” chunk of material, but it curls up out of the way, ensuring precise cuts.
Cutting Speed
Ideal for HVAC work, making quick work of ducted systems.
Ergonomics
Easy to use and cuts well.
#2

Milwaukee 2637-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Single Cut Shear - Bare tool

Rating
10.0
Cutting Capacity
Cutting Speed
Ergonomics

Most important from
28 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Super high-quality and sharp, perfect for cutting kick plate.
Cutting Speed
Cuts quick and clean with a little practice.
Ergonomics
Easy to use and handle.

The Milwaukee 2637-20 M18 Cordless 18 Gauge Single Cut Shear is a robust tool designed for those who need to cut through metal efficiently. With a cutting capacity of 18 gauge, it is suitable for a variety of metal cutting tasks. The cordless design adds to its convenience, allowing for greater mobility without being tethered to a power outlet. Made from alloy steel, the blade promises durability and longevity, ensuring that it can withstand heavy-duty use.

The tool's weight, at 4.2 pounds, is manageable, although it might still be a bit heavy for prolonged use without breaks. Its ambidextrous handle design makes it versatile for both right- and left-handed users. However, the shear does not come with batteries, which means additional purchases are required if you don't already own M18 batteries. In terms of ergonomics, while the product claims to be easy to use and handle, the actual user experience may vary based on individual preferences and strength.

This tool is best suited for users who already own M18 batteries and need a durable, reliable metal shear for medium-duty tasks.

Rating
10.0
Cutting Capacity
Cutting Speed
Ergonomics

Most important from
28 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Super high-quality and sharp, perfect for cutting kick plate.
Cutting Speed
Cuts quick and clean with a little practice.
Ergonomics
Easy to use and handle.
#3

DEWALT 20V MAX Metal Shear, Swivel Head, 18GA, Tool Only (DCS491B)

Rating
9.1
Cutting Capacity
Type of Shears
Cutting Speed

Most important from
532 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Once you get the hang of it, cutting through metal—whether flat or ribbed—feels effortless, almost like cutting through butter.
Type of Shears
The variable speed feature and scissor-type shears offer great control and accuracy, especially when cutting rolled aluminum stock and vinyl siding panels.
Cutting Speed
Despite leaving a slightly wavy edge, maintaining speed and proper technique can help manage this for most tasks.
Ergonomics
The tool is very manageable and lightweight, which makes it perfect for extended use without causing fatigue.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Metal Shear (DCS491B) is designed to handle metal cutting tasks with ease, boasting an 18-gauge cutting capacity. Its standout feature is the 360-degree tool-free swivel head, which enhances accessibility in tight spaces and makes it highly versatile.

This cordless shear operates on a 20V battery, providing the convenience of mobility without the hassle of cords. However, note that the battery is not included, which means additional costs if you don't already own a compatible DEWALT battery.

The shears' ability to cut 7/32" strips that curl out of the cutting area ensures a clear line of sight and consistent, accurate cuts, which is a significant advantage for precision work. Ergonomically, the tool is designed to be user-friendly, weighing only 4 pounds, which helps reduce user fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the three-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind regarding durability and reliability.

Rating
9.1
Cutting Capacity
Type of Shears
Cutting Speed

Most important from
532 reviews

Cutting Capacity
Once you get the hang of it, cutting through metal—whether flat or ribbed—feels effortless, almost like cutting through butter.
Type of Shears
The variable speed feature and scissor-type shears offer great control and accuracy, especially when cutting rolled aluminum stock and vinyl siding panels.
Cutting Speed
Despite leaving a slightly wavy edge, maintaining speed and proper technique can help manage this for most tasks.
Ergonomics
The tool is very manageable and lightweight, which makes it perfect for extended use without causing fatigue.

Buying Guide for the Best Metal Shears

Metal shears are essential tools for cutting through various types of metal sheets and other materials. Choosing the right metal shear involves understanding your specific needs and the key specifications that differentiate one model from another. By focusing on these specifications, you can ensure that you select a tool that is both effective and efficient for your projects.
Cutting CapacityCutting capacity refers to the maximum thickness of metal that the shears can cut through. This is important because using shears with insufficient capacity can damage the tool and result in poor cuts. Cutting capacities are usually measured in gauge or millimeters. For light-duty tasks, a lower capacity (higher gauge number) is sufficient, while heavy-duty tasks require a higher capacity (lower gauge number). Assess the thickness of the materials you will be working with to determine the appropriate cutting capacity.
Type of ShearsThere are different types of metal shears, including manual, electric, and pneumatic. Manual shears are suitable for small, precise cuts and are often used for lighter materials. Electric shears are more powerful and can handle thicker materials, making them ideal for medium to heavy-duty tasks. Pneumatic shears, powered by compressed air, offer high power and are used for industrial applications. Consider the frequency and scale of your projects to choose the right type.
Blade MaterialThe material of the blades affects the durability and cutting performance of the shears. Common blade materials include high-speed steel (HSS) and carbide. HSS blades are durable and can handle a variety of metals, while carbide blades are harder and maintain their sharpness longer, making them suitable for cutting tougher materials. Choose a blade material based on the types of metals you will be cutting and the longevity you require.
Cutting SpeedCutting speed refers to how quickly the shears can cut through metal. This is particularly important for large projects where efficiency is key. Cutting speed is often measured in strokes per minute (SPM) for electric and pneumatic shears. Higher SPM means faster cutting, which is beneficial for high-volume work. For occasional or detailed work, a lower cutting speed may be sufficient and offer more control.
ErgonomicsErgonomics involves the design of the shears to ensure comfort and ease of use. Features such as handle design, weight, and balance can significantly impact user fatigue and precision. Lightweight and well-balanced shears with comfortable grips are ideal for prolonged use. Consider how often and how long you will be using the shears to prioritize ergonomic features that will reduce strain and improve control.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to the ability to change settings such as blade gap and cutting angle. This is important for achieving precise cuts on different materials and thicknesses. Shears with adjustable settings offer greater versatility and can be fine-tuned for specific tasks. If you work with a variety of materials and require precise cuts, look for shears with adjustable features.

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