Midwest Left Cut Aviation Upright Tinsnip

The Midwest left aviation upright tinsnip is built for cutting straight lines and tight left curves in sheet metal, with the blades able to be used up or down in a push or pull motion. The upright handle design improves wrist movement and makes it easier to work in confined areas. With a serrated top blade and a cutting capacity to suit common roof and gutter metal, it is a dependable hand tool for metal roofing and fabrication work.

Key Features

• Cuts straight lines and tight left curves, circles and shapes in sheet metal
• Serrated top blade with 40 serrations per inch for a firm grip on the metal
• Use with blades up or blades down, in a push or pull motion
• Upright handle design improves wrist range of motion
• Ideal for working in confined areas
• Ergonomic design for comfort during extended cutting

Specifications

• Cut direction: left
• Nominal length: 8-3/4 inch
• Cut length: 1-1/4 inch
• Cutting capacity (cold rolled steel / stainless steel): 24 / 28 gauge (description-sourced)
• Top blade: serrated, 40 serrations per inch
• Handedness: easiest used in the right hand

Applications

• Cutting flashing, capping and trim in metal roofing
• Following left curves around corners and downpipe openings
• Trimming gutters and custom metalwork in tight spots
• Ductwork and general sheet metal fabrication

What You Need To Complete The Job

Pair this left cut snip with the Midwest right cut upright tinsnip so you can follow curves in both directions, and add leather rigger gloves plus clear safety glasses for sharp edges and metal fragments. Browse the full General Hand Tools range for more cutting tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does left cut mean on a tinsnip?

A left cut tinsnip is designed to cut tight curves to the left when the tool is used in the right hand. The blade geometry is set so the snip follows a left hand arc without fighting the metal. For curves in the other direction you use a right cut snip, which is why pairs are common.

Can I use this snip with the blades facing up or down?

Yes. The Midwest upright snip is designed to cut with the blades up or down, and in a push or pull motion. That flexibility lets you choose the most comfortable and controlled way to work, which matters in confined areas where you cannot reposition the work.

What gauge metal will this snip cut?

The listing gives a cutting capacity of 24 gauge cold rolled steel and 28 gauge stainless steel. That covers the lighter sheet metal used for flashings, gutters, ductwork and general fabrication. Heavier material needs a larger snip or a power shear.