6.5 Nicking devices are used to make an initial cut in test pieces for Type A or B tests.
6.5.1 The nicking device shall secure the test piece in a manner that prevents movement, so that the cutting mechanism introduces a razor blade on a plane perpendicular to the major axis of the test piece. The blade shall be positioned to produce a precisely controlled and cleanly separated cut in the specimen. Alternatively, a nicking die may also provide acceptable results so long as the die is routinely examined and verified for accuracy as specified in 6.4.3.