Using these free - fall snips is a breeze. Just hold the extended handle comfortably in your hand. Place the wire, cable, or cordage you want to cut between the serrated blades. Squeeze the handles, and the free - fall design will help you make a smooth cut. When it comes to maintenance, after each use, wipe the stainless - steel blades with a dry cloth to keep them clean. Avoid using them on materials that are harder than the recommended 19 AWG and 23 AWG electrical wires, as this could damage the blades. Store the snips in a dry place to prevent rusting. And always be careful while using the tool to avoid any accidental cuts.