Herbert Miller
Pliers are the most effective practical tools that undoubtedly deserve a place in your garage, workshop, and even homes. In the Bronze Age, the primary purpose of these multi-purpose tools was to handle hot metals. As the years passed, pliers came to be used to compress and bend numerous materials.
When you make up your mind to buy a plier, investing in a quality set is of paramount importance as it is a tool that may come to your rescue in unimaginable ways. Finding the best plier can be an arduous task, especially if you’re buying online. So, to ease your burden, we present you with a list of top-class products so that your investment does not go in vain.
Disclaimer – This article may contain affiliate links, this means that at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for qualifying purchases.
Best Overall Pick
Irwin Vise-Grip Groovelock Pliers Set
- Press-n-slide button system
- Non-slip, anti-pinch grip
- Precise cutting edges
- Lifetime guarantee
Cobra Plier Set
Knipex Tools Cobra Pliers Set
- Versatile
- Comfortable grip
- Time and energy-saving adjustment button
- Highly stable and easy to use
Best Budget Pick
Fastpro Utility Pliers Set
- Durable
- Ultimate grip and control
- Precise edges
- Comfortable handles
- Value for money
The pliers mentioned above are the leading ones in the respective categories. Apart from those three, we give you a comprehensive guide on seven other pliers unique and useful in different sectors. Without any further delay, take a look at the pliers that offer excellent service:
1. Irwin Vise-Grip Groovelock Pliers Set of 8
It serves the purpose of being a fast, versatile, and comfortable plier set. The design is for technicians who strive to excel in their field because they understand the importance of tools that make the work seem perfect. The set features an anti-slip and anti-pinch pro touch grip to reduce hand fatigue and increase comfort.
The kit includes 8″ groove lock pliers that have jaws designed to work more swiftly than traditional groove joint pliers. Also, there is 10″ groove lock pliers that feature a multi-grove ratcheting system that offers twice the better position that any traditional pliers.
The 12″ groove lock pliers further feature metal injection molding process like the other groove lock pliers in this set. It yields an accurate and reliable performance, 8″ long nose pliers to work with precision in areas that are hard to reach.
The adjustable wrench that comes included with standard and metric scales to fit variable size fasteners. You also get a 6″ diagonal cutter that has a quite impressive induction-hardened cutting edge to enable fast wire cutting, and 6″ slip joint pliers that features a variable jaw size to make it more versatile.
Pros:
- Build to last (nickel-chrome steel construction)
- Durable and great value for money
- Wide range of pliers in a kit
- Machined jaws for precision
- Non-slip handles
Cons:
2. Knipex Tools Cobra Pliers Set of 3
The Knipex Cobra pliers set eliminates the need for test-adjusting and makes work less time-consuming. You have to position the upper jaw of these pliers to the workpiece and then close the jaws by pushing the button to adjust it to the workpiece.
The pliers come designed with a built-in pinch guard to prevent the blood blisters formation on your hand. The induction hardened gripping teeth and the unique self-locking adjustment prevents slipping, ensuring more efficient work and operator safety.
These pliers are made of chrome vanadium electric steel as this ensures optimum cutting performance besides longevity. The pliers’ thin head design in this set enables them to get into spaces that most other pliers cannot. Thereby eliminating the need to change tools while working in tight confines constantly.
The unique engineering done after giving importance to each detailing requires outstanding production, making it more costly. Investing in such an effective and efficient tool is worth it.
Pros:
- Versatile pliers set
- Wide range of wrenches
- A rugged and precise adjustment mechanism
- Durable
- Slim profile head
Cons:
- Fairly expensive
3. Fastpro Utility Pliers Set of 7
Utility wrench and pliers set by Fastpro is a perfect assortment of essential pliers that are equipped to do any DIY job. It is constructed from heat-treated, drop-forged steel with precisely built jaws, making the pliers rugged and heavy-duty. The non-slip cushioned handles make it comfortable to use by allowing a perfect grip.
The pliers and wrench set that exceed the ANSI specifications is a worthwhile addition to any toolbox. The set contains 8″ Groove Joint Pliers, 8″ Slip Joint Pliers, 6″ Diagonal Pliers, 6″ Long Nose Pliers, 6″ Combination Pliers, 6″ Slip Joint Pliers, and 4″ Long Nose Pliers.
The highly versatile slip-joint pliers offer a thick nose design and dual-size jaws for a better adjustment that yields several benefits. The long nose pliers included in this set make it easy to re-position, bend, or snip the wire, particularly beneficial for electricians and jewelry makers.
The combination pliers work immensely well for cutting, gripping, bending, and twisting cable or wire, while the diagonal pliers serve to cut wires quickly and effectively. The groove joint pliers are best suited for fastening jobs.
Pros:
- Lightweight and handy
- Durable steel for strong performance
- Well-crafted handles for safe, secure, and comfortable use.
- Good value set
Cons:
- It does not include the storage kit.
- No push-button adjustment
4. Craftsman Mini Pliers Set of 6
These Craftsman mini pliers can come to your rescue when you have to reach small spaces that standard size pliers cannot reach. The ergonomic handles of these pliers make it easier for your hands to tackle tough jobs. These mini pliers are made to last and are rust-resistant.
These pliers are machined to deliver precision and are bolstered by an ultra-secure pouch. It has precision cutting and a comforting grip at a vast array of angles. The exceptionally gripping rubber handle makes each plier comfortable to use even after hours of use.
Packed in a ready-to-use zipper case, which delivers the optimum protection needed to keep each tool in the best condition for as long as possible. Adding this kit to your toolbox will provide you with the grip required for a correctly done job.
The set includes mini Lineman’s Pliers, Mini Diagonal Pliers, mini Needle Nose Pliers, Mini Long Nose Pliers, mini End Cutters, and mini Bent Long Nose Pliers.
Pros:
- Multi-zone bi-material grip for better control
- Comfortable to use
- Strong and durable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- No push-button
- Not suitable for massive works
5. Irwin Vise-grip Long Nose Pliers
Irwin Vise-grip long nose pliers are highly versatile tools useful for a significant number of jobs but some specific tasks involving smaller workpieces- such as electrical wires – require a delicate touch. The long nose pliers that feature smaller surface gripping areas and narrower jaws make it easier to purchase hard-to-reach areas and operate in tight spaces.
Unlike needle-nose thin jaws, the jaws allow you to grip smaller objects correctly and make loops with the wiring while offering enough strength and size for everyday jobs.
It feels solid and tight as soon as you lift them, and its built-to-last quality is quite apparent. It has a secure rubberized and contoured grip that makes it comfortable to operate at a stretch.
Pros:
- Nickel chromium steel construction that makes it durable
- Comfort leading to reduced hand fatigue
- Firm grip and precise cutting
- Useful in confined areas
Cons:
- Not beefy enough for working on larger workpieces
6. Craftsman Groove Joint Pliers Set of 2
The 8″ and 10″ groove joint pliers contain V-jaw pliers that are multi-purpose, making them apt for your home workshop. The pliers are suitable for flat, square, hex, and round shapes, making them highly versatile. The precisely machined jaws are best suited for holding, gripping, cutting, and twisting varied shapes and sizes.
The pliers are designed with anti-pinch and non-slip grip on the handles, enabling more comfort while holding and using even for elongated periods as they focus on reducing hand fatigue.
Such pliers provide more groove options besides maintaining optimum hand placement. These features make them best fit for particular chores even. The pliers, crafted with drop forged steel, are strong and long-lasting. It is a hugely versatile set of pliers that keep you prepared for any task that may come up at any time.
Pros:
- Multi-zone bi-material grips for ease and better control
- Strong and durable
- All-purpose pliers
- Fast and precise adjustment
Cons:
- No rust-resistant coating
7. Vampliers Pliers
Many pliers are available in the market, and DIYers and professionals will most probably end up buying multiple pairs designed to carry out numerous tasks. These go-to solid pliers will tackle almost all sorts of jobs, so they are the best bet to ace any race.
The pro models are built large and have unique jaw design. The pro’s jaws are comparatively beefier, but the immense size doesn’t mean that they are unwieldy. The perfectly contoured grips make them comfortable to hold and use.
The Vampliers are very versatile as they have both vertical and horizontal teeth. Such an intricate jaw design makes the pliers particularly useful for extracting stubborn nuts, bolts, and screws.
The Japanese-made quality, versatility, and fantastic design of the Vampliers are worth the relatively high price. The Vampliers pro is nothing short of a gold standard and deserves the title of “Jack of all trades.”
Pros:
- Ergonomic elastomer handles that provide unmatched comfort.
- RoHS compliant for multi-purpose use in various industries
- Excellent steel construction that makes it durable
- Built-in wire cutters
Cons:
- Relatively very expensive
8. Irwin Vise-Grip Convertible Snap Pliers
The 6″ Irwin snap ring pliers are easy to use and comfortable on hands, making them an appropriate choice for any homeowner or practical for any professional. A noteworthy feature of these pliers is that it is best suited for internal and external use.
These pliers have ProTouch grips that make them convenient to use. The durable alloy steel from which it is constructed weighs around 7.7 ounces.
The four interchangeable tips that enable them to shift from one project to another easily are the highlights of this product, which comes with a lifetime guarantee. These pliers make an excellent choice when it comes to buying a 2-in-1 set of pliers.
Pros:
- External and internal use
- Durable construction
- Lifetime guarantee
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Interchangeable tips
Cons:
- Rivet is loose
- Convertible snap pliers are a bit flimsy.
- No storage case
9. Craftsman Evolv Pliers Set of 5
No products found.Such a versatile plier set allows you to stay prepared for any task that may come up your way unexpectedly. It is relatively cheaper than other pliers in the same category. It is a must-have plier set that prevents the loss of valuable work time.
They have been maneuvered to the exceptional quality to ensure that they withstand the wear-and-tear that comes with repeated use. These pliers aim to become a staple in homes or your workshops for years to come.
No products found.
Pros:
- Rust resistant
- Economic price
- Comfortable handles
- Wide range of tools
- Built for longevity
Cons:
- Not suitable for any kind of heavy work
- A bit too short to get enough leverage to cut anything
10. Channellock ToolRoll Pliers Set of 5
This set is quite a popular one among those who prefer affordable pliers that are basic and reliable. The plier set includes a tool roll that features individual pockets for each piece of equipment in the collection. The blue-colored plastic handle of these pliers provides a firm grip.
These pliers are constructed with high carbon c1080 steel, which is incredibly strong to perform various tasks and does not catch rust easily. The robust build of these pliers helps in eliminating bolts and nuts efficiently. The right-angled teeth of these pliers provide a better and longer grip.
The bag provided by Channellock makes it easy to organize the tools and easy to carry. The set includes 10″ Tongue & Groove, 9.5″ Tongue and Groove, 8″ Long Nose, 7″ Diagonal Cutter, and 6″ Slip Joint.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Electron coating to prevent rust
- Soft and stiff handles that make it easy to use
- Durable and reliable
Cons:
- Less variation of pliers as compared to others in the same category
- Groove-lock pliers do not have a push-button adjustment.
Buying guide for pliers
Before setting out to buy the best pliers, you should know the various types of pliers and their usage. The two basic designs of pliers are- fixed and adjustable. The fixed pliers are simply a set of pincers and grips and small sliding joints that allow the widening of the jaws a bit. The adjustable pliers will enable you to widen the jaws to a great extent to suit the object’s size.
A wide range of pliers available in the market under the categories mentioned above are ideal ones. Here we will discuss some of them so that you will know the ideal type of plier according to your needs.
Channel pliers
They are popularly known as angle nose pliers or groove-joint pliers. They usually have adjustable and sliding jaws where the jaw’s half part is straight, and the rest is curved. It is best suitable for objects like pipes or in the electronic sector.
Cutting pliers
These pliers are utilized to cut wire, bolts, etc. They usually have sharp blades, so they are suitable for working on nails. They may have a long nose sometimes.
Needle nose pliers
These pliers for working in tight spots / confined spaces. The long and slender jaws allow them to access small areas, making them useful in craft and jewelry work.
Slip joint pliers
Such pliers are also useful in small spaces due to their excellent gripping and tightening features. They are equipped with two different jaws and can open the joints in random widths for convenience and versatility.
Wire strippers
Such pliers are used to removing the plastic coating on the outer surface of a wire. They do not ruin the inner wire structure and are adjustable according to the wire size.
Electronics
These pliers to be used on electrical wires, so the electricians are best trained to handle these. They feature a double-sided cutting edge, made especially for cutting wires.
Fence
They are primarily used to pull the staples from fencing. They feature a heavy/strong head and two-wire cutter. You can also use it as a hammer.
Conclusion
It is advisable to consider the necessary work that needs to be done before purchasing the best pliers. After deciding the need, one must compare other essential things like construction, handles, price, etc., because you should not waste your money on something you don’t require. No matter your skills, having a relevant quality tool can make a huge difference in your home or professional space.
When you are unsure of what to buy, and the specifications confuse you, consider this pro tip- you should go and buy a full kit instead of purchasing a single piece. It is the best possible way to save money and have a practical toolkit at your disposal.
