Plumbing can be a messy job, but it doesn’t have to be a hard one. Whether you're working with PVC, copper, or poly pipes, the right pipe cutting tool will give you a clean, precise cut without rough edges or uneven finishes. That means a better fit, fewer leaks, and less time cramped under cupboards or crawlspaces. Whether you’re looking for a Milwaukee pipe cutter or gear from Bahco, Haron, Irwin or Kincrome, you’ll find all the leading brands right here.
Need more gear to round-out the job? Tool Kit Depot is your ultimate plumbing tool destination, stocking pipe benders, pipe expanders, and pipe wrenches to get all your jobs sorted. Come chat with the team at your nearest store for expert advice on the right one for you.
Pipe cutters FAQ
What are the four types of pipe bender?
The best pipe cutter depends on the material you’re working with. Use a PVC cutter for plastic pipes, a tubing cutter for copper, and a chain-style cutter for steel pipes. Here’s a quick run-down of the different pipes and which cutters suit best:
Plastic pipes (PVC, poly, PEX):A poly pipe cutter or PVC ratcheting cutter is ideal. These cutters are designed to slice through plastic smoothly without crushing or cracking, minimising uneven edges or potential leaks.
Copper pipes:A tubing cutter or copper pipe cutter is your best bet here. These cutters roll around the pipe, scoring it deeper with each turn until it snaps for a clean cut.
Steel or cast iron pipes:A heavy-duty chain-style pipe cutter or a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade is needed, as these materials require more force and precision.
Thin-walled pipes or tight spots:A small pipe cutter is a good option for getting into tight spaces and making accurate cuts without damaging nearby pipes.
If you’re unsure which cutter to use, chat to our friendly team who can help you choose the right one for the job.
How to use pipe cutters
Once you know which pipe cutter you need, using it is fairly straightforward. Before you begin, make sure your cutter's blade is sharp and in good condition, as a dull blade can lead to uneven cuts and require more effort.
1. Mark your cut:Measure and mark the exact spot to ensure precision.
2. Position the cutter:Place the small pipe cutter or standard cutter around the pipe, making sure the cutting wheel sits on the mark.
3. Tighten and rotate:Gradually tighten the cutter while rotating it around the pipe. This helps score and then cut through the material.
4. Finish the cut:For materials like PVC or poly pipe, you may need a quick twist to snap it cleanly. For metal pipes, keep rotating and tightening until it cuts through.
5. Deburr the edges:Smooth rough edges with a file or reamer to ensure a clean connection.
For cutting pipes inside walls or tight spaces, an internal pipe cutter is best. Load it into your drill and easily cut the pipe from the inside, making it perfect for flush cuts in hard-to-reach areas.
