At MachineRunner, we encounter many common questions about buying a stack or ream cutter. Most of the time, these purchases are made by a customer who is frustrated with the multiple cuts that they make with their guillotine cutters, and are looking to save time with less cuts. A stack cutter is the perfect option. Stack or ream cutters are perfect for print shops, schools, and large businesses. Shopping for the right stack cutter can be easy if you narrow down what you are actually looking for.
Cut Length
Typically most stack cutters are designed for either 8.5” x 11” or 11” x 17” sized paper. Most of the time, the maximum width will have extra room to accommodate for adjustments. For example, if you are looking for a paper cutter for your 8.5” x 11” paper, you will want to find one that is around 11-1/2” to 12” for the maximum cut width.
Sheet Cut Capacity
This is the most important aspect of a stack paper cutter. The sheet cut capacity will be the maximum number of 20 lb sheets that the cutter can cut. This capacity ranges between 120 to 800. This is sometimes calculated by cut width. Cut width is the actual height of the stack of papers. This can be a better estimate as users do not typically cut hundreds of sheets of paper by counting.
Safety Features
Cutting multiple sheets of paper can be very dangerous when it comes to the blade. Two handed operation means that both hands need to be utilized in order to cut. This can prevent injuries while not making it possible for an idle hand to be resting by the blade. Other popular saftety features include safety case, and locking blade.
Minimum Cut
While most of the cuts that are made with a stack paper cutters are large, there are some cutting operations that require a narrow cut. For example, if you are cutting bookmarks, you want to be sure that the stack cutter you are looking for can make cuts smaller than 2”. This is the minimum amount that can be cut off from the stack. Not all cutters have this spec listed. Call your rep for more information.
Cutting Base
Stack paper cutters will be equipped with either a wood or metal base. Ideally, there should be measurement guides printed on the base in easy to read increments. Additionally, every stack cutter should have a clamp or backstop attached to the base, that can be used to create a guide for cutting. This will save time when it comes to cutting multiple reams of paper that will be cut the same size.
Optional Features
Some cutter will have additional features to aid in accurate cutting. Though not always necessary, laser guides, and stands can make it easy to cut the stacks of paper.
Hopefully these tips will aid in choosing the right stack paper cutter for your business, or office.
