{"product_id":"durston-1208-12in-guillotine-shear","title":"Durston 1208 New Version 12\" Guillotine Shear - 153.8912","description":"\u003ch2\u003eDurston 1208 New Version 12\" Guillotine Shear - 153.8912\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis updated 12\" guillotine shear is sized for jewelry and small metalsmithing sheet work, combining a solid bench presence with a smoother, lighter feel than earlier heavy-duty models. As you pull the handle through a cut, the blade tracks down in a precise, controlled arc for clean, straight shears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew-generation 12\" bench shear design patterned after Durston’s 4\" and 6\" guillotine shears for a lighter, more compact footprint.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStainless steel worktable supports sheet as it feeds into the cutting area for even, controlled cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntegrated adjustable mitre gauge and ruler for repeatable straight and angled cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand lever operates a precision ground, hardened and tempered blade for a crisp shearing action.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemovable handle extension included to increase leverage when extra force is required.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFour-edge blade can be rotated as edges wear to extend service life.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy-duty construction built to be bench mounted for stable use in the workshop.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cstyle type=\"text\/css\"\u003e\n.tg  {border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0;}\n.tg td{border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;\n  overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;word-break:normal;}\n.tg th{border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;\n  font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;word-break:normal;}\n.tg .tg-cly1{text-align:left;vertical-align:middle}\n.tg .tg-yla0{font-weight:bold;text-align:left;vertical-align:middle}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"tg\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eMaximum Cutting Width\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e12\" (300 mm)\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eMaximum Non-Ferrous Sheet Thickness\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e2 mm (approx. 12 gauge)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eMaximum Mild Steel Thickness\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e1 mm (approx. 18 gauge)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eBlade Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003ePrecision ground, hardened and tempered blade with 4 usable cutting edges\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eCutting Angle Range\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eUp to 60° in 5° increments (with built-in mitre gauge)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eTable Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eStainless steel\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eOperation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eManual lever with optional extension handle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eMounting\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eBench mount (mounting hardware not included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eLength\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e16\" (400 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eWidth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e14-1\/2\" (370 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eHeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e10-5\/8\" (270 mm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003e130 lb (59 kg)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eManufactured In\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eUnited Kingdom\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-yla0\"\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"tg-cly1\"\u003eDurston\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eWhat our Experts Think\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex flex-col text-sm\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:71916eea-a410-4b90-9465-8409ff12fb62-37\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-36\" data-scroll-anchor=\"true\" data-turn=\"assistant\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"40a74aec-6450-46f6-99e3-9454d82b848f\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"1560\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"cezhij\" data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"290\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"75\"\u003eNext-generation bench cutting performance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Durston 1208 New Version 12\" Guillotine Shear (153.8912) is a redesigned professional shear built for cleaner, more controlled sheet metal cutting in jewellery workshops. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"7xy0rd\" data-start=\"291\" data-end=\"515\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"293\" data-end=\"331\"\u003eImproved cutting stability system:\u003c\/strong\u003e Features an upgraded \u003cstrong data-start=\"353\" data-end=\"403\"\u003esquare drive mechanism and reinforced backstop\u003c\/strong\u003e, delivering stronger torque transfer and more precise, repeatable cuts. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1cycc6t\" data-start=\"516\" data-end=\"718\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"518\" data-end=\"548\"\u003eEnhanced material control:\u003c\/strong\u003e A redesigned stainless steel worktable supports larger sheet formats and helps maintain alignment during angled or straight cuts. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1u5l6y8\" data-start=\"719\" data-end=\"920\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"721\" data-end=\"753\"\u003ePrecision angle versatility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Allows angled cutting up to ~55–60° in small increments, ideal for fabrication, layout work, and consistent repeat production. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"16bcbp7\" data-start=\"921\" data-end=\"1127\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"923\" data-end=\"956\"\u003eHeavy-duty blade engineering:\u003c\/strong\u003e Precision-ground, hardened, and tempered blade with multiple cutting edges for long service life and reduced maintenance downtime. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1b0nb5c\" data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1338\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1130\" data-end=\"1163\"\u003eWorkshop-grade build quality:\u003c\/strong\u003e Solid cast iron body ensures rigidity under load, reducing deflection and improving cut accuracy even with thicker non-ferrous sheets. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1c7nuj0\" data-start=\"1339\" data-end=\"1560\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1341\" data-end=\"1374\"\u003eProductivity-focused upgrade:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed to replace older guillotine models with a smoother action, better leverage efficiency, and improved operator control for daily studio use. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"z-0 flex min-h-[46px] justify-start\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eQ\u0026amp;A\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex flex-col text-sm pb-25\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:ee781287-4424-46ec-b766-23e7b2316602-37\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-76\" data-scroll-anchor=\"true\" data-turn=\"assistant\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"093c8372-a7be-4481-b5e0-f8354afcce82\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"67\" data-end=\"291\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"67\" data-end=\"129\"\u003eQ: What is the Durston 1208 12\" Guillotine Shear used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"132\"\u003eA: It is a professional \u003cstrong data-start=\"156\" data-end=\"243\"\u003ebench-mounted cutting shear designed for straight and angled cutting of sheet metal\u003c\/strong\u003e used in jewellery making and metal fabrication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"293\" data-end=\"526\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"293\" data-end=\"326\"\u003eQ: What materials can it cut?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"326\" data-end=\"329\"\u003eA: It is suitable for \u003cstrong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"424\"\u003enon-ferrous metals such as gold, silver, copper, brass, and aluminium\u003c\/strong\u003e, and can also cut \u003cstrong data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"485\"\u003ethin mild steel depending on thickness\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"528\" data-end=\"751\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"528\" data-end=\"564\"\u003eQ: What is its cutting capacity?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"567\"\u003eA: It can cut up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"619\"\u003e12\" (300mm) wide sheet metal\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a maximum thickness of around \u003cstrong data-start=\"656\" data-end=\"686\"\u003e2mm for non-ferrous metals\u003c\/strong\u003e (and thinner for steel). \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"992\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"753\" data-end=\"799\"\u003eQ: What makes the “New Version” different?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"799\" data-end=\"802\"\u003eA: The updated design features a \u003cstrong data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"902\"\u003elighter, improved frame inspired by smaller Durston guillotines\u003c\/strong\u003e, while maintaining precision cutting and control. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1206\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"994\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003eQ: Can it cut angles?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1022\"\u003eA: Yes, it includes an \u003cstrong data-start=\"1045\" data-end=\"1145\"\u003eadjustable mitre guide and cutting system allowing angled cuts up to around 60° in 5° increments\u003c\/strong\u003e, depending on setup. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1406\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1238\"\u003eQ: What is the blade like?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1238\" data-end=\"1241\"\u003eA: It uses a \u003cstrong data-start=\"1254\" data-end=\"1337\"\u003eprecision-ground, hardened and tempered steel blade with 4 usable cutting edges\u003c\/strong\u003e, extending its service life. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1408\" data-end=\"1604\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1408\" data-end=\"1447\"\u003eQ: Does it reduce metal distortion?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1447\" data-end=\"1450\"\u003eA: Yes, the guillotine action is designed to give \u003cstrong data-start=\"1500\" data-end=\"1603\"\u003eclean, controlled cuts with minimal deformation on the sheet edge compared to manual shearing tools\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1606\" data-end=\"1779\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1606\" data-end=\"1655\"\u003eQ: Is it suitable for professional workshops?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1655\" data-end=\"1658\"\u003eA: Yes, it is built for \u003cstrong data-start=\"1682\" data-end=\"1702\"\u003edaily studio use\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering repeatable accuracy and stable bench mounting for production work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"2023\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1781\" data-end=\"1828\"\u003eQ: What makes this model stand out overall?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1828\" data-end=\"1831\"\u003eA: Its key strengths are \u003cstrong data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"1935\"\u003ewide 12\" cutting capacity, improved guide system, and precise angle control\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it ideal for efficient, repeatable sheet metal cutting in jewellery production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eMaintenance Tips\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"jhp13l\" data-start=\"83\" data-end=\"241\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"117\"\u003eClean blade after every use:\u003c\/strong\u003e Remove metal chips and filings from the cutting edge, table, and backstop to maintain precision cuts and prevent scoring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"egwyys\" data-start=\"242\" data-end=\"426\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"244\" data-end=\"279\"\u003eLubricate pivot \u0026amp; drive system:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lightly oil the square drive mechanism, hinge points, and moving joints for smooth, high-torque operation. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"15nlnos\" data-start=\"427\" data-end=\"619\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"429\" data-end=\"452\"\u003eRotate blade edges:\u003c\/strong\u003e The hardened blade has multiple cutting edges—rotate when performance drops instead of over-sharpening to extend service life. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"805if6\" data-start=\"620\" data-end=\"748\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"622\" data-end=\"651\"\u003eCheck backstop alignment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure the upgraded bearing-guided backstop is tight and stable for repeatable, accurate cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1y15zha\" data-start=\"749\" data-end=\"877\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"751\" data-end=\"784\"\u003eAvoid over-thickness cutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stay within rated capacity to protect blade integrity and maintain smooth leverage action.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"oljblf\" data-start=\"878\" data-end=\"1004\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"880\" data-end=\"913\"\u003eKeep table clean \u0026amp; rust-free:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wipe down stainless steel support table to ensure smooth sheet feeding and prevent drag.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ufur03\" data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1122\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1007\" data-end=\"1034\"\u003eTighten mounting bolts:\u003c\/strong\u003e Secure to a stable bench to avoid vibration and maintain cutting accuracy under load.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1fgu3ok\" data-start=\"1123\" data-end=\"1217\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1125\" data-end=\"1147\"\u003ePrevent corrosion:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lightly oil exposed metal surfaces if stored in humid environments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Durston","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45504304447679,"sku":"153.8912","price":1221.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/5703\/0079\/files\/durston-1208-new-version-12-guillotine-shear-otto-frei-1.jpg?v=1776342651","url":"https:\/\/www.mybackyardzone.com\/products\/durston-1208-12in-guillotine-shear","provider":"Your Outdoor Setup Starts Here","version":"1.0","type":"link"}