Schmitz Cutters - Oval vs Tapered

[monkey_magic]

I’m looking to treat myself to new set of cutters for Christmas. I’ve used the ubiquitous CHP-170 style in the past.

I’ve seen good things mentioned here and elsewhere regarding Schmitz, and I can get these at a reasonable price so I’m tempted to upgrade to a their carbide version (mainly to avoid any issues with cutting cheaper component leads).

The two styles I can get hold of are the 3401HS22 – which is the oval head with bevel or the 3432HS22 which is the tapered and relieved head with fine bevel. The latter being quite a bit more expensive.
I was hoping for some advice from anybody which has had these as to:


If Schmitz are still well regarded?

Opinions from anybody who has used Schmitz cutters?

Recommendations on which style to go for general electronics (oval vs tapered)?

I’m leaning towards the tapered head style as being quite similar to the cutters I’m used to - but I’m not certain if the extra cost is worth it and it is hard to judge without being able to physically handle them.
Any suggestions welcomed.

[shteii01]

One website I am looking at has them both and the difference is only 10 USD.

They are also OEM for Elora and maybe some other brands.  Maybe you can get better price for Elora branded version.

[monkey_magic]

Thank you for the reply,

The price difference in the UK works out about 25 USD.

I knew they were the OEM for C.K but wasn't aware they also were also re-branded as Elora - I think the model would be the 4630-f e 2k, unfortunately these are approximately double the price of the Schmitz, but worth keeping an eye open for.

I think the tapered head look more appropriately designed for electronics, but I know some people prefer the stronger oval head style.

[shteii01]

Thank you for the reply,

The price difference in the UK works out about 25 USD.

I knew they were the OEM for C.K but wasn't aware they also were also re-branded as Elora - I think the model would be the 4630-f e 2k, unfortunately these are approximately double the price of the Schmitz, but worth keeping an eye open for.

I think the tapered head look more appropriately designed for electronics, but I know some people prefer the stronger oval head style.

One thing I was taught about Amazon is that often enough when Amazon seller is at the end of inventory and has 2 or 3 examples of an item left, they often heavily discount those items to sell them quickly.

Also, there are websites like https://camelcamelcamel.com/ that track amazon prices and can send you message when the price drops.  Might be worth your while to sign up.

[babysitter]

I got myself a Schmitz kit last month (early xmas present to myself) but when I tried them first time I was underwhelmed when after cutting I had to pull remarkably hard on thin pvc-clad copper litz to get it separated. Holding it up against the lamp revealed the poor edge.

Attached some photos with the green screen of my mobile in test mode as backlight.
In germany there is a saying about such tools, "You might fit a (camel/car/lorry/tank/horse/etc.) thru this."

However, when I complained by email I got immediate response from Ms. Schultes herself, offering to clear this situation. I will report later.

Best regards,

babysitter