Compare
8 vs 14 vs 18 vs 24 in bolt-cutter classes
Side-by-side soft-stock ceilings for this site’s bolt-cutter ladder, with merchant paths and when NO_MATCH applies.
| Class | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| 8 in | Thin wire and light soft stock ≤3 mm | Little leverage |
| 14 in | Light soft stock ≤5 mm | Still limited for thicker rod |
| 18 in | Common soft rod/wire ≤8 mm | Hardened locks still out of scope |
| 24 in | Largest class here ≤10 mm soft stock | Above 10 mm → NO_MATCH |
| NO_MATCH | Needs >10 mm soft stock | Industrial cutter or other process |