A method and apparatus for detecting exposed and partially separated metal cords 17 in a cut end of a metallic cord reinforced strip 17 includes the steps of conveying and cutting the strip 17 and separating the cut ends and passing the conveyed cut strip 17 past a sensor means 40 for detecting any exposed partially separated metal cords or filaments. The preferred sensor means 40 includes a pair of closely spaced electrically conductive rollers 41, 42, a power source connected to one of the other rollers 41 or 42. When an exposed wire 26 touches both rollers 41 and 42 a circuit is closed giving indication of an exposed wire cord condition.