The Best Pliers

Buying Guide

Pliers are a small handy gadget that are used to hold objects securely while working with them. They can be used to bend and compress materials as well. Sometimes, they are used for prying apart materials or even cutting them. Pliers can be used by a number of different people for various tasks around the home or at work. They are a common tool for shopkeepers, builders, electricians, construction workers and woodworkers. There are many different types of pliers designed to do specific jobs. However, their overall construction is the same.

Pliers typically have two metal first-class levers that are joined together at an intersection or pivot point, also called a fulcrum, near one end. The fulcrum is what enables the pliers to have a magnified amount of force. On the shorter side of the fulcrum, there are a set of jaws, which are used to grasp objects.

Within the jaws there is an area called a pipe grip, which is a rounded opening designed to hold rounded objects. Right next to the jaws are a set of cutters, which are sharp enough to snip small objects like wires. The other end of the fulcrum forms the handles that you hold to amplify force at the jaws. The handles can be either curved or straight. Sometimes they are coated with plastic, while other times they can be bare metal. There is a significant amount of force from the longer handle side which is applied to the jaws’ side. Users can focus this force through the jaws to precisely handle objects that may be difficult to manipulate with just fingers.

• There are tens of different kinds of pliers available, each with special elements designed for specific types of work. It’s important to use the right tool for the job so you can ensure your safety. Consider what you need the pliers for and then select the one that is the right fit for the task at hand. For example, if you need to grip and twist metal, leads or wires, you may want to go with long-nose pliers or flat-nose pliers. These are also great for making sharp bends and right angles in metal. If you’re doing electrical work, you will most likely need a pair of linesman pliers. Their insulated handles will ensure that you don’t receive an electrical shock from a live wire. The shorter gripping surface of the tip of the jaws makes them perfect for handling small wires.
• Consider the size and weight of the pliers to see if it’s right for your hands. You’ll want to look at how much strength you will need to grip or hold objects, and how much effort you will exert in the process. Keep in mind that the longer the tool’s handles, the more leverage you’ll have. However, the smaller the jaw, the more efficient the tool will be. Heavier pliers can be more difficult to control, but will also provide more force. Think carefully about the tasks you need to do, how often you need to do them and how much strength you’re able to exert while working.
• When it comes to the materials used to make the pliers, look for those with chromium, vanadium and molybdenum in them. These alloys are strong but not too brittle. In tools, hardness, which is measured in HRC units, is an important factor to note.
• If you’re going to be using the pliers frequently, or if you have limited strength or mobility in your hands, opt for an ergonomically designed set of pliers. Keep comfort in mind so you can safely and easily use the tools every day without pain.