Hey everyone, I recently got a full set of cutters for a Stanley 45 type 3, thinking they would work with my restored type 10. However, I found out that Stanley upgraded the design over the years, and the older cutters don't have the notch needed for adjusting the blade in the later models. Would it be a bad idea to cut a notch into the old cutters to make them usable with my newer 45?
4 Answers
Go for it! If it fits your needs, then it's worth it. Sometimes modifications can lead to better usability.
If I were in your shoes, I would definitely cut the notch. It'll solve the issue right away and let you enjoy using those cutters!
Honestly, they're yours, so do what you want! If it works for you, go for it!
I personally wouldn’t modify them since #45 cutters are pretty easy to find. But if you really need them to work, don't let collecting norms hold you back. Just make sure to check completed eBay sales to see if these old cutters are worth keeping unmodified. Some collectors prefer the original state! Also, just a heads up, the 1/8" blade doesn’t have a notch and is actually the shortest, so the adjuster might not work like you expect.

Good point about checking eBay! I didn’t realize the 1/8" blade was different. Might just keep them as they are then.