Cut resistance levels only mean something matched to the actual blade hazard — — this free selector maps tasks to ANSI/ISEA 105 A1–A9 glove levels. The rated inventory lives on cut-resistant gloves with the A4-vs-A5 tradeoff in the dedicated guide. The full A1–A9 system is explained in cut resistance glove levels explained, and the printed cuff marking is decoded in how to read the ANSI cut level.
Which cut resistance levels fit which tasks?
Short answer: A2–A3 for general handling, A4–A5 for sheet metal and glass, A6+ where blades and stock edges rule the shift — pick the task in the selector below and it maps the level.
Editor's pick — MCR Safety CutPro line
Rated shells across the working A3–A5 band — the inventory this selector routes to most. Read the full listing.VIEW THE LISTING → CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON →
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ANSI/ISEA 105 rates cut resistance from A1 (lightest) to A9 (highest) by the gram load a blade needs to cut through the material (TDM-100 test). Pick your task to see the cut level to specify — under-gloving costs protection, over-gloving costs dexterity.
ANSI/ISEA 105 cut levels
| Level | Cutting load (grams) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 200–499 | Light assembly, general handling |
| A2 | 500–999 | Packaging, material handling |
| A3 | 1,000–1,499 | Light metal, small parts |
| A4 | 1,500–2,199 | Sheet metal, construction |
| A5 | 2,200–2,999 | Sharp metal, automotive |
| A6 | 3,000–3,999 | Heavy sheet metal, glass |
| A7 | 4,000–4,999 | Recycling, sharp scrap |
| A8 | 5,000–5,999 | Food processing, blades |
| A9 | 6,000+ | Extreme blade exposure |
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FAQ
Is a higher cut level always better?
No. Higher levels use thicker or steel/HPPE-reinforced yarns that reduce dexterity and feel. Match the level to the hazard so workers keep good grip and finger control.
Does cut level cover puncture or needle hazards?
No. ANSI 105 also has separate puncture and needlestick ratings. A high cut level does not guarantee puncture resistance — check those ratings separately.
General guidance only. Select gloves from a documented hazard assessment; cut level is one factor alongside puncture, abrasion, heat, chemical and dexterity needs. Ratings per ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 (TDM-100).
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Built and reviewed by Steven Eaton, WC Safety. We curate and review industrial PPE against ANSI, NIOSH and OSHA standards.
Our methodology
The selector maps tasks to ANSI/ISEA 105 levels using the standard’s gram-force bands; every glove recommendation defers to the level printed on its own listing. Authoritative duties live at OSHA regulations and exposure science at NIOSH. We hold no safety certification, and this tool is not a substitute for professional judgment.
Why trust this page
WC Safety is an independent review site with no products of its own — nothing here is stocked, warehoused or shipped by us. Purchase links go to Amazon and earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. This free tool is informational — it supports, and never replaces, a written program, a hazard assessment, or evaluation by a qualified safety professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the A-numbers actually measure?
Grams of force a blade needs to cut through the shell in the TDM-100 test — A1 starts at 200g, A9 tops 6,000g.
Is a higher level always better?
No — higher levels trade dexterity and heat. The right level is the lowest one that survives your actual blade hazard.
EN 388 vs ANSI cut scores?
Different tests, different scales — compare within one system. US listings lead with ANSI/ISEA 105 A-levels.
Does a cut level cover punctures?
No — puncture is its own rating. Needles and wire ends need the puncture line on the listing, not the cut line.
Do coatings change the cut level?
The shell carries the rating; coatings add grip and abrasion life. A worn-through shell has no rating left.
When does a rated glove retire?
At the first cut, snag or thin spot — inspection, not the calendar, ends a rated shell’s service.
Researched and written by Steven Eaton, editor of WC Safety. Steven holds no safety certification and does not test products; this page compares what manufacturers publish, with the gaps in that record marked. Last reviewed July 2026.