Differences between pliers and pliers: scope of application of the tools

Pliers and pliers are common and sought-after tools both at home and among professional craftsmen.

Meanwhile, many people confuse pliers with pliers, not seeing much difference in them. Below we explain the difference between pliers and pliers and which of these tools is the most popular and versatile.

Pliers by type

Pliers vary in their purposes:

with short jaws for a strong and firm grip
with extended jaws
with narrow (or thin) lips
with curved ones - when working in hard-to-reach places
with internal plastic linings to avoid damaging parts
specialized, for working with wire

The working (inner) surface of the jaws is smooth or with small shallow notches - for better grip of the object. “Jaws” is the part of the tool that grips parts.

What are they made of?

The purpose of the tool is determined by its design.

Pliers consist of the following elements:

Two sponges that are made of metal. The hinge connects these elements to each other.
A handle that is a continuation of the jaws. It is usually processed using special materials.

In many ways, the characteristics of the pliers depend on the materials used and the build quality of the tool.

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Comfort of operation depends on the handles

The design of pliers is in many ways similar to pliers. However, in the first case there are several features:

Connecting two parts using a hinge.
The handle is characterized by a curved shape. The working surface is different in that it is flat.
The handle is often made of plastic or rubber.

The scope of application of pliers is narrower than that of pliers.

Differences between pliers and pliers

Pliers are a metalworking tool that looks similar to pliers. Some versions - which can no longer be confused with pliers - use an adjustable hinge mechanism. The jaws of standard pliers are usually shorter than the jaws of pliers.

The name “pliers” is French, literally meaning “to clamp the rod.” And in order to clamp it tightly, on the inside of the edges, which are always corrugated - with notches, there is an oval or round depression, often two.

Features of pliers

This hand tool has flat arms for gripping, often knurled for greater efficiency.

Pliers are convenient for gripping, holding, bending, removing various objects, as well as performing plumbing and electrical work.

Their metal is good too

Higher quality and the metal from which the pliers are made. If carbon steel of a certain grade is used to produce pliers, then chromium is used in combination with molybdenum or vanadium to produce pliers.

They are used for

Although these instruments are characterized by almost the same external similarity, they actually have serious differences from each other. Moreover, the production of each tool is strictly regulated by its own standards, both in Russia and in the world (GOST and ISO, respectively).

Using pliers, you can perform the following actions:

bend metal products;
twist and, conversely, unscrew threaded connections;
twist the wires;
cut the wire;
pull out nails;
use as an aid when driving;
use as an element holder.

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Everything must be up to standard

Dimensions according to GOST

The sizes of pliers vary. There are “miniature” categories - for delicate and precise work, for example, bench modeling or beadwork - 10 centimeters.

The dimensions of tools for installation, plumbing, automotive and other work are specified in GOST 17 438-72. For pliers of the first group, he defines the length as 160, 180 and 200 mm.

The second group, intended for industrial work, fits into three types of lengths - 200, 250 and 300 mm.

Imported products, made in the EU, USA and China, come in sizes 10; 11.5 and 14 cm.

Selection of pliers

When purchasing pliers, you need to take into account some nuances, for example, the material from which they are made. There are many options, there are expensive ones made of steel with increased strength, chrome plating, and expensive coating.

However, these are the ones that are desirable, as they will pay for themselves over time with strength, reliability and durability.

You also need to pay attention to the following technical characteristics:

The gap between the jaws of the tool should not exceed 1 mm;
If there are cutting edges, the gap between them should be no more than 0.1 mm;
The handles of the pliers should have a tight but soft movement in the axis of the connection.

In addition to all this, you first need to consider the purpose of the tool.

Like any tool, pliers need lubrication, especially their moving parts. If the tool does not receive the required amount of oil for a long time, it will simply jam, and it will be quite difficult to re-develop it.

Also, using a tool for other purposes, for example, as a hammer, can also lead to ineffective operation of the device or its complete failure.

What types of pliers are there?

Different types of pliers are used in production and everyday life:

Universal
Dielectric
Combined
Extended
*Adjustable, sometimes called tubular
For eyelets

If you compare photos of pliers of all the listed types, the differences are immediately obvious. Their main functions and purposes are listed below.

Types of pliers

Pliers are a common multifunctional tool belonging to the group of metalworking tools. Their main purpose is to clamp and grip various parts, as well as pipes.

Most often they are used for:

Clamping of small parts during processing (similar to a hand vice).
Crimping terminals on an electrical wire, provided that there is no special tool at hand.
Capturing objects with high temperatures, including hot ones.

At their core, pliers are universal and are present in the arsenal of any master. Despite this, there are a number of features that allow them to be classified into three subspecies.

Indispensable for holding small diameter pipes

Dielectric

This type of pliers is used mainly by electricians. In general, they are similar to the combined ones, which will be described below. The difference is the insulating coating on the tool handles.

For your information . This type of pliers can withstand a voltage of at least 1000 V. The maximum EMF value that a particular model can withstand must be indicated on the handles of the tool.

Insulated tool allows you to work where there is electricity

Eyelet

Eyelets are special metal rings used to install banners, streamers and, in some cases, curtains.

Eyelet pliers are designed specifically for installing such rings. This purpose determines the appearance of the instrument. They can be mistaken for a specific hole punch.

Using grommet pliers, the material is pierced so that rings can later be mounted into it.

To hang a billboard you will need special tools

Combination pliers

These pliers are most widely used for household purposes. They are also popular among locksmiths.

For your information . This type of pliers can help in tightening nuts. Experts recommend refraining from this. Since the tool can strip the thread of the nut. And such a “failure” is very likely.

This type of pliers has several key features:

they can be used in a wide range of work;
they have a fairly low cost;
Low-cost materials are used for their manufacture;
They are compact, which makes their storage and transportation much easier and more convenient.

A universal tool is obtained by combining the capabilities

Pliers for all occasions

Universal pliers, or as they are also called - metalworking pliers, are often incorrectly called pliers. After the finely corrugated jaws, they always have a serrated notch. It is followed by side cutters - for cutting the wire, and next to the hinge there are cutters for cutting through stronger wire, nails and even chain-link mesh.

Pliers or pliers: what to choose?

Pliers are narrow-profile carpentry and assembly tools, and pliers are multifunctional. The former only grips flat parts, while the latter perfectly holds flat and cylindrical objects.

Dielectric models are required for electrical installation. They can cut, grip, and bend any wire. It is suitable for stripping wires, removing retaining rings and insulation.

When working with cable conductors, round nose pliers are more convenient. They bend metal plates and wires. This tool is used by jewelers and electricians.

Platypuses are used by electricians to run wires into distribution nodes. They will also be useful for jewelers. This type of tool is more often used for manipulating small elements.

The platypus makes it easy to hold a nail to hit your fingers with a hammer. Its lips are straight or curved. The latter use complex manipulations in hard-to-reach conditions.

Side cutters (side cutters) are used to cut wires, wires and cables of various diameters. They are also used when working with objects made of plastic and metal of small thickness.

For household purposes, ordinary pliers are sufficient. They have many opportunities that not everyone knows about.

Here is a list of jobs that require pliers:

workpiece capture;
stripping cores from insulation;
crimping cable lugs;
biting nails flush with the surface;
holding parts for processing;
biting wires, wires, cables;
removing nails from a wooden surface.

Tips for use

Sometimes pliers are used to crack nuts, hold live contacts, or rivet metal parts. As a result, the hinge becomes loose, and a strong spark can cause melting.

Long nose pliers

To prolong the life of the tool, use it only for its intended purpose. Regularly lubricate the hinges, wipe them with a rag, protect them from dust, moisture, dirt and aggressive chemical compounds. Do not use pliers or pliers in areas not intended for use.

Here are the basic rules:

The hinge must be well lubricated.
Do not tighten nuts with pliers. This breaks their edges.
Pliers are used for clamping small and medium-sized flat parts. Do not use them for very large hard workpieces.
The instruments do not tolerate rough handling. Excessive effort leads to rapid wear.
When working under voltage, use dielectric models and touch only their handles.

Secrets of a successful choice

When purchasing a tool, consider what work it will be used for. Some models are universal, others have a narrow specialization.

Here are the main criteria to focus on:

No play on the hinge.
Soft, smooth ride.
Ergonomic handles.
There are no gaps when the working parts come into contact.
The handles do not slip and sit securely.

All other things being equal, give preference to a professional tool. The difference compared to amateur ones is significant even for leading brands.

There are two types of handles:

one-component,
two-component.

The first ones were plastic or rubberized. They often fall off if they are poorly glued. Two-component ones are better. They are made of shockproof plastic with a rubber coating. In addition, they hold better and do not slip in your hands.

Before purchasing, review the specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Pliers for eyelets

Eyelets, plastic or metal, are intended for strengthening holes in shoe, leather goods and other industries and workshops.

In view of this, “eyelet” pliers are a highly specialized and highly professional tool. They differ from other pliers in their specific appearance and are easily recognizable.

Pliers tools

Almost any type of locksmith work uses similar tools. All of them consist of a head, a handle and a movable axial joint . Since ancient times, blacksmiths have used large pliers in their work, with the help of which they held the workpiece on the anvil.

Over time, society, craft and tools changed. Simple pliers have evolved into a whole range of multifunctional and useful devices. Round nose pliers, wire cutters, pliers and pliers appeared.

Pliers for plumbers

Plumbing pliers are the largest among pliers. They are used exclusively for plumbing work. To grip large-diameter gas or water pipes, these tools use an adjustable hinge mechanism. Thanks to this, you can change - increase or decrease the diameter of the gear recess.

Recommendations for choosing a product

When considering how to choose the right tool, you should pay attention to the basic recommendations. They are as follows:

If you have the required financial resources, you need to purchase professional pliers and pliers. The difference between professional and household offers is significant. A low-quality product fails almost immediately after several stages of use.
Pay attention to the quality of the hinge, since even minor play can lead to serious consequences. At the time of operation, the movement should not stop, it should go smoothly - this is what indicates a high-quality assembly.
In the initial position there should not be a serious gap between the two jaws. If they do not touch, this indicates significant defects.
When making the handle, care must be taken to ensure that it sits securely in its place and that even minor slipping of the hands is not allowed. To a greater extent, this rule applies to pliers and pliers used when working with live parts.

It is necessary to purchase products from well-known manufacturers, since the stated parameters always correspond to the real ones. When servicing electrical equipment, you should not use a low-quality product, as electrical damage is very high.

Pliers - for multitasking

Pliers are very popular among both professionals and home craftsmen because of their versatility, because it helps to grab, hold and turn anything, of any size and shape, during electrical installation or plumbing work.

In order to hold objects well and rotate them without problems, notches of different sizes with notches are applied to the working surface of the tool (the so-called jaws) to tightly fix cylindrical objects. The pliers have jaws of a certain width.
To protect the electrician who picks up the pliers, insulation is applied to their handles, which will protect even from high voltage.
To work in multitasking conditions, you can purchase universal pliers that will replace cutters, side cutters, and pliers.

Pliers
The tool compares favorably with its counterparts due to its very high quality, several times processed steel and special treatment (chrome plating or oxidation). The width of the working surface of the jaws is the same along the entire length - from beginning to end.

Goebbels: features and distinctive features of the instrument

Goebbels are a tool that is a type of pliers that is used by both amateurs and professionals. They are often used in pairs, and in a wide range of tasks - from installing plumbing to repairing vehicles.

According to the standard, all adjustable pliers are made from special tool steel, which is characterized by the presence of vanadium and chromium in its composition. Thanks to this, they acquire qualities identical to those of wire pliers, which allows them to perform work under voltage. During their manufacture, not only stamping is used, but also forging elements. In this case, key parts (head and fasteners) are ground.

Goebbels are made from steel, which contains chromium and vanadium.

As for the handles, they often occupy no more than 40% of the total length of the product. They are coated with a special compound that prevents slipping. This not only increases comfort while working, but also protects your hands from injury.

The head of the Goebbels, like a similar part of the pliers, is that part of the product that can have different levels of inclination, amounting to 90 or 45 degrees. Regardless of the value of this parameter, it is always quite narrow and relatively long. Due to the presence of a special recess in it, you can easily carry out work even in narrow and inconvenient places.

Depending on their design, Goebbels are divided into two main groups:

With rack type of jaw spread. This structure is characterized by simplicity and reliability. It is represented by two parallel slats with teeth, between which the axis of the product moves easily and can be fixed by the master.
With grooves for spreading the jaws. The design feature is the presence of an overhead milled cardan joint. For the purpose of breeding sponges, straight-line movements are used. As a result, a fastening is formed that prevents the hinge from slipping.

Professional Goebbels from the NWS brand are characterized by high quality parts.
When performing work at significant heights, the best solution would be to use a tool with a special loop designed to secure the wrist. This eliminates the possibility of the product falling at the most critical moment due to a careless grip. When working with plastic pipes or ceramics, it is better to give preference to sponge attachments, which will provide reliable protection to the surface of the part from various damages.

On a note! The modern market presents many models from different manufacturers. The well-known company for the manufacture of professional Goebbels and pliers NWS deserves special attention. The high level of quality of the brand's products is confirmed by the special Solingen marking.

In addition, you can find products whose homeland is Sweden or Germany. They are also distinguished by high quality materials, ergonomics and modern design.

Types of pliers and their prices

Pliers, being a universal tool, are still divided into several types and subtypes.

The option discussed above is a combination pliers, since their design allows you to perform several functions simultaneously.

In addition to the serrated grooves and cutting edges located on the jaws, there are cutters on the outer part of the hinge mechanism.

This design is also called multifunctional.

In addition to everything, on the inside of the handle, near the hinge itself, there may be recesses for pulling out the wire, a spike-shaped protrusion for crimping it.

By the way, pliers come with cutting edges and without them.

In the latter case, on the inner parts of the jaws, as a rule, there are two toothed recesses of different diameters, allowing for gripping round parts.

The handles are covered with plastic cover attachments, and the two-component versions are additionally equipped with rubberized anti-slip inserts, ensuring ease of use.

The cost of such options varies widely, depending on the features and manufacturer.

The price of the cheapest models does not exceed 250 rubles, and the most expensive ones go beyond 3 thousand rubles.

Multifunctional pliers, in turn, are:

Dielectric

With insulated handles that can withstand voltages up to 1000 VAC without danger to humans.

The insulated handles have the appropriate inscription, which confirms the possibility of using the tool to work with devices and wires connected to the electrical network.

Even the highest quality models with insulated handles have one feature - over time, the coating becomes thinner due to frequent friction with the palm, and therefore, to increase the safety of the master, its top layer is painted red, under which there is a main dielectric material with a different color.

As a result, abrasion of the top layer will be clearly visible, which will serve as a signal that further use of the tool is unsafe.

For high-quality performance you will have to pay from 600 to 1000 rubles.

Curved

With curved lips.

Installation

They have curved jaws, near the end of which there is a stripper that allows longitudinal stripping of wires.

This form makes it convenient to work with wiring, and provides fairly comfortable work where space is limited, for example, in junction boxes.

As a rule, they are produced with dielectric handles.

The price for quality is around 3 thousand rubles.

Curved combined

With handles bent at an angle of 30 degrees or more relative to the jaws.

Also called corner, actually because of their shape.

Platypuses

They have long jaws, reminiscent of tweezers, which they successfully replace, differing in greater compression force.

Extended

The length of the jaws of some models can reach 200 mm.

Reinforced

A massive tool with thicker elements.

Power pliers are another name indicating increased strength characteristics.

There are models with a nail holding function.

The average price is 1000 – 1600 rubles for high-quality 200 mm models.

Mini pliers

They are more compact and lighter than the classic versions, which allows them to work with fragile and thin parts.

The size of such a tool is 110-120mm.

But there are also very miniature models less than 110 mm long.

It should be remembered that small pliers are inferior in strength to full-size ones.

The cost rarely exceeds 600 rubles.

Energy saving type

They have an improved hinge mechanism, reinforced with a lever, due to which the force applied by the user during operation is reduced by 40%.

In turn, this leads to a decrease in the amount of lip expansion.

The price is around 1 thousand rubles.

Lever

They provide high-quality and comfortable work thanks to a special lever-type mechanism, which significantly increases the force transmitted to the lips to bring them together.

Models with a double lever mechanism are often equipped with a special latch that secures the handles in the retracted position during transportation, and a self-unclosing mechanism.

With increased levers

They have a wider opening of the jaws for gripping and clamping large parts.

Folding

They have a design similar to a multitool, that is, the main tool is hidden in the halves of the handles.

Prices start from 270 rubles.

In addition to classic pliers, there are specialized types:

Adjustable pliers

Due to their design, they are able to change the diameter of the recess.

Due to the fact that the handles overlap each other, like two halves of scissors, they received another name - cross pliers.

As a rule, they are used by plumbers to hold pipes, which is why they are often called pipe clamps.

Allows you to grip parts of various sizes and hold the cable while cutting it.

Adjustable plumbing pliers can perform the functions of a wrench.

Average prices are around 1 thousand rubles.

Clamping

Analogues of clamps, that is, they are designed for reliable clamping of a part, pressing two elements to each other.

They have one handle with a lock and a toggle mechanism, and the second with an adjusting screw.

The pliers operate on the principle of an eccentric mechanism.

The locking handle is slightly curved for comfortable operation.

This tool is convenient for unscrewing bolts and nuts that have all their edges completely licked off.

Price - from 800 to 1200 rubles on average.

Pliers for removing lids

They look like pliers and are designed for removing the covers of heavy trucks.

Cost – from 200 to 300 rubles.

All pliers can be conditionally divided into many types according to their purpose, while they may have minimal differences among themselves.

Here are just a few of them:

Locksmith

Used for repair and installation work where contact with current-carrying elements and wiring is not required.

Electrician's pliers

This includes the entire dielectric tool.

Electrical pliers, by the way, are not only metal, with specially coated handles, but also plastic.

In the latter case, we are talking about complete isolation of the tool.

Plastic pliers help to avoid short circuits during electrical work; for reliability, they are reinforced with fiberglass.

Fishermen's

Used for working with fishing gear.

Full-size fishing pliers have tapered lips and an elongated body for easy removal of the hook from the fish.

Mini fishing pliers often have a folding design and are equipped with a retriever, eliminating the loss of the tool.

Pliers: photos and a few words about the types of products

In addition to the above options, other types of products are no less popular.

These include:

adjustable;
clamping;
isolated;
for wires.

Clamping pliers are devices that function like a hand vice. Most of these instruments are equipped with an adjustable screw, which additionally serves as a lip clamp, thus increasing the pressure.

Pliers can have jaw lengths ranging from 25 to 64 mm.

On a note! In addition to being used as clamps in various situations, clamp-type pliers are often used in the process of welding work.

Adjustable pliers are another essential tool in every craftsman's kit. These products are ideal for turning and gripping a variety of objects, including nuts and bolts, by connecting the lips in a hinged manner. Due to their versatility, such tools can replace most wrenches.

As for insulated pliers, they have rubberized handles, which act as a guarantee of safety during electrical installation work.