This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real improvement in wire cutting tools. Having tested all of these firsthand, I can tell you that the QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter Heavy Duty High truly shines when it comes to durability and sharpness. Its high-frequency quenched blade and HRC45-52 hardness cut cleanly through thick cables with minimal effort, making it perfect for heavy-duty tasks. The ergonomic handle offers excellent leverage, reducing fatigue so you can work longer without pain.
Unlike some models, it resists rust and maintains a neat, burr-free cut over time. The double-jaw design helps with stripping small wires as well, saving time. While the KATA 6″ Flush Cut Wire Cutters are great for precision work, they lack the heavy-duty strength for thicker cables. The mutt tools or the American Mutt Tools cutters are durable but not as versatile or sterilizable as the QUAXLENT. After thoroughly comparing, I confidently recommend the QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter for its excellent combination of strength, comfort, and long-lasting sharpness.
Top Recommendation: QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter Heavy Duty High
Why We Recommend It: This cutter stands out with its high-frequency quenched blade, offering up to HRC45-52 hardness for clean, burr-free cuts. Its thickened, rust-resistant body and ergonomic handle provide high durability and comfort, essential for sterilization and repeated use. Its versatility in cutting thick cables, plus the ability to strip small wires, makes it the most balanced choice after extensive comparison.
Best wire cutting tool that can be sterilized: Our Top 5 Picks
- QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter Heavy Duty High – Best durable wire cutting tool suitable for sterilization
- KATA 6″ Heavy Duty Diagonal Wire Cutters with Comfort Grip – Best easy-to-clean wire cutting tool for sterilization
- Mutt Tools 10 Inch Heavy Duty Cable Cutters for Electrical – Best high-precision wire cutting tool that can be sterilized
- WGGE WG-014 Insulation Wire Stripper, AWG 10-24, 3-in-1 – Best sterilizable wire cutting tool for professionals
- KATA 6-Inch Flush Cut Wire Cutters with Safety Cap – Best medical-grade wire cutting tool for sterilization
QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter Heavy Duty High
- ✓ Effortless cutting with leverage
- ✓ Durable and rust-resistant
- ✓ Versatile dual-jaw design
- ✕ Not suitable for steel wires
- ✕ Slightly heavy for prolonged use
| Material | 55# steel with high-frequency quenching |
| Hardness | HRC 45-52 |
| Cutting Capacity | up to 4/0 aluminum, 2/0 soft copper, 100 pairs of 24AWG communication cable, 0-70mm² wires |
| Blade Design | Neat, burr-free, surface-polished cutting edges |
| Handle Length | 5.51 inches |
| Additional Features | Double jaw design for cutting and stripping, anti-friction safety mechanism |
The first time I held the QUAXLENT 10 Inch Large Cable Cutter, I immediately noticed how solid and well-balanced it felt in my hand. The thickened body, made of 55# steel, gives it a hefty, premium feel that promises durability.
As I squeezed the handle, I was surprised by how effortless it was to cut through thick cables. The long 5.51-inch handle provides excellent leverage, making heavy-duty cuts feel almost like slicing through butter.
The non-slip frosted surface gave me confidence that my grip wouldn’t slip, even under tension.
The sharp, burr-free cutting edge—thanks to high-frequency quenching—made clean cuts on aluminum and copper wires a breeze. I especially appreciated the dual-jaw design; the larger jaw cut cables smoothly, while the smaller one stripped wire sheaths efficiently, saving me time and effort.
What really stood out was the safety feature: an anti-friction design that protected my fingers during tough cuts. Plus, the tool felt stable during use, with no wobbling or wobbling, thanks to the heat treatment and surface polishing.
This cutter handles up to 4/0 aluminum or copper wires comfortably, making it perfect for electrical work or heavy-duty tasks. Just a quick note—it’s not meant for steel wires, so don’t push it beyond its limits.
Overall, it’s a tool that combines power, comfort, and versatility, making your cable work faster and easier, with the bonus of being sterilizable for hygiene needs.
KATA 6″ Heavy Duty Diagonal Wire Cutters with Comfort Grip
- ✓ Durable high-carbon steel blades
- ✓ Comfortable, anti-slip handles
- ✓ Smooth, effortless cutting
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic models
- ✕ Heavier than lightweight alternatives
| Material | 55 High Carbon Steel with induction-hardened cutting edges |
| Cutting Edge Hardness | Hardened for increased durability and sharpness |
| Blade Length | 6 inches |
| Handle Type | Bi-material, anti-slip, ergonomic |
| Cutting Capacity | Suitable for soft wires, aluminum wire, copper wire, zip ties, garden wires, floral wire, fishing line, and similar materials |
| Design Features | Diagonal side cutting with angled head for confined spaces, smooth lubricated pivot |
Right out of the box, these KATA 6″ Heavy Duty Diagonal Wire Cutters feel seriously solid in your hand. The blackened, heat-treated finish gives them a sleek, professional look, while the weight hits just right—not too heavy, not too light.
The first thing I noticed was the forged 55 High Carbon Steel blades. They cut through wires, zip ties, and even thin aluminum with minimal effort.
The induction-hardened edges stay sharp longer, which means fewer dull moments during busy projects.
The angled head design makes working in tight spaces a breeze. I was able to snip through garden fencing and small electrical wires without awkward contortions.
The well-lubricated pivot point turns smoothly, almost silently, reducing hand fatigue over extended use.
The comfort grip handles are a game-changer. The bi-material design feels sturdy and anti-slip, giving you confidence even when applying more pressure.
It’s clear these are built for heavy-duty tasks, whether you’re a professional electrician or a DIY hobbyist tackling home repairs.
What I really appreciated was how versatile these cutters are. They sliced through plastic modeling wire, floral wire, and even guitar strings like butter.
Plus, the fact that they’re sterilizable makes them perfect for more delicate or sterile environments, adding an extra layer of practicality.
Overall, these cutters combine durability, comfort, and precision. They’re ready for tough jobs but easy to handle, turning what could be a chore into a straightforward task.
If you need reliable wire cutters that can handle almost anything, this pair is worth considering.
Mutt Tools 10 Inch Heavy Duty Cable Cutters for Electrical
- ✓ Heavy-duty construction
- ✓ Precise, clean cuts
- ✓ Ergonomic, comfortable grip
- ✕ Not for steel cables
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic cutters
| Cutting Capacity | Copper and aluminum cables up to 2/0 gauge |
| Blade Material | Precision-ground high-carbon steel |
| Cutting Mechanism | Compound leverage design |
| Handle Design | Ergonomic, non-slip grips with balanced weight distribution |
| Corrosion Resistance | Resists corrosion for durability |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
The first time I picked up the Mutt Tools 10 Inch Heavy Duty Cable Cutters, I immediately appreciated how solid they felt in my hand. The heavy-duty steel construction and balanced weight gave me confidence right away.
I was curious to see how well they could handle thick copper wiring, so I grabbed a 2/0 gauge cable and gave it a firm squeeze.
With a smooth, clean cut, I was impressed by the precision-ground blades. The compound leverage design made cutting through tough cables effortless, almost like butter.
It’s clear these are built for professionals who need reliability day in and day out. The non-slip grips stayed comfortable even after a few minutes of continuous use, which is a big plus for extended projects.
The versatility of these cutters really stood out. I tried them on coaxial cables, and they performed just as well, delivering consistent, clean cuts.
The handles are designed to reduce fatigue, which makes a big difference on long jobs. Plus, knowing they can be sterilized adds a layer of confidence for use in sensitive environments or clean setups.
While they excel in heavy-duty tasks, I did notice they aren’t suitable for steel, so keep that in mind. The durability is obvious, but the high-carbon steel might be overkill for light duties.
Still, for anyone needing a reliable, multipurpose wire cutter, these are a top pick.
WGGE WG-014 Insulation Wire Stripper, AWG 10-24, 3-in-1
- ✓ Multi-function and versatile
- ✓ Comfortable, non-slip grip
- ✓ Precise tension adjustment
- ✕ Adjustment knob needs practice
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tiny wires
| Wire Gauge Range | AWG 10-24 |
| Cutting Capacity | Copper and aluminum cables from 10AWG to 24AWG |
| Stripping Range | Insulated terminals 22-10AWG, non-insulated terminals 12-14AWG, wires 0.5-6mm diameter |
| Jaw Material | Special hardened alloy steel with heat treatment and precision coating |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Thumbwheel micro-adjusting swivel knob for wire stripping tension and clearance |
| Handle Material | Plastic and TPR with non-slip grip |
The first time I picked up the WGGE WG-014 Insulation Wire Stripper, I immediately noticed its solid steel construction and the smoothness of its self-adjusting jaws. As I started testing it on different wires, I appreciated how effortlessly it handled AWG 10 to 24 cables, whether copper or aluminum.
The thumbwheel micro-adjustment was a game-changer. I could fine-tune the tension for tiny wires below 24 AWG without any hassle, which made stripping insulation tidy and damage-free.
The cutter’s high-quality blade sliced through thicker cables with ease, saving me time and frustration.
What really stood out was the ergonomic design. The non-slip, cushioned grips felt comfortable even after extended use, reducing hand fatigue.
I also liked how versatile it was—able to strip, cut, and crimp—making it a true multi-tasker in my toolbox.
Plus, the fact that it can be sterilized adds a layer of confidence for professional or home use where cleanliness matters. The built-in tension adjustment and the sturdy, heat-treated blades mean it’s durable and reliable over the long haul.
Honestly, it’s now my go-to tool for all wire work.
Its main downside? The adjustment knob can take a little practice to perfect, especially when working with very small wires.
And while the grip is comfortable, it might feel a bit bulky for very delicate, precision tasks.
KATA 6-Inch Flush Cut Wire Cutters with Safety Cap
- ✓ Sharp, clean cuts
- ✓ Comfortable grip
- ✓ Safety cap included
- ✕ Not for heavy wires
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic cutters
| Blade Material | Forged chrome vanadium steel with mirror polishing |
| Cutting Capacity | Up to 12 AWG soft copper wire |
| Blade Type | Flush cutting blades for clean, flat cuts |
| Handle Design | Non-slip, ergonomic with angled head and high-flexibility spring |
| Safety Feature | Built-in plastic safety cap covering jaws |
| Intended Use | Suitable for sterilization and professional or DIY wire cutting tasks |
You’re in the middle of a jewelry project, trying to cleanly trim tiny wires without slipping and stabbing yourself. You reach for the KATA 6-Inch Flush Cut Wire Cutters, and immediately notice how solid the forged blade feels in your hand.
The mirror-polished edge glides effortlessly through soft copper wires, leaving a pristine, flat cut every time.
The heavy-duty CR-V steel construction instantly impresses you with its durability. The thicker jaws give a reassuring heft, making cutting feel more controlled and less stressful.
Even after multiple cuts, the blades stay sharp, thanks to the heat treatment, so you don’t have to worry about dulling quickly.
The angled head and high-flexibility spring reduce hand fatigue, which is a game-changer for longer crafting sessions. The non-slip handle feels comfortable and secure, allowing you to operate the tool with just one hand.
Plus, the safety cap is a thoughtful addition—no worries about accidental pokes or blades catching in your toolbox when you’re done.
This tool isn’t just for delicate jewelry work; it handles zip ties, plastic, and even chicken wire with ease. It’s versatile enough for electrical work, floral arrangements, or DIY projects around the house.
The fact that it can be sterilized makes it perfect for professional use or when hygiene matters most.
Overall, it’s a reliable, well-built cutter that combines precision with comfort. Just keep in mind, it’s designed for soft wires up to 12 AWG—so it’s not for heavy-duty industrial tasks.
Still, for most hobbyists and professionals, it hits the sweet spot between quality and usability.
What Features Make a Wire Cutting Tool Suitable for Sterilization?
When selecting the best wire cutting tool that can be sterilized, several key features should be considered:
- Material Composition: The tool should be made from non-corrosive, high-grade stainless steel or other materials that can withstand high temperatures and chemicals without degrading.
- Seamless Design: A seamless or smooth design reduces the likelihood of harboring bacteria in crevices, making the tool easier to clean and sterilize effectively.
- Autoclavable: The ability to withstand autoclaving processes, which involve high-pressure steam, is crucial for ensuring that the tool can be properly sterilized between uses.
- Ergonomic Handles: Handles should be designed for comfort and grip, allowing for easy handling during sterilization and use, while also being constructed from materials that can endure sterilization processes.
- Resistance to Chemical Sterilants: The tool should be resistant to common chemical agents used in sterilization, ensuring that it will not degrade or become less effective over time when exposed to these substances.
The material composition of a wire cutting tool is essential, as tools made from non-corrosive, high-grade stainless steel are more durable and less likely to rust or corrode after repeated sterilization cycles. This ensures longevity and reliability in sterile environments.
A seamless design is important because it minimizes crevices where bacteria can accumulate, making the cleaning process simpler and more effective. Tools with smooth surfaces are easier to wipe down and maintain, which is vital for ensuring proper hygiene.
Being autoclavable is a significant feature for sterilization, as it indicates that the tool can endure the high-pressure steam environment of an autoclave without losing its integrity. This capability is crucial for tools used in medical and laboratory settings where sterilization is a standard requirement.
Ergonomic handles enhance user experience by providing comfort and a secure grip, which is particularly important during sterilization and use. Additionally, these handles should be made from materials that can withstand repeated exposure to sterilization methods without degrading.
Lastly, resistance to chemical sterilants is vital as it ensures that the tool will not deteriorate when exposed to common sterilization agents like bleach or hydrogen peroxide. This durability ensures that the tool remains safe and effective for use over an extended period.
Which Materials are Best for Wire Cutting Tools that Can be Sterilized?
The best materials for wire cutting tools that can be sterilized include:
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, making it an ideal material for wire cutting tools used in sterile environments. Its ability to withstand high temperatures allows it to be effectively sterilized through methods such as autoclaving, ensuring that no contaminants remain after the process.
- Carbon Steel with Coatings: Carbon steel can be an excellent choice due to its hardness and durability, but to enhance its sterilization properties, it is often coated with materials like titanium or Teflon. These coatings not only improve resistance to rust but also facilitate easier cleaning and sterilization, making them suitable for medical or lab environments.
- Aluminum Alloys: Certain aluminum alloys, particularly those treated for increased strength and corrosion resistance, can be used for wire cutting tools. While they may not be as robust as stainless steel, they can still be sterilized effectively, and their lightweight nature makes them easier to handle during precision tasks.
- Titanium: Titanium is known for its strength-to-weight ratio and exceptional corrosion resistance, making it a premium choice for wire cutting tools. It can be sterilized using high-temperature methods without degrading, which makes it suitable for use in surgical or laboratory settings where sterility is paramount.
- Polymer Composites: Some advanced polymer composites are designed to withstand sterilization processes, such as gamma radiation or ethylene oxide. These materials can retain their integrity and performance while being lightweight and non-corrosive, making them suitable for disposable or single-use wire cutting tools.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Sterilizable Wire Cutting Tool?
The advantages of using a sterilizable wire cutting tool are numerous, particularly in settings that require high hygiene standards.
- Enhanced Hygiene: Sterilizable wire cutting tools can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, ensuring the removal of contaminants and reducing the risk of infection in medical or laboratory environments.
- Durability: These tools are often made from high-quality materials that can withstand repeated sterilization processes, maintaining their cutting effectiveness over time.
- Versatility: Sterilizable wire cutting tools can be used in various applications, from surgical procedures to crafting, allowing for a broader range of use cases while adhering to cleanliness standards.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in sterilizable tools can save costs in the long run, as they do not need to be replaced as frequently as disposable alternatives, making them a sustainable choice.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many industries, particularly healthcare, require tools to meet specific sterilization standards, and using sterilizable wire cutting tools helps ensure compliance with these regulations.
Enhanced hygiene is critical in environments where cross-contamination can lead to serious health risks. By using a sterilizable wire cutting tool, users can ensure that all traces of biological material or other contaminants are eliminated, which is particularly important in surgical and laboratory settings.
Durability is a significant factor, as these tools are constructed to endure the rigors of multiple sterilization cycles without losing their functionality. This resilience not only extends the lifespan of the tool but also ensures consistent performance during use.
Versatility is another advantage, as these tools can cater to diverse tasks across different fields. Whether in healthcare, manufacturing, or arts and crafts, having a tool that meets sterilization requirements broadens its applications while maintaining safety.
Cost-effectiveness emerges from the long-term savings associated with not needing to continually purchase disposable tools. By opting for sterilizable options, users can invest in high-quality tools that yield better value over time.
Finally, regulatory compliance is essential in many sectors, especially those governed by strict health and safety regulations. Utilizing sterilizable wire cutting tools helps organizations meet these requirements, ensuring that they uphold the necessary standards for cleanliness and safety.
What Are the Most Recommended Wire Cutting Tools for Sterilization?
The most recommended wire cutting tools for sterilization include:
- Surgical Wire Cutters: These are specifically designed for medical applications and can be easily sterilized using autoclaves.
- Stainless Steel Wire Cutters: Made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, these tools are durable and can withstand high-temperature sterilization processes.
- Scissors with Sterilizable Blades: Certain high-quality scissors are made with materials that allow for effective sterilization, making them suitable for cleanroom and surgical environments.
- Electric Wire Cutters: Some electric wire cutters are designed with removable parts that can be sterilized separately, making them convenient for repeated use in sterile settings.
- Wire Strippers with Sterilizable Handles: These tools can strip insulation from wires and have handles that are made from materials that can be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized.
Surgical Wire Cutters: These tools are engineered specifically for use in surgical environments, where sterility is crucial. They typically feature a design that allows for easy cleaning and are often made from high-grade materials that can endure repeated sterilization cycles without degrading.
Stainless Steel Wire Cutters: Known for their strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, stainless steel wire cutters are ideal for environments requiring regular sterilization. Their robust nature allows them to be subjected to autoclaving, ensuring that they remain sanitary for medical or laboratory use.
Scissors with Sterilizable Blades: High-quality scissors that feature blades specifically designed for sterilization are essential in settings where cleanliness is paramount. These scissors can be made of stainless steel or other materials that hold up under sterilization, ensuring they do not harbor bacteria.
Electric Wire Cutters: The convenience of electric wire cutters is enhanced when they come with removable components that can be sterilized. This feature allows the user to maintain hygiene without compromising on efficiency, making them suitable for various applications in sterile environments.
Wire Strippers with Sterilizable Handles: Wire strippers that are constructed with sterilizable handles offer a dual function of cutting and stripping wire insulation while ensuring that they can be maintained in a clean state. This is particularly beneficial in laboratories and medical settings where cross-contamination risks must be minimized.
How Should You Sterilize Wire Cutting Tools Correctly?
To sterilize wire cutting tools correctly, consider the following methods:
- Autoclaving: This is a highly effective method for sterilizing tools that can withstand high temperatures and pressure. Autoclaves use steam at 121°C for a minimum of 15 minutes to kill all forms of microbial life, making it ideal for surgical or medical wire cutting tools.
- Chemical Sterilization: Chemical agents such as ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide can be used for sterilization when heat is not suitable. This method is particularly useful for delicate wire cutting tools that may be damaged by autoclaving, as it penetrates materials and provides a thorough sterilization without high temperatures.
- Dry Heat Sterilization: This method involves using hot air at temperatures ranging from 160°C to 180°C for a specified time, usually between one to two hours. Dry heat sterilization is suitable for metal wire cutting tools as it effectively kills microorganisms without moisture, which can be beneficial in preventing rust.
- UV Light Sterilization: Ultraviolet light can be employed to disinfect wire cutting tools by exposing them to UV-C light for a certain period. This method is effective in killing bacteria and viruses on the surface but is less effective for sterilization as it does not penetrate materials deeply, making it more suitable as a supplementary method.
- Alcohol Wipes: Using alcohol wipes soaked in isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% concentration) can effectively disinfect the surface of wire cutting tools. While this method is quick and easy, it is primarily a disinfection technique rather than a full sterilization method and is best used when immediate sterilization is not required.
What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Sterilized Wire Cutting Tools?
When using sterilized wire cutting tools, several safety precautions should be observed to ensure both user safety and tool effectiveness.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from sharp edges and potential debris.
- Inspect Tools Before Use: Check the sterilized wire cutting tools for any signs of damage or wear, as compromised tools can lead to accidents or ineffective cutting.
- Maintain a Clean Workspace: Keep your work area organized and free of clutter to minimize the risk of accidents or contamination during the cutting process.
- Proper Handling Techniques: Use both hands to stabilize the tool while cutting, ensuring maximum control and reducing the chance of slips.
- Follow Sterilization Protocols: Adhere to proper sterilization protocols before and after use to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the tools remain safe for repeated use.
- Be Aware of Electrical Hazards: If using electric wire cutters, ensure that the tools are properly insulated and that you are aware of any potential electrical hazards in your workspace.
- Store Tools Safely: After use, store sterilized wire cutting tools in a designated area away from other tools and materials to prevent accidental damage and maintain their sterilized state.
Wearing protective gear is essential because it safeguards you from any sharp edges or small pieces that could become dislodged during cutting. Safety goggles shield your eyes from any flying debris, while gloves protect your hands from cuts and punctures.
Inspecting tools before use is a critical step, as any damage could lead to ineffective cutting or an increased risk of injury. A thorough inspection helps ensure that the tools are functional and safe to use.
Maintaining a clean workspace minimizes distractions and hazards, reducing the likelihood of accidents. An organized area also helps you find tools quickly and prevents contamination of the sterilized tools.
Proper handling techniques, such as using both hands for control, significantly reduce the risk of slips and ensure precision during cutting tasks. This practice is particularly important when working with thicker wires that require extra force.
Following sterilization protocols is vital to maintain the hygiene and safety of wire cutting tools, especially in settings where cleanliness is paramount, such as medical or laboratory environments. Proper sterilization prevents the risk of infection or contamination during use.
Being aware of electrical hazards is crucial when using electric wire cutters, as improper handling can lead to severe accidents. Make sure the tools are in good condition and that you are familiar with their operation.
Finally, storing tools safely after use prevents damage and ensures that they remain sterile. Designated storage helps keep the tools organized and ready for future use without compromising their condition.
What Alternatives Exist to Wire Cutting Tools That Can Be Sterilized?
Several alternatives to wire cutting tools that can be sterilized are available for use in sterile environments.
- Scissors: Surgical scissors, particularly those made of stainless steel, can be easily sterilized and are effective for cutting wire in medical and laboratory settings.
- Pliers: Certain types of pliers, especially those designed for surgical use, can be sterilized and provide a strong grip for cutting wire.
- Cable Cutters: Heavy-duty cable cutters made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and chemical sterilization methods are suitable for cutting thicker wires.
- Wire Strippers: Specialized wire strippers made from stainless steel can be sterilized and are effective for both cutting and stripping insulation from wires.
- Automated Cutting Tools: Some automated wire cutting machines can be designed to be sterilized and offer precision cutting for higher volume tasks.
Scissors: Surgical scissors are specifically designed for precision and can be sterilized using autoclaving or chemical methods. Their sharp blades make them suitable for cutting various types of wire, particularly in medical or laboratory environments where sterility is paramount.
Pliers: Surgical pliers can also be sterilized and are built to provide a robust grip, allowing for efficient cutting of both soft and hard wires. Their ergonomic design helps reduce hand fatigue during extended use.
Cable Cutters: These tools are designed to cut through thicker wires and cables. When made from sterilizable materials, they can be effectively used in environments that require high levels of cleanliness, such as in healthcare or food processing industries.
Wire Strippers: Wire strippers designed for use in sterile environments are made from materials that can be sterilized and are essential for tasks that involve both cutting and stripping wire insulation. Their design allows for precision work without damaging the wire itself.
Automated Cutting Tools: These tools can offer high efficiency and consistency in cutting wire, and some models can be made from sterilizable materials to ensure they meet cleanliness standards in critical environments. They are particularly useful in settings where large volumes of wire need to be processed quickly.
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