Ripley makes three cable cutters for utility copper and aluminum conductor: the RCC, the RCC 1000 and the UCC. They look like similar tools, but they cut very different sizes. This guide compares them by capacity, conductor type and size so you can pick the right one for your cable.
| UCC | RCC | RCC 1000 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | High-leverage cutter | Ratchet cutter | Extra heavy-duty ratchet cutter with C-type jaws |
| Conductors | Copper and aluminum | Copper and aluminum, solid and stranded, including multiple conductors in a cable | Copper and aluminum |
| Capacity | Up to 4/0 AWG aluminum or 2/0 AWG copper | Cable up to 1.75 in (44.45 mm) in diameter | Up to 1000 kcmil copper and aluminum |
| Weight | 1.11 lb (503 g) | 2.5 lb (1.13 kg) | 4.5 lb |
| Length | 9.37 in (238 mm) | 19.5 in (495 mm) | |
| Part number | 37680 | See Ripley (replacement blade 34923) | 42305 |
| Limits | Copper and aluminum only | Not suitable for steel or ACSR cable | Not suitable for use on live cables |
The UCC is a high-leverage cutting tool with durable steel construction and a specially honed cutting blade. Cushioned non-slip grips make it comfortable to use. Ripley lists a maximum conductor size of 4/0 AWG aluminum (107.2 mm2) and 2/0 AWG copper (67.4 mm2). At 1.11 lb it is the lightest of the three, so it is the one to carry for smaller service and secondary conductors.
The RCC is a compact ratchet cutter that cuts copper and aluminum conductors, solid or stranded, including multiple conductors inside a cable up to 1.75 in (44.45 mm) in diameter. A quick-release thumb lever lets you stop a cut and take the tool off the cable, and a locking mechanism keeps the blades closed for safety. It has cushioned non-slip grips. Ripley notes that it is not suitable for steel or ACSR cable.
The RCC 1000 is the large-conductor tool. Ripley says it easily cuts through up to 1000 kcmil copper and aluminum cable. It is a compact ratchet cutter with C-type jaws, a thumb-operated slide release that speeds up cutting and closing, a closing lock, and fiberglass handles with vinyl sleeves. Ripley notes that it is not suitable for use on live cables.
For cable prep after the cut, see our guides to Ripley cable strippers and MV cable prep kits.
The RCC cuts cable up to 1.75 in diameter and weighs 2.5 lb. The RCC 1000 cuts up to 1000 kcmil copper and aluminum, is longer at 19.5 in, and weighs 4.5 lb.
No. Ripley says the RCC is not suitable for steel or ACSR cable.
No. Ripley states it is not suitable for use on live cables.
Ripley lists 4/0 AWG aluminum and 2/0 AWG copper.
Yes. The RCC and RCC 1000 have a closing lock, and the RCC also has a quick-release thumb lever to stop a cut partway.
Contact Powertech Associates, or see the RCC, RCC 1000 and UCC in our online store.
Last updated: November 2026.
