Best way to cut thick sheet metal?

Question

I need a way to cut thick steel sheet meal (16 gauge) that is quick and easy. There are nippers out there that COULD do it, but i want to know if there are cheap, easier ways out there than killing my hands trying to cut it. Since there are going to be a lot of curves to the finished piece, i dont know if nippers would be a good bet for steel this thick. any ideas? thanks.

Answer 1

With a tooth brush

Answer 2

I have seen a guy cut sheet metal with a skill say,the trick was,he told me is to  install the blade backwards and it seemed to work great. Remember ......Safety first,if you are not sure how to do it, don't do it.     it is not worth the risk as serious injury can occur if not performed properly and safely!!!!

Answer 3

you could find a sheet metal shop near you that could use a shear to cut the metal for you. you could also use a die grinder with a cut off blade to cut the metal, the die grinders run off electricity or air.

Answer 4

You can buy a cheap set of tin snips(red,green,&yellow) for less than 40$

Answer 5

You can use saw like every one is saying. Also you can use electric sheet metal shears that you can rent at a tool rental.

Answer 6

You might be better renting a power saw that can do this.  Wont be as cheap as nippers but it will give you a much better finished edge...

Answer 7

Three easy answers, for straight cuts a circular saw with an abrasive blade (think chop saw) works wonders, for intricate cuts a jig saw with a high tooth per inch bi-metal blade does a good job though not the fastest in the world.  And a good electrich sheet metal nibbler is the best bet for quick intricate work.  You can buy one for around 100 dollars or rent one for 20-30 dollars a day.  If you have access to an air compressor you can buy a pneumatic nibbler for much less and if you have a harbor freight around you you can buy a cheap nibbler for less than 40 dollars sometimes as little as 20 when they are on sale.  Good luck hope this helps.

Answer 8

16 ga is pretty thin,this will cut easily with a jig saw with a 24 teeth per inch or finer blade.