Nibblers

Make fast, precision metalworking cuts with a high-performance nibbler from Cromwell.co.uk. We stock a choice selection of quality nibblers at great prices. Choose from cordless, electric or air-powered nibblers from market-leading brands, like Kobe Red Line® and Hikoki®.

What are nibblers?

Nibblers are a hand-held power tool that cut without causing sparks or distorting metal.

Why nibblers?

The nibbler gets its name thanks to the way that it cuts, nibbling small circular discs out of the cut line, where they fall away or can be easily swept clear. For this reason, some prefer the nibbler to metal shears, which creates a sharp coil of waste material during their cuts that remains attached until the end cut.

When are nibblers used?

They're ideal for cutting out sections or shapes in metal sheeting and can easily change direction thanks to their integrated die holder.

Nibbler types

Ideal for cutting and shaping metal sheeting, including corrugated metal, aluminium and steel, nibblers are a handy tool to have around.

• Air nibblers   -   A powerful variant, this type of nibbler works well in close spaces and is ideal for precision cutting

• Cordless nibblers   -   Flexible and convenient, like most cordless hand tools, battery packs remove the issue of electric cord trip hazards and the need to find a socket when working on site

• Electric nibblers   -   Ideal for a workshop setting, electric nibblers offer powerful cutting in all directions

Considerations when choosing a nibbler

• Power - choose a type according to use. For heavy-duty work, an air nibbler is ideal, while electric nibblers are best where power sockets are available, and battery-powered nibblers allow for flexibility

Nibbler jargon buster

We want to make it easy for you to find exactly what you're looking for, so we've outlined a safety standard for nibblers to keep you up to date with legislation and help you to make the best purchase for you.

What does EN ISO 11148-11:2011 mean?

This international safety standard outlines the safety requirements for hand-held power tools, operated using hydraulic fluid or compressed air. Part 11 is specifically for tools with a cutting action to nibble and shear metal.

EN ISO 11148-11:2011 ensures that nibblers and shears are manufactured with the purpose of safety, whether the tool is used correctly or incorrectly.

Let's break it down...

• EN - This is abbreviated from the German Europäische Norm (which means European Norm) and stands for European Standards

• ISO - An abbreviation for the International Organization for Standardization, the independent body that produces and reviews safety and quality standards

• 11148 - The identifying legislation number

• 11 - This is the part of the overall document that refers to nibblers and shears

• 2011 - The year this legislation was published

FAQ

How do you sharpen nibbler blades?

Safety first, make sure your nibbler is disconnected from its power source before making any changes. Unlock or remove the locking mechanism (this twist-action component sits adjacent to the pin and cutting head), then unscrew the pin and cutting head and pull it out of its chamber to remove the punch that sits below.
To sharpen or remove any debris from the punch, use a sharpening stone or a strop to get the edge back to its best.

Can a nibbler cut Colorbond® steel?

Colorbond® steel is very similar to corrugated steel, and while it is slightly thicker thanks to its colour treatment, a nibbler can still handle it with ease.