Does take quite a bit more force to cut through objects. Being Knipex, I was surprised when trying to cut things, but this seems to be the case as shown in Project Farm's "US vs German Pliers" review where the Knipex finished near the bottom third, needing a lot of force (compared to much cheapter brands) to cut a screw. Because it takes a bit more force, I'll probably reach for another cutter for harder material and only to the Knipex when cutting softer material.