Reed tc1.6q Quick Release Metal Tubing Cutter

Product Description

The REED tc1.6q is a quick release metal tubing cutter designed for cutting copper, aluminum, brass, light wall steel, and stainless steel tubing. It features a built-in reamer and a spare cutter wheel stored in the knob, making it a compact, self-contained tool for field use. At 6.5 inches in length with a cutting capacity ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 5/8 inch OD, it handles most residential and light commercial tubing diameters. A simple cutter wheel swap extends capability to a wide variety of plastic pipe and tubing types. Plumbers, HVAC technicians, and pipefitters are the primary users of this tool.

The tc1.6q suits residential and light commercial plumbing, HVAC refrigerant line work, and general mechanical applications where clean, burr-minimal tubing cuts are required. The quick release and quick advance mechanisms allow fast repositioning on the tubing without time-consuming manual threading. With alternate cutter wheels, it also handles muffler system tubing and various plastic pipe types, giving a single tool broad application across trade disciplines. The ball detent wheel pin ensures positive wheel retention during cuts.

Key Features

• Quick release, quick advance, and manual advance mechanisms for fast, controlled cutting
• Built-in reamer and spare cutter wheel stored in the handle knob
• Cutting capacity: 1/4 inch to 1 5/8 inch OD
• Cuts copper, aluminum, brass, light wall steel, and stainless steel tubing
• Interchangeable cutter wheels extend use to plastic pipe and muffler system tubing
• Die-cast zinc aluminum sliding bars for added structural strength
• Ball detent wheel pin for secure, consistent wheel positioning

Compatibility

Designed for use with copper, aluminum, brass, light wall steel, and stainless steel tubing with an OD range of 1/4 inch to 1 5/8 inch. Alternate cutter wheels, referenced in the Reed cutter wheel chart, extend compatibility to a wide variety of plastic pipe and tubing types.

Installation Notes

This tool is used by licensed plumbers, HVAC technicians, and mechanical contractors for tubing cutoff work during installation or service. Ensure tubing is properly supported and deburr all cut ends with the built-in reamer before flaring, brazing, or fitting assembly. When cutting refrigerant lines, follow EPA Section 608 refrigerant handling requirements and recover refrigerant before opening the system. Replace the cutter wheel when cuts become rough or require excessive force to complete.