Whether you're an electrician, plumber, mechanic, or jeweler, pliers are one of the most essential hardware tools in your tool set. If you are not sure which types of pliers to choose, this guide will walk you through the main options and how to select the right ones for your tasks.

Different Types of Pliers

Needle Nose Pliers

The needle nose pliers have long, slender jaws with a pointed tip. This type of pliers is very suitable for operation in narrow spaces and is a universal type of pliers that can be used for clamping, shearing and bending. You can both use it in household repair and professional tasks.

Locking Pliers

The locking pliers have two long handles and thick jaws. This type of pliers is equipped with adjusting screws and a locking mechanism. Once clamped, it can be "locked" without loosening. Locking pliers are suitable for workshop use and also useful for advanced DIY users. In emergency situations, locking pliers can temporarily act as an adjustable wrench or pipe wrench, but they should not replace proper wrenches for regular use.

Circlip Pliers

Circlip pliers are suitable for installing and removing snap rings. These pliers have long jaws and are commonly available in straight and curved jaws. It’s the best tool for automotive maintenance and machinery assembly. But this type of pliers are highly specialized tools and are not suitable for general gripping, twisting, or cutting tasks.

Water pump Pliers

The water pump pliers have large, serrated jaws and a long handle design that makes it easy to operate in confined spaces. The handle also features a sliding adjustment mechanism, making them particularly suitable for pipework and bathroom repairs. The serrated jaws of water pump pliers can easily scratch or damage finished surfaces such as chrome-plated fittings, polished nuts, and decorative fixtures, so it’s not suitable for high-torque fastening work.

Combination Pliers

Combination pliers are also a very practical multi-functional type of plier. The jaws have serrated edges, the front of the jaws can be used for gripping, and the hinge point near the rear of the jaws has a cutting edge. Whether for daily household repairs or basic electrical work, combination pliers are one of the most practical general-purpose tools to have in your toolbox.

Slip Joint Pliers

The slip joint pliers has a sliding hinge point in the middle of the jaws, allowing for two or more adjustable opening settings. Compared to other types of pliers, slip joint pliers have larger jaws, suitable for household and DIY use. If you frequently need to grip parts of different sizes, you can choose these pliers. But they are not ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications. 

Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Diagonal pliers have short, thick pliers heads, and the overall shape of the pliers looks like "diagonal scissors." They are an ideal cutting tool that you can use to cut wires, cable ties, metal wires. This type of pliers are suitable for electrical work, cable installation, electronics assembly and cutting zip ties and soft wires.

Wire Strippers

A wire stripper is an essential tool when you are engaged in the electrical industry. This kind of pliers can help you remove the insulation layer on the outside of the wires. There is a row of holes of different diameters at the front end of the clamp head. Usually, the wire diameter (such as AWG, mm) is marked beside each hole to match wires of different thicknesses. Wire strippers are only for insulation removal. You should not use it as a substitute for heavy-duty cutters, pliers, or crimping tools.

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What to Look for When Buying a Pliers?

The article above has provided you with a detailed introduction to different types of pliers. The following section will introduce the factors to consider when choosing a pair of pliers that suits your needs.

Choose the Pliers by Your Daily Task

The first step in choosing pliers is to consider what tasks you need to accomplish, and then decide if you need to add other types. The most common uses of pliers include clamping, cutting, bending, twisting, and securing. If you mainly do everyday household repairs or basic DIY projects, needle nose pliers, slip joint pliers and diagonal cutting pliers are more practical.

Consider Industry-Specific Requirements

As a professional user and your pliers are frequently used in harsh environments, you need to consider the material, quality and practicality of the pliers. Electricians often rely on needle nose pliers, diagonal cutting pliers, and wire strippers for wiring, cutting, and cable installation. Plumbers typically prefer water pump pliers because of their strong grip on pipes and fittings. Automotive technicians may need locking pliers for securing components and circlip pliers for installing or removing retaining rings.

Consider the Material and Grip

The material determines the performance limit of pliers, while the grip determines your actual experience every time you use it. Pliers made of carbon steel are strong enough and affordable, making them suitable for occasional home use. However, if you need to cut stiffer wires, it is recommended to choose pliers made of CR-V material, which has better durability and resistance to deformation.

Check the Size and Structure

• For home repairs, a pair of 7-8 inch combination pliers or needle nose pliers, plus 8-10 inch multi-position adjustable pump pliers, can cover most clamping and tightening tasks.

• If you frequently need to repair electrical boxes, the inside of appliances, or access furniture crevices, prioritize long needle nose pliers with narrower jaws, around 6-7 inches in length; don't blindly pursue larger sizes.

• When dealing with pipes with different diameters, you can prioritize pliers with a sliding joint or multi-position adjustment mechanism like slip joint pliers and water pump pliers. 

FAQ

1.What are the parts of pliers called? 

A pair of pliers consists of jaws, a cutting edge, a riveting swivel, and a handle. The jaws are used for gripping, bending, and twisting. The cutting edge, located near the swivel, is used to cut wires. The precision and strength of the swivel directly affect the smoothness of opening and closing and the stability of the grip. Pliers handles are available in two types: metal and rubber-coated.

2.What are the strongest types of pliers? 

Lineman’s pliers are the strongest type of pliers, specifically designed for high-frequency, high-load work.

3.How do I maintain my pliers for longevity?

To extend the lifespan of your pliers, clean them after each use and store pliers in a dry place to prevent rust from prolonged exposure to moisture. If you notice the opening and closing mechanism becoming stiff, apply a small amount of lubricant to the hinge. Also, periodically check that the jaws are still properly closing.

4.Can one pair of pliers safely replace a wrench in most situations?

Pliers cannot be used safely as a long-term replacement for wrenches. Using pliers to tighten nuts for extended periods can easily damage the parts. In emergency situations, certain types of adjustable wrenches, such as locking pliers, can be used temporarily as a substitute.

5.What is the safest way to cut hard wire or nails with pliers without damaging the tool?

• First, check if the pliers are clearly labeled "can cut hard wire/steel wire". Ordinary light diagonal cutting pliers are not suitable for cutting high-hardness steel wire.

• When cutting, place the thread or nail near the pivot point to minimize impact on the blade; do not place it near the tip of the pliers.

• Use a steady, continuous force to clamp vertically to prevent chipping and deformation of the jaws.

Final Thoughts

Now you understand the uses of different types of pliers, you can add the appropriate tools to your toolbox. On our Diversitech website, you can view various types of high-quality pliers sets. We also support OEM/ODM services. We can customize pliers sets and professional tool sets according to your target customers. We are really looking forward to your contact with us！