Sheet-metal nibbler: pneumatic vs. hand-powered

[Matt]

I want to cut some sheet steel. I expect I might have to make several feet of cuts at a time, and I might need to make ten feet of cuts in a few months. I expect the material will be 304 stainless or similar, say around 22 ga. (0.031 inches) give or take 20%.

Would it likely be unpleasant to use a muscle-powered nibbler? Should I just plan on a pneumatic nibbler? Would I likely see much difference in the finished product? I'm not set up for air tools right now, but I could probably rent something ...

Please advise.

[salty]

This "might" be okay for occasional use on 22 gauge stainless. Probably worth $50 to find out.

I don't think you are going to like trying to do what you propose with a hand powered nibbler.

[charlie]

it might be just easier and cheaper to find someone with a shear that would make a couple of cuts. perhaps where you're getting the metal in the first place.

[gfretwell]

If they are straight cuts you can do a fairly good job with a metal cutoff wheel in a circular saw. Be sure the nibbler you use is rated for stainless. I broke mine on some 22 ga (316 or so). It was "kitchen grade" whatever that is. There are actually a lot more grades than 316 and 304 but they seem to be the main benchmarks, based on whether it is mildly magnetic or not..

[Stormin Mormon]

I got a nibbler from Harbor Freight, which has served me well. Electric plug in. No compressor needed.

[RicodJour]

Ten feet of cuts in a few months is only a few inches per day. You should be able to do that with either tool.

R

[Matt]

Thanks guys for all the replies ... will consider ...

[JIMMIE]

If you already had a compressor I would say get the Pneumatic one otherwise I would get an elctric.

Jimmie