[elastoplastscavenger]

if its aluminium shafts then use a pipe cutter that can be bought from anywhere that sells plumbing stuff for £2-£10.

when using it always gradualy tighten the thing as you turn it, like do a few turns then tighten it a half turn on the knob then turn it a few times more (will become obvious once you have the thing in your hand). If you dont gradually tighten it the end of the shaft ends up tapered inwards and you might have some trouble fitting points.