How to Recalibrate and Adjust the Blade Height on a Fiber Cleaver

If your cleaver isn’t cutting consistently, blade height could be the problem.

Fiber cleavers are precision tools. Even a small shift in blade height can cause angled cuts, increased splice loss, or cracked fibers. Yet, adjusting the blade height is one of the most overlooked steps in cleaver maintenance — especially after heavy use or a blade replacement.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to check, adjust, and recalibrate your fiber cleaver’s blade height safely and effectively.

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🔧 What Is Blade Height — and Why Does It Matter?

Blade height determines how deeply the cleaver scores the fiber. If it’s too low, it won’t cut properly. If it’s too high, it can crush or fracture the fiber instead of producing a clean break.

🧠 Think of it like shaving — you need just the right pressure to get a clean, smooth result without causing damage.

Also, keep in mind:

Some fibers, like Cleer-Line SSF, have a special polymer coating that makes them stronger. These fibers may require a slightly higher blade height to cleave properly. If you’re working with coated or armored fibers, don’t be surprised if your cleaver needs a small tweak.

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⚠️ Signs Your Blade Height Needs Recalibration

    •    Inconsistent or angled cleaves

    •    Fibers snap unevenly instead of cleaving clean

    •    You’ve recently rotated or replaced the blade

    •    Sudden increase in splice loss

    •    Cleaver requires more pressure than usual to function

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🔧 How to Recalibrate Blade Height (General Process)

📌 Always consult your cleaver’s manual, as models may vary slightly.

Step 1: Clean the Cleaver

Before making adjustments, clean the blade area and anvil with compressed air and isopropyl alcohol. Dust or debris can interfere with alignment.

Step 2: Locate the Height Adjustment Screw

Most cleavers (like the Fujikura CT series and Sumitomo FC models) have a small screw near the blade hub for height adjustment.

Use a precision screwdriver to:

    •    Turn clockwise to raise the blade

    •    Turn counterclockwise to lower it

⚠️ Only adjust in tiny increments — no more than 1/10 of a turn at a time.

Step 3: Test on Scrap Fiber

After adjusting, cleave a piece of scrap fiber and examine it:

    •    The cut should be clean, flat, and perpendicular

    •    No cracks, splinters, or fiber sticking

    •    Consistent results across several cleaves

Repeat micro-adjustments if needed.

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🛠️ When to Let a Pro Handle It

Incorrect blade height calibration can damage both the blade and your fiber — and it’s not always easy to spot alignment issues with the naked eye.

If you’re unsure, or working with premium models like the Fujikura CT-30, CT-50, or Sumitomo FC-6S, it’s smart to leave it to a specialist.

We offer:

    •    Blade height calibration

    •    Full diagnostics & tune-up