KNIPEX 16 50 145 SB Stripping Knife with Guide Shoe and Ratchet Function

Some tools are made for general cutting. Others are designed for the exact problems electricians face when dealing with thick, tough cable sheaths. The KNIPEX 16 50 145 SB Stripping Knife with Guide Shoe and Ratchet Function belongs firmly in that second category. Built as a specialist stripping knife, it is designed to cut and remove even very hard or tough plastic sheaths with more control, less effort, and better protection for the conductors underneath. KNIPEX states it can cut plastic sheaths up to 7 mm wall thickness, making it a serious tool for demanding cable preparation rather than a basic site knife.

What makes this model stand out is its ratchet function, which helps lower the cutting force needed during lengthwise sheath cutting. In practice, that means the knife does more of the hard work while the user focuses on guidance and control. According to KNIPEX’s operating instructions, the ratchet action significantly reduces the required cutting force and lowers the risk of injury, which is a meaningful advantage when working on stubborn sheath materials over repeated cuts.

The blade design is also notably versatile. KNIPEX describes it as having three cutting areas for round and lengthwise cuts, with four blade positions: folded, straight, angled, and ratcheting. That flexibility allows the same tool to handle different cutting approaches depending on the cable and the stripping task. The sickle-shaped hook blade is replaceable and folds away for safer transport, while the three-stage blade lock adds security during use and storage.

A key safety feature is the guide shoe, which sits under the cable sheath and helps protect the conductor insulation beneath. That makes the knife especially useful when precision matters and accidental damage to inner conductors is unacceptable. KNIPEX also includes an integrated tether attachment point for compatibility with its tethered tool system, adding practicality for professionals working at height or in controlled environments. The knife has multi-component handles, measures 146 x 30 x 42 mm, and weighs 120 g, giving it a compact but purpose-built feel for daily professional use.

Key Features

• Ratchet function for easier cutting on a variety of cable sheaths.
• Guide shoe helps protect conductor insulation under the cable sheath.
• Versatile blade with three cutting areas for round and lengthwise cuts.
• Cuts very hard or tough plastic sheaths up to 7 mm wall thickness.
• Sickle-shaped, replaceable hook blade folds for safe transport.
• Four blade positions: folded, straight, angled, and ratcheting.
• Three-stage blade lock for safe handling and transport.
• Ergonomically designed comfortable handle with multi-component grip.
• Integrated tether attachment point for use with KNIPEX Tethered Tool System.
• Dimensions: 146 x 30 x 42 mm.