I am what you call a novice fiber splicer, but I do coordinate a lot of production splicers. We have probably ran into every kind of fiber manufacturer out there. I am continuously borrowing out this tool to production splicers because they don't ever seem to have the correct mid sheath tool which can cost upward of 1000.00 dollars or more. My biggest problem with this tool seem to be getting it back from the production splicers before they leave town.The only problem I have had is sometimes the latch will pop open, I'm sure this is because of the way I'm holding it. Anyhow for the price no splicer should be without it because it sure can come in handy. Just make sure the tube is snug but slides smoothly and apply continuous pressure while holding the tool closed, "don't trust the latch".

Works as expected

This is made for optical fiber but does work on other small wires. It works great and is very durable, as we have dropped it several times with nothing breaking off.

This is a very small item, fits easily into your pocket. Can also be easily lost so be aware of where you put it when you put it down somewhere.

The splitter works very well for it's intended purpose of splitting open buffer tubes for access to in-closed optical fibers.
I also use it with success, to split the inner coat of cloth covered lamp cords = with is touchy to not cut away
any fine inner wire of this reproduction cord for antique lamps.

Doesn't come with instructions = and what seemed to be correct = was not.
So = to open
1. With sizes up-wards. Lay the back hinge side on center of middle finger of left hand,
and thumb on top the button to open = then press thumb towards the palm of the hand.
2. While holding that position = with right hand = grasp each side of the top front and push towards left hand.

And I felt the arrow lacked appropriate instruction. = The section of the tube to be cut hangs out to the right
of the point of the arrow, = pulling the main tube to the left.

Again = this works well, however I'm not sure it's worth the premium price over a wide variety
of fiber optic strippers pliers that cost less than half the price.

Still = this is a good five star product,
the reason for 4 stars is the $26.80 cost of replacement cartridge blade

I'm a lot more impressed with this thing than I had been just from looking at the picture. I thought it was going to be just some overpriced plastic, but the reality is, it's a precision tool with a lot of heft to it. It won't take your fiber down to the glass, but it gets through just about any size jacket super easy without damaging the cladding. Glad to have this.