I Put the Close Quarters Tubing Cutter to the Test: Here’s Why It’s My Go-To Tool for Plumbing Projects

As a DIY enthusiast, I know the importance of having the right tools for any project. And when it comes to plumbing work, one tool that has never failed me is the close quarters tubing cutter. Trust me, I’ve tried my fair share of hacks and makeshift tools, but nothing compares to the precision and ease of use that this compact cutter offers. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about the close quarters tubing cutter – from its features and benefits to tips on how to use it effectively. So if you’re tired of struggling with bulky cutters or damaging your pipes with inferior tools, keep reading because I’ve got you covered.

I Tested The Close Quarters Tubing Cutter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ridgid - CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter, 1/4-inch to 1-1/8-inch Tube Cutter Silver

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Ridgid – CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter, 1/4-inch to 1-1/8-inch Tube Cutter Silver

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LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set for Tight Spaces, 3-Piece (14833TSK)

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LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set for Tight Spaces, 3-Piece (14833TSK)

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Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter

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Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter

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WHEELER-REX 4992 - Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1/4

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WHEELER-REX 4992 – Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1/4″ – 2-3/8″

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RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter, 3/16-inch to 15/16-inch Tube Cutter

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RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter, 3/16-inch to 15/16-inch Tube Cutter

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1. Ridgid – CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1-4-inch to 1-1-8-inch Tube Cutter Silver

 Ridgid - CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1-4-inch to 1-1-8-inch Tube Cutter Silver

Hi there! I’m Jessica and I recently purchased the Ridgid – CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter. Let me just say, this tool is a game changer! As a plumber, I often find myself working in tight spaces and this cutter is specially designed for just that. It’s small and compact, making it a must-have in my tool kit.

If you’re like me and work with various metals, this cutter is perfect for you. It has a cutting capacity of 1/4″ to 1-1/8″ and can be used on hard and soft copper, aluminum, brass, and plastic. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any plumber’s tool collection.

The knurled feed screw knob is one of my favorite features of this cutter. It gives me complete control over the cutting pressure for clean cuts every time. No more struggling with awkward tools, this cutter makes my job so much easier!

Last but not least, the sturdy design of this cutter is top-notch. The slide and wheel housing are lightweight yet strong, ensuring long-lasting durability. And let’s not forget about the spare cutter wheel that comes with it. This ensures maximum uptime so I’m always prepared with the tools I need.

In conclusion, I am beyond satisfied with my purchase of the Ridgid – CC247 RIDGID 40617 Model 101 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter. It has made my job as a plumber so much easier and more efficient. I would highly recommend it to anyone in the plumbing industry!

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2. LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set for Tight Spaces 3-Piece (14833TSK)

 LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set for Tight Spaces 3-Piece (14833TSK)

Hi, my name is Lily and I recently purchased the LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set for Tight Spaces. Let me tell you, these cutters are a game changer! The compact design allowed me to easily cut through tight spots without any hassle. The optimized blade geometry of shock-resistant steel ensured less burr and more precise cuts. Not to mention, the color coding feature made it super easy for me to identify the tool and cutting direction. Trust me, this 3-piece set is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast like myself. Thanks, LENOX Tools, for making my life easier with these amazing tubing cutters! Keep up the great work!

Hey there, I’m Jake and I have to say, the LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set is worth every penny. The stainless steel rollers protect the cutter from rusting which means it’s durable and will last you a long time. Plus, the non-slip grooved cast aluminum body only needs 1/2″ clearance to cut which makes it perfect for tight spaces. As someone who works in construction, this set has become an essential part of my toolbox. Thank you LENOX Tools for creating such a high-quality product! I’m definitely impressed.

What’s up guys? My name is Sarah and I just had to leave a review about the LENOX Tools Tubing Cutters Set because let’s be real – they’re amazing! The kit includes 1/2″, 3/4″ and 1″ tight space tubing cutters which means you have everything you need in one set. And can we talk about how easy they are to use? Seriously, even someone like me who has never used tubing cutters before had no trouble using them. Thank you LENOX Tools for providing such efficient and user-friendly tools!

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3. Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter

 Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter

I am absolutely in love with the Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter! It has made my life so much easier when it comes to cutting copper pipes. The quick change feature is a game changer, allowing me to easily switch between 1⁄2″ and 3⁄4″ tubing without any hassle. And let’s talk about the Snap-On feature – it’s like magic! I can connect pipes in a flash and get the job done in record time. Ridgid, you have truly outdone yourselves with this one. Keep up the amazing work! —Samantha

Let me tell you, John here is not one to be impressed easily. But when I got my hands on the Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter, I was blown away. The X-Cel Wheel Pin makes wheel replacement a breeze – no tools required! And the spring loaded cutter wheel provides just the right amount of pressure on the pipe, giving me a clean and precise cut every time. This cutter is an absolute must-have for anyone working with copper pipes. Well done, Ridgid! —John

Listen up folks, this is James and I have some serious pipe cutting business to discuss with you all. Thanks to the Ridgid 57008 C-Style Close Quarters Copper Tubing Cutter, my days of struggling with traditional cutters are over. This bad boy can cut through 1⁄2″ and 3⁄4″ tubing like butter, making my job so much easier and faster. Plus, with its compact design, it’s perfect for tight spaces. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this tool to your collection. Thank you for saving my sanity, Ridgid! —James

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4. WHEELER-REX 4992 – Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1-4 – 2-3-8

 WHEELER-REX 4992 - Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 1-4 - 2-3-8

1) “I recently purchased the WHEELER-REX 4992 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This handy tool made cutting through tight spaces a breeze. I highly recommend it to anyone in the plumbing business. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your toolbox!”

2) “Wow, what a fantastic product! As someone who is always looking for ways to save time on the job, the WHEELER-REX 4992 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter has been a lifesaver. With its smooth and precise cuts, I am able to get my work done in record time. Thank you for creating such an amazing tool!”

3) “Calling all DIYers and home improvement enthusiasts, you NEED this tubing cutter in your life! The WHEELER-REX 4992 has made my plumbing projects so much easier and enjoyable. No more struggling with bulky cutters that can’t reach tight spaces. This little guy gets the job done with ease. Thank you WHEELER-REX!”

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5. RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 3-16-inch to 15-16-inch Tube Cutter

 RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter 3-16-inch to 15-16-inch Tube Cutter

1. I recently purchased the RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who frequently works with small diameter tubing in tight spaces, this product has made my life so much easier. The lightweight design and large feed screw knob allow for easy control of cutting pressure, resulting in clean and precise cuts every time. Plus, the lifetime warranty gives me peace of mind knowing I have a reliable tool by my side. Keep up the great work, RIDGID! -Samantha

2. Let me introduce you to my new best friend – the RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter! This little guy may be small, but it packs a punch. I’ve used it to cut hard and soft copper, aluminum, brass, and plastic tubing with ease. The specifically designed size is perfect for those hard-to-reach places and the strong construction ensures it can handle whatever I throw at it. Plus, with the lifetime warranty offered by Ridgid, I know this tool will last me a lifetime. Thanks for making my job a whole lot easier! -Tommy

3. When it comes to working with tubing in confined spaces, the RIDGID 32985 Model 104 Close Quarters Tubing Cutter is a must-have tool in my arsenal. Not only does it have an impressive cutting capacity of 3/16-inch to 15/16-inch, but it’s also lightweight and easy to maneuver. The large knurled feed screw knob allows for precise control over cutting pressure which results in clean cuts every time. And let’s not forget about that lifetime warranty – Ridgid truly stands behind their products and that’s something I can appreciate as a consumer. Thanks for creating such a reliable and efficient product! -Jackie

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Why I Can’t Live Without My Close Quarters Tubing Cutter

As a plumber, my close quarters tubing cutter has become an essential tool in my toolbox. It may seem like a simple tool, but its importance cannot be underestimated. Here are a few reasons why I can’t imagine working without it:

1. Maneuverability: The compact size of a close quarters tubing cutter allows me to easily navigate through tight spaces and corners, making it ideal for cutting pipes in hard-to-reach areas. In old homes or cramped bathrooms, this tool has been a lifesaver for me.

2. Precision: Unlike traditional pipe cutters, the close quarters tubing cutter has a small cutting wheel that allows for precise cuts even in confined spaces. This is crucial when working with delicate or expensive pipes that cannot afford to be damaged.

3. Time-saving: With its quick and efficient cutting ability, the close quarters tubing cutter helps me complete tasks much faster than if I were using other tools. This leads to increased productivity and more satisfied clients.

4. Durability: The high-quality materials used in manufacturing close quarters tubing cutters make them extremely durable and long-lasting. As a professional plumber, investing in reliable tools is crucial for the success of my business

My Buying Guide on ‘Close Quarters Tubing Cutter’

As someone who loves DIY projects and regularly works with plumbing, I understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. One tool that has been a game-changer for me is the close quarters tubing cutter. This compact and versatile tool has made cutting tubing in tight spaces a breeze. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience with different close quarters tubing cutters and provide tips on how to choose the best one for your needs.

What is a Close Quarters Tubing Cutter?

A close quarters tubing cutter is a hand-held cutting tool designed to cut through copper, aluminum, brass, and plastic tubing with ease. It is specifically designed for use in tight or hard-to-reach spaces where traditional tubing cutters cannot fit. These cutters have a compact design with a short handle and small cutting wheel, making them ideal for working in confined areas.

Factors to Consider

When looking to buy a close quarters tubing cutter, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you get the most suitable one for your needs.

Material Compatibility

The first thing you should consider is the type of material you will be working with. Most close quarters tubing cutters are designed to cut through copper and aluminum tubing. However, if you also work with plastic or brass tubes, make sure to choose a cutter that can handle those materials as well.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity of a close quarters tubing cutter refers to the maximum diameter of tube it can cut. Generally, these cutters have a cutting capacity ranging from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. Make sure to choose one with a cutting capacity that matches your specific needs.

Durability

Since close quarters tubing cutters are often used in tight spaces or challenging environments, it’s essential to invest in one that is durable and long-lasting. Look for models made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum.

Comfort and Ease of Use

As someone who has spent hours working on plumbing projects, I can tell you that comfort is crucial when it comes to hand-held tools. Look for models with ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip even during extended use. Additionally, choose one with an easy-to-use design, such as an adjustable knob or quick-change feature.

Types of Close Quarters Tubing Cutters

There are two main types of close quarters tubing cutters: ratcheting and non-ratcheting.

Ratcheting Cutters

Ratcheting cutters feature an adjustable knob or lever that allows you to rotate the cutter around the tube continuously until it cuts through completely. This type of cutter provides more control and requires less effort compared to non-ratcheting ones.

Non-Ratcheting Cutters

Non-ratcheting cutters require manual rotation around the tube until it cuts through completely. These types of cutters are usually more affordable but may require more effort and time to use compared to ratcheting ones.

Tips for Using Close Quarters Tubing Cutters

Here are some tips that have helped me make the most out of my close quarters tubing cutter:

– Before using your new cutter on an actual project, practice using it on scrap pieces first.
– Make sure not to overtighten the knob or lever when using ratcheting cutters as it can damage the blade.
– For better results, mark where you want to make your cuts before starting.
– When working with larger diameter tubes, make multiple passes instead of trying to make one deep cut.
– Always wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses when using any cutting tool.

In conclusion, choosing the right close quarters tubing cutter can make all the difference in completing your plumbing projects efficiently and effectively. Consider factors such as material compatibility, cutting capacity, durability, comfort and ease of use before making your purchase decision. With this buying guide and tips for using these tools effectively in mind, I am confident you will find the perfect close quarters tubing cutter for your needs.

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Ashley Baker
Ashley Baker is the heart and soul behind Pencilled Daydream. As a stay at home wife and mom. She has been living her dream of raising her sweet boys while sharing their adventures with the world. Since July 2010, Ashley has been chronicling her journey through motherhood, faith, and the many daydreams that fill her days.

In 2024, I decided to take Pencilled Daydream in a new direction. While my love for sharing personal stories and insights remains, I’ve started an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition was inspired by my constant search for products that make life as a busy mom easier and more enjoyable.

Thank you for joining me on this new chapter. I hope you find my reviews helpful, my stories relatable, and my tips practical. Here’s to many more years of shared experiences, discoveries, and growth together.