In this study, atomic force microscope (AFM) tips are used as tools to cut and manipulate carbon nanotubes on various surfaces. The lateral forces acting on AFM tips during manipulation are also recorded and analyzed from the perspective of micro-mechanics. It is found that differences in surface conditions can lead to obvious increase in micro-friction between nanotube and substrate. And also due to rehybridization, carbon nanotubes present excellent resilience when undergoing different degrees of strain. Finally, carbon nanotubes can complexly deform from elastic stage to plastic stage before complete rupture. In this study, atomic force microscope (AFM) tips are used as tools to cut and manipulate carbon nanotubes on various surfaces. The lateral forces acting on AFM tips during manipulation are also recorded and analyzed from the perspective of micro-mechanics. It is found that differences in surface conditions can lead to obvious increase in micro-friction between nanotube and substrate. And also due to rehybridization, carbon nanotubes present excellent resilience when undergoing different degrees of strain. Finally, carbon nanotubes can complexly deform from elastic stage to plastic stage before complete rupture.