We tested the IST Sports Ceramic Line Cutter. A powerful, rust-proof cutter at a reasonable price, it was our Best Buy for cutting tools.

We tested cutting tools for their ability to cut a variety of lines, from monofilament fishing line to heavy rope. We also evaluated how well they held an edge after repeated use. We rated them for the performance of their sheaths, their locks and grips, and how easy they were to handle and operate – with and without gloves. We tested how they held up to extremely heavy use, including cutting metal wires. And we gauged their resistance to corrosion by soaking them for up to 24 hours in salt water.

It’s hard to imagine a more unassuming piece of dive gear than this little line cutter: ceramic blades sandwiched inside a two-piece polycarbonate body and held together with a pair of stainless screws. But while it won’t cut half-inch rope or impress anyone on the dive boat, it will make short work of most things that fit into its 1/4-inch jaws. That goes for stuff it’s not really designed to cut, including--in our case--heavy zip ties and 4-wire telephone cable. The body of the cutter is heavy enough to feel like it won’t break with a hard pull, and the finger loop at the back is big enough to get a firm grip. Velcro on the sling holds it securely in the nylon sheath, which can be mounted vertically or horizontally and lets you deploy it with no fuss. But its biggest plus is that the blades won’t rust no matter how long it’s been sitting around in salt water. As one tester noted, “Nothing fancy here, but really gets the job done.” The Ceramic Line Cutter is our Best Buy for cutting tools.

2020 ScubaLab Knife Review