A Guide to Choosing the Right Cutting Tool for Your Needs

Cutting paper cleanly and efficiently is important for many applications, from office use to craft projects. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which type of paper cutter is best for your specific needs. Luckily, Officemax offers a wide selection of paper cutters ranging from simple, affordable manual models to high-powered electric cutters capable of slicing through thick stacks.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of paper cutters available at Officemax and provide key factors to consider as you shop for the right cutting tool to add to your workspace or craft room.

Manual Paper Cutters

Manual paper cutters are economical options operated completely by hand, without electricity. Officemax stocks guillotine-style cutters with long arm blades that slice cleanly and accurately through paper reams and stacks. Models with rotary blades that roll across the paper to trim sheets are also available.

Though not as fast as electric options, quality manual cutters deliver precise cuts and are suitable for most general paper cutting tasks. They’re ideal choices for classrooms, home offices, and crafters.

What to Look For

When evaluating manual paper cutters, key aspects to evaluate include:

• Cutting Length – The length of the blades determines maximum paper width for cuts. Common sizes are 12”, 15”, or 18”.
• Alignment Guides – Grids, printed guidelines, or cutting mats help align paper. Models with these alignment aids provide extra accuracy.
• Base Material – Self-healing cutting mats or thick plastic bases prevent damage to the cutter surface.
• Safety Features – Finger guards and safe blade changes are essential for safety. Locks prevent unsafe operation.
• Portability – Lightweight cutters with carry handles offer easy transport for crafters or teachers.

Top Manual Models

Top-rated manual paper cutters at Officemax include:

• Westcott 12” Rotary Paper Trimmer – Compact and portable with ruler and auto-locking feature. Provides smooth rotary cuts.
• Swingline ClassicCut Guillotine – Traditional arm-style cutting in 15” and 18” sizes. Includes grid and finger guard.
• Dahle Professional Series – High-end professional guillotine cutters with self-sharpening blade and alignment guide.
• Fiskars SureCut Deluxe – Guillotine-style model with triple track system for straight cuts.

Electric Paper Cutters

For heavy duty cutting or large volumes, electric paper cutters are the most efficient choice. Powerful motors drive the blades through thick stacks of paper cleanly and quickly.

Officemax stocks both large industrial machines designed for print shops as well as more compact electric models suitable for busy offices. These cutters make repetitive cutting tasks fast and easy.

What to Look For

Key features of electric paper cutters include:

• Cutting Length – Sizes range from 12” up to 36” for wide format cutting.
• Cutting Capacity – The depth/height capacity determines how many sheets can be cut at once.
• Programmable Controls – Digital models allow you to pre-program precise cut lengths and repeat them.
• Safety Features – Electric cutters have guards and sensors that stop operation if hands are too close.
• Tables/Stands – Models with extended tables or standalone legs provide extra support for large paper stacks.
• Warranty – Look for at least a 1-year warranty – longer is better for electric cutters.

Top Electric Models

Well-reviewed electric paper cutters at Officemax include:

• Martin Yale AutoCut Premier – Compact electric model with onboard blade storage and paper clamp. Cuts up to 30 sheets at a time.
• Formax FD 150 AutoMax – High-powered programmable cutter with heavy duty commercial grade components. Cuts stacks up to 3”.
• Intimus 175E Office – Entry level electric paper cutter with manual blade return and accuracy guide. Great for basic office use.
• MBM Triumph 4700-SC – Robust industrial strength machine with programmable controls. Designed for print shops and PIP centers.

Specialty Paper Cutters

Beyond standard models, Officemax stocks specialty paper cutters designed for specific cutting tasks:

• Rotary Trimmers – Ideal for photos, scrapbooking, and precision edge trimming. Allow freeform cuts.
• Travel Cutters – Compact cutters with folding bases to pack along for events, schools, or craft fairs.
• Curved Blade Cutters – Specialty models that produce decorative patterned edges. Great for card making.
• Corner Rounders – Handheld tools that precisely round the edges and corners of paper stacks.

No matter your cutting application, Officemax has the specialty paper cutter to match. Experienced staff can help select the right model.

Key Purchase Considerations

With the wide variety of paper cutters at your disposal, keep the following factors in mind while selecting the right option:

• What types of paper/media will you be cutting most? Normal paper reams or specialty materials like card stock require heavier duty blades.
• How frequently will you use the cutter? Occasional use calls for a more affordable manual model. Daily demands point to an electric cutter.
• Do you need portability? Cutter weight, carrying handles, and foldable bases make transport easy.
• Will the cutter be shared or see heavy use? Opt for safety features and durable construction.
• Do you need specialty cutting effects like scoring or perforation? Not all cutters offer these advanced options.
• What’s your budget? Prices range from $20 for basic manual models up to thousands for industrial power cutters. Set realistic expectations.

Officemax Discounts and Savings

Cutting paper doesn’t have to cut into your budget. Officemax offers regular coupons and discounts on paper cutters that make these handy tools more affordable. Watch for:

• Dollar-off coupons applicable to all cutters
• Percentage discounts for online orders
• Free shipping promotions
• Clearance sales offering substantial markdowns on demo models
• Buy one get one half off sales on selected brands
• Bundled deals when buying a cutter with paper and other supplies

For maximum savings, combine coupons with sale prices for the best deal on the paper cutter you need. The Officemax website makes it easy to find current offers.

Maintenance and Safety Tips

Paper cutters are precision cutting tools that require proper care and handling to maintain peak performance and safety:

• Replace dull blades promptly to maintain clean cuts and prevent tearing. Many cutters have auto-sharpening blades for convenience.
• Lubricate sliding rods on guillotine-style cutters to prevent sticking and keep the blade moving smoothly.
• Clean the base to prevent buildup of paper dust and bits that can impede smooth paper movement.
• Never cut without guards in place and follow all safety procedures. Don’t allow unsupervised use.
• Report any issues like sticking blades or loose clamps to Officemax for prompt repair. Don’t try fixing it yourself.

With proper use and routine care, an Officemax paper cutter can deliver many years of smooth precise cutting.

Shop With Confidence

Finding the ideal paper cutter from the broad selection available at Officemax can seem daunting. This overview covers the key types, features, and factors to consider when evaluating your choices. Whether it’s a simple manual model for occasional tasks or a powerhouse electric industrial cutter, Officemax has you covered.

Their extensive inventory offers excellent options for offices, schools, print shops, or crafters. And helpful staff and ongoing discounts make purchasing even more affordable. With the right cutting tool, you can slice through paper cutting tasks with ease. Shop Officemax with confidence for the paper cutter that perfectly fits your needs and budget.