Metabo 18V Cordless Nibbler NIV 18 LTX BL 1.6

Metabo 18V Nibbler Takes the Bite Out of Working With Sheet Metal

Metabo tells us that, with the introduction of their 18V cordless nibbler (NIV 18 LTX BL 1.6), the metalworking world will now have access to the best size to power ratio, slimmest grip, and fastest cutting available in its class. Presumably, this is due to the tool’s use of Metabo’s second-gen brushless motor.

Key Features

The Metabo 18V Nibbler features the brand’s second generation brushless motor, allowing it to take small, fast bites in 16-gauge mild steel, 18- gauge stainless steel, and 14-gauge aluminum.

If you’re not familiar with how a nibbler functions, it’s simple. The motor powers a punch that takes small, half-moon bites out of sheet metal. Not only does it work quickly, but it makes cuts without generating any metal dust or sparks. It also cuts easily around curves. While this one uses a standard punch, you can also get nibblers with longer extensions, letting you tackle steeper corrugated paneling that might elude traditional saws. Metabo has yet to issue a model with an extension.

In the case of the Metabo 18V Nibbler, you can cut up to a 5/8″ radius with fast adjustment of the cutting direction up to 360° in 45° steps without tools.

The Metabo NIV 18 LTX BL 1.6 Nibbler features a selector switch that lets you dial in your ideal cutting speed for the material you’re working with. It delivers between 600-2360 strokes per minute. We imagine this tool should deliver a very similar experience to the Trumpf TruTool N 160 nibbler we reviewed earlier this year.

It features a lock-on switch, a tool-less punch and die change system, and a slim, rubberized grip for heightened comfort and better control.

Availability

When it becomes readily available, you can pick up the Metabo 18V Cordless Nibbler as a bare tool or as a kit. As a kit, it comes with two 4.0Ah batteries and a charger. In either case, the nibbler includes a punch, die, and combination key.

All Metabo tools come with a 3-year warranty. Metabo also offers a full 3-year replacement guarantee on their battery and charger systems.

To learn more about Metabo’s tool lineup, visit the website by clicking here.

Metabo 18V Nibbler Specs

• Model: Metabo NIV 18 LTX BL 1.6
• Battery: 18V LiHD
• Steel sheet thickness (max): 0.0275–0.0629 in.
• Aluminum sheet thickness (max): 0.0787 in.
• Speed: 660–2360 RPM
• Cut width: 0.1968 in.
• Starting hole: 0.8267 in.
• Smallest curve radius: 1.5748 in.
• Weight (w/battery): 4 lbs. (1.8 kg)
• Cutting vibration (sheet): ~8 m/s²
• Noise: ~96–107 dB(A) SPL

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