tool for cutting steel
 

What tool would you recommend for cutting 10 to 14 gauge sheets and 1/8th inch angle iron?

Metal shears (electric/air), plasma cutter, metal chop saw.

I've always had good results just using a zip cut (cutting wheel) on a grinder. As long as you could run it straight it will cut no problem.

If you want a good clean cut, it's not for you, but i've always liked the good old oxy-acetylene (how DO you spell that?) torch for cutting steel.

i'll second the torch, but if you set it up right you can get a realitivly straight cut on thicker metal (i was cutting a frame)

when you get the oxygen set right, lean the tip where it heats up a long strip of the metal to almost dripping melted, then hit the button and go through it as quick as you can and still cut it

If you have a power saw (i.e. skill saw), you could use a carbon blade in it and get really good results that way.

i use a zaw-zall for most of my metal cutting,works pretty good if ya keep it straight. heck even a jigsaw with a metal blade works good.

Depending on the size of the piece to cut, the best thing I have found is the little horizontal/vertical bandsaw from Harbor Freight. About $175. I also have a chop saw that has not been out of the closet since I got the bandsaw.

It works great for cutting off long stuck even up to 1" thick. Just takes awhile. But it's quiet. If you need more speed for big stuff, use the torch. I just can't recommend a chop saw ever over the bandsaw. I have the cheap saw but some moderately priced Starrett blades for it that make a big difference.

I agree with sarge, a sawzaw or a jigsaw works best fo me as well, and you can make curved cuts with a jigsaw.

I agree. Plasma cutters are worth weight in gold IMO.

I like the jigsaw but I always hate how the blades are held in, maybe I need a better saw

i'd love to have a plasma cutter and a nice upright bandsaw but for now like the other guys said the old $30 jigsaw with a good carbon or bimetal blade works pretty darn good up to 3/8 inch steel

Just a tip for torch users.

Take a center punch and place small dimples along your cut line about every 1/2 to 3/4 inch apart.

When you cut these show up very nicely and makes the cuts a little nicer with practice.

Another tip for torch users:
Clamp a piece of angle iron about 1/4" away from your line. Use the angle to support / guide your torch while you cut.