• Assess how often the shredder will be used and what materials need to be destroyed.
• Deskside models are ideal for light and occasional use, while office and departmental models handle larger volumes.
• Consider autofeed options for bulk shredding.
• Choose a security level based on document sensitivity.
• For sensitive data or media, use shredders designed for high security or digital media destruction.
• Ensure the shredder fits the available space.

Yes, Many Kobra shredders are designed to shred additional materials such as credit cards, staples, paper clips, CDs, and DVDs. 

Two shredder examples are the Kobra 310 TS CC4 and Kobra 400 C4, which are capable of shredding both paper and selected non-paper items.

Always refer to the technical specifications to ensure compatibility with non-paper materials and prevent potential damage.

Important safety features in shredders include automatic stop functions, jam prevention systems, and protective sensors that reduce risk during operation:

• Automatic start and stop through electronic sensors
• Safety stop when the bin is removed, the door is opened, or the waste bag is full
• EPC (Electronic Power Control) to monitor shredding load and prevent overfeeding
• Automatic reverse system in case of accidental jams
• Special Jam and Maintenance Cycle that automatically clears and lubricates the cutting system
• Metal detection systems for safer and more consistent operation

High security shredders meet strict data protection standards by producing extremely fine shred sizes. High security models rated P-5 to P-7 are used in environments where sensitive or classified data must be permanently destroyed. The highest security level P-7 supports confidential shredding in military, federal, state, government, and national security environments.

High security shredders that are used for classified government documents should meet NSA/CSS specifications for data destruction. For the highest security, look for models rated P-7 that are NSA/CSS listed. These certifications ensure compliance with federal standards for handling top-secret or sensitive information in secure environments. Learn more on high security shredders for government use in our blog.

Yes, Kobra shredders come with a warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Standard models (Security Level 1–5) include a 1-year warranty on the machine, 5 years on cutting blades, and 1 year of labor coverage. High security models (Level 6) include 90 days of coverage on the machine and labor, and 1 year on cutting blades.

For full details, visit our Warranty Policy page or contact our customer service team if you have questions about your warranty or need assistance.

Commercial shredders, such as Kobra heavy duty machines, are designed for large office environments. They typically shred paper, credit cards, optical media, and floppy disks, with cutting capacities ranging from 30 to 60 sheets and large bin sizes up to 55 gallons.

Industrial shredders are built for continuous, high-volume use in warehouses and industrial facilities. Depending on the model, they may process materials like paper, credit cards, CDs & DVDs, bound files, cardboard sheets, plastic containers, or aluminum cans. These machines offer higher sheet capacities, from 55 to 500 sheets, and larger bin sizes, up to 124 gallons.

Yes, certain industrial shredders are specifically engineered for high-volume classified document destruction. One example is the Kobra Cyclone HS6/006, a high-security industrial shredder capable of processing up to 500 sheets of paper at a time.

It offers two security options: Level 005 (NATO-approved) and Level 006 (NSA-approved), which meets NSA/CSS Specifications 02-02 (paper) and 04-02 (optical media). The shredding capacity remains consistent regardless of security level, making it suitable for continuous, secure bulk shredding in demanding high security environments such as military, federal, state, government, and national security operations.

Cardboard shredders transform discarded boxes and sheets into flexible, high-quality padded mats used as filling and cushioning material for packaging and shipments. This reduces the need to purchase traditional void fill, lowers waste disposal costs, and minimizes landfill contributions. By repurposing packaging waste, they support both cost efficiency and sustainable business practices.

Cardboard shredders utilize cutting technology that simultaneously cuts and perforates cardboard boxes into high-quality padded filling material and padding mats. This provides eco-friendly cushioning material and makes it ideal for protecting items during shipping. The Kobra FlexPack Cardboard Shredder handles up to three cardboard layers and features an adjustable working width with scale, allowing users to optimize both the size and cushioning volume of the output.

A detailed demonstration is available in the product video

Digital media shredders are designed to securely destroy electronic storage and data-bearing devices beyond paper. Depending on the model, Kobra digital media shredders can destroy hard disk drives (HDDs), solid state drives (SSDs), smartphones, USB sticks, flash memory, SIM cards, credit cards with chips, CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, floppy disks, CPU chips, and PC boards.

Kobra offers a specialized range of machines for comprehensive digital media destruction, each designed for specific types of data storage:

• Kobra SSD Digital Media Shredder: processes SSDs, flash drives, SIM cards, chips, tablets, and enterprise-grade storage
• Kobra HDD Hard Drive Shredder: handles HDDs, optical media, USB devices, identity cards, and mobile devices
• Kobra DIGITAL-PRO Digital Media Shredder: suitable for SSDs with metal casing, smartphones, SD cards, and chip-embedded media
• Kobra 400 HS-OM Optical Media Shredder: NSA-listed for destroying optical media including CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, and floppy disks
• Kobra Magpro 100 Degausser: erases data from magnetic storage like HDDs and tapes through electromagnetic field

Casinos are required to securely dispose of regulated casino gaming pieces such as chips, dice, cards, and tokens to meet compliance standards and prevent fraudulent reuse. The Kobra Gambler Casino Shredder is designed specifically for this purpose, delivering the power and durability needed for secure disposal in controlled casino environments.

Frequent jamming can occur due to overloading the shredder beyond its sheet capacity, incorrect paper feeding (inserting paper at an angle), or neglecting regular lubrication. Feeding materials unevenly or too quickly may also cause buildup near the blades. Regular maintenance, correct feeding technique, and staying within the machine’s capacity can help reduce jamming issues.

• First, turn off and unplug the shredder for safety. 
• If the shredder has overheated, allow it to cool before restarting. 
• Then, use the reverse function to try clearing the blockage. 
• If the jam persists, alternate between forward and reverse modes, and gently remove any visible paper obstructions manually (can use tweezers if needed). 
• Check that the waste bin isn’t full, as this can also trigger a jam or stop operation. 
• Consider regular oiling and avoid overfeeding to help prevent future jams.

Waste bags help keep shredded material contained, making disposal cleaner and more efficient.  In most models, using a bag prevents loose debris from scattering and reduces maintenance by preventing buildup inside the bin area. 

However, certain models such as the Kobra 240 HS-6 and Kobra +3 CC4 feature a removable waste bin that allows for easy emptying without the need for plastic bags or lifting the cutting head. Always refer to the user manual for your model’s specific waste disposal setup.

Installing a large industrial shredder like the Kobra Cyclone involves some basic planning and setup. Due to its size and power requirements, installation is typically carried out by qualified personnel to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Key considerations include:

• Space and Weight: The Cyclone is a heavy machine and works best on a stable, level surface with enough room for operation and maintenance.
• Power Supply: The unit requires a three-phase electrical connection. An electrician can help ensure proper setup based on local requirements.
• Unpacking and Setup: It arrives in a wooden crate and may require tools and at least two people to unpack and position safely.
• Ventilation: Using the shredder in a well-ventilated space is helpful, especially during extended or high-volume operation.
• Accessibility: Choose a location that allows easy access to the input area, waste bin, and controls for everyday use and routine maintenance.

Always refer to the official installation manual for model-specific instructions and safety guidelines.