Midwest Tool mwt-6516 Offset Long Cut Aviation Snip

Product Description

The MIDWEST TOOL mwt-6516 is an offset long cut aviation snip designed for cutting sheet metal, ribbed materials, and curves in full sheets of thin material. It delivers a 2-3/8 inch length of cut, reducing the number of rebites required per pass and making it easier to maneuver through extended straight runs and contoured cuts. The blades are hot drop-forged from molybdenum alloy steel and Austemper heat-treated for edge retention and long service life. The compound leverage handle action multiplies hand force to the cutting blades, reducing fatigue during heavy use. Made in the USA, this snip is suited for either right- or left-hand operation.

The mwt-6516 is intended for sheet metal work in residential and light commercial construction, HVAC ductwork fabrication, roofing, and general metalworking. Its offset blade geometry keeps the user's hand elevated above the work surface, which is especially useful when cutting full sheets laid flat or working through ribbed and corrugated panels. The tool is rated for 20-gauge mild steel and 24-gauge stainless steel, covering the material thicknesses most commonly encountered in HVAC and sheet metal trade work. Sheet metal mechanics and HVAC technicians are the primary installers and users of this tool.

Key Features

• 2-3/8 inch length of cut for fewer rebites and smoother long-run cuts
• Molybdenum alloy steel blades, hot drop-forged and Austemper heat-treated for strength and edge retention
• Offset blade design raises the hand above the work surface for flat-sheet and ribbed-panel cutting
• Compound leverage handle multiplies cutting force while reducing hand strain
• Blades pivot on a Grade 8 bolt threaded into the lower blade, allowing precision readjustment
• Ambidextrous design — operates in either hand
• Made in the USA

Compatibility

Designed for cutting 20-gauge mild steel and 24-gauge stainless steel sheet stock. Suitable for general sheet metal, HVAC ductwork, roofing panel, and corrugated material applications.

Installation Notes

Aviation snips are hand tools used by sheet metal mechanics and HVAC technicians and require no power source or special tooling beyond the snip itself. When cutting, wear cut-resistant gloves — freshly cut sheet metal edges are sharp. Keep blades clean and lightly oiled at the pivot point to maintain smooth action. The pivot bolt may be readjusted if blade alignment drifts over time; do not over-tighten, as this will bind the cutting action.

Technical Specifications

• Length of Cut: 2-3/8 inches
• Cutting Capacity: 20-gauge mild steel, 24-gauge stainless steel
• Overall Length: 10.6 inches
• Width: 3.5 inches
• Depth: 1.3 inches
• Weight: 1 pound
• Blade Material: Molybdenum alloy steel
• Country of Origin: USA

Standard Information

• Brand: MIDWEST TOOL
• Manufacturer Part Number: mwt-6516