Tool recommendation (pneumatic sheers)

[61_FL_Apache]

I am looking for a pneumatic tool for cutting sheet metal.. I already have cut off wheel type tools, but I want some kind of sheering tool. The thickest metal I may need to cut would be 18 gauge, but mostly thinner steel. I would also like it to cut curves as well as straight.

This would only be used seldom so something from Harbor Freight would be fine.

Thanks for your input!

[dwcsr]

Get a used beverly shear. or a new one if your going to use it alot.

[61_FL_Apache]

Originally Posted by dwcsr

Get a used beverly shear. or a new one if your going to use it alot.

I didn't think about one like that.. I would not use it much and I guess an electric shear would be fine too.

[cdowns]

a quality jigsaw is a great tool to have if you take the time to learn how to use it properly and safely/// hi quality blades is the key

[dwcsr]

I have an electric, an Air and beverly type HF shear. All cost about the same and the electric is good for slitting off large pieces and the air is about the same. The HF beverly type is great for corners, straight line, following a not so straight line. The HF shear you will have to modify the gear arm so it opens all the way but it does a decent job for what it cost and it is very versatile. The electric shear is a little hard to control on lines that you need to follow closely as is the Air shear. Air shear was not so good on heavier that 20 ga. The HF and electric have cut 16ga nicely. I use the electric for lopping of big pieces off a sheet or making things like bed side where you have a very long cut to make.

[61_FL_Apache]

Im leaning towards an electric for now. Like I said, I wont need it for big jobs, but the hand shears and not cutting it these days.

Thanks again for all your input!!