The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MACHETES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
M
A
C
H
E
T
E
S
More clues leading to the result MACHETES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "agents /to make cuts" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case agents /to make cuts = machetes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MACHETES mean?
MACHETES noun- A sword-like tool used for cutting large plants with a chopping motion, or as a weapon. The blade is usually 50 to 65 centimeters long, and up to three millimeters thick.
- To cut or chop with a machete.
- To hack or chop crudely with a blade other than a machete.