I needed a side cut wire cutter that would work on stainless steel and hardened wire and not damage the jaws. I do a lot of jewelry and use mostly stainless wire. I also do electrical work and they work great in that application. I've gotten tired of the normal cutters not lasting and I have gotten tired of constantly getting replacements. These Knipex wire cutters really fit the bill and were reasonably priced. These are extremely strong and have no flex or movement in the pivot joint. They are very smooth, sharp and easy to use. The length of these are somewhat small but you still have good leverage to cut. The handle grips are firmly attached and do not move at all like some of the other ones I have bought. The cutting edge is not a flush cut but has a fairly small taper which is not bad. I would get these again in a heartbeat but I doubt I will need to very soon!