Aviation Snips Uses, Types, and Expert Guide for Precision Cutting

Aviation snips, also known as sheet metal snips or tin snips, are specialized cutting tools designed for precision work on sheet metal and other thin materials. Originally developed for the aerospace industry, these tools are now widely used in HVAC, construction, metal fabrication, and DIY projects because they can easily make straight, curved, and complex cuts.

Unlike standard scissors or tin snips, aviation snips have a compound leverage mechanism, which allows them to cut through thicker gauges of metal with less effort. They come in different types – straight-cutting, left-cutting, and right-cutting – each designed for a specific application.

In this guide, I will cover:

Basic uses of aviation snips
Different types and their applications
Material compatibility and cutting capabilities
Safety tips and maintenance best practices
Comparison with other cutting tools

I have compiled this guide based on my own experience and have also done some extensive research. Let’s get started.

What Are Aviation Snips Used For?

Aviation snips excel in cutting and shaping thin sheet metal and other materials. Their primary uses include:

Metal Fabrication & Aerospace Applications

Cutting aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and galvanized steel sheets.
Shaping aircraft fuselage panels (original aerospace use).
Trimming automotive body panels and patch repairs.

HVAC & Ductwork

Fabricating sheet metal ducts for heating and cooling systems.
Cutting vents, flanges, and fittings with precision.

Roofing & Construction

Trimming metal roofing, flashing, and gutters.
Cutting vinyl siding, aluminum trim, and corrugated sheets.

DIY & Crafting

Repurposing tin cans, plastic lids, and cardboard.
Cutting leather, vinyl flooring, and thick plastics.
Crafting metal art, jewelry, and decorative pieces.

Industrial & Electrical Work

Trimming electrical enclosures and control panels.
Cutting thin wire (up to 1.5mm thickness).

Types of Aviation Snips & Their Applications

Aviation snips are categorized based on cutting direction and blade design, each suited for specific tasks.

Straight-Cutting Aviation Snips (Yellow Handle)

Best for: Long straight cuts & gentle curves.
Common uses:
- HVAC ductwork
- Metal roofing
- Vinyl siding
- Notching sheet metal

Left-Cutting Aviation Snips (Red Handle)

Best for: Counterclockwise (left) curves & straight cuts.
Common uses:
- Cutting circular patterns
- Trimming around pipes & vents
- Right-handed users (waste curls left)

Right-Cutting Aviation Snips (Green Handle)

Best for: Clockwise (right) curves & straight cuts.
Common uses:
- Shaping curved metal panels
- Ductwork adjustments
- Left-handed users (waste curls right)

Specialized Aviation Snip Variations

Type	Handle Color	Primary Use
Offset Snips	Red/Green	Keeps hands above material for better clearance
Long-Cut Snips	Yellow	Extended blades for long straight cuts
Bulldog Snips	Varies	Heavy-duty cutting (up to 16-gauge steel)
Upright Snips	Varies	Ergonomic grip for tight spaces
Pipe & Duct Snips	Varies	Cutting stove pipes & ducting lengthwise

Material Compatibility & Cutting Capacity

Aviation snips can cut various materials, but gauge thickness determines suitability:

Material	Max Cutting Capacity
Aluminum	Up to 18 gauge
Mild Steel	Up to 24 gauge
Stainless Steel	Up to 26 gauge
Galvanized Steel	Up to 22 gauge
Copper & Brass	Up to 20 gauge
Plastic/Vinyl	Varies (thicker than metal)

Note:

Higher gauge numbers = Thinner material (e.g., 26-gauge is thinner than 18-gauge).
Bulldog snips can handle thicker metals (16-gauge).

Safety Tips & Best Practices

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety goggles (metal shards can fly).
Cut-resistant gloves (prevents hand injuries).
Long sleeves (protects from sharp edges).

Proper Cutting Techniques

Right-handed users: Use left-cut (red) snips for counterclockwise curves.
Left-handed users: Use right-cut (green) snips for clockwise curves.
Avoid forcing cuts—use snips rated for material thickness.
Short, controlled cuts prevent blade damage.

Maintenance & Care

Lubricate pivot points with oil to prevent rust.
Clean blades after use to remove metal debris.
Store in a dry place with blades closed.
Sharpen blades when dull (use a fine file or sharpening stone).

Aviation Snips vs. Other Cutting Tools

Tool	Best For	Limitations
Aviation Snips	Curved & straight cuts in thin metal	Limited to sheet metal
Tin Snips	Straight cuts in light metal	Less leverage, harder on thick metal
Nibblers	Intricate cuts, minimal distortion	Slower, less portable
Power Shears	Fast cuts in thick metal	Expensive, requires power
Hand Shears	Long straight cuts	Poor for curves