If you’re thinking of tackling a PVC project anytime soon, it may be time to invest in a pair of PVC cutters. These special tools are fairly inexpensive, and they make cutting PVC pipe much easier than struggling with a handsaw.
I recommend cutters like the one in my video above. PVC cutters like these use a ratchet mechanism that allows you to apply continuous force with a minimal amount of motion and effort. The only downside to tools like this is that they will only cut pipe up to a certain size. Most cutters will cut pipe up to a 2 inch nominal size, but all cutters are different. Be sure to check the maximum pipe size your cutters will accommodate before buying.
In my video I’m only cutting a ¾” PVC pipe, but you will notice that even small diameter pipe is extremely rigid and difficult to penetrate. That’s why this special tool is so handy. To begin using your PVC cutters, pull the handles all the way apart. This will engage the ratchet mechanism and open up the cutting blade. You’ll see now if you try to close it, the mechanism only allows you to close it a little at a time. With each squeeze of the handles another rung is engaged and the blade is pushed down a little further.
When you’re ready to begin cutting, make sure the cutters are open. Hold them so that the blade is on top and the curved support is on the bottom. Lay your pipe on that curved support and line it up approximately where you want the cut to be made. Begin ratcheting the handle by squeezing it. I find it easiest to anchor the cutters on a table or the ground – especially since my PVC cutters are the heavy-duty sort. When the blade is about to touch the pipe, make sure it lines up precisely with the mark you’ve made on the pipe. Continue squeezing the handle and ratcheting the cutters until the blade is completely lowered and the pipe breaks apart. The result should be a nice, clean cut.