How to Use Ratchet Style Bolt Cutters
- 1). Push the release button next to the locking gear and spread the long arms wide to open the jaws of the bolt cutter.
- 2). Slide the edge of the blades against the body of the bolt. The bolt shaft should be positioned as far into the corner of the jaws as possible. If there is a nut stuck on the bolt, set the edges of the blades just below the beveled surface surrounding the bottom of the nut. As the force from the ratchet increases, the metal in the bolt's head and tread will begin to deform, allowing blades to squeeze in toward the main body.
- 3). Grasp the non-ratchet arm of the bolt cutter and push to hold the jaws in place. Keep this arm as stationary as possible while using the cutter.
- 4). Gasp the ratchet arm with your free hand and slowly pull toward the opposite arm, as far as possible.
- 5). Pull the ratchet away from the non-ratchet arm, spreading the two arms as far apart as possible.
- 6). Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until the blades complete cut through the bolt.
- 7). Remove the bolt cutter and press the release button.
- 8). Pump the arms back and forth until the jaws open up completely.
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