Sharp diagonal cutters do a fine job cutting brake or gear cable. They may fray the end, so be sure to cut the wrong head off a double-ended wire very close where some solder will keep it together.

Then do not cut to length until the job is 100% finished. Then cut about 2" beyond the pinch bolt. The cable may fray slightly but can be twisted back to form and a crimp or piece of shrink tubing can be slipped on to keep it there.