Wire Stripping Tools
Choose a stripper for NM or flat cable
Compare the full cable designation, the shape of its outer sheath and the separate inner conductor sizes. Similar-looking flat cable tools can be intended for different materials.
Start with the full jacket marking
The 12/2 designation on a cable refers to a complete cable construction, while 12 AWG alone refers to a conductor. For NM, match the full designation to the documented jacket opening, then check the separate conductor notches.
Read the tool's cable list
A 10/2 and 12/2 model and a 12/2 and 14/2 model share one size. The second size is often what decides between them. Other flat tools may list PVC insulation, a maximum width and a separate metric cross-section range.
Give fiber and telecom their own checks
A flat fiber drop and a flat telephone cable can need different tools. Match the outer profile and any construction limits from the maker. Choose a dedicated cable tool where the outer sheath is the layer you need to open.