Clipping Counters?

[The_Gekko_State]

Sorry if this isn't the right spot. But being brand new to all this I need some help / information. I see mentioned clipping counters a lot and I get that it involves cutting bits off the counter. But why? I'm unsure why it's a good idea. Also if it is, what do people use to do it?

[JayTownsend]

Yeah, the counters look better, feel better, there are no dog-ears and I do it with all my games, it is kind of satisfying as well.

But only barley do it, no larger cuts, just lightly and not deep. I use toe-nail clippers, that I bought only for that purpose so no I don't cut my nails with them. Some other gamers have bought special tools but I am so good with the clippers after all these years, that I'll stick with them. I am on my third pair I believe.

[plloyd1010]

I don't like ragged corners so I've clipped almost everything, even cards. I used to think it was a luxury thing, now I see it as extending the life of the pieces.

[The_Gekko_State]

Hmm I'll have to experiment then. I just looked at my counters and can see what you mean. Any tips?

[Schoenwulf]

Hmm I'll have to experiment then.  I just looked at my counters and can see what you mean.  Any tips?

Get an Oregon Laminations 2 or 2.5 mm corner cutter pliers, whichever is on sale. You'll never regret the expenditure. Beautiful corners cut with easy alignment.

[The_Gekko_State]

I will look into those thank you!

[Poor Yorek]

I've used a good pair of (convex) toenail clippers and a CD jewel box. Cut and sand down a corner so that the counter's/chit's corner extends out past the raised edge the amount one wishes to excise.  The inside edge holds the counter securely, held down with one's weak hand thumb.  After a while, one can just spin the counter: clip; rotate; clip; rotate; clip; rotate; clip.  Do this over a box top or such to catch the detritus and one can watch a show and clip away. 

And whilst the burred corners or edges are unsightly and stack unfriendly and thus a welcome deletion, I submit that the somewhat octagonal counter that results is simply more pleasing to the eye.

Clippers unite: we are not animals!  (to paraphrase a Seinfeld line)

[The_Gekko_State]

I found a really nice pair of nail clippers I got in a manicure set I never used. They are working really well. If only my hands were steadier. Thank you all for the advice. I must admit the hard work is paying off. As they are looking at lot better.

[Schoenwulf]

I found a really nice pair of nail clippers I got in a manicure set I never used.  They are working really well.  If only my hands were steadier.  Thank you all for the advice.  I must admit the hard work is paying off.  As they are looking at lot better.

Once you start clipping, you'll never go back. The counters are so much nicer to use, and look much better. The only issue after that is those &^%&** side nibs

[The_Gekko_State]

I found a really nice pair of nail clippers I got in a manicure set I never used.  They are working really well.  If only my hands were steadier.  Thank you all for the advice.  I must admit the hard work is paying off.  As they are looking at lot better.

Once you start clipping, you'll never go back. The counters are so much nicer to use, and look much better. The only issue after that is those &^%&** side nibs

You're totally right!  I spent the afternoon clipping the Airborne Intro set I have.  Some what therapeutic too.  Now what are side nibs??