Pliers are one of the most essential tools for home and professional craftsmen. They can be used for biting, sharpening, cutting and stripping wires, and bending light alloys if the tool is strong enough.
Despite its apparent simplicity, each pliers has its own characteristics, types and purposes for a particular type of work.
In this article, we will present reviews of dielectric pliers and the best combination, and also identify their pros and cons. Don’t forget we handpicked them to make this list of the best budget pliers.
Which Brand of Pliers Should I Choose?
When choosing pliers, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer, whose reputation determines the reliability of the product. Brands may even offer extended or lifetime warranties to showcase the quality and durability of their products.
We briefly studied the characteristics for each brand to determine its credibility. Here are some reputable pliers brands that you can trust:
- Stanley
Stanley is a brand from the US, born in 1843, has become popular in more than 40 countries around the world. The company manufactures power tools for the home and its production facilities are located in China, Sweden, Germany, UK and USA.
- Knipex
Knipex – a manufacturer from Germany, was founded in 1882 and throughout its history has become a leader in the European market. The company offers a wide range of products for industrial and craft use, updating the range every year, introducing many innovative projects.
- NWS
NWS is a German brand specializing in the production of high quality hand tools since 1973. The company manufactures the goods needed to solve application problems in plumbing, electrical works and piping systems. country. The NWS production facility is located exclusively in Germany.
- Klein Tools
Klein Tools is a brand with a long history and they are the leading manufacturer in the USA. The Klein Tools product line includes hand tools for use in the construction, electronics, mining, and general industry and electrical and telecommunications sectors. Klein Tools also offers a line of personal protective equipment, which is displayed in a separate store.
In addition, Klein products are available worldwide through the established network of established dealers and distributors that stock the products required for their particular markets. Klein Tools is a leading manufacturer of professional quality products globally.
There are many other reputable pliers brands on the market, but we prioritize the above brands above all. The reason for this preference is that these manufacturers are all because their products are of uniformly good quality and they offer certain guarantees about product quality.
What Criteria Should be Note to Evaluate The Best Pliers?
In order to select a list of the best pliers, we researched real people’s reviews and carried out full testing, thereby determining all the pros and cons of the presented pliers models.
Independent user opinions have also helped create comprehensive, well-informed reviews for each product. We selected the nominees according to the following criteria:
- Primary Materials
- Coating
- Build quality
- Easy to use
- Anticorrosion
- Availability of additional options
- Price
Therefore, with these criteria, customers can also choose their own good budget pliers.
We will also base on these criteria to select the best pliers for craftsmen. And to make it easier, we’ll divide it into two categories, the best insulated pliers and the best combination pliers.
Top Best Insulated Pliers Review
These insulated handle pliers are designed with electricians in mind. They are covered with an insulating material which, in particular, is used for high voltage work and can withstand voltages up to 1000 volts. In this category, four nominated candidates are introduced, including:
#1 Stanley FATMAX 89-864 8-1/2 in Linesman Pliers
Stanley’s powerful insulating pliers are compact and convenient to use, making them suitable even for craftsmen with narrow, lightweight handles. The cutting edges of the pliers are reinforced, this model can easily cut through steel wire or even nails, and the FatMax metal is treated with a special coating that increases the life of the tool.
The handle pads are made from a soft two-component material that is resistant to external chemical attacks. The ribbed handle provides a comfortable grip without slipping the palm.
It should be noted that these Stanley pliers are made by forging, so such a tool is recognized as stronger than analogues made by stamping. Users note Stanley’s high durability, they can be used for home or professional use.
Pros:
- Sponge polishing
- Good cutting ability
- Material quality
- Low price
Cons:
- Hard hinge
- No corrosion protection
#2 Knipex 20 06 160 Flat Nose Pliers
Knipex pliers are designed for professional use and are made of high quality tool steel and have a chrome finish. Such a tool can easily cut medium or hardwire, and hardening the cutting edges by induced current gives it greater reliability.
Thanks to the long cutting edges, Knipex can work even in hard-to-reach places. In addition, experts commend the two-component grips made of hard-wearing, VDE-compliant materials.
In addition, these pliers have an extra stop, so that the hand does not slip to the working elements during the grip. Users rate Knipex as one of the best models for working under voltage.
Pros:
- Auto Release
- Lock in the closed position
- Easy movement of the hinge
- Lightweight
Cons:
- The price is quite high
- No teeth on the side
#3 IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman’s Pliers
With these pliers, you can easily cut the soldered cable or stranded wire. The main joint is slightly offset from the cutting edges for more efficient cutting than comparable models.
The three-component handle is made of rubberized plastic, thanks to its ergonomic shape, you will feel comfortable holding the pliers in your hand, even without gloves. Additional brackets are located on the lower edges of the handles, allowing you to mount brackets with suspension or springs for automatic release on them.
Another good thing about these pliers is the anti-corrosion coating, which extends their life. Users rate IRWIN as a quality tool that can last for many years.
Pros:
- Edge reinforcement
- Comfortable grip
- High-frequency current hardening
- Comes with a warranty
Cons:
- Loosely compressing functions
- Strong handle material
#4 WORKPRO 8-Inch Linesman Pliers
These WORKPRO pliers have a simple yet functional design suitable for both professional and home use. They feature reinforced cutting edges, made of special tool steel, able to withstand heavy loads. , high intensity, therefore irreplaceable in work.
The chromium-nickel coating of the jaws provides the optimal balance of strength and hardness and protects the tool from rust and premature wear. The central position of the plier’s shaft creates smoothness for the pliers, increasing the power transmission for the user.
These pliers are suitable for thick wire, plus they have a good working length and low weight. In addition, the manufacturer offers a long warranty for the product, identifying this tool as very reliable.
Pros:
- Anti-slip handle
- Touch hard edges
- Reinforced hinge
- Low price
Cons:
- The surface of the handle is completely smooth
- No end cut
Top Best Combination Pliers Review 2021
Combination pliers models can perform multiple repairs, they are more functional, and may have a cutter on the outside of the hinge mechanism. They are also equipped with additional options and are curved at a certain angle. This category reviews the best combination pliers according to our unbiased reviews.
#1 NWS 109-69-205 High Leverage Combination Pliers
This is a classic model designed for cutting wires or clamping small parts when doing electrical work. The pliers’ extension jaws let you reach the most difficult-to-reach wire, and their chrome-vanadium coating is more resistant to moisture and provides a pleasant-looking tool.
The ribbed, two-piece sheathed handle allows the customer to hold the tool securely in the hand, while the small guardrails protect the palm from sliding over the working unit.
Due to the volumetric handles, the craftsman does not have to put a lot of effort to the clamp and the tightness of the jaw closure will allow these pliers to be used to remove cable insulation or bite nails.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Good travel hinge
- Lips closed with no gap
- Low price
Cons:
- The cover can slide out
- No anti-corrosion coating
#2 NWS 1096-69-200 Combi-Ergo 45 Pistol Grip Combination Pliers
NWS multi-function bending pliers for cutting, clamping, bending all kinds of wire or metal. This model has an asymmetrical surface, a 45-degree rotation of the blade, and its weight is only 280 grams. The built-in wrench provides a sturdy handle to protect screws from damage.
The cutting edges are treated with a high voltage current, which enhances their durability and stability. The pliers themselves are made of forged tool steel, it also has an anti-corrosion coating.
In addition, some buyers mention the disadvantage of fastening the caps not strong enough, so they should tighten more. In addition, it is noted that Combi Ergo is rarely sold, especially in chain stores.
Pros:
- Opening spring
- Built-in contactor
- Finished processing with Soft Gripp
- Reinforced structure
Cons:
- Expensive
- Weak spring
#3 Klein Tools 12098 Universal Combination Pliers
These Klein Tools combination pliers are lightweight and designed for multi-disciplinary work, including plumbing. The tool is made of high carbon steel, providing good wear resistance with improved heat retention.
Optional auto-release and high-quality swivel ensure easy tool use, which is evident in the reviews of this model. The handle is equipped with a cover made of fine materials, which is resistant to chemicals and is also adjusted for a durable grip.
In addition, experts note positively Klein Tools’ reasonable prices and fine USA workmanship. Only the width of the handle is not suitable for all hands, which will be inconvenient for workers with narrow palms when using.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Compact size
- Elongated sponge
- Hard touch
Cons:
- No anti-static option
- Extended handle
Which Pliers is Better to Buy?
First of all should pay attention to professional tools, the more reliable these models are. In addition to them, simple household pliers also have good specifications and can serve a long time.
Before buying, it is recommended to check the pliers for reflectivity, evenness of the jaws, shell quality, ease of use. It is important to take into account the manufacturer’s warranty obligations, as well as the shape of the handle since with an uncomfortable design, the hand quickly gets tired.
We recommend the following from the models presented:
- Among the insulating pliers can be distinguished Knipex – this is a locking plier with an easy hinge stroke and low weight.
- For high voltage work, Stanley will turn out to be a good tool – simple and functional pliers, made of tool steel.
- And from the combination models, outstanding lightweight pliers, with an elongated jaw shape, and well-made housings, the NWS Combi Ergo 1096-69-200 is a versatile choice for cutting, bending, clamping needles. species.
The remaining nominations of the chart are also notable, they are considered the best of the many instruments that did not pass the selection. We advise you to consider all of them, paying attention to the advantages and disadvantages.