Cut the Cable

What happens in this clip

Using cable cutters, the cable is precisely cut right on the mark made in the previous step. If the end of the cable becomes frayed after cutting, it should be twisted slightly to allow for easier insertion into the fitting.

Goal: Cut the cable to the correct length

What's used

Tools

• Cable Cutters
• Hacksaw (with caution)
• Cable

About the full video

This project demonstrates the step-by-step process of installing new cable railing fittings, including cable preparation, marking, cutting, crimping, and tensioning. The presenter also briefly compares different types of cable railing fittings.

Step 6 of 11: Cut Cables to Length

Measure the distance between the installed termination hardware for each cable run. Add extra length as recommended by the cable system manufacturer to accommodate the swaging process or for winding around terminal posts. Use a specialized cable cutter designed for stainless steel to ensure a clean, burr-free cut. Avoid using bolt cutters, which can deform the cable.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in Cable Railing Installation

1. Step 1: Layout Post Locations

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 0:34–0:52 Determine Post Positions
   • 0:09–0:56 Plan Post Placement and Gather Tools

2. Step 2: Drill Post Mounting Holes

   • 0:41–1:07 Pre-drill Mounting Holes
   • 1:54–2:34 Pre-drill Post Mount Holes
   • 0:05–0:09 Install Base Posts

3. Step 3: Attach Railing Posts

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 2:06–2:45 Install Railing Posts on Stairs
   • 3:04–3:39 Mount and Secure Post with Through-Bolts

4. Step 4: Mark Cable Attachment Points

   • 0:10–0:35 Understand Cable Rail Layout and Code
   • 0:47–1:53 Establish Cable Spacing and Drill Pilot Holes
   • 0:21–0:32 Measure, Mark, and Install Eye Straps on Posts

5. Step 5: Install Cable Termination Hardware

   • 3:38–7:37 Install and Tension Cables with Lag Screws
   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)

6. Step 6: Cut Cables to Length

   • 2:23–3:38 Cut Cables and Plan Installation Order
   • 0:59–1:19 Cut the Cable (this video)
   • 0:53–1:00 Measure, Cut, and Insert Cable

7. Step 7: Attach Cables to Terminals

   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)
   • 0:16–0:32 Insert and Anchor Cable on First End
   • 6:21–7:49 Tension and Cut Cables

8. Step 8: Thread Cables Through Posts

   • 3:19–4:10 Thread Cable Railing
   • 0:08–0:09 Thread Cables Through Railing Posts
   • 0:09–0:29 Thread Cables Through Hardware

9. Step 9: Install Tensioners and Tension Cables

   • 1:09–1:18 Final Cable Tensioning
   • 0:44–0:51 Install and Tension Cable Strands
   • 0:29–0:46 Tension the Cables

10. Step 10: Trim Excess Cable

    • 6:43–7:27 Trim Excess Cable and Tighten Nuts
    • 0:24–0:25 Cut Cable Overhang
    • 0:46–0:54 Trim Excess Cable

11. Step 11: Final Inspection and Testing

    • 0:16–0:28 Perform Final Inspection and Safety Check