Cutting screws without tools is a useful skill. Knowing how to do it can help you in those moments when you don’t have the right tool on hand. It’s also great for projects that require using scrap screws or salvaged materials.
This guide will explain exactly how to cut a screw without tools, along with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
What You’ll Need
To successfully cut a screw without tools, you’ll need the following:
- Tape Measure or Ruler
- Wire Cutters
- Safety Glasses
- Hammer
You’ll also need an old nail or screw, as well as some scrap wood. This will be used to help keep the screw secure while you are sawing it. [1]
Method 1: Wire Cutters
If you don’t have a tool like a hacksaw on hand, one simple way to cut a screw is with wire cutters. This method works best for screws that are relatively thin and made of soft material such as aluminum or brass. Here’s what you need:
- Wire cutter
- Vice or clamp
- Safety glasses
Instructions:
- Begin by securing the screw in a vice or clamp so that it is held securely in place.
- Put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from any debris or metal filings that may be produced as you cut into the screw.
- Use the wire cutter to cut into the head of the screw. You may need to apply pressure for a few seconds before you see any progress.
- Keep cutting until you have gone completely through the head of the screw and it is released from its clamp or vice.
- Remove any metal filings and dispose of them safely in a sealed container. [3]
Method 2: Dremel Tool
This method works best for harder screws made of metal or stainless steel, and requires the use of a tool like a Dremel. Here’s what you need:
- Dremel tool
- Safety glasses
- Mask (optional)
Start by putting on your safety glasses and, if desired, a mask to protect from metal particles. Attach the cutting wheel to the Dremel tool and set it to the lowest speed. Carefully start grinding away at the screw, making sure to keep pressure constant as you rotate it around in a circle. Keep going until the top of the screw is completely removed, then slowly work your way down to remove the rest. Once finished, carefully brush away any residual metal particles and use a cloth to clear the area of dust. [3]
Method 2: Hand Saw
If you don’t have a hacksaw, you can use a handheld saw to cut the screw. Cut it on the side that is closest to the top of your screwdriver bit so that it will fit in the head. Place the blade of the saw against the side of your screw and make sure it is level. Push forward with steady pressure and move the saw back and forth until your screw is cut.
Once you have finished cutting, use a pair of pliers to twist the screw off. [3]
Method 3: Jigsaw
Using a jigsaw is an effective way to cut screws without using tools. First, use the drill to create pilot holes for the jigsaw blade. Make sure that the pilot hole is slightly bigger than the diameter of the jigsaw blade. This will ensure that the blade does not get stuck while turning in circles around the screw head. Next, insert the jigsaw blade into the pilot hole and turn it on. Gently guide the jigsaw around the circumference of the screw head until you reach your desired length. Be careful not to move too quickly as this could cause damage to the material that is being worked on.
Once you have cut as far down as required, use a flathead or Phillips screwdriver to remove the excess material and expose the threads. Finally, use pliers or another tool to twist off any remaining parts of the screw that were not cut by the jigsaw. [3]
Method 4: Reciprocating Saw
A reciprocating saw is the most powerful way to cut a screw without tools. This type of saw can make quick work of any screw that you need to cut, and it doesn’t require much effort either! To use this method, you’ll need to get a reciprocating saw blade that fits on your specific saw.
Once you have the blade in place, simply position it so that it’s lined up with the screw head and then slowly start cutting through it. You may need to make multiple passes over the same area in order to cut all the way through the screwhead. As soon as you’ve severed the head, the rest of the screw should come loose with ease.
Be sure to take caution when using a reciprocating saw as it can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Wear safety goggles and gloves for extra protection, and never force the blade through tough materials. If you feel like it’s taking more effort than necessary to make the cut, stop and check to make sure that you’re using the correct saw blade for the job. [3]
Method 5: Bolt Cutters
Bolt cutters are a great tool to have in your arsenal when it comes to cutting screws without tools. They come in a range of sizes, so you can find one that will suit the size and type of screw that needs to be cut. To use bolt cutters, place the head of the screw between the two blades and squeeze the handles together. This should cut through the screw, giving you a clean break. Be sure to use protective eyewear when using bolt cutters as pieces of metal may fly off during the cutting process. [3]
Hacksaw
One of the most popular and widely used methods for cutting a screw without tools is to use a hacksaw. This method works best on metal screws, such as those found in electrical boxes. The hacksaw will work by sawing through the material while providing leverage to break up the threads. To do this, you need to hold the hacksaw firmly against the head of the screw and apply pressure while sawing. The hacksaw should be held at an angle to ensure that it cuts straight across the head of the screw. It’s important to remember to wear safety glasses when using a hacksaw as metal filings can fly off and cause injury. [1]
Oscillating Tool
Using an oscillating tool is one of the most effective ways to cut a screw without tools. An oscillating tool has a rotating head with blades or saws that vibrate rapidly back and forth. This allows it to quickly and efficiently cut through screws, bolts, nails, or almost any other type of metal fastener. [1]
Angle Grinder
An angle grinder is a power tool that can be used to cut screws. It has a disc-like blade attached to it which rotates at high speed and provides the necessary force for cutting. To use this, you must first secure the screw in place by clamping it or using some other means. Place the disc of the grinder perpendicular to the head of the screw and start grinding away at it. Turn off the grinder once you’ve cut through the screw head, as this will help prevent any damage or injury.
When using an angle grinder to cut screws, make sure that you are wearing protective gear such as goggles and gloves. This will protect you from any debris that is created as a result of the cutting. Furthermore, ensure that the area around you is clear and free of clutter to avoid damaging other objects while using an angle grinder. [1]
Cutting Bolts Without Damaging the Threads
Step 1: Determine the Correct Length
The first step in cutting a screw without tools is to determine the correct length. Measure the total length of your bolt from end to end and make sure that it is at least one centimeter shorter than the space you need for your project. This will ensure that when you cut the screw, it will fit properly without damaging any of the threads. [2]
Step 2: Tools Needed
The only tools you will need to cut a screw without damaging the threads are a pair of pliers, some electrical tape or duct tape, and a sharp utility knife.
Step 3: Prepping the Wood
Once you have your tools gathered, you will need to prepare the wood you are cutting the screw into. It is important to make sure that the wood is free of dirt or debris so that it does not get caught in the threads when the bolt is inserted. Use a piece of sandpaper to clean off any rough edges on the wood and make sure that it is completely smooth. [2]
Step 4: Get Cuttin’
Now you can begin to cut the screw. Hold the bolt in place with one hand and use the pliers to hold down the other end of the bolt. Place a piece of tape over the point where your knife will make contact with the bolt so that it does not slip out of place, then carefully slice through the metal with your utility knife. Make sure to keep the blade straight and even as you cut so that you do not damage any of the threads. [2]
Step 5: Cut and Done
Once you have cut the bolt to the correct length, you are finished! Make sure that all of your tools are clean and stored away properly. Now you have successfully cut a screw without damaging the threads. Congratulations! [2]
FAQ
How do you cut screws quickly?
The simplest and quickest way to cut a screw is with a pair of wire cutters. Wire cutters are inexpensive tools that can be found at your local hardware store or online. They allow you to easily trim off the excess material from the head of the screw to make it easier to remove. Be sure to use caution when using wire cutters, as they can be quite sharp and could cause injury.
How do you cut screws and nails?
To cut screws and nails, you will need to use a pair of metal cutting pliers. Metal cutting pliers are designed specifically for this purpose and may be found at any hardware store or online. Be sure to use caution with these tools as they can be sharp and dangerous if not handled properly. Additionally, when using these tools, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear such as protective eyewear.
How do you cut a bolt by hand?
Cutting a bolt by hand can be quite challenging, especially if it is made of hardened steel. To do so without any tools, you will need to use either a pair of pliers or some sort of knife or saw blade. If using pliers, be sure to use caution as they can be sharp and dangerous if not handled properly. If you are using a knife or saw blade, be sure to take extra precautions as these tools can cause serious injuries if misused. Additionally, when cutting bolts by hand make sure to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves and eye protection.
What hand tool can cut a bolt?
The most common tool used to cut a bolt is a pair of metal cutting pliers. Metal cutting pliers are designed specifically for this purpose and may be found at any hardware store or online. Be sure to use caution with these tools as they can be sharp and dangerous if not handled properly. Additionally, when using these tools, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear such protective eyewear.
How do you cut screw threads?
To cut screw threads, you will need to use a tap and die set. Tap and die sets are specialized tools used to create internal and external threads on screws. They can be found at any hardware store or online.
How do you cut screw threads in metal?
To cut screw threads in metal, you will need to use a tap and die set. Tap and die sets are specialized tools used to create internal and external threads on screws. They can be found at any hardware store or online. When using these tools, it is important to take extra caution as they are sharp and can cause serious injuries if misused. Additionally, it is important to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves and eye protection when using these tools.
How do you cut a screw shorter without damaging threads?
The best way to cut a screw shorter without damaging the threads is to use a pair of wire cutters. Wire cutters are inexpensive tools that can be found at your local hardware store or online. They allow you to easily trim off the excess material from the head of the screw to make it easier to remove. Be sure to use caution when using wire cutters, as they can be quite sharp and could cause injury.
Useful Video: HOW TO CUT A SCREW OR BOLT IN SECONDS!
Conclusion
Cutting a screw without tools is possible but not always advisable. It can be dangerous and require precise technique to do it correctly. If you’re willing to take the risk, make sure to wear safety glasses and use a metal file with a fine-toothed edge for clean cutting. Additionally, practice on an old or discarded screw first to get the hang of it. With some patience and practice, you can cut a screw without any tools.Good luck and stay safe!
References
- https://www.thesawguy.com/how-to-cut-screws/
- https://www.instructables.com/Cutting-Bolts-Without-Damaging-the-Threads/
- https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-cut-screws/