10 min. read, June 2025
Alternative tools for metal cutting
The angle grinder is the standard tool for cutting metal on the jobsite. They’re tried, tested and safe – and the Hilti range includes angle grinders for every situation. However, while it may be the default tool for many workers, it’s far from the only tool available for metal cutting on site.
In some cases, alternative tools can be cheaper or get the job done more quickly, offering clear efficiency, cost and productivity benefits. As we approach summer, there are also important considerations around heat and safety, and what tools can offer cold cutting solutions to suit the conditions.
Band saws
Tools like the SB 6-22 Deep Cut Band Saw and the Nuron SB 4-22 Portable Band Saw are compact, light and versatile. They are able to cut metal pipes and struts, threaded rods or conduits with ease, and are battery powered for increased productivity.
They create virtually no sparks, debris or noise when they cut – a notable difference to angle grinders that makes them a safer choice for cutting in occupied buildings or other sensitive environments. Those features can make band saws more efficient and help you be more productive in many scenarios when compared to an angle grinder.
Circular saw
Our cordless circular saws are designed for light- and heavy-duty cutting of a wide range of materials, including metal when paired with our steel circular saw blades. The tools themselves – like the Nuron SC 30WR-22 Cordless Circular Saw – offer triple-speed cutting, longer battery life than ever before and have a range of safety features to keep workers safe and productive.
The blades themselves feature high quality tungsten carbide tips for long life and fast, cold cuts in a wide range of metal applications which is perfect for the hot summer months. Ferrous metal, structural panels, pipes, tubing, threaded rods and rebar can all be cut quickly, easily and safely.
Reciprocating saw
Hilti’s range of reciprocating saws are another great option for light- and heavy-duty metal cutting on the jobsite, and a good alternative to angle grinders. For example, the Nuron SR 6-22 Reciprocating Saw is designed to demolish or trim non-structural metal such as pipes, struts, cable trays, sheets and crash barriers with ease.
It also benefits from batteries that are long-lasting and powerful, delivering increased productivity and cutting speeds at the same time. Additionally, anti-vibration technology offers 26% lower vibration for increased health and safety on the jobsite.
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