Mark Healey wrote:
I'd like to cut some rings to make chainmail. I'm using 16ga
mig wire and winding them on a 1/4 inch dowel.

One other tip I saw recently was to double the wire when
you wind it, then you won't have to open half the rings
to weave them (just close the closed ones).

I've seen rings cut using aviation snips, and with a small
set of bolt cutters. I think the best way is as someone
else mentioned a cut-off wheel in a dremel, because you
get a cleaner joint when you close the ring. The various
snips often leave a burr.

HTH
--Glenn Lyford