I've been wondering about the swagelocdk ones, they look nice. But having not held or tried one, nor talked to anyone who has, I've been hesitant to pay the asking price.
Are they worth the money, do they do as good or better job than a regular deburing tool and a fine file?
I really do like their tube benders, none better that I can find. Look on ebay and craigslist for better prices, but if I needed one right away they are a fair deal for a great quality tool even new.
Grigg
I agree that they are the most expensive. What I like about them is that the tubing rides on ball bearings rather than on a roller and screw. that way the load of the cut is square on the tubing surface, and it lessens the chance of crimping the tubing if you accidentally overtighen the cutter. Most cutters also have cutting wheels for copper, the swagelok wheel is geared for SS, steel, and softer metals. Swagelok cutters are $36. they come with a spare cutting wheel in the handle(so do most decent tube cutters)
the deburring tool is $24 and I like that it is easy to hold. You still need a good flat file on harder tubing to square the end, especially if you cut with a hacksaw or something otherthan a tube cutter. Some tube cutters come with a "deburring tool" on them(the pointed metal piece) most of those are only good for copper because it takes so much force to push and turn to debur, and they are not sharp. the swagelok tool will cut you if you try to debur your finger.
They are what are in my tool box, along with their 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8" benders, their ratcheting wrenches as well. I also like that they are American made.(Cleveland Ohio)
