Cutting electrical screws to size

[Jupiter01]

I have a pack of large screws and wanted to know if I can cut these to size (for different situations) and how I should best do this please.

 

[crystal ball]

https://www.toolstation.com/draper-...MIguv_1Nb34wIVBYjVCh1DJg0wEAQYBSABEgLDJvD_BwE

 

[crystal ball]

https://www.toolstation.com/draper-...MIguv_1Nb34wIVBYjVCh1DJg0wEAQYBSABEgLDJvD_BwE

 

[Jupiter01]

Will this do it by any chance? I own one of these
https://www.screwfix.com/p/c-k-auto...chAqoD_9UgarV9aHYE5tk22VHQUiSWVxoCMoIQAvD_BwE

 

[blup]

If they are set screws put a suitable diameter nut on the end above the point you are cutting, this will enable the thread to be recut , otherwise it might not fit in the lug.

I have used aviation tin snips to cut the ends of electrical screws.

Or buy a set of different lengths, they are not unduly expensive, and may be cheaper than buying 3.5mm nuts if you don't have them.

Blup

 

[bernardgreen]

File off any burrs at the cut, sharp edges might damage insulation that comes into contact with the screw as the face plate is fixed to the back box.

 

[crystal ball]

Will this do it by any chance? I own one of these
https://www.screwfix.com/p/c-k-auto...chAqoD_9UgarV9aHYE5tk22VHQUiSWVxoCMoIQAvD_BwE

No, the tool linked to has threaded holes and a guillotine, leaves a clean cut

 

[Burnerman]

For info, the screws are 3.5mm metric and are generally chromed brass......either way after cutting, file a slight taper so the screw can easily engage with the female.
The screws are soft enough to be filed when held in your hand.
John

 

[SUNRAY]

https://www.toolstation.com/draper-...MIguv_1Nb34wIVBYjVCh1DJg0wEAQYBSABEgLDJvD_BwE

For clarity this linked tool has a series of holes marked m3, m3.5 etc.
With the handle open to the appropriate position, you screw the screw into the hole to the depth you require then close the handle and it will cut cleanly, then unscrewing will correct the end of the thread if damaged (just like the nut mentioned earlier). I then tickle with a file to make sure theres no sharp spike.

 

[winston1]

I use a junior hacksaw, then file the burrs off. No need for special tools.

 

[crystal ball]

Horses for courses, for £4 its a no brainer for me, better than faffing round with pliers, hacksaws and running nuts down, I was watching some CCTV installers cutting lots of mini trunking with a hacksaw and mitreblock, why make life difficult for the sake of a few quid

 

[EddieM]

Just buy a selection of sizes, for the price of an (overpriced) coffee is it worth the faff?

 

[crystal ball]

Might save a trip back to the van for the right length screw

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

https://www.toolstation.com/draper-...MIguv_1Nb34wIVBYjVCh1DJg0wEAQYBSABEgLDJvD_BwE

I have one of those - useless as a crimper, a little better as a stripper, but they work well in cutting brass screws down to size quickly and without damage.

 

[crystal ball]

Yes its the only thing they are fit for