As a sturdy foundational material, rebar is very tough to manipulate and that’s where a proper set of cutters comes in handy. Unlike your regular saw or grinder, rebar cutters are designed to handle the aforementioned material. This is why I’ve researched and compiled some of the best rebar cutters on the market just for you.
If you’re in a hurry, make sure to at least check out the Makita XCS01T1. Otherwise, continue reading.
4 Best Electric Rebar Cutters
For those who want to focus more on time management and less on effort, these electric rebar cutters are worth your while:
Makita XCS01T1 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Rebar Cutter Kit
Slicing up to 60-grade #6 rebar (3/4-inch) in about 6.5 seconds, the Makita XCS01T1 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Rebar Cutter Kit is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which is useful for casual work, as it doesn’t lose battery life when you store it. The cutting head also rotates up to 360 degrees for work flexibility, while it has a 90-degree adjustable stopper to ensure a smooth cut.
In addition, I like the handle design, which has an ergonomic pistol grip. Compared to most rebar cutters that are 30 to 50 pounds, this one weighs only 24.3 pounds, so it will be helpful for those often experiencing user fatigue when carrying a heavy tool. Its 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah battery also charges within 45 minutes for fewer waits between jobs.
When you buy the tool, it comes with the battery, charger, and a handy tool case for easy transport. And since it is part of the LXT lithium-ion system from Makita, you can share batteries across different tools from the series. The tool is backed by a 3-year limited warranty for your convenience.
Things I Like About This Product: The tool is lightweight compared to similar rebar cutters while it also has a larger cutting capacity than most.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: When you run the ram out, it tends to be at a slower pace than most cutters, but this is not an issue if cutting power is more important to you.
Metabo HPT Electric Rebar Bender and Cutter
Applicable for up to #5 grade 60 rebar (3/8, 1/2, and 5/8-inch), the Metabo HPT Electric Rebar Bender and Cutter not only cuts rebar but can also bend it, so it is a 2-in-1 tool for your arsenal. With its 8-amp motor and 530 watts of power, this model has a cutting time of about 3.1 seconds and a bending time of 5.1 seconds.
What I like about this 39.7-pound tool is the preset dial, which allows you to change your preferred bending angle on the spot, to quickly complete each job without compromising accuracy. Due to the low profile design it is not only easy to store, but will also be a breeze to maneuver in awkward positions.
The bending speed is also controllable by a variable-speed trigger so you’re apt to make fewer mistakes when working on the material (and avoid ruining it). Its pre-drilled base will allow you to mount it to your workspace for maintaining stability while performing constant rebar cutting tasks. Moreover, its construction is made with strong metal parts for lasting durability over long-term use.
Things I Like About This Product: It not only cuts rebar, but also bends it while using a variable-speed trigger for the bending option.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The cutter does make some strange noises and an off-putting smell, but that’s only probably when overused, involved in heavy work, or for rebar higher than #5.
Happybuy Electric Rebar Cutter
If you want a simple rebar cutter, the less-expensive Happybuy Electric Rebar Cutter is my suggestion. With a cutting speed of 3 to 5.5 seconds, even for such a small and budget-friendly tool, this one has a cutting capacity of up to #8 rebar (1 inch) grade 60. Weighing 70 pounds, it’s blade is made with high-precision alloy steel and it has a copper coil motor for added durability and stability. You can also adjust the rebar size from 4 to 25 mm.
It has a one-button switch that allows you to operate the machine easily. The two handles also add ergonomics and ease for beginners in handling a rebar cutter. When you buy the tool, it comes with extra accessories to maintain it, such as three Allen wrenches, one wrench, a storage box, a bag, and the user’s manual.
Things I Like About This Product: This rebar cutter has a great cutting capacity (up to #8 rebar) that’s higher than the more expensive machines mentioned above.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: At 70 pounds, it is on the heavy side so it is not ideal for frequent job site transport.
Makita XCS04ZK 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Rebar Cutter
The Makita XCS04ZK 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Rebar Cutter is yet another choice from the 18V LXT 5.0Ah Battery system (although this one is a bare tool). It has a #5 rebar capacity (1/8 to 5/8-inch) at an average speed of 2.8 seconds. Because of its brushless motor, it will run cooler than average rebar cutters, which not only increases lifespan but also saves battery life.
As with the previous Makita tool I mentioned above, this one has a 360-degree rotatable cutting head as well, which allows you to still work effectively even when you’re stuck in awkward angles. Checking the battery levels is easy due to the three-stage LED gauge at the bottom of the tool. This will help you manage tool usage without exhausting and ruining the battery in the long run.
It also has a 90-degree adjustable stopper for stability and easy assisting when cutting rebar. If you have other 18V LXT tools from Makita, you can share the battery with this unit to save money. Oh, and did I mention that the weight is only 26.5 pounds? This lightweight yet durable build is helpful for those who need to work for hours while avoiding user fatigue.
Things I Like About This Product: The cutter has a 360-degree rotatable cutting head for awkward positions and it is only 26.5 pounds, making it lightweight to carry around and handle.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The rebar capacity is not as high as the others.
4 Best Manual Rebar Cutters
If you prefer doing your rebar cutting job manually, here are some worthy picks for you:
NEWTRY 1.26-Inch Hydraulic Cable Rebar ACSR Cutter
The NEWTRY 1.26-Inch Hydraulic Cable Rebar ACSR Cutter is a manual tool that can cut up to 12 mm rebar (equivalent to #4 rebar size) so it is ideal for lightweight jobs. Aside from rebar, it will also work on other materials, such as iron chains, steel strands, wire rope, aluminum strand, and various kinds of cables. With a non-slip textured rubber handle, its ergonomic design makes it easy to hold.
Since its working angle can be adjusted up to 180 degrees, there’s no more worry about using it in tight spaces. What’s more, it has a 60KN cutting force and heat-treated blades for faster cuts.
Due to the portable design, it is easy to work with on nearly any job site or home garage. To prevent oil leakage, it has an adjustable oil return valve, which also reduces the need for maintenance. To improve the pressure applied when cutting, it has a two-way oil pump core.
Things I Like About This Product: The oil management tools make it a good low-maintenance manual hydraulic rebar cutter. I also like the rubberized ergonomic handle for a non-slip grip.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The tool is only applicable for lightweight jobs since it can only handle up to #4 rebar size.
Klutch Rebar Cutter and Bender
Yet another 2-in-1 tool, the Klutch Rebar Cutter and Bender can bend from 90 to 180 degrees and has a cutting capacity of 5/8-inch or #5 rebar size. The durability of the tool is based on its heat-treated joint arms and tubular steel handle, which have been drop-forged.
Made with steel blades, the length of the rebar cutter is exceptionally long so that you can use it on the ground without having to bend over too much – great for minimizing or avoiding backaches. The tool weighs 44 pounds, so it is in the middle range for most standard rebar cutters. It is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: The long length of the cutter allows easy use on the floor without having to strain your back.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The tool is a little too stiff compared to most rebar cutters so handling #5 rebar will take a physically strong person or at least two people.
KSEIBI 141585 30-Inch Bolt Lock Cutter
Although it looks like a regular gardening tool, the KSEIBI 141585 30-Inch Bolt Lock Cutter has a cutting capacity of up to 5/8-inch or #5 rebar size. It has molded handles for easy gripping when handling your material. Aside from rebar, it also works for bolts, wire fencing, padlocks, chains, cables, and the like.
Due to the hardened chrome vanadium, it has a durable build that is ideal for both home and job site use. It has an adjustable cutting depth so it will fit to your rebar material. The tool is also extremely lightweight, at only 3.31 pounds so you can take it with you anywhere.
Things I Like About This Product: This is a very lightweight rebar cutter that you can take anywhere without feeling fatigued – also great for beginners or casual users.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The handle could have been rubberized instead of PVC to improve the grip for those with sweaty hands.
HYDRAFORE Hydraulic Rebar Cutter Concrete Construction Tool
If you want a manual tool that has a large cutting capacity of 7/8-inch or #7 rebar, the HYDRAFORE Hydraulic Rebar Cutter Concrete Construction Tool is for you. This tool is 15 pounds in weight and has a maximum pressure of up to 16 tons.
Included with the tool is a durable plastic case that makes it travel-friendly. It is compatible with G-22EL blades and has a well-built hydraulic pump. Aside from rebar, it will also handle hardened steel for cutting locks. The textured grip on each of the handles makes it easy to hold for hours of operation.
Things I Like About This Product: The rebar capacity of up to 7/8-inch makes it ideal for heavy-duty work or bigger materials.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Watch out for hydraulic leaks with this tool. As well, the teeth are not as heavy-duty as the others mentioned above.
The Methodology: What I Considered When Picking the Rebar Cutters Featured Above
To help you pick a rebar cutter best for your needs, I would like to share some criteria that I depended on:
Rebar size
Know which rebar size is the cutter compatible for. The most common is for #4 and #5 rebar, with the biggest in the market made for #6 and #7.
Cutting speed
The cutting speed can range from an average of 3 to 6 seconds. Sometimes, it goes hand-in-hand with the rebar size capacity.
Electric or manual
Manual cutters are typically hydraulic-powered so they should be well-sealed. Electric cutters, on the other hand, tend to work faster and are usually battery-operated.
Ease of use
Consider getting a rebar cutter with an ergonomic or textured grip. This will prevent slippage if your hands get sweaty when working.
Summary
For those who prefer electric rebar cutters, I’d suggest the Makita XCS01T1 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Rebar Cutter Kit or the Makita XCS04ZK 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Rebar Cutter for those who want something lightweight yet powerful. Nonetheless, if weight is not an issue, the Happybuy Electric Rebar Cutter is a better option for up to #8 rebar size cutting.
If you also need a tool for bending rebar, the Metabo HPT Electric Rebar Bender and Cutter is for you. However, for manual rebar cutting, the NEWTRY 1.26-Inch Hydraulic Cable Rebar ACSR Cutter is a good hydraulic starter while the Klutch Rebar Cutter/Bender has a comfortable floor length reach.
The HYDRAFORE Hydraulic Rebar Cutter Concrete Construction Tool is ideal for large rebar up to 7/8-inch and has a travel-friendly design. Another lightweight option for manual cutters is the KSEIBI 141585 30-Inch Bolt Lock Cutter.
Finally, you can also cut rebar using a reciprocating saw or other similar tools.
