Trimming a screw?

[Armando]

One of the metal hooks that came with my light rail is too long, I need to make it shorter. Not sure if i'll find the exact length and same hook type.

Which tool do i need to cut this screw without screwing up (no pun intended ) the thread? The screw is 1/4" thick.

 

[Troubleman]

dremel with a cutoff wheel....quick, easy, clean

 

[Armando]

good idea! i'll give it a try.

 

[travester]

That's nuts!!!

...put a nut on the shaft before you cut off the bolt. That way, when you take off the nut later, you will fix any problems you might create with the threads. It's a whole lot easier than trying to get another die or nut started later.

 

[NateHanson]

yep, what travester said. Definitely put a nut on the bolt/machine screw below where you will cut. (unless it's a screw, not a bolt, in which case you'll have trouble starting it after you cut it blunt). A hacksaw will work just as well as a dremel if you don't have one.