As we all know the worst part about netting a muskie is the free hooks wraping in the net. Can knipex cutters cut a # 7 shank. It would be great to just cut the entire shank instead of each barb. #5 and above are think shanks....

Right now I have a couple cheap lever action bolt cutters. Work great for single barbs, like butter, but no chance at the full shank.

Any info would be great.

Yes they will, multiple times. I had to cut 150 16p nails down the other day, all I had was my Nipex. Still in good enough shape to cut a 5/0 shank 1 handed.

There is no substitue for Nipex............

Yes it will

Like Butter!

Have you actually tried it? I've cut 7/0's and 8/0's just to see what it takes, even with a knipex, it's not easy.

Redig is back and on the attack!!!!

Were you Xing out days on your calender until you could post again?

Uhhhh...? Been allowed to for a while...just nothing worth reading/commenting... You've been busy though buddy.

Im waiting for my nipex in the mail,,One thing I do know is the Rapala hook cutters will not cut the shank. Or much else..Just got a pair last week at Reeds and was disapointed with the Rapala's..Pay a few more bucks and get the best. I wish I would have.

when I sold knipex, I would keep a box of #7 Mustads next to the different bolt cutters we had and have the customer cut the hook first hand. When you tell people that they should buy a $50 hook cutter, they tend to cringe... I was always concentrating on not letting the cut hook fly into my face... It does take a little pressure but not too bad. If you have a glove on and your adrenaline is pumping it is easier.

Now the shank on a #8? Never done it but I would think that I could.

Maybe a stupid question (I'm full of them) but what is it that makes the Knipex so special. Not being a smarta$$ either. I have them and wouldn't be without them, but is it the metal they use or the design. I'm just curious as it would seem someone else would have found a way to copy them by now.

Cut one small hook with a cheap cutter and it left an impression on the blades -- I've cut a lot of hooks with the Knipex and barely a nick.

Cut the split ring or the hook eye if you can