1.6mm NIBBLER

Makita JN1601 Nibbler: Clean, Precise, and Versatile Sheet Metal Cutting

The Makita JN1601 Nibbler is a compact, lightweight, and highly effective corded power tool engineered for cutting sheet metal with exceptional precision and producing burr-free edges. Unlike shears or grinders, a nibbler "punches" out small, half-moon shaped pieces of material, making it ideal for both straight and curved cuts, even in corrugated or trapezoidal profiles. It's a go-to tool for professionals in roofing, cladding, sheet metal fabrication, automotive bodywork, and HVAC installation who require clean, accurate, and controlled cuts in metal.

Features

• Powerful 550W (or 5 Amp in some regions) Motor: Delivers sufficient power for consistent cutting through various metal thicknesses. Available in both 110V and 240V versions to suit different site power requirements.
• High Strokes per Minute (2,200 SPM): This high punching rate ensures efficient material removal and smooth cutting action.
• High Cutting Capacities:
  • Mild Steel (up to 400 N/mm²): 1.6mm (16 Gauge)
  • Stainless Steel (up to 600 N/mm²): 1.2mm (18 Gauge)
  • Aluminium (up to 200 N/mm²): 2.5mm (10 Gauge)
• 360° Rotatable Die Holder: A crucial feature that allows the die to swivel a full 360 degrees. This provides immense versatility, enabling easy cutting at various angles, especially useful when navigating grooves in corrugated or trapezoidal sheet materials without having to reposition the entire tool awkwardly.
• Precise, Burr-Free Curved and Straight Cuts: The nibbling action produces clean edges, minimizing the need for secondary finishing work (deburring), which is a significant advantage over methods that can create sharp edges.
• Minimum Cutting Radii:
  • Inside Edge: 45mm (1-3/4")
  • Outside Edge: 50mm (2") These small radii allow for intricate and tight curved cuts, which is a key benefit of a nibbler.
• Cuts Flat and Corrugated Sheet Metal with the Same Die: A cost-effective and convenient design that eliminates the need to change dies when switching between different sheet profiles.
• Easy Punch and Die Replacement: Designed for quick and straightforward replacement of the punch and die set, reducing downtime and ensuring the tool is always ready for optimal performance.
• Built-in Thickness Gauge: A convenient feature that allows for quick verification of material thickness, ensuring the tool is used within its specified capacities.
• Ergonomic and Slim Body Design: The compact and lightweight (approx. 1.6 kg / 3.6 lbs) design, often likened to a mini-grinder in shape, provides excellent control and reduces user fatigue during prolonged operation. The small circumference barrel grip enhances user comfort and grip.
• Easy-to-Operate Slide Type On/Off Switch with Lock-On Function: Provides comfortable operation and features a lock-on button for continuous cutting, reducing finger fatigue during extended tasks.
• Double Insulation: Offers an essential layer of protection against electrical shock, enhancing user safety.
• Externally Accessible Carbon Brushes: Simplifies maintenance and brush replacement, extending the tool's lifespan.
• Included Accessories: Typically supplied with a punch and die set, a hex wrench, and a wrench holder.

Applications

The Makita JN1601 Nibbler is an indispensable tool for specialized metal cutting tasks across various industries:

• Roofing & Cladding: Ideal for cutting corrugated iron, trapezoidal sheets, and other roofing materials to size or for creating openings.
• Sheet Metal Fabrication: Precision cutting of intricate shapes, curves, and cut-outs in metal sheets for custom fabrication.
• Automotive Bodywork: Making clean and precise cuts in car body panels for repairs or modifications, including sunroof installations.
• HVAC Installation: Cutting and shaping ducting and ventilation components.
• Electrical Installation: Creating openings in metal enclosures or cutting metal trunking.
• Any Application Requiring Burr-Free Metal Cuts: When a clean finish is paramount without further deburring.