7 Best Fiber Cement Shear Reviews + Buyer’s Guide

While no job is easy, working on cement is significantly more challenging. It would be best if you had a tool that offers the right balance of power and precision to make it worth your time. In that regard, you can try using fiber-cement shears, which are known for delivering a clean cut.

And if you're worried about the dust generated while using all that power, we assure you that it's kept to the bare minimum. You won't face any trouble keeping your surroundings clean, making it an incredibly efficient unit.

But the question is, how do you choose from the numerous options that are lining the market? To help you, we have selected 13 best products that are all the rage right now. An in-depth idea about these tools will let you make the correct decision.

So, let's get started.

Best Fiber Cement Shears

Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, these fiber cement shears will help you achieve professional-looking results while saving you time and effort. So, if you're ready to take on your fiber cement projects with confidence, here's the list of the 7 best fiber cement shears to consider.

 

1. PacTool SS404 Shear - Best for Dust-Free Operation

The PacTool SS404 Shear is one of the top units going around and with valid reason. It has added several qualities, which is generating substantial buzz among potential buyers. No surprise then that it delivers powerful performance to make short work of most tasks and has received positive reviews.

Why Did We Like It?

First and foremost, the 6.5 amp motor boasts a constructor-grade construction, making it capable of efficiently handling various tasks. The power delivered is sufficient to complete your work quickly, and it generates high output, thanks to the reversible blades. As a result, it provides fast, clean cuts without compromising on accuracy.

You'll love that it's made from steel, which adds the required sturdiness, ensuring it can last a long time. Therefore, you won't have to worry about reliability issues while getting the desired consistency at work. However, the significant upgrade comes in the form of a dust-free operation, helping to keep the workstation clean. 

You can use it to get a cutting capacity of 20,000 feet or an average of 15 homes, which is considerably high. Moreover, you can cut with the painted side face down, making it ideal for more delicate tasks.

What Could've Been Better?

Many users have stated that it tends to wobble, which isn't a significant problem but may hamper the precision you're looking for in specific tasks. So, you may want to consider other options based on your needs. Moreover, the cord is positioned at the bottom of the trigger handle, which is problematic while working on long cuts.

2. Makita Shear - Best for Variable Speed Control

The Makita Shear has many similarities with some of the other products. But it has also included some nifty features to be ranked among the best. You'll be enthralled by its fantastic durability, which is well backed up by the attention to user-friendliness, making it a valuable addition to your tool shed.

Why Did We Like It?

Straight off the bat, the aluminum construction delivers the necessary sturdiness needed to provide the best performance. You won't have to worry about it breaking down in the middle of a task, and with the powerful blades, you get a cutting capacity of 5/16 inches. You can therefore use it for various types of projects while getting the necessary accuracy.

Furthermore, with the protective drive spindle, the central unit and the components remain protected against external elements. And speaking of safety, the lock on the button makes it more reliable without affecting the output. Another exceptional upgrade is the 6.5-amp motor, which drives all the functions. 

To control the power, you have the option of using the variable speed trigger to determine the force you need on different projects. In that regard, the rubberized pistol grip comes in handy, helping you strike the right balance.

What Could've Been Better?

It does generate quite a bit of dust, which isn't the ideal scenario. After a hard day at work, you wouldn't want to spend time cleaning up, so you're better off choosing some other model unless you like to clean. Plus, after regular use, the cutter head has been reported to come loose, so remember to be vigilant and check the fittings.

3. Malco TSF1 Shear - Best for Air Pressure Cutting

The Malco TSF1 Shear solves most of your work issues, thanks to the versatile nature delivered by the numerous components. It can handle an array of tasks while providing much-needed precision for your project to stand out. We assure you won't be disappointed by what it offers.

Why Did We Like It?

Firstly, it consists of pneumatic fiber, which is well complemented by the stainless-steel design. You get much-needed longevity while it delivers a consistent performance daily. Moreover, with the 5/16-inch cutting capacity, there's no let-up in output while getting the desired accuracy on most tasks.

However, the significant addition comes in terms of air pressure, which is to make the cuts. It isn't something that is usually seen with other models and provides fast, clean cuts. You won't have to spend much time at work, and depending upon the pressure, you can also choose to undertake various projects, thereby making it versatile. 

Additionally, it's lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue and makes long working hours more manageable. You get exceptional maneuverability making it ideal for working around the edges and cutting refined shapes to make your work stand out. Finally, it features an ergonomic handle providing more control and excellent balance.

What Could've Been Better?

Although you get the desired result on most tasks, we suggest you don't use it for heavy-duty work for the best performance. Having used it ourselves, we have seen it doesn't generate the same output. Besides, initially, you may face a couple of hiccups before getting used to it.

4. DEWALT Shears

We are at the halfway point of our list, but there are many top-notch tools we are yet to cover. Our next recommendation for you is the DEWALT Shears, which offers unparalleled reliability in your tasks. DEWALT has been around for a long time and is known to produce the best DIY units, and this product is certainly no different.

Why Did We Like It?

Right away, you'll notice the metal construction, which makes it sturdy to withstand daily use. It delivers consistent performance, thanks to the powerful blades supported by the ¼-inch hex shank. As a result, you get clean cuts on your projects, which provides much-needed accuracy.

However, the major upgrade comes in the form of a 360-degree swivel head, which has several benefits. It permits you to get exceptional maneuverability making it ideal for working around tough spots while the rotating nature allows you to make fine cuts. So, you can handle an array of projects, which adds to the versatility. 

Meanwhile, it has enough power, and you can easily use it with 18-20V drills. You can then manage the power you need on various tasks, which provides a seamless experience. Finally, you can cut materials as strong as 18GA, thereby ensuring you can swiftly complete your work while getting a comfortable experience.

What Could've Been Better?

The instructions aren't the best, and many users have reportedly struggled with the installation process. You may need to get help, or if you're determined enough, you can go about it yourself but be prepared to spend more time than usual. Also, remember to double-check everything once you're done.

5. Norske Tools

Norske Tools has decided to keep things simple but without compromising on performance. With features like sturdy construction and an extendable handle, it delivers a power-packed performance consistently. As a result, it significantly reduces the time you need to spend working, thereby turning quite a few heads among shoppers.

Why Did We Like It?

First and foremost, it comes in aluminum construction, making it robust and capable of handling wear and tear. It'll last a long time, and you won't have to worry about breaking down in the middle of work. Plus, it includes a laminate flooring kit offering fantastic versatility.

You get a cutting capacity of 13 inches, which is higher than most other models going around. As a result, it's potent and reduces the time it takes to get the job done. But what you'll love most is the outstanding precision it delivers despite having sufficient power. 

Moreover, it has an extendable handle providing more control while delivering high on maneuverability. You can work in tight spaces and use it to make fine cuts to make your projects stand out. Lastly, with the ergonomic design, you can work uninterrupted for prolonged periods without feeling fatigued.

What Could've Been Better?

For everything right, it does come with a couple of issues. The installation procedure isn't detailed thoroughly, and if you haven't done it before, you may need professional help. Besides, the adjustable fence wobbles a bit and may move out of place, so you'll have to make the necessary modifications.

6. PacTool SS724 Shear

We are nearing the end of our list, but we need to review a couple of products first. Next up, we have chosen the PacTool SS724 Shear for its brilliant flexibility and high cutting capacity, ensuring you get maximum efficiency in your projects. No surprise then that it has ticked the right boxes to be on most people's wish list.

Why Did We Like It?

Straight off the bat, the cutting capacity ranging from ¼-inch to ½-inch is enough to deliver a strong output on most tasks. You can complete your work swiftly, and with features like the rotating head, you won't have to compromise with performance. The 360-degree movement offers excellent maneuverability and ensures you get the desired accuracy.

In that regard, you'll also love the adjustable handle, which provides the necessary support while making the entire operation more manageable. Moreover, despite having sufficient power, it doesn't produce much dust, which will please many users. It keeps the workstation clean and saves you the trouble of having to tidy up after a long day. 

It's also easy to use, and the user-friendly nature is further seen in the one-size-fits-all design. It doesn't matter whether you're right or left-handed as it provides a comfortable grip, thereby enabling you to use it for indoor and outdoor projects.

What Could've Been Better?

You would want to take your time with the model as it's likely to pose problems if you're a beginner. If you haven't handled something like it earlier, there's no reason to worry, and we assure you you'll get the hang of it. But initially, the best results aren't easy to come by, and it takes considerable practice.

7. Malco TSF2 TurboShear

The Malco TSF2 TurboShear has made the necessary upgrades to climb the ladder and cement a place for itself. It offers the perfect combination of safety coupled with effectiveness, making for a desirable purchase. It's making all the right noise, and you'll love all that it offers.

Why Did We Like It?

Firstly, it comes with a hex shank drive shaft, which delivers a powerful performance capable of handling various tasks. It considerably reduces the time taken to get the job done, and with functions like the rotating head, there's no compromising with versatility. The all-around movement makes it easy to work from various angles for the best results.

Furthermore, the inclusion of the lock function makes the entire operation safe and ensures you can fix it at a particular point. It consistently helps you get the necessary precision in your tasks by allowing you to make intricate cuts without much difficulty. 

Additionally, despite having the requisite power, it doesn't produce much dust, which is ideal for keeping the workspace clean. You won't have to spend time cleaning up after a tough day, thereby adding to the effectiveness of the unit. Consequently, you get a seamless experience under most conditions.

What Could've Been Better?

It's slightly heavy compared to the other units, which may prove to be an inconvenience. If you like your tools to be lightweight, you're better off looking elsewhere. Meanwhile, it'll take you some time to get used to the functions to generate optimum output, so remember to be patient.

Best Fiber Cement Shears Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Fiber Cement Shear

Before you venture into the market, we would like to give you a couple of pointers to help you pick the right unit. Fiber cement shears have many components that could make it difficult to distinguish between the top products and the good ones.

We are here to discuss the essential aspects based on which we have formulated our list. A piece of knowledge about these functions will place you in good stead and help you make an informed choice.

1. Durability

Your tool must be durable to handle the wear and tear of daily use. As a fiber cement shear, it will have to deal with cutting and shaping sturdy materials, among other things. It shouldn't be any surprise that only quality materials must be used for construction to ensure it doesn't break down.

Buying any tool is an investment, and you can't afford to spend resources to buy a new one ever so often. You must enjoy both the product and the components that come with it for a long time.

In that regard, the manufacturers cannot afford to make any compromises. So, having a steel or metal construction is of primary importance to deliver faultless output.

2. Ease of Use

Fiber cement shears come in various sizes to handle an array of tasks, but that shouldn't mean designers have to compromise with user-friendliness. The primary objective of any unit is to reduce your workload, and therefore you must be able to control it effectively to get the best results.

You should be able to adjust the components and the central unit, while the functions must be understandable, almost at a glance. You should know what each part does rather than pondering over how to get it right. Plus, the installation process and the disassembly must be written clearly to ensure it's uncomplicated.

There isn't any point in having a plethora of functions if the users find it challenging to use. Rather any good model must keep the basics right and then add the necessary features to deliver a better performance.

3. Power

Finally, you must have sufficient energy to make sure that you get through your work quickly. Shaping and removing sturdy materials is tedious, so you can't afford to go about it leisurely.

You have a lot of work to do, and your unit must be up to speed to ensure you get a cracking performance. More power doesn't always guarantee a better understanding, and you must have the ability to control the intensity you need on various tasks. As a result, your tool will be versatile, enabling you to handle small-scale and large-scale projects.

Fiber Cement Shears FAQ's

Can I use regular scissors or snips to cut fiber cement?

While it is technically possible to use regular scissors or snips to cut fiber cement, it is not recommended. Fiber cement is a dense and abrasive material that can quickly dull or damage standard cutting tools. Fiber cement shears are specifically designed to handle the unique properties of this material and provide clean, efficient cuts.

Are fiber cement shears suitable for cutting other materials?

Fiber cement shears are primarily designed for cutting fiber cement siding. However, they can also be used to cut other similar materials such as backer board, cement board, and certain types of siding. It is important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for the specific shears you are using.

Do fiber cement shears require any special maintenance?

Fiber cement shears generally do not require extensive maintenance. However, it is recommended to keep the blades clean and free from debris to ensure optimal cutting performance. Some shears may also benefit from occasional lubrication or blade sharpening, as specified by the manufacturer.

Can fiber cement shears cut curves or irregular shapes?

Yes, fiber cement shears can be used to cut curves and irregular shapes in fiber cement siding. Their sharp blades and maneuverability allow for precise and flexible cutting. However, it may require some practice and skill to achieve desired curved or intricate cuts.

Can fiber cement shears be used for both professional and DIY projects?

Yes, fiber cement shears are suitable for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts. They are designed to make cutting fiber cement siding more efficient and accurate, saving time and effort. Whether you are working on a small home improvement project or a large-scale construction job, fiber cement shears can be a valuable tool.

Are there different types or sizes of fiber cement shears available?

Yes, there are various types and sizes of fiber cement shears available in the market. Some shears are handheld, while others may be electric-powered or pneumatic. The size and style of shears you choose will depend on the specific requirements of your project and personal preferences.

Conclusion

We have reached the end of our list, and hopefully, you have a better idea regarding fiber cement shears.

These portable units are easily maneuverable, thereby ensuring you can make more delicate cuts with ease. Moreover, their user-friendly nature makes them ideal for use by amateurs and professionals alike.

But before signing off, we have decided to let you know our top picks in different categories, so you can make an informed decision. For the best overall performance, you should opt for the PacTool SS404 Shear, while the Makita Shear offers outstanding durability.

Meanwhile, the Malco TSF1 Shear is unparalleled when it comes to versatility. All that remains is for you to purchase the model best suited to your needs. Remember the points of the buyer’s guide to dispel any lingering confusion and have a clear idea about the functions you require.

That's all the time we have. Until next time, Ciao!