Anybody cut the stems off of frag plugs? What do you use?

[Daniel@R2R]

I've got a couple of frag plugs I want to cut the stems off of in order to mount the frag plug on my rock work. What do you guys use to cut these?

 

[InvaderJim]

Usually I just use a pair of cutting pliers. Ive also used a pair of scissors a few times but you have to hold on tight.

 

[biecacka]

Ive heard of using band saws, jig saws, or a dremel


corey

 

[kartrsu]

I use bone cutters. I have to remind myself to hold the frag tightly or things go flying.

 

[Mike from TN]

Wire cutters here. The stems snap off pretty cleanly but like others have mentioned, hold on tight.

 

[fade2black]

Large BRS bone cutters. I hate those frag plugs and they get cut off whenever I get new frags.

BRS SPS Coral Bone Cutter

Add SPS coral bone cutter to your tools for coral propagation. Great for cutting stony corals especially flat stonies like Montipora. Available in 5.5", 6.3" or 7.5" Stainless Steel with Bulk Reef Supply logo Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to reduce rust build up from saltwater

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[rgrimaldi123]

Dremel with metal disc cutter

 

[ATAquariums]

Bone cutters works fine

 

[redfishreef96]

First, Dremel diamond disc to cut a notch in the stem then large BRS bone cutters for a more predictable break with less pressure.

 

[JPM San Diego]

Depends on the material. The common white frag plugs are more brittle and break or cut up easily with "bone cutters"
I have also bought frags on black, more rubber like plugs. I cut those with a hacksaw.
Also, if the coral frag is attached with a lot of glue and the coral has not spread out at the base I just use a flat head screwdriver to pop off the glue. BE CAREFUL. Don't push a screwdriver through you hand!
By the way, I like to put all of my coral frags onto real reef frag rocks. I think they look better from day one and never need removing from the rock.

 

[Jekyl]

Wire snips do the job just fine. Garden variety ones you have laying around

 

[shim]

i use an old pair of vice grips, break right off.

 

[ca1ore]

Same large, serrated bone cutters I use to get through large SPS branches - they make short work of frag plug stems.

 

[Gtinnel]

I also use a large pair of bone cutters. Just a little squeeze and the stem pops off

 

[Mterry9239]

Wire cutters here as well too along with a tight grip

 

[JCTReefer]

Dremel with diamond wheel if you want a clean cut.

 

[Shufflepig]

Large dog nail trimmers work great. And they’re cheap!!

 

[916Reefer]

Bone cutter has always done the trick for me.

 

[Mterry9239]

Large dog nail trimmers work great. And they’re cheap!!

great idea bc the are curved to make it easier to start the cut. Score it the snap. Lol perfect idea

 

[polyppal]

broadsword works well too