Flexible metal conduit is empty of conductors. MC has conductors installed in a factory. What are you trying to do?

 

I am sorry, I should have phrased my questions appropriately. I want to run the Flex MC with wires inside to install a toggle switch to operate the lights. I am looking for a tool to cut the Flex MC14/2 or 12/2.

 

The tool is called roto split. Not a perfect cutter to use, but I don't know a better one.

 

I just unwrap it as far as I need to, and clip it with snip or side cutter pliers.

 

I've never had a problem using one. It splits the corrugation pretty well.

Southwire Wounded Warrior Seatek Automatic Roto-Split Cable Cutter 66978440 - The Home Depot

Complete all your difficult works easily with the help of this Southwire Wounded Warrior Seatek Automatic RotoSplit Cable Cutter.

www.homedepot.com

 

Thanks JIm

 

Roto=Split works great. If you are a DIYer then the blade should last you a long time.
I don't like unraveling the coil and snipping. It leaves a very sharp end. Using this tool and proper size anti-shorts is the way to go. Try cutting a few short pieces as a test until you get used to it. After you cut the slit in it you will need to grab hold with both hands and gently twist in opposite directions and it will come apart.

 

As mentioned, do use the red plastic anti-short bushings. They slip into the cut end of the tubing. You may have to buy them separately. Seems like I remember Home Depot stopped providing them with the MC. Maybe I am mistaken.
Another thing is to get connectors specifically for MC, not Romex connectors.

 

Yes, as dcwired mentioned be sure you get the proper connectors for MC..

A picture below. YOu will notice that the end that goes into the box is different than a Romex connector.
You can get a small bag of 5 from Home Depot Halex 3/8 in. Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) Combination Clamp Connector Standard Fitting (5-Pack) 20570 - The Home Depot

Anti-shorts here Halex 3/8 in. Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) Anti-Short Bushing (35-Pack) 75401 - The Home Depot

 

Ok, will remember. Thanks so much afjes2015 and dc wired.

 

Unlike AC cable, anti-short bushings aren't required with MC cable. The mylar jacket on the MC is enough. AC has a paper jacket. (I phoned AFC cable to verify this). They just include the anti-shorts in their words as "an added degree of protection"

 

Many thanks betelgeuse for making a phone call to AFC cable & sharing the information.
Just curious to understand, wouldn't the sharp metal edge cut the mylar jacket which is more soft as against red plastic anti-short bushings?
Attached the picture of the Flexible metal conduit that was cut & removed to make sure the inside 2-wires reach up to the terminals once it is passed thru the BX. I see the paper jacket here.
Am I mixing with up with some other type of Flexible metal conduit than Metal Clad one?

 

I would, regardless, use an anti short bushing. Cheap insurance.

 

FYI: Flexible metal conduit/cable comes in 3 products:
Empty flex you put wire into.
BX which has wires, but no copper ground wire (green). It has an aluminum ribbon for bonding the flex to use as the ground.
MC which has a copper ground wire (green).

 

Thanks dcwired

 

MC = Metal clad. There are several types of metal conduit.