What tool is primarily used for cutting sheet metal?

Aviation snips are the primary tool used for cutting sheet metal due to their design and functionality. Unlike other cutting tools, aviation snips are specifically engineered for precision cutting of thin materials, such as sheet metal. They come in various types—left-cut, right-cut, and straight-cut—allowing for versatility in cutting both straight lines and curves, which is essential in HVAC work where precise shapes and sizes are needed for ductwork and fittings.

Using aviation snips, technicians can cut through various gauges of sheet metal efficiently and with relatively little effort compared to heavier machinery. Their lightweight and hand-operated nature make them suitable for both small and detailed tasks, as well as larger cuts, providing an advantage in both mobility and control when performing HVAC installations or repairs. This makes aviation snips a preferred choice among HVAC sheet metal technicians for their cutting tasks.