RIDGID Model 35S Stainless Steel Tubing Cutter - Smooth, Fast Cuts

In this review the RIDGID Model 35S tubing cutter stands out as a straightforward tool for tradespeople and serious DIYers who regularly cut metal tubing. The bottom line is simple: it makes clean, controlled cuts through stainless steel, copper, and conduit with less effort than comparable hand cutters. The key reason to buy is its bearing-driven design, which reduces drag and produces smoother rotations so cuts are faster and edges are cleaner, making it a practical choice for anyone needing reliable tube preparation on the job or in the shop.

Key Features

• Six individual bearings: These replace traditional rollers to reduce friction, allowing the cutter to spin more smoothly and speed up each rotation around the tube.
• Contoured frame: The shaped body helps align the cutter quickly and maintain square contact while adjusting for a precise cut.
• Stainless steel cutter wheel: The specially designed wheel contains bearings in the hub so it tracks with less drag and produces a cleaner cut edge.
• Ergonomic X-CEL knob: The large adjustment knob offers easy, controlled tightening so users can advance the cutter smoothly without hand fatigue.
• Wide cutting range: With 1/4 in to 1-3/8 in capacity, it handles small instrument tubing up to common structural tube sizes used in poles and conduit.

Who It's For

The Model 35S is best for plumbers, pipefitters, fabricators, and serious DIYers who need a durable handheld cutter that performs well on stainless steel and copper. Its heavier construction and bearing-driven design suit repetitive work where cut speed and edge quality matter.

Those working exclusively on very large industrial pipe or who require powered cutting tools for high-volume production may want a larger or powered cutter; likewise, if cutting only thin plastic tubing, a lighter, cheaper cutter would suffice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust build and heavy-duty feel that stands up to frequent use.
• Smoother, faster rotations thanks to six individual bearings for reduced drag.
• Clean cut quality on stainless steel and copper with minimal burrs.
• Ergonomic knob and contoured frame make alignment and adjustments easy.

Cons

• Heavier than some pocket cutters, which may be unnecessary for light hobby tasks.
• Manual operation still requires steady technique for perfectly square cuts on larger tubes.

Specifications

Brand	RIDGID
Model	35S
Cutting capacity	1/4 in to 1-3/8 in (6 mm to 35 mm)
Cutter wheel	Stainless steel wheel with bearings in hub
Bearings	6 individual bearings replacing traditional rollers
Adjustment	X-CEL ergonomic knob for easy tightening

Our Verdict

The RIDGID Model 35S is a solid choice for professionals and demanding hobbyists who need a reliable hand tube cutter that excels on stainless steel. Its bearing-driven design and contoured frame deliver smoother, quicker cuts and good edge quality for the price, making it good value for anyone who cuts metal tubing regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tube sizes will this cutter handle?
The cutter covers tubes from 1/4 in up to 1-3/8 in (6 mm to 35 mm).

Can it cut stainless steel as well as copper?
Yes, the stainless steel cutter wheel and bearings are designed to handle stainless steel, copper, and electrical conduit effectively.

Is the adjustment knob easy to use for repetitive cuts?
Yes, the ergonomic X-CEL knob allows controlled, comfortable adjustments which helps when making multiple cuts.