SPRINKLER TALK FORUM - You Got Questions, We've Got Answers

http://www.members.cox.net/tismaz/billtism.htm

My pleasure....

This isn't the man, myth, and legend that makes the famous sucktube that you are always preaching about is it?

If it is... I have always meant to get my hands on one of those... I'd like one "Tony from AZ sent me" discount...

kidding... I do want one though sprinklerguy... I'll search both sites for "sucktube" but if I don't find it can you send me the link again?

Watch out guys....the Guru has joined us....

Hi Billy....phone call for you later today!

About the most common cutter around Phx is the Kwik-Cut, especially on new pipe that still has it's elasticity. Rachet type cutters (the better ones) are good on Sch pipe, but be very careful on older pipe.... CRUNCH!
I personally use a Cable Saw on most EVERYTHING. Fast, clean, and does made NOT bugger thin or brittle pipe. I also straigten out the cable when I am done using them by making the cable smoke in a piece of Doug Fir and then pull the ends tight letting it cool straight. Gets rid of the pig tailing. Saws generally last me at least 40-50 cuts.
Bill

kwik cut rules. a good pvc saw for pvc. small pvc up to 1 inch can be cut easily with quik cut.

Kwik-Cut for poly, swing, PVC PR 160 & 200. Lenox Saw for Sch 40 & 80 and of course old pipe.

kwik cut for Poly and sawsall for pvc-with 20 or higher tpi blades for cleaner cut.

I am going to agree with Wetboots here, The home improvement stores ratcheting "pipe cutters" are worthless. You'd be lucky to install a complete system using the same pair. If you want something quality, it is going to show on the price tag.

I occasionally use a ratchet cutter on the odd tree root, as well. If not using sch 40, you don't need a ratchet cutter. If any of the pipe is old and weathered, you'd want to have a saw, in case it's getting brittle.

To elaborate on this, a ratcheting cutter can shatter an old brittle PVC pipe, instead of cutting smoothly through it. This is why you use a saw when in doubt, on older pipe, when you can't afford to have shattered pipe and/or fittings.

Also, do not expect the cheapest home-center ratcheting cutter to be any good. They may look like the real thing, but the metal is so inferior as to be laughable. A Victor VP-30 is about $35 to $40 at contractor net.

I occasionally use a ratchet cutter on the odd tree root, as well. If not using sch 40, you don't need a ratchet cutter. If any of the pipe is old and weathered, you'd want to have a saw, in case it's getting brittle.

To elaborate on this, a ratcheting cutter can shatter an old brittle PVC pipe, instead of cutting smoothly through it. This is why you use a saw when in doubt, on older pipe, when you can't afford to have shattered pipe and/or fittings.

Also, do not expect the cheapest home-center ratcheting cutter to be any good. They may look like the real thing, but the metal is so inferior as to be laughable. A Victor VP-30 is about $35 to $40 at contractor net.