What additional features can bolt cutters have?

	Depending on the quality of the tool (and the price you are willing to pay), bolt cutters may have a number of additional features that increase their performance or life. On the other hand, compact cutters with fixed jaws have very few additional features.
Recessed blades
	Quality bolt cutters may also have small notches at the base of the blades to hold the pieces of metal being cut in place and prevent them from sliding up the blades as they would otherwise.
Two neck adjustment screws
	While some full size bolt cutters may only have one adjustment bolt, higher quality bolt cutters have them on both sides of the jaws, allowing both blades to move. While models with a second neck adjustment bolt are more expensive, they give the user more control over the position of the blades in relation to each other. This makes it easier to properly balance the jaws and better protects the blades from damage. For more information see How to adjust jaws on bolt cutters.
Ratchet mechanism
	Some high end bolt cutters have a ratchet joint where the teeth are wedged and keep the jaws closed at each stage of compression. Instead of maintaining constant pressure, you can perform the incision in several stages, taking a break each time to relax and gain strength before squeezing the handles again. For information on how to use this type of bolt cutter see: How to use ratchet bolt cutters.
Auxiliary return handles
	Assisted return handles, where a powerful spring automatically opens the handles when you loosen your grip, are very useful if you're doing repetitive work like cutting through a wire fence.
handle catch
	Spring-loaded bolt cutters like the ones above usually have a latch on the ends of the handles to keep them closed for storage.