Abstract: A cutting wheel for cutting continuous filamentary tow comprises upper and lower plates rotatable about a common axis. The lower plate includes a ring-shaped section defining a central tow exit opening. An annular row of cutter blades extends between the plates, the blades having radially outwardly facing cutting edges. As filamentary tow is wrapped around the row of blades and pushed thereagainst, the tow is cut by the cutting edges and passes between the blades. A plurality of connector arms secures together the upper and lower plates. Each connector arm defines a clearance inwardly of the blade to accomodate free inward travel of tow cut by the blades. Each connector arm includes first and second segments. The first segment extends downwardly from the ring-shaped lower plate away from the plane of the latter. The second segment extends upwardly toward the upper plate and is disposed radially inwardly of the ring-shaped section of the lower plate.