Two-hand steel cable cutter FELCO C16 16 mm

The two-hand steel cable cutter FELCO C16 is engineered to cut steel cables up to Ø16 mm in diameter. Its triangular cutting geometry encloses the cable from three sides, shearing the strands cleanly rather than flattening them, so the cable end remains round and neat. The handles are constructed from aluminium alloy, keeping the tool lightweight yet rigid. Each handle is covered with a ribbed hard plastic sleeve, enhancing grip even in sweaty or oily conditions.

This tool is manufactured in Switzerland. The blade is made from HSS high-speed steel, selected for its ability to retain a sharp edge under repeated use. The cutter measures 590 mm in total length and weighs 2.3 kg, providing a long lever arm that reduces the hand force required for each cut. The balance of weight and reach makes it suitable for both precision work and demanding site cutting tasks.

Two-hand steel cable cutter FELCO C16: construction and cutting mechanism

Every component of the C16 is designed to achieve a square, undeformed cable end. The aluminium alloy body bears the load, the HSS blade performs the shearing, and the triangular closing path keeps the cable strands grouped together. Ribbed plastic sleeves shield hands from the metal edges of the handles. Spare blades and springs are available, allowing the cutter to be serviced and rebuilt instead of replaced.

Handles and grip

The aluminium alloy handles keep the weight at 2.3 kg while resisting bending during maximum-capacity cuts. The ribbed hard plastic covers increase friction and minimize slipping. The long handles enable a two-hand grip, allowing the user to apply body weight to the cutting stroke. The ergonomic shape supports both overhead and ground-level cable work.

• Handle material: aluminium alloy
• Grip: hard plastic sleeve with ribbed surface
• Operation: two-hand
• Total length: 590 mm
• Weight: 2.3 kg

The combination of length and weight multiplies hand force at the blade, while keeping the tool easy to carry between work areas. Operators can apply steady pressure rather than impact, protecting the cutting edge. For ladder work or confined spaces, the two-hand design provides precise control over the cutting line before starting the cut.

Blade and triangular cutting system

The HSS high-speed steel blade works with a counter blade to create a triangular opening. As the handles close, the cable is held centrally and cannot slip out sideways. The strands are cut progressively, not crushed, which is important when the cable end must accept a ferrule, sleeve, or termination fitting after cutting.

• Blade material: HSS high-speed steel
• Cutting system: triangular
• Cutting capacity: steel cable up to Ø16 mm
• Cut quality: clean, without flattening the cable
• Blade and counter blade replaceable

Both blade components are replaceable, so a worn edge does not end the cutter's service life. Replacement parts include blade C16-3 and more.

• Blade C16-3.
• Counter blade with screw C16-4.
• Nickel-plated spring C12-11.

Keeping spare blades on hand minimizes downtime during extended cable-pulling jobs. Clean the cutting area and check screw tightness before each shift to ensure smooth operation.

Common applications

The C16 is suitable for steel cable work in various industries. Electrical teams use it to cut overhead and underground conductors to length before termination. Mechanical workshops shorten lifting ropes, guy wires, and control cables. Construction and rigging crews trim cables for scaffolding, cranes, and tensioning tasks. Marine and agricultural users cut standing rigging and fence wire. The Ø16 mm capacity defines its working range, and the round cut end simplifies subsequent assembly steps.

Catalogue reference data

Catalogue listings describe the C16 as a two-hand cable cutter made in Switzerland, featuring aluminium alloy handles, ribbed hard plastic grips, and an HSS blade. It is rated for steel cables up to Ø16 mm, with a total length of 590 mm and a weight of 2.3 kg. The triangular cutting system ensures a clean, accurate cut. Accessory codes are provided for the blade, counter blade with screw, and spring.