Introduction
The Knipex 16 30 135 SB Dismantling Tool is designed for efficient and precise removal of round cable sheaths. It is suitable for cables with sheaths made of PVC, rubber, silicone, or PTFE, ranging from Ø 6.0 to 29.0 mm. This tool allows for both circular and longitudinal cutting, providing versatility for various cable preparation tasks.
Safety Information
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, when using the tool.
- Ensure the cable is de-energized before attempting any work.
- Handle the tool with care, as it contains sharp blades. Keep fingers clear of the cutting area.
- Do not use the tool for purposes other than its intended use (dismantling cable sheaths).
- Keep out of reach of children.
Setup
Before using the dismantling tool, adjust the cutting depth to match the thickness of the cable sheath. This prevents damage to the inner conductors.
- Identify the knurled nut located on the tool.
- Rotate the knurled nut to adjust the blade's protrusion. Turn it clockwise to increase the cutting depth and counter-clockwise to decrease it.
- Test the setting on a scrap piece of cable to ensure the blade cuts through the sheath without nicking the insulation of the inner wires.

Figure 1: The Knipex 16 30 135 SB Dismantling Tool. This image shows the overall design of the tool, highlighting its compact and ergonomic form factor.
Operating Instructions
Circular Cutting
Use circular cutting to make an initial cut around the cable sheath.
- Open the tool's clamp and position the cable inside, ensuring the blade is at the desired cutting point.
- Close the clamp firmly around the cable.
- Rotate the tool around the cable several times to score the sheath completely.

Figure 2: Circular cutting in progress. The tool is shown clamped around a cable, being rotated to score the outer sheath.
Longitudinal Cutting
After making a circular cut, switch to longitudinal cutting to split the sheath along its length for easy removal.
- After completing the circular cut, turn the tool body 90 degrees to engage the longitudinal cutting blade.
- Pull the tool along the cable from the circular cut towards the end of the cable to create a longitudinal slit in the sheath.
- Once the sheath is slit, it can be easily removed from the cable.

Figure 3: Longitudinal cutting in progress. The tool is positioned to cut along the length of the cable sheath, allowing for easy removal.
Maintenance
- Clean the tool regularly to remove any debris or insulation residue. Use a dry cloth or a soft brush.
- Store the tool in a dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Inspect the blade periodically for sharpness and damage. A dull blade can lead to poor cutting performance and potential damage to the cable.
- Do not attempt to sharpen or replace the blade yourself unless specified by the manufacturer.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Sheath not fully cut or uneven cut. | Incorrect cutting depth setting; dull blade; insufficient rotations. | Adjust the knurled nut to increase cutting depth. Ensure the blade is sharp. Rotate the tool more times around the cable. |
| Inner conductors are nicked or damaged. | Cutting depth set too deep. | Adjust the knurled nut to decrease cutting depth. Test on a scrap piece of cable. |
| Tool slips on cable. | Clamp not firm enough; cable surface is oily/dirty. | Ensure the tool is clamped firmly. Clean the cable surface before cutting. |
Specifications
- Brand: KNIPEX
- Model Number: 16 30 135 SB
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Color: Black
- Product Dimensions: 7.48"L x 3.31"W
- Item Weight: 120 Grams (4.2 ounces)
- Grip Type: Ergonomic
- Usage: Electrical Wiring and Cable Work
- Cable Diameter Range: Ø 6.0 - 29.0 mm
- Included Components: Dismantling Tool
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please contact the vendor directly. The manufacturer recommends contacting them for any warranty-related inquiries.
Visit the official KNIPEX website for additional resources and contact information: www.knipex.com






