Stripping braided wire can be a real challenge. But I am stubborn, and I've stayed with it until I have succeeded enough to make me want to keep on until I have it mastered !! Thanks to those of you more experienced guys who've given me tips and encouraged me.
Here are some important factors I've learned and wanted to share with others who've gotten discouraged and maybe even given up:
First, your utility blade must be very sharp (and when you're learning it gets dull fast as you hit the wire!!)
Second, you must pull tightly so the wire is taunt...(I put one end in my vise and pull the wire tight with my gloved hand or pliers)
Third, it's the angle of the blade that is the key...and in this case only practice will enable you to succeed.
Fourth, practice only on clean wire. If you practice on aged, brittle, lamp wires, you'll never succeed. This is another variable to consider when stripping any wire, and only comes with practice; but is especially pertinent when considering braided wire.
Fifth, another variable is the sheathing itself....as you know all sheathing is not created equal....so some will be easier to strip than others....so again.... practice is the only solution.
And, did I mention.....practice. You'll be glad you did. I know I am. But I'll also be happy to order that $200 stripper from Sweden as soon as the other bills leave me a $200 surplus !!
Dee
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