JS3200 shears, not easy to use

graffian · 2026-02-04T16:16:42+0000

I have some 1.2 & 1.6 mm sheet to cut. Being as everything except my hacksaw or jig saw are out of action I bought a js3200 makita. I turned the blades to a new cutting edge, and after the initial cut pushed the lower square cutter back I added a screw and locknut, which I guess where missing. The cutter has to be leaned back a little but I guess it's still not easy to push the forging that holds the lower cutter though the hap in the sheet. I just cut a bit of 1.2 and a bit of 16swg. The 16swg is a 5" strip of the sheet and it's got a 90 degree twist to the strip. The 1.2 I really has trouble pushing the cutter through the sheet. And torque reaction when starting it means I have to start away from the sheet and then move to the beginning of the cutting line, there is still a tendency to do multiple short cuts at the beginning of the cut; maybe it just needs some more practice? Any one use such a tool and got any tips.

mike 109444 · 2026-02-04T21:49:34+0000

I think you will find there should be a very small clearence between the two blades. Not sure how that is set on the Makita one.

mike 109444 · 2026-02-04T22:03:31+0000

JS3200 Spares and Parts for MAKITA JS3200 (METAL WORKING TOOLS) - Power Tool Spares

www.powertoolspares.com

Look at the parts pic and 29 + 30 set the gap and 32 "locks it in place. So I think you use a feeler gauge blade between the two cutters and "set it" Then lock with 32. Not sure what gap should be but try different amounts and test.