Comparison Table for Dental CuttersInstrument Name Cutter Type Handle Material Handle Type Manufacturer Name Package Quantity Compatible Cutting Material Pin and Ligature Cutters – Micro-Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter Micro-Mini, Pin, Ligature Immunity Steel Curved, Long Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. 1/Pkg Ligature, Pin, Soft Wire Miltex Diagonal Wire Cutter Diagonal Silicone Curved Miltex by Integra 1/Pkg Hard Wire, Soft Wire Buffalo Nipper – Diagonal Cutting Nipper N/A N/A Buffalo Dental Mfg Co Inc. 1/Pkg N/A Distal End Cutters – Universal Cut and Hold, Long Handle Distal End, Universal Cut & Hold Immunity Steel Long Handle Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. 1/Pkg Hard Wire, Soft Wire Patterson® Safety Shear and Hold Distal End – Long Handle Distal End Stainless Steel Long Patterson Dental Supply 1/Pkg Archwire Distal End Cutters – Slim Flush Cut and Hold Distal End, Flush Cut & Hold Immunity Steel Long Handle Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. 1/Pkg Archwire Patterson® Plaster Nippers Nipper Stainless Steel N/A Patterson Dental Supply 1/Pkg Plaster, Stone Patterson® Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter Ligature Stainless Steel N/A Patterson Dental Supply 1/Pkg Ligature Patterson® 15° Angled Hard Wire Cutter Hard Wire Stainless Steel N/A Patterson Dental Supply 1/Pkg Hard Wire Distal End Cutters – Slim Micro Cutter Micro Immunity Steel Curved Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc. 1/Pkg Ligature, Soft Wire
Cutters are used to cut various types of wires such as pins, ligature wires and orthodontic archwire either extraorally or intraorally.
1. Pin and Ligature Cutters – Micro-Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter

Product Description
The Hu-Friedy Micro-Mini Pin & Ligature Cutter is a precision instrument engineered for cutting soft wire pins and ligature wires up to 0.012″ (0.30 mm). Its ultra-slim profile allows for superior access in hard-to-reach intraoral areas.
Product Overview
Crafted from high-quality Immunity Steel, this cutter features a curved, long-handle design for improved control and comfort. It is ideal for use in orthodontic procedures where accuracy and accessibility are essential.
Key Features
- Cuts ligature wires and soft wire pins up to 0.012″ (0.30 mm)
- Ultra-slim design for enhanced access in confined spaces
- Made with durable, corrosion-resistant Immunity Steel
- Curved, long handles provide ergonomic handling
- Ideal for orthodontic use and fine wire adjustments
Common Applications
- Cutting ligature wires and soft orthodontic pins
- Use in tight, hard-to-access areas during wire placement
- Precision trimming during orthodontic adjustments
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Micro-Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter
Cutter Type: Micro-Mini, Pin, Ligature
Compatible Cutting Material: Ligature, Pin, Soft Wire
Maximum Wire Size: 0.012″ (0.30 mm)
Handle Material: Immunity Steel
Handle Type: Curved, Long
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Slim and precise—perfect for tight spots in orthodontics
Excellent quality and durability from Hu-Friedy
2. Miltex Diagonal Wire Cutter

Product Description
The Miltex Diagonal Wire Cutter is a high-performance orthodontic instrument designed to cut a wide range of wire types and sizes. It is ideal for trimming heavy wires with minimal effort and is built for strength and durability in clinical environments.
Product Overview
Featuring a straight blade and curved silicone handles, this cutter is engineered for ergonomic handling and effective leverage. Its blunt-tip design adds safety during intraoral use, making it suitable for both hard and soft orthodontic wires.
Key Features
- Cuts all types and sizes of orthodontic wire
- Effective on both hard and soft wires
- Diagonal blade design provides clean, powerful cuts
- Straight blade with blunt tip for safe, controlled use
- Curved silicone handles for comfort and grip
- Excellent for heavy wire trimming with minimal pressure
Common Applications
- Cutting archwires in orthodontic procedures
- Trimming heavy or thick wire segments
- Chairside wire adjustments and removal
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Diagonal Wire Cutter
Cutter Type: Diagonal
Blade Shape: Straight
Tip Shape: Blunt
Compatible Cutting Material: Hard Wire, Soft Wire
Handle Material: Silicone
Handle Type: Curved
Old Manufacturer #: 74-115
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Miltex by Integra
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Strong and dependable — cuts through thick wires with ease
Comfortable to use and well-designed for heavy-duty work
3. Buffalo Nipper – Diagonal Cutting

Product Description
The Buffalo 177E Diagonal Cutting Nipper is a heavy-duty instrument designed for tough nipping, cutting, and trimming applications in dental and laboratory settings. Built for strength and durability, it handles demanding tasks with ease.
Product Overview
Engineered for heavy material cutting, this nipper features a strong diagonal cutting design. Its robust construction ensures long-term performance, making it a dependable tool for trimming and shaping in clinical or lab environments.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty diagonal cutting design
- Ideal for tough nipping and trimming applications
- Built for long-lasting durability
- Suitable for dental and lab use
- Reliable performance under high-force use
Common Applications
- Heavy material trimming
- Cutting and shaping in prosthetic or lab work
- Chairside adjustments and nipping tasks
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Buffalo Nipper – Diagonal Cutting
Cutter Type: Nipper
Model Number: 177E
Manufacturer: Buffalo Dental Mfg Co Inc.
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Strong and dependable for lab work and adjustments
Ideal tool for heavy trimming and tough cutting tasks
4. Distal End Cutters – Universal Cut and Hold, Long Handle

Product Description
The Hu-Friedy Universal Cut and Hold Distal End Cutter (Long Handle) is a precision orthodontic instrument designed to cut and securely hold distal wire ends during intraoral procedures. It accommodates a wide range of wire sizes and is ideal for both hard and soft wire cutting.
Product Overview
Engineered from durable Immunity Steel, this cutter features a pointed tip for precision and long handles for improved leverage and control. It cuts wires cleanly while holding the cut end securely to prevent loose wires from entering the oral cavity.
Key Features
- Cuts and holds distal wire ends in one motion
- Handles wire sizes from 0.012″ to 0.021″ x 0.025″
- Works with hard and soft wires
- Long handles provide increased control and comfort
- Made from corrosion-resistant Immunity Steel
- Pointed tip for precision in tight spaces
Common Applications
- Intraoral cutting and retrieval of distal wire ends
- Orthodontic finishing and wire adjustments
- Preventing loose wire ends during bracket or archwire trimming
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Universal Cut and Hold Distal End Cutter – Long Handle
Cutter Type: Distal End, Universal Cut & Hold
Compatible Cutting Material: Hard Wire, Soft Wire
Maximum Wire Size: 0.021″ x 0.025″
Tip Shape: Pointed
Handle Material: Immunity Steel
Handle Type: Long Handle
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Excellent hold and cut in one step — essential for safe orthodontic wire trimming
Smooth handling and strong construction make it a go-to tool
5. Patterson® Safety Shear and Hold Distal End – Long Handle

Product Description
The Patterson® Safety Shear and Hold Distal End Cutter is a high-performance orthodontic instrument engineered to cut and securely hold archwire ends during intraoral procedures. Designed with precision and strength, it ensures clean cuts and added safety for both the patient and clinician.
Product Overview
Constructed from durable stainless steel, this long-handle distal end cutter offers superior reach and control. It is capable of cutting archwires up to .021″ x .028″ and holding the cut end to prevent loose wire fragments in the oral cavity.
Key Features
- Cuts and holds distal archwire ends for enhanced safety
- Designed for strength and precision during procedures
- Handles archwires up to .021″ x .028″
- Long stainless steel handle for improved grip and reach
- Ideal for orthodontic finishing and wire trimming
Common Applications
- Intraoral archwire trimming
- Safe cutting and retention of distal wire ends
- Orthodontic finishing and adjustments
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Safety Shear and Hold Distal End Cutter – Long Handle
Cutter Type: Distal End
Compatible Cutting Material: Archwire
Maximum Wire Size: .021″ x .028″
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Type: Long
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Reliable shear-and-hold action—cuts clean and protects the patient
Long handle offers excellent control and comfort during trimming
6. Distal End Cutters – Slim Flush Cut and Hold

Product Description
The Hu-Friedy Slim Flush Cut and Hold Distal End Cutter is designed to cut wire flush to the buccal tube or bracket and securely hold the cut segment to prevent loose ends. Its slim profile reduces debonding and enhances access in tight intraoral spaces.
Product Overview
Crafted from durable Immunity Steel, this long-handle instrument delivers excellent control while handling all types of archwire up to 0.021″ x 0.025″. The blunt tip enhances patient safety, while the flush cut design minimizes adjustments and discomfort.
Key Features
- Slim flush-cut design minimizes debonding and improves access
- Cuts and holds archwire ends up to 0.021″ x 0.025″
- Designed for use with all wire types
- Long Immunity Steel handles provide strength and control
- Blunt tip for added intraoral safety
Common Applications
- Trimming and holding archwire ends during orthodontic procedures
- Cutting wire flush to buccal tubes and brackets
- Reducing the risk of debonding and soft tissue injury
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Slim Flush Cut and Hold Distal End Cutter
Cutter Type: Distal End, Flush Cut & Hold
Compatible Cutting Material: Archwire
Maximum Wire Size: 0.021″ x 0.025″
Tip Shape: Blunt
Handle Material: Immunity Steel
Handle Type: Long Handle
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Slim profile makes it perfect for tight spaces
Flush cut is precise, and the hold feature improves safety and efficiency
7. Patterson® Plaster Nippers

Product Description
Patterson® Plaster Nippers are durable, stainless steel instruments designed to cut and trim dental plaster and stone with precision. They are ideal for laboratory use, including model trimming and adjustments.
Product Overview
Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, these nippers deliver strength and reliability in every cut. Whether shaping dental models or modifying casts, their robust design ensures efficient performance in daily lab work.
Key Features
- Cuts dental plaster and stone with ease
- Ideal for trimming and shaping dental models
- Constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel
- Durable and reliable for frequent lab use
- Provides clean, precise cuts
Common Applications
- Trimming dental stone models
- Shaping and modifying plaster casts
- General dental lab model adjustments
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Patterson® Plaster Nippers
Cutter Type: Nipper
Compatible Cutting Material: Plaster, Stone
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Cuts cleanly through stone — dependable tool in the lab
Strong and durable, holds up to repeated use
8. Patterson® Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter

Product Description
The Patterson® Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter is a compact, precision instrument designed to cut ligature wires up to .012″ during orthodontic procedures. It offers strength, control, and versatility for efficient wire trimming in tight intraoral spaces.
Product Overview
Featuring a straight blade and constructed from high-quality stainless steel, this cutter provides clean cuts and long-lasting performance. Its small design allows for excellent maneuverability and access around brackets and appliances.
Key Features
- Cuts ligature wires up to .012″
- Compact size ideal for tight, hard-to-reach areas
- Straight blade for precise trimming
- Made from durable stainless steel
- Designed for strength and repeated clinical use
Common Applications
- Cutting ligature wires in orthodontic treatments
- Trimming excess wire around brackets and appliances
- Fine adjustments during wire placement
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Mini Pin and Ligature Cutter
Cutter Type: Ligature
Blade Shape: Straight
Compatible Cutting Material: Ligature
Maximum Wire Size: .012″
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Compact and sharp—perfect for precision orthodontic work
Reliable performance and great quality at a good value
9. Patterson® 15° Angled Hard Wire Cutter

Product Description
The Patterson® 15° Angled Hard Wire Cutter is a precision-engineered instrument designed for cutting heavy orthodontic archwires. Built for strength and control, it is ideal for clinical situations that require cutting hard wire with accuracy and minimal effort.
Product Overview
Featuring a 15° angled blade for improved visibility and access, this cutter is capable of handling wire sizes up to .021″ x .028″. Made from high-quality stainless steel, it delivers durable performance and reliable cutting in orthodontic procedures.
Key Features
- 15° angled blade enhances access and visibility
- Cuts archwire up to .021″ x .028″
- Ideal for hard wire trimming in orthodontics
- Made from durable stainless steel
- Provides precise, clean cuts with minimal pressure
Common Applications
- Cutting heavy orthodontic archwires
- Chairside wire trimming and adjustments
- Use in complex orthodontic procedures requiring precision
Technical Specifications
Product Name: 15° Angled Hard Wire Cutter
Cutter Type: Hard Wire
Blade Shape: Angled 15°
Compatible Cutting Material: Archwire
Maximum Wire Size: .021″ x .028″
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Angled design is great for tight spots—cuts cleanly through hard wire
Solid, well-built instrument for daily orthodontic use
10. Distal End Cutters – Slim Micro Cutter

Product Description
The Hu-Friedy Slim Micro Cutter is a highly precise orthodontic instrument designed for cutting ligature and soft wires in tight spaces. Its ultra-slender, pointed tip allows for superior access and visibility during wire and elastic removal.
Product Overview
With a face that has been “scooped out” and reduced by 13% compared to the original Hu-Friedy 678-110 model, this micro cutter offers enhanced visibility and control. Crafted from premium Immunity Steel, the curved handle design ensures comfort and ergonomic use during intricate procedures.
Key Features
- Slim, pointed tip enhances access and precision
- 13% smaller cutting face for improved visibility
- Ideal for removing elastics and soft wire cutting
- Compatible with ligature and soft wires up to 0.012″
- Made from corrosion-resistant Immunity Steel
- Curved handles for ergonomic handling
Common Applications
- Trimming soft ligature wires in tight spaces
- Removing elastics during orthodontic procedures
- Fine wire adjustments with enhanced visibility
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Slim Micro Cutter
Cutter Type: Micro
Compatible Cutting Material: Ligature, Soft Wire
Maximum Wire Size: 0.012″
Tip Shape: Pointed
Handle Material: Immunity Steel
Handle Type: Curved
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)
Customer Feedback
Perfect for delicate wire trimming—fits easily into tight spaces
Lightweight, sharp, and very comfortable to use