Cut-resistant gloves are rated on a scale from A1 (200-500 grams) to A9 (6,000+ grams) of force required to cut through the material with the ASTM F2992-15 TDM test. Choosing the right level for your application keeps workers safe without paying for more protection than needed.
Matching Rating to Hazard
A1-A3 gloves (200-1,500 grams) are appropriate for light sheet metal handling, cardboard, and low-risk material. A4-A6 gloves (1,500-4,000 grams) handle material like sheet metal, light glass, and structural steel edges. A7-A9 gloves (4,000+ grams) are for heavy plate, castings, and the highest-risk industrial environments where severe lacerations are possible. Many shops over-specify, paying premium prices for A9 gloves when A4-A5 would be adequate.
Coatings Matter as Much as the Fiber
The base fiber — HPPE, steel mesh, or para-aramid — provides cut resistance, but the coating determines grip and dexterity. Nitrile foam coatings offer excellent grip on oily and wet surfaces. Latex coatings grip dry materials well. Sandy nitrile provides the most abrasion resistance for rough materials. Thin PU coatings maximize dexterity for precision work.
Impact Protection Adds Another Layer
For material handling with heavy parts, look for gloves with ANSI Level 1 or Level 2 impact protection. These have TPR (thermoplastic rubber) back-of-hand guards that disperse impact force from drops and collisions. Standard cut-resistant gloves offer no impact protection — a missed distinction that leads to serious hand injuries in receiving and fabrication areas.