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Baileigh MPS-12 Manual Guillotine
The Baileigh MPS-12 is a compact, bench mounted manual shear that transforms how you cut sheet metal and round stock in your workshop. This versatile tool delivers professional cutting performance without requiring expensive power sources, making it perfect for small shops, schools, and metal fabrication enthusiasts.
Are you tired of struggling with handheld tin snips or hauling sheet metal across your shop to a large industrial shear? The MPS-12 changes everything. This economical bench mounted shear lets you cut intricate shapes and small pieces of metal far more quickly and accurately than traditional sawing methods.
What makes this shear truly special is its throatless design. Unlike conventional shears that limit your cutting path, the MPS-12 allows metal to pass through freely without getting stuck. This means you can create curved cuts, intricate patterns, and complex shapes that would be impossible with standard equipment. Whether you're crafting decorative metalwork, fabricating custom brackets, or working on automotive restoration projects, this tool gives you the freedom to cut any shape you need.
The MPS-12 is specifically designed for small fabrication shops, educational institutions, and hobbyists who need professional quality results without the space requirements or cost of industrial equipment. With its powerful leverage system connected to a pull-down handle, you'll generate impressive cutting force manually. The included material stop ensures repeatable cuts when you need consistency, while the material hold-down keeps your workpiece steady throughout the cutting process. This combination of features means you can work confidently, whether you're cutting a single custom piece or producing multiple identical components.
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Applications
- Metal Art and Sculpture: Create flowing curves and intricate patterns for decorative metalwork, sculptures, and artistic installations. The throatless design gives you complete freedom to follow any line or shape your creativity demands.
- Automotive and Motorcycle Restoration: Cut custom patches, repair panels, and fabricate mounting brackets for classic vehicle projects. Perfect for working with body panels and sheet metal components that require precise shaping.
- Ductwork Fabrication: Produce custom fittings, transitions, and ductwork components quickly and accurately. The material stop feature ensures consistent cuts when creating matching pieces.
- Educational Workshops and Training: Ideal for technical schools, community colleges, and maker spaces where students learn metalworking fundamentals. The manual operation helps students understand cutting mechanics while delivering safe, controlled results.
- Small Fabrication Shop Production: Handle quick-turnaround jobs and custom metal components without monopolizing your main production equipment. The compact footprint means it fits easily on any workbench.
- Hobby and DIY Projects: Perfect for home workshops tackling metal furniture, garden sculptures, custom brackets, or repair projects where precision cutting makes all the difference.
Key Features & Benefits
- Throatless Design for Unlimited Cutting Freedom: Unlike traditional shears with a throat that limits your cutting path, the MPS-12 lets material pass through completely. This means you can cut circles, curves, and complex shapes without any restrictions. Your imagination becomes the only limit to what you can create.
- Powerful Leverage System Multiplies Your Cutting Force: You don't need to be incredibly strong to cut metal effectively. The mechanical leverage system connected to the pull-down handle amplifies your effort, allowing you to slice through .187" mild steel sheet and .236" round stock with surprising ease. What would be impossible to cut by hand becomes manageable with minimal physical effort.
- Built-In Material Stop for Consistent Repeat Cuts: When you need to cut multiple pieces to the same length, the adjustable material stop is a game changer. Set it once and produce identical pieces all day long without measuring each time. This feature alone can save you hours on production runs.
- Material Hold-Down Ensures Steady, Accurate Cuts: Nothing ruins a good cut faster than material shifting mid-shear. The integrated hold-down clamp keeps your workpiece firmly in place throughout the cutting process, giving you clean, straight cuts every single time.
- Compact Bench-Mounted Design Saves Valuable Shop Space: At just 64 pounds with shipping dimensions of 13" x 10" x 14", this shear fits comfortably on any workbench. You get serious cutting capability without dedicating precious floor space to a large, permanently mounted machine. When space is at a premium, the MPS-12 delivers maximum functionality in a minimal footprint.
- 12-Inch Blade Length Handles Most Common Sheet Sizes: The generous 12-inch cutting length accommodates a wide range of material sizes for typical shop projects. You can work efficiently on everything from small detail pieces to larger sheet metal sections.
- No Electrical Requirements Means True Portability: Manual operation eliminates the need for power outlets, extension cords, or electrical hookups. Take this shear anywhere in your shop, use it outdoors, or even bring it to job sites. Plus, you'll never worry about motor burnout or electrical failures.
- Professional Support When You Need It: Baileigh backs this shear with a one-year parts warranty and lifetime technical support by phone. If you ever have questions about operation, maintenance, or troubleshooting, experienced technicians are just a phone call away.
What's in the Box
- Baileigh MPS-12 Manual Sheet Metal Shear (fully assembled)
- Adjustable Material Stop
- Material Hold-Down Assembly
- Mounting Hardware for Bench Installation
- Warranty Documentation
Baileigh MPS-12 Specifications
| Model Number | MPS-12 |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 12 inches (304.8mm) |
| Sheet Steel Cutting Capacity | .187 inches (4.75mm) mild steel |
| Round Stock Cutting Capacity | .236 inches (6mm) mild steel |
| Operation Type | Manual (no power required) |
| Design Type | Throatless bench-mounted |
| Weight | 64 lbs (29 kg) |
| Shipping Dimensions | 13" x 10" x 14" (330mm x 254mm x 356mm) |
| Mounting Style | Bench-mounted (hardware included) |
| Leverage System | Connected pull-down handle |
| Material Stop | Adjustable, included |
| Hold-Down | Integrated material hold-down |
| Warranty | 1-year parts warranty |
| Technical Support | Lifetime phone support |
Baileigh MPS-12 Manuals & Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bolt this shear to my workbench?
Yes, secure mounting is essential for safe operation and best results. The MPS-12 must be bolted firmly to a sturdy workbench or work surface to provide the stability needed for clean cuts. The mounting hardware is included, and installation is straightforward. A solidly mounted shear will give you much better control and safer operation than one that can shift or move during use.
What's the thickest material I can cut with this shear?
The MPS-12 handles up to .187 inches (approximately 4.75mm or 14-gauge) of mild steel sheet metal, and up to .236 inches (6mm) of round mild steel stock. These capacities apply to mild steel. Harder materials or stainless steel may be more difficult to cut and could require staying below maximum thickness ratings. For best results and blade longevity, work within these specifications.
Can I cut stainless steel or aluminum with this shear?
While the MPS-12 is rated for mild steel, you can cut aluminum and softer metals easily since they're less demanding than mild steel. Stainless steel is significantly harder than mild steel, so if you attempt it, stay well below the maximum thickness rating and expect slower cutting. The tool performs best with mild steel, aluminum, copper, and brass.
How do I maintain the cutting edge?
The blades are polished and designed for long life, but like any cutting tool, they will eventually need attention. Keep the blade area clean and free of metal chips. Apply a light oil periodically to prevent rust. When cuts become rough or require excessive force, the blade gap may need adjustment or the blades may need sharpening or replacement. Baileigh's lifetime technical support team can guide you through maintenance procedures.
Is this shear suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The MPS-12 is an excellent choice for anyone learning metalworking. The manual operation gives you complete control over cutting speed, letting you work at your own pace. It's much safer than power shears for beginners because you control every aspect of the cut. Many technical schools and maker spaces choose this model specifically for training purposes because it teaches fundamental metalworking skills while delivering professional results.