When you need to cut a machine screw that’s too long, thread a nut onto the screw first. Cut the screw, and then back the nut off. It will straighten out any threads that got deformed by the cutting process. You’ll probably need a pair of pliers and a screwdriver to do this.
—Kevin Ireton, New Milford, CT
Edited by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #253
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Great idea, my father was a machinist for many years & he is the one who showed me that trick. Works great Kevin..Thanks
Used that method many times. Before you take off the nut it is a good idea to take a file and file off the end of the screw to make it easier to reinstall the nut