cut a spring

[Giorgio]

Hello, I need to cut the first millimeter or so of a cherry spring, to make it shorter. The wires are very close to each other at the extremities, what tool would you use? A kind of cutting plier, with a flat side?

[majstor]

It should be sanded .
http://blueroofdesigns.com/2009/07/29/what-are-these-dremel-thingies-for/

[OfTheWild]

I would just use some flush cutters. $4.47 if you dont already have some, these are a must for this hobby: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZPDG1K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1

[Giorgio]

I would just use some flush cutters. $4.47 if you dont already have some, these are a must for this hobby: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FZPDG1K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1

thanks! I'll buy it.

[Giorgio]

It should be sanded .
http://blueroofdesigns.com/2009/07/29/what-are-these-dremel-thingies-for/

It seems quite difficult to obtain a cut with repeatable precision!

[DamnDan]

Make a jig, this way in either way you choose (flush cutters or dremel) you will get precise cuts every time.
E.g - drill a hole in piece of wood deep enough to fit the spring up to cutting point.

[majstor]

Take a metal tube in which you'll put a spring .The second part close to the desired length with something. Or take the rod on which you'll put the spring. I think you should Dremel or something.

[OfTheWild]

I like DamnDan's recommendation for a jig. Especially with inconsistencies in the number of 'dead' coils on each end of the spring. I would definitely take a little from each end to make sure you dont change the spring rate from 'active' coils... unless thats your intention.

[Leslieann]

Sanding leads to heat, which will change the springs rating (it will soften it) and very inconsistently at that.