Makita JN1601 16 Gauge Nibbler

Q: Which is better? A shear or a nibbler? What will one do that the other can't? Kind of confused.

A nibbler can go in smaller circles and do more intricate work. A shear you will have a strip of sheet metal to deal with as you cut. I think the nibbler is better on thinner metal and shear on thicker. Hope this helps.

Q: Is there a Hard case for storage this tool

The one I bought through amazon did not come with a hard case

Q: Will this tool easily follow a along the edge of a plywood pattern to make repetitious shapes or along a straightedge to make perfectly straight cuts?

Yes, your pattern will need to be slightly smaller than you want as a finished product to compensate for the offset between the outer edge of the tool head and the cutter, AND you will need to maintain a constant relative angle.

Q: has anyone ever cut 16 ga. steel with this? 18 ga.?

I have cut 18ga. Very easy cuts. I feel it would handle 16 gage.

Product ID: 1097938

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Details

Brand
Makita
Color
Blue
Blade Material
Stainless
Surface Recommendation
Metal
Power Source
Corded

⚡550W power for relentless cutting

🔄360° rotating die for ultimate precision

🪶Only 3.6 lbs for effortless handling

Description

🔧 Cut with confidence, work with style — Makita’s precision powerhouse!

ERGONOMIC MASTERY - Slim, barrel-grip design and lightweight body reduce fatigue during extended use.
QUICK MAINTENANCE - Easy punch and die replacement minimizes downtime, keeping you on the job.
CONTINUOUS WORKFLOW - Lock-on sliding switch enables hands-free operation for uninterrupted productivity.
BUILT IN CONVENIENCE - Integrated thickness gauge ensures perfect settings every time without guesswork.
PRECISION IN EVERY CUT - 360° rotating die and large 1/4" stroke deliver clean, accurate cuts on metal sheets.

The Makita JN1601 16 Gauge Nibbler is a lightweight, corded electric tool designed for precise cutting of metal sheets. Featuring a 550-watt motor, 360° rotating die, and ergonomic slim design, it offers professional-grade performance with easy handling and maintenance. Ideal for keystone plates, deck plates, and other sheet materials, it ensures clean cuts and continuous operation with a lock-on switch and built-in thickness gauge.

Specifications

Brand	Makita
Color	Blue
Blade Material	Stainless Steel
Surface Recommendation	Metal
Power Source	Corded Electric
Special Feature	Lightweight
Included Components	Unit^Instruction Guide
Product Dimensions	18.25"L x 12"W x 3.25"H
Voltage	240 Volts
Item Weight	2.19 Kilograms
Speed	2200 RPM
Blade Length	6.4 Feet
Number of Batteries	1 A batteries required.
Cutting Angle	360 Degrees
Current Rating	5 Amps
Specification Met	certified frustration-free
Wattage	550 watts
Blade Shape	Round
EU Spare Part Availability Duration	1 Years
Global Trade Identification Number	00088381015448
Handle Material	Plastic
UPC	088381015448
Manufacturer	Makita
Part Number	JN1601
Item Weight	4.82 pounds
Item model number	JN1601
Batteries	1 A batteries required.
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Size	One Size
Style	Nibbler
Item Package Quantity	1
Number Of Pieces	1
Special Features	Lightweight
Batteries Included?	No
Batteries Required?	No
Warranty Description	Manufacturer

Have a Question? See What Others Asked

Which is better? A shear or a nibbler? What will one do that the other can't? Kind of confused.

Is there a Hard case for storage this tool

Will this tool easily follow a along the edge of a plywood pattern to make repetitious shapes or along a straightedge to make perfectly straight cuts?

has anyone ever cut 16 ga. steel with this? 18 ga.?