3D Cutting Pliers

The 3D Alicate Cortador is a flush cut side-cutting plier designed specifically for finishing 3D printed parts, though its precision makes it equally useful in electronics, jewellery and scale modelling. Weighing just 61 grams and featuring a flat oblique jaw, it removes supports and excess material with a clean, controlled cut without damaging the part.

Technical specifications

What it's used for

This is the go-to plier when you need a flush cut with no marks or steps. The flat jaw can rest directly on the part surface to remove any protrusion without tearing the material.

• Support removal on FDM parts (PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU…)
• Cutting support bases on photopolymer resin parts (SLA/MSLA)
• Cutting electronic components and capacitor or resistor legs
• Finishing jewellery pieces in wax or resin
• Scale modelling: cutting sprues and parts from frames
• Fishing: preparing leaders and rigs with monofilament
• Any workshop task requiring precise cutting in tight spaces

How to use it

1. Make sure the part is cool and, in the case of SLA resins, fully cured before handling.
2. Hold the part firmly on a stable surface or with your free hand, leaving clear access to the support or excess you want to remove.
3. Place the flat face of the jaw resting on the part surface, tangent to the cut point.
4. Close with firm, even pressure — the spring will automatically open the jaws after each cut.
5. If minimal residue remains, repeat the cut with the jaw pressed even closer to the surface, or finish with a file or fine-grit sandpaper.
6. Clean the jaws with a dry cloth after use to maintain the edge.

Usage tips

FDM printing: temperature and angle

With PLA and rigid materials at room temperature the cut is clean. With TPU or other flexible materials, cool the part in the freezer for a few minutes before cutting: the material becomes more brittle and the break comes out cleaner. Always work with the flat face well rested against the part to avoid marks on the visible surface.

SLA/MSLA resins: cure before cutting

Never cut supports on uncured resin: the material is soft and the break is unpredictable. Wait for the full post-cure cycle (usually 2–5 minutes in a UV station depending on the resin) and work with gloves, as cured resin fragments can fly off when cutting.

Edge maintenance

The special steel holds up well to continuous use, but avoid cutting hard metallic materials (steel wire, thick copper multi-strand cables): this is not the right tool for that and the edge would be damaged. Store it with the jaws slightly open, never locked, to avoid stressing the spring.

Frequently asked questions