How To Cut A Bolt? [Step-By-Step Guide]

Did you ever need to cut a bolt? The answer is yes, but not always.

If you’ve ever gone to the hardware store and found yourself in this situation, then you’re probably familiar with how annoying this can be. As much as you don’t want to do it for some reason, there are situations when the only solution is getting out your trusty pocket knife.

But cutting bolts can be tedious work to do. However, it doesn’t have to be that way.

With careful planning and preparation, you can make cutting bolts easier than they seem.

What Is A Bolt?

A bolt is made of metal and is used to fasten objects. It has a head and chamfer on the other end, and a ridge called a thread.

There are types of bolts, and they may vary depending on the materials used and their purpose. Below are the 16 different types of bolts.

Types of Bolts

1. Anchor bolts

This type is used for structural projects and is commonly implanted in masonry or concrete.

2. Carriage bolts

It is used to put metal and timber together. The undercut head is square that can be fastened to hold the bolt in place.

3. Elevator bolts

Mostly used in transport systems, it has plains and a flat counter designed to keep the bolt in place when tightened.

4. Frame bolts

Also known as frame bolts. It distributes the bearing load.

5. Hanger bolts

It is composed of two ends of thread. One is the head, and the other is a wood screw.

6. Hexagon and Tap bolts

The hexagon has six sides, while the tap bolt has to thread down.

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7. Huck bolt

The same bolt is used to fix the collar and pin it together. This is for permanent fixing.

8. Lag bolt

The more you tighten these screws, the more rigid and solid they become. With Lag Screws, you can create your mating thread in timber and other soft materials like paper and cardboard.

9. Machine bolt

This type of bolt is used on metal and wooden parts to assemble and secure them into place.

10. Sex bolt

When exposed to thread, the sex bolt will be useful in fastening objects.

11. Squarehead bolt

This is a bolt that has a short shank. It has a four-sided bolt head.

12. Stud bolt

Objects are fastened in between two bolts to keep in place. The nuts are hexagons at both ends.

13. Timber bolt

This timber bolt, by its name, fastens timber materials or components.

14. T-head bolt

Use these bolt-in slots as a wench can easily grip them.

15. Toggle bolt

When placing objects on a wall, use this bolt because it can expand looking like wings.

16. U-bolt

This bolt is u-shaped and has partial threads on end. You can similarly use it like staplers.

Easiest Way Of Cutting A Bolt

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You’re looking for ways to cut a bolt, but you don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’re using a saw to cut your bolt? Here’s an easy way to cut a bolt. But first, you need to prepare the materials.

Materials

  • Drill
  • Nuts with thread at the end
  • Bolt to be shortened
  • Marker pen
  • Hacksaw blade
  • Measuring tape
  • Wrench for bolt but
  • Worktable
  • Industria gloves
  • Work goggles

Steps

First step:

Use the measuring tape to estimate where the bolt needs to be cut. Then, use your pen to mark.

Second step:

Next, you have to thread the two bolts in a nut. This way, you know exactly where to cut.

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Third step:

For the third step, get your wench and make sure if the nuts are tight. If not, tighten them so that they won’t move too much when there’s vibration.

Fourth step:

Drill the thread end of the bolt and hold it tightly.

Fifth step:

The fifth step will be to use the hacksaw blade to lay on the marker line where you need to cut.

Sixth step:

And finally, use the drill to the bolt cut line. Hold the hacksaw securely until it cuts the bolt in half.

Other Method of Cutting a Bolt

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There are also other methods of cutting a bolt. If you aren’t familiar with the first method, you might find these effects as well.

Make sure to prep the materials beforehand and read this guide carefully.

Snipping

Wire cutters are used to snip through different types of materials. Snipping is like holding a pair of scissors.

The slanted blades of wire cutters make it snip make through any material.

Using a Hacksaw

If you have a hacksaw, you can find that useful. Since it has fine teeth, it can cut through metal.

You can execute this by making dings and divots and small dings at the back of the saw. Then, you can now use the backside to saw through the nail or screw.

Using a Jigsaw

You can use the jigsaw to cut metal. Place the metal-cutting blade, and you’re good to go. Avoid using a circular saw to cut through metal because it is harder compared to using a jigsaw.

Using a Reciprocating Saw

This is the most flexible saw to use for cutting metals and screws. Compared to jigsaw and handsaw, this will be much quicker to use.

Again, use the metal-cutting blade of the reciprocating saw, then hold the saw guard against a hard surface or wall.

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Using Bolt Cutters

Using your hands, you can cut through metals using a bolt cutter. Since it has long handles, it gives you the advantage to cut it easier.

You’ll find this handy when cutting through thin metals.

What Should You Consider When Choosing The Best Bolt Cutters

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing the best bolt cutters.

You may ask, can it cut easily? How long can it withstand the usage?

Here are some things you need to take note of when choosing.

Utility

You can use bolt cutters to cut padlocks, chain link fencing, and landscape needs. You have to consider its utility.

Can it be used in ways other than what is intended? This is a very powerful tool as it can cut cable wire, metals sheets, and nails.

Size and Mass

You will also take the size and mass into consideration. For instance, an 18-inch bolt cutter can cut about 9/32 of an inch diameter, while a 24-inch can cut about 5/16 inches in diameter.

There are also large bolt cutters around 48 inches. These can cut heavy metals and rods up to 7/12 inches in diameter.

Cut Style

In terms of cut style, bolt cutters will differ. Here are the different cut styles for bolt cutters.

1. Angles

The angles are important in targeting low cuts. Typically, it’s angled between 25-30 degrees. It can cut nails coming out of hard surfaces like wood.

2. Shear

Its blades are inverted, similar to a pair of scissors. This is ideal for cutting cable wires, as it gives a cleaned-off finish.

3. Clipper

This makes it easier for you to cut through a flat surface. It’s best to use this for removing nails in metals.

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4. Center

It features slant blades that make it easier to cut a metal rod, pipes, and cables.

Handles

You’ll be using a lot of force when cutting bolts. The handles should be comfortable for you to hold, and they should extend the blade’s durability. Choose a bolt cutter with padded grips.

Adjustability

When holding the bolt cutter, it must be able to adjust properly. Why? Because it should be cut properly to prevent damage.

Maintenance

Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the bolt cutters’ use. Using it beyond its intended purpose may cause significant damage. In return, you’ll have to buy a replacement. Clean the cutter religiously to avoid rusting.

How To Buy A Right Bolt Length

Know that you know a lot about bolt cutters; you might be thinking about purchasing one. You need to know the criteria to buy the correct bolt length. Listed below are 7 factors you need to check.

Size

Look at the size of the bolt and read the manufacturer’s instructions as to what materials fit best to it.

Thickness

You have to check the thickness of the bolt and compare it with other objects’ material.

Function

The function matters in choosing a bolt. You have to evaluate its uses.

Number of Bolts

If you want to hold an object in place, you’ll need 2 bolts and at least 3 for bending constraints.

Strength

The strength will depend on what the bolt will do. Grade 5 is much stronger than grade 2 bolts.

Thread Pitch and Engagement

There are two types of threads; coarse has fewer threads which makes it install faster, while fine threads can create clamps.

Positioning

The long end may interfere with the new bolt end. Choose the just-right length.

FAQs

What is the hardest bolt to cut?

The hardest bolt to cut is the commercial-grade 8 bolts. It’s made out of carbon alloy steel and can withstand tons of pressure.

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Will a Dremel cut a bolt?

A Dremel is a tool held by the hand to cut wood and metal. Yes, it can cut through bolts, specifically the rusted ones.

Is it illegal to own bolt cutters?

Bolt cutters are almost always associated with theft and break-in, but owning one is not illegal.

Will an oscillating tool cut a bolt?

When you’re cutting straight through something, it can be a bit difficult to cut straight. Don’t worry because the oscillating blade can cut the bolt.

How do you sharpen bolt cutters?

Wipe down the blad, then use a metal vice to clamp it. Using an oil, file, or angle grinder, sharpen the slanted edge of the blade. Be careful using any blade on your electric power tools!

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Final Say About Cutting Bolt

If you’re new to working with bolts, you need some time to read this extensive guide. When prepping for work, always remember to put your safety a priority. If you need help, ask someone to assist you with extra precautions. Take note of the steps on how to cut a bolt and good-to-go.

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