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  #1  
Old 01-04-2010, 09:03 PM
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AlexPeterson AlexPeterson is offline
 
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Default Tip: Zip Tie trimming

On another thread it was mentioned to use a razor blade to trim the tie wraps flush, in order to minimize cuts from jagged edges remaining. Seems like the potential trade off for blood might not be worth it...

I have found that a good way to trim zip ties (cable ties, tie wraps, etc.) is to use a flush cut electronic lead trimmer. They are about 5 or 6 bucks. I don't generally let the cutting portion of my tie wrap gun clip them, but instead use something like this:



Doesn't leave any sharp edges, and angled cutters are also available at tool supply places.
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  #2  
Old 01-05-2010, 07:22 AM
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Default YEP!

That's what I use too.
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  #3  
Old 01-05-2010, 07:53 AM
TSwezey TSwezey is offline
 
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I got the 5 set of tiny snips from Home Depot and they work great for cutting them. Allow you to cut from different angles.
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  #4  
Old 01-05-2010, 10:53 AM
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Avery Tools has precisely that: https://www.averytools.com/pc-830-49...ty-cutter.aspx
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  #5  
Old 01-05-2010, 06:09 PM
mayo3808 mayo3808 is offline
 
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Nail clippers work very well
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  #6  
Old 01-05-2010, 08:51 PM
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'score' one side, nice and tight, with some sort of blade (exacto, razor, utility knife, etc) and then bend it (usually once) and it will break off at the score line, typically nice and flush...fast and easy. I used to build playgrounds at Burger King's and thats how we did it. It was good enough for the kids.

If you really want to spend some extra time, after you cut it you can apply a hot sodering iron to melt the sharp edge flush. This is more time consuming but gives you a nice smooth finish.
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  #7  
Old 01-05-2010, 09:07 PM
Kyle Boatright Kyle Boatright is offline
 
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Location: Atlanta, GA
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I bought a quality pair of zip tie pullers from an electrical supplier - not the $9 version from Harbor Freight.

They trim the end as flush as I can trim it with anything other than a razor blade. And to be honest, working with a razor blade under the panel sounds like a neat way to A) Hurt myself or B) Cut a wire or pitot/static line. Not worth it to me.

Besides, there are hundreds of zip ties in a typical RV. The zip tie puller easily saves 10 seconds on every tie. The time adds up.
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Last edited by Kyle Boatright : 01-05-2010 at 09:10 PM.
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  #8  
Old 01-05-2010, 10:30 PM
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hgerhardt hgerhardt is offline
 
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Location: torrance, ca
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Kyle Boatright View Post
I bought a quality pair of zip tie pullers from an electrical supplier - not the $9 version from Harbor Freight.

They trim the end as flush as I can trim it with anything other than a razor blade. And to be honest, working with a razor blade under the panel sounds like a neat way to A) Hurt myself or B) Cut a wire or pitot/static line. Not worth it to me.

Besides, there are hundreds of zip ties in a typical RV. The zip tie puller easily saves 10 seconds on every tie. The time adds up.
I agree! Here's what you want: http://datasheet.octopart.com/GS2B-P...heet-38176.pdf
They're expensive, but SOOO worth it! There is absolutely no burr, and the tension is perfect every time.

Heinrich Gerhardt
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  #9  
Old 01-06-2010, 03:36 PM
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RV9er RV9er is offline
 
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Location: Cumberland Maine
Posts: 55
Unhappy Sorry

Quote:
Originally Posted by AlexPeterson View Post
On another thread it was mentioned to use a razor blade to trim the tie wraps flush, in order to minimize cuts from jagged edges remaining. Seems like the potential trade off for blood might not be worth it...

I have found that a good way to trim zip ties (cable ties, tie wraps, etc.) is to use a flush cut electronic lead trimmer. They are about 5 or 6 bucks. I don't generally let the cutting portion of my tie wrap gun clip them, but instead use something like this:



Doesn't leave any sharp edges, and angled cutters are also available at tool supply places.
I can't get away from the flat waxed lacing cord. Tied individually it looks so nice and gives a sense of order. Just like ribstitching Cub Wings.
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  #10  
Old 01-06-2010, 09:01 PM
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Low Pass Low Pass is offline
 
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My choice - for safety! All plastic childrens scissors. They work great!

And best of all, none of those nasty cuts that can sometimes happen when using dangerous razor blades and metal cutters!!
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