FAQ
TL;DR: 9 mm snap-off blades typically have 13 segments; 18 mm have 8 (OLFA). âAll these knives have 100% replaceable blades.â [âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ][Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20127982]
Why it matters: This quick guide helps DIYers and pros replace wallpaper cutter blades safely without damaging the tool or themselves.
Quick-Facts
- Typical blade sizes: 9 mm (â13 segments) and 18 mm (â8 segments). âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ
- Typical blade thickness: 9 mm â0.38 mm; 18 mm â0.50 mm. âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ
- End cap often includes a notch for safe snapping of segments. [Elektroda, kaz69, post #20128032]
- Expect 1â3 latches on the black end cap; pry at latch points to remove. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984][Elektroda, Pawel13741, post #20128003]
- Use cut-resistant gloves rated ANSI/ISEA 105 A3âA5 when handling blades. [ANSI/ISEA 105-2016][âOSHA: Hand and Power Toolsâ]
Quick Facts
- Typical blade sizes: 9 mm (â13 segments) and 18 mm (â8 segments). âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ
- Typical blade thickness: 9 mm â0.38 mm; 18 mm â0.50 mm. âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ
- End cap often includes a notch for safe snapping of segments. [Elektroda, kaz69, post #20128032]
- Expect 1â3 latches on the black end cap; pry at latch points to remove. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984][Elektroda, Pawel13741, post #20128003]
- Use cut-resistant gloves rated ANSI/ISEA 105 A3âA5 when handling blades. [ANSI/ISEA 105-2016][âOSHA: Hand and Power Toolsâ]
How do I replace the blade in a wallpaper/utility snap-off cutter?
- Remove or fold out the black end cap by pressing/prying the latch(es).
- Slide the old blade out the rear while the slider is extended.
- Insert a new blade, reinstall the cap, then retract and test the slider. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #20127957][Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984][Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20128000]
I canât remove the black tipâwhatâs the trick?
Look for latch tabs along the cap seam. Press or gently pry at the marked latch points; some models have latches on both sides. A small flat screwdriver or plastic pick helps. If there are multiple latches, release them together to avoid re-locking. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #20127971][Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984][Elektroda, Pawel13741, post #20128003]
Do these knives really have replaceable blades?
Yes. Thread experts confirm these snap-off wallpaper cutters are designed for blade replacement. As one user notes, âAll these knives have 100% replaceable blades.â Check for a removable/folding end cap and a rear slot. [Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20127982][Elektroda, Anonymous, post #20127957]
How do I know if my blade is the snap-off type?
Check for scored lines across the bladeâthose are the snap points. If your blade has these âstrips,â itâs a snap-off blade used in 9 mm or 18 mm cutters. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #20127971][âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ]
My knife has three latchesâhow can I open it without breaking it?
Use two thin prying tools to hold two latches open while releasing the third, or ask a helper to press simultaneously. This design prevents accidental cap loss during use. [Elektroda, Pawel13741, post #20128003][Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20128016]
Is there a safe way to snap off a dull blade segment?
Yes. Many end caps include a built-in notch; place the last scored section in the notch and bend away. Alternatively, use pliers and snap forward, away from you. Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. [Elektroda, kaz69, post #20128032][âOSHA: Hand and Power Toolsâ]
Which blade size should I choose for wallpaper workâ9 mm or 18 mm?
Use 9 mm for precision trimming at seams and around outlets. Use 18 mm for long, straight cuts and thicker materials. Both are snap-off formats; 9 mm typically has 13 segments, 18 mm has 8. [âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ]
The blade wonât slide out after I remove the capâwhatâs wrong?
Extend the slider fully, then pull the blade straight out the rear. If jammed, retract and extend to clear debris. Avoid pulling from the frontâthis can damage the slider. The linked video shows correct rear removal. [Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20128000]
How many fresh tips do I get from a pack of blades?
An 18 mm blade has about 8 segments; each yields one new tip. A 10-pack provides about 80 fresh tips total (8 Ă 10). 9 mm blades typically provide â13 tips each. [âOLFA: About Snap-Off Bladesâ]
What tools help with stubborn end caps?
Use a small flat screwdriver or a plastic spudger to avoid marring the handle. Pry exactly at the latch points indicated by the seam cutouts. Support the cap to prevent twisting. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #20127971][Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984]
Any safety must-knows when replacing or snapping blades?
Wear ANSI/ISEA 105 A3âA5 cut-resistant gloves, snap segments away from your body, and keep bystanders clear. Dispose of snapped tips in a sharps container or tape them before trashing. [ANSI/ISEA 105-2016][âOSHA: Hand and Power Toolsâ]
Could my knife be non-serviceable or "disposable"?
In this thread, users report replaceable designs with latches and removable caps. If your handle has no seam, latch, or rear slot, it may be atypicalâconsider replacing the knife. [Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20127982][Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20127984]
Why do manufacturers use multiple cap latches?
Multiple latches resist accidental opening while cutting or retracting, improving safety and rigidity. As one user noted, you wouldnât want the back popping off mid-cut. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #20128016]
Do you have a quick video reference for blade replacement?
Yes. See the video shared in the thread for typical latch-and-slide replacement. It demonstrates rear removal after cap release. [Elektroda, MarcinM2020, post #20128000]
