How to choose the
best box cutter
What is the Purpose Of A Box Cutter?
Box cutters are useful tools for cutting boxes apart. They are handy for opening packages, saving money, and making gift wrapping easier. There are many different types of box cutters available today, including ones designed specifically for paper products, plastic containers, cardboard boxes, and others. Some box cutters are very simple while others are extremely complex. Regardless of which type you decide to purchase, there are several features to be aware of.
Features To Look For
The most obvious thing to look for when purchasing a box cutter is whether or not it has a blade. Blades allow you to slice through material without damaging the item itself. Most blades are sharpened along the edge, although some models include a dull side as well. Blade length varies depending on the size of the box being cut. Smaller boxes require shorter blades, whereas larger boxes require longer blades.
Blade Type
There are two main types of blades; single edged and double edged. Single edged blades are ideal for cutting thin materials such as tape. Double edged blades are good for thicker materials such as cardboard. Both types of blades are effective, however, double edged blades are typically sharper and last longer.
Size
Most box cutters are sold in sets of three. Sets consist of a small, medium, and large sized blade. Each set includes a handle, which holds the blades together. Size matters when using a box cutter, especially when cutting cardboard. Larger box cutters are needed for heavier boxes. However, smaller box cutters are preferred for lighter boxes.
Durability
Some box cutters are constructed of metal, while others are made of plastic. Metal box cutters are generally stronger and sturdier than those made of plastic. Plastic box cutters are cheaper, but they are prone to breaking. Make sure you check the warranty information on the packaging before purchasing. Many manufacturers guarantee their product for years, while others offer limited warranties.
Tip #1 - Determine How Much Cutting You Will Be Doing
Before you go shopping for a box cutter, determine exactly how much cutting you plan to be doing. Do you intend to cut boxes for packaging materials or do you plan to cut boxes for storage? Depending on the size of the boxes you are going to be using, you may require a heavier duty box cutter. Heavy duty box cutters are typically constructed of steel and are able to withstand higher levels of stress. However, these cutters are generally larger and bulkier than lighter duty models. Lighter duty box cutters are typically constructed of plastic and are easier to handle. Although lighter duty box cutters are smaller and weigh less, they cannot stand up to the same amount of pressure as heavy duty models. Therefore, if you plan to cut large boxes, you may want to invest in a heavy duty model.
Tip #2 - Look For Features That Are Important To You
Once you've determined how much cutting you will be doing, you should start thinking about features that are important to you. One of the most common features found on box cutters is the blade guard. Blade guards are designed to shield the user from getting injured during operation. Most manufacturers include a blade guard on their box cutters. Other features that you may wish to consider include the number of blades included with the tool, whether or not the box cutter has a locking mechanism, and the overall weight of the box cutter.
Finally, once you've decided on the features that matter most to you, you should think about the size of the box cutter you need. Many users mistakenly assume that bigger is always better. While this isn't necessarily true, you should still pay attention to the dimensions of the box cutter you are considering. Generally speaking, the longer the length of the box cutter, the stronger the blade. As mentioned earlier, heavy duty
Features To Look For When Buying A Box Cutter
Box cutters are useful tools for cutting boxes and packaging materials. There are many different types of box cutters available today, each designed for specific purposes. Some box cutters are very simple while others are extremely complex. Here we discuss the features to look for when purchasing a box cutter.
Blade Size
The size of the blade determines the width of the opening created by the tool. Blades range from 1/4" to 3". Most box cutters include blades ranging between 2"-2.5", which creates openings measuring approximately 4 inches wide. Larger blades create larger openings, making it easier to remove material from the box.
Cutting Speed
Some box cutters allow users to adjust the speed of the blade. Adjustable speeds vary from slow (1) to fast (10). Fast speeds produce faster cuts, however, they are harder to control. Slow speeds are easy to control and produce smoother cuts. However, slower speeds take longer to complete the task.
Durability
Most box cutters are constructed using plastic or metal. Plastic box cutters are generally cheaper and lighter weight, but they lack durability. Metal box cutters are stronger and last longer. Durability varies depending on the type of metal used. Stainless steel is considered the strongest and most durable option. Aluminum and brass are both strong options, although aluminum tends to be heavier.
Material
Many box cutters are manufactured using stainless steel. Other popular choices include carbon steel, titanium, and tungsten carbide. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Carbon steel is inexpensive and lightweight, yet it lacks strength. Tungsten carbide is heavy and difficult to sharpen, but it is incredibly hard and lasts forever. Titanium is light and strong, but it is expensive.
Safety
All box cutters contain sharp edges. Always wear safety glasses when using these tools. Never attempt to use a box cutter without proper eye protection. Cutting glass or acrylic can result in serious injuries. Use extreme caution when handling box cutters. Do not point the tip towards your eyes or
Box cutters are handy tools that allow you to cut boxes into smaller pieces. There are many different styles available, including those designed specifically for cutting cardboard boxes. Some models include blades that fold flat while others have retractable blades that extend once inside the handle. Most box cutters are sold individually, although there are some models that come packaged together in sets.
Types of Box Cutters
Blade Style - Blade style box cutters typically consist of two parts, a blade and a handle. The blade folds flat and slides into the handle which has a slot where the blade sits. Once inserted, the blade extends outward and cuts the material being held within the slot. Blade type box cutters are generally easier to operate than retractable ones since the blade does not require constant retraction.
Retractable - Retractable box cutters are very popular among professionals who frequently deal with large amounts of cardboard packaging. Typically, these box cutters contain a spring loaded mechanism that automatically retracts the blade upon opening. While this design offers convenience, it requires extra maintenance due to the fact that the blade must be retracted each time the tool is opened.
Combination Models - Combination models combine both blade and retractable features. For example, some combination models have a blade that retracts into the handle and another blade that extends outside the handle. Other models have a single blade that retracts into the handle and a second blade that extends outside the handle.
How To Use a Box Cutter
Hold the box cutter firmly between thumb and forefinger.
Slide the blade into the slot located on top of the handle.
Pull the trigger to release the blade.
Cut the desired amount of material using the blade.
Repeat steps 1-4 until the entire contents of the box have been sliced.
Tips for Using a Box Cutter
Always hold the box cutter securely between your fingers.
Never attempt to cut anything thicker than the thickness of the blade.
Do not apply pressure to the blade during operation.
Use a sharp knife to slice materials that are too tough