Choosing the right SWA stripping tool is essential for safe, efficient electrical installations. UK electricians rely on tools that remove armour and sheathing without damaging conductors, while delivering clean gland connections. This guide highlights five top options with features to suit a range of trades, from quick-clamp strippers to precise VDE-certified knives. Read on to compare reliability, ease of use, and performance in real-world scenarios across armoured cable work.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| C.K T0990 VDE Cable Sheath Stripping Knife | C.K | Hook blade; double-edged cuts push and pull |
| C.K Tools ArmourSlice Evo Armoured SWA Cable Stripper | C.K | Quick-clamp design; constant pressure during cut |
| C.K Tools Complete SWA Termination Kit | C.K | Integrated tool set with ArmourSlice Evo and VDE sheath knife |
| KNIPEX Ergostrip Universal Stripping Tool | KNIPEX | Ergonomic pistol grip; rapid stripping |
| WEICON No. 4-28 H Cable Stripping Knife | WEICON | Adjustable cutting depth; automatic changeover |
Below are five selected tools focused on SWA stripping tasks, balancing precision, speed, and safety to help UK electricians pick with confidence.
C.K T0990 VDE Knife For Armour Sheath
The C.K T0990 is a specialised sheath knife designed to slit outer cable insulation without harming inner conductors. It features a hook blade and a double-edged blade enabling efficient push and pull cuts. VDE/EN60900 approval offers reassurance for safe use in professional environments. The tool is compact, suitable for on-site stripping tasks where precision matters and minor blade maintenance is straightforward with protective blade covers available. It is particularly useful for first-stage armour removal before glanding or termination.
ArmourSlice Evo Armoured SWA Stripper
The ArmourSlice Evo enables faster setup with its innovative quick-clamp design, applying constant pressure throughout the cut, so electricians can strip armoured cables quickly and consistently. It scores armour strands to a uniform depth, ensuring a clean break off without damaging gland connections. The automatic clamp reduces the need for retightening, improving workflow in busy installations. This tool is well-suited for ongoing SWA stripping tasks where repeatability matters and where multiple sizes are common on site.
Complete SWA Termination Kit For Pros
This complete kit bundles essential SWA tools into one portable roll: Armourslice Evo (T2250A) for fast stripping, the VDE sheath knife for safe insulation removal, a slim jaw wrench, and a gland wrench (T4765). The integration supports professional electricians who prefer a consolidated toolkit for on-site termination work. The Armourslice Evo features a 12–36 mm stripping range with onboard spare blades, and the VDE sheath knife remains a staple for precise cuts that protect conductors and facilitate gland connections.
KNIPEX Ergostrip Universal Tool
The KNIPEX Ergostrip Universal is designed for fast, precise stripping of round, damp-proof, data, and coax cables. Its ergonomic pistol grip helps with cutting, stripping, and longitudinal cutting of sheath without excessive hand strain. The conical, slim tool ends improve access in tight spaces, making it a strong option for installations in compact panels or crowded conduits. The tool supports a range of common cable sizes, reducing the need to switch implements for different jobs.
WITPOCE Coax And Data Cable Stripper
The WITPOCE stripper is built from carbon steel and durable ABS, designed to strip outer jackets of UTP/STP CAT5 cables and coax shields safely. It features an adjustable blade for different insulation thickness, reducing risk to shielding and conductors. Its wide compatibility includes RG59, RG6, RG7, and RG11, enabling single-tool versatility across data, coax, and telecom installations in domestic or commercial settings.
Jokari Round Cable Stripper No.14
The Jokari No.14 stripper handles round cables from 4 to 13 mm and flat cables up to 12 mm. Its straightforward design focuses on reliability for general purpose stripping where heavy-duty armour removal is not required or where simplicity is preferred for smaller projects. This tool suits electricians performing occasional SWA work or combined cable types without extensive glanding demands.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting an SWA stripping tool include cutting depth control, safety approvals, and compatibility with cable sizes. For professionals, a VDE-certified knife offers conductor protection during sheath removal. Quick-clamp or automatic clamps improve speed and consistency, but ensure the mechanism holds securely without damaging insulation. Tools with onboard spare blades and replaceable blades extend service life on site. Ergonomics matter for long jobs—pistol grips and slim ends help access tight spaces. Finally, consider a complete kit if you frequently terminate SWA, as integrated tool rolls reduce downtime looking for compatible implements.
Comparisons at a glance:
- Precision vs. speed: knives excel in precise sheath removal; automatic strippers accelerate repetitive tasks.
- Safety: VDE/EN60900 compliance reduces shock risk; blade covers protect users during transport.
- Versatility: multi-tool kits cover multiple tasks beyond SWA stripping, increasing on-site efficiency.
- Maintenance: replaceable blades and onboard spares lower long-term costs and downtime.
- Ergonomics: comfortable grips and tool geometry reduce fatigue, especially on large projects.