Cable stripper

jackio

Hi

I'm making my own cables. Just got some kit. Van Damme XKE cable which is soft covered. I got automatic cable strippers, those ones that look like pliers with a big complex head. I'm using them correctly, but they kind of pull and chew rather than making a clean cut.

Is it the cable, or did I go too cheap on the strippers?

Help please!

PrecisionGuided

If you're working with various cable types and diameters then a simple snap-off type knife is the best.

If working with lots of the same cable then the rotary style co-ax strippers are the best - set up the depths on some scrap cable first and they're ready forever.

And a real good pair of small side cutters (Lindstrom, Knipex, CK - how much!! ) - buy good, buy once. Don't use them for snipping strings  ;-)

The strippers you describe are best for elecrical cable.

jackio

@PrecisionGuided ;

That's really helpful. And yes, a sharp knife works well. Doh! I bought a new toy thinking it would revolutionist cable stripping and lead making. 

But no, a sharp knife works well. I will have a look at rotary co-ax strippers too.

Thanks