Cutting down filters

[Medavoym]

Hello!

Where/how can I cut some filters down to smaller sizes?
Is it safe to do? I obviously don't want them to brake/scratch.
I am a bit reluctant to go to a regular glass-cutting place as I'm afraid they will damage the filters...

Any input/suggestions?
Thanks!

All best,
Mike

 

[Richard Foster]

Many filters are actually sandwiches of filter material in between two ground to tight tolerances optical flats that are then sealed at the edges and then mounted in a metal frame. I would therefore be very reluctant to have them cut at a regular glass place and either pass on the idea or go to a respected optical manufacturer. My guess is that even if a knowledgeable professional would undertake the task the cost would be prohibitive and you would be better selling the filters you don't want and buying new in the sizes you desire.

 

[Alexander Ibrahim]

I once tried.

It was a spectacular failure, but I did learn about filters. Nothing I couldn't have learned by calling Schneider and asking a few questions, but I did learn.

In practice, you're just wasting a filter you could sell, then buy the filters you want at the size you want as Richard suggests.

 

[Matthew Duclos]

I kid! Don't try this.
I agree with the others here. You'd be better off selling your existing filters and buying new ones. Cutting wouldn't really be an option anyway. They should be ground down and that is usually more expensive than buying new filters.

 

[George A.]

Hi!

I've cut filters before with absolutely no issues - both to new square or round sizes. I never had any problems. I wonder why people are so against this idea.

The round ones I put in filter rings anyway (Series 9 or 4 1/2")
The square ones, you can put something around the edges - many filters come like this anyway (see attached pic). You don't really need to ground the filter after the cutting is done.

I wonder why people are so freaked out by it.
Yes, I don't do it on a regular basis, only when I've needed it (in rare cases). But if you need to do it, do it.
George