So, you have Australia’s favourite snips, tough, sharp, and ready for serious cutting. On the worksite, in the backyard, shed, or kitchen, these snips deliver, but even the toughest tools need care. Simple habits can be the difference between snips that stay sharp for years and ones that rust and dull. Here’s Sterling’s guide to keeping your Sterling Black Panther Industrial Snips sharp, smooth, and always ready.
Wipe down your snips after each use
After every cutting job, make sure to give your snips a quick wipe down with a clean, slightly damp cloth or paper towel. This removes any sap, adhesive, dust or metal residue that can cling to the blades and, over time, dull their performance. It only takes a few seconds and can prevent any grime buildup that would make cutting harder next time. Regular wipe-downs are among the best and simplest ways to extend the life of your Black Panther Industrial Snips.

Dry your snips completely
Moisture is the enemy of any metal tool. After cleaning and wiping down your snips, you must ensure they are completely dry before putting them away. Leaving them damp, even for a short while, can cause the spring to rust, especially if you’ve been working outdoors or near water. Keeping your Black Panther Industrial Snips dry is key to longevity maintenance.

Add a drop of oil
Add a drop of light machine oil or multi-purpose lubricant to the pivot point for precise cutting. Apply a little to the spring for smooth action and rust prevention.
Regular oiling keeps your Sterling Black Panther Industrial Snips working like new.
Latch your snips closed
Once your cleaning steps are complete, lock the blades shut using the safety latch. This protects the cutting edge, your fingers and also keeps the snips compact and tidy in your kit. Latching your Black Panther Industrial Snips also prevents accidental drops or damage when stored with other tools.

Store your snips indoors
Your Black Panther Industrial Snips are built tough, but they’re not designed to withstand the weather and elements. Store them in a cool, dry place, such as a shed, toolbox, or drawer. Leaving them in the back of the ute tray, on the ground, in the garden bed or in a damp bucket can quickly undo all your care. Proper storage is essential for preventing any damage and keeping your blades sharp.

Avoid damp or exposed surfaces
Try not to leave your Black Panther Industrial Snips sitting on the grass, in the soil or on concrete where moisture lingers. Even a small amount of damp can creep into the handles, spring and joints, leading to rust spots that weaken performance over time. A little care over time can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear in the long run.

Hang or tether your snips for easy access
Use the lanyard hole or hang your snips on a hook to keep them off dirty surfaces and within easy reach. This habit keeps them cleaner, drier, and easier to find.

The wrap-up
When you look after your snips, they’ll look after you. The Sterling Black Panther Industrial Snips range features premium materials and precision engineering, ready for any task. A few minutes of maintenance after each job keeps the edge sharp, the action smooth, and your snips ready for the next cut.
Where to buy
Sometimes one pair of Black Panther Industrial Snips is never enough! Whether you need a backup for the kitchen, an extra for work, or a spare for the boat, use our store locator below to find your next pair!
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