Pliers sets group test

Gary Stretton helps you to get a rm grip on your work

We help you to get a firm grip on your work and test some of the best

IN the typical arsenal of tools required for maintenance and repair, the humble pair of pliers probably receives more abuse than most other hand tools. We’ve all turned to them in desperation when additional grip or reach is required on broken or stubborn fittings. They can be used for metal forming, picking up hot metal work and if needs be (and no one is looking), a last-ditch-attempt hammer. Their versatility is their demise too, putting them in the same list as No 10 and 13 spanners for inevitable replacement.

Choosing a set, especially for first-time buyers, is a worthy exercise in finding at least three of the most likely pliers required. Combination pliers, long nose and side wire cutters are usually the bare minimum, so begin there. For regular use, quality and longevity does show itself sooner rather than later so view their purchase as an investment. That doesn’t mean there’s no place for budget-priced items, as our test shows, for they can throw up pleasant surprises. Also, if doing work such as welding where wire cutters are needed for trimming wire and hot work has to be moved or supported, pliers can prove invaluable but expect them to pick up plenty of scars as a result. An old pair of ‘relegated’ pliers usually serve this purpose, for me.

More detailed work, trim items and especially the electrical variety, involves pliers with more finesse and less leverage, so buy accordingly without expecting too much for more general work.

Comfortable handles are essential for safe grip, leverage and prolonged clamping. Slip guards are invaluable but they can also restrict access in confined spaces.

Spring-loaded jaws on precision pliers offer welcome assistance without the need for taking your hand off the handles. Water pump pliers can be hit and miss on larger items, so focus on their handles and especially their jaws. The more they slip, the more they tend to damage the item they’re supposed to be holding.