Pliers and pliers - features, differences, characteristics

Pincers and forceps are the most ancient devices known since prehistoric times. According to historians, they were initially used in blacksmithing, but very quickly formed a large group of pliers. Today, the number of varieties of such devices is very large; not every master can list them all at once. They are usually called pliers or pliers, although almost every design option has its own name.

It is noteworthy that significant changes in the design of such instruments have not been made for a very long time, despite noticeable changes in the appearance of other devices. In addition, the specific use does not imply the creation of a power tool from these devices. Let's take a closer look at them.

What are pliers and pliers?

1-Pliers 2-Pliers
Both types are the most common and extensive types of pliers. They all have a similar design - two identical (most often) elements connected by a hinge. On one side there are handles, the other part is the working part.

The difference between all types consists of two positions:

• Sponge shape . This indicator determines the name and purpose of the tool.
• Hinge type . The classic type is a fixed hinge, but detachable options are often found that allow you to change the size of the working base (the grip width of the jaws).

The purpose of the tool is determined by the shape of the jaws. It can have cutting edges, cutouts that provide a stronger and tighter grip, and form a kind of template for bending various parts.

The following varieties exist:

• Pliers.
• Pliers.
• Wire cutters.
• Side cutters.

• Round nose pliers.
• Long nose pliers.
• Needle nose pliers.
• Ticks.

Expert opinion

Levin Dmitry Konstantinovich

In everyday life, any type of tool at the disposal of a craftsman is often called pliers. This is wrong, but it is not important for a home master. However, when communicating between specialists or in a store, you should be precise and understand the differences between the tools.

Best round nose pliers

Rating:

1. KNIPEX round nose pliers made of forged chrome vanadium steel, oil-hardened, able to withstand heavy loads.
2. Model with Bahco made of high quality alloy steel with anti-corrosion treatment.
3. IRWIN round nose pliers made of chrome-nickel steel.

Tools with semicircular jaws are designed for working with wire. They come without cutting edges or with them. If there are cutters, such products, in addition to grabbing and manipulating the wire, can also cut through it.

Semicircular jaws are specially designed for gripping uneven surfaces. They are made of hardened steel. The tool is in demand for plumbing, installation and repair work.

Advantages of the type: you can work in hard-to-reach places with round holes. At the same time, their weak point can be called the small working surface area.

Difference between pliers and pliers

The difference between both types is not fundamental, but quite definite.
Pliers are designed for gripping, squeezing, and bending various parts or workpieces. The working surfaces are straight, usually with fine corrugation to prevent the material from slipping when gripping.

Pliers are a universal tool. They are capable of performing a significantly larger number of operations and tasks, since their jaws are equipped with various recesses, grips, and cutting edges on both the inside and outside.

A typical set of functionality typical of pliers:

• Capturing, clamping parts.
• Bending wire or sheet metal.
• Biting wire, nails, screws, etc.

The versatility of pliers makes them the main type of pliers. They are used by electricians, mechanics, technicians, and other specialists. Due to their capabilities, they are included in the mandatory set of tools and devices required to perform most technical or construction tasks. Often pliers are equipped with additional tools - a grip on the other side of the hinge, auxiliary devices at the ends of the handles (screwdriver or awl). The demand and popularity of the instrument is confirmed by the large selection of manufacturers and models available on store shelves.

How to choose pliers

Important parameters:

• The first thing to consider when choosing a tool is what purpose it is needed for. If the product is required as a working hand tool for a craftsman, then you need to consider their professional types.

Varieties intended for domestic purposes are not suitable for constant use and increased loads.

• The second criterion is the manufacturer. A high-quality tool, if properly used, can last for many years.
• You need to pay attention to the performance and functionality of the pliers. Electricians should definitely choose electrically insulated models. It is advisable for professionals to have several types of products for different types of operations.
• It is advisable to choose ergonomic handles for tools that follow the anatomical shape of the hands. In case of prolonged use during a work shift, the technician’s hands will get less tired.
• When choosing hand tools, their color matters because, for example, black pliers are difficult to find in dark rooms.

Therefore, it is advisable to give preference to models with brightly colored handles. Nowadays you can even buy pliers with fluorescent coated handles that glow in the dark.

• When choosing a product, you need to check it by squeezing the handles. In this case, the jaws of the tool should close tightly and evenly.
• The desire to save money on hand tools and purchasing goods from other than authorized dealers may lead to the purchase of non-original products.

This will be a waste of money as they will not last long. A fake will not meet safety requirements.

Secondary parameters:

1. It does not matter what decorative coating the body of the product has (chrome, nickel, etc.), that is, the external beauty of the instrument. This absolutely does not affect the functionality and other essential characteristics of the product.
2. The presence of additional functions in highly specialized models (most likely, they will not be useful).

Features, technical specifications

The main technical characteristics of pliers and pliers are:

• Size (total). Usually ranges from 10 to 20 cm.
• Width of jaws. standard - 2-3 cm.
• Opening angle of working surfaces. Depends on the type of hinge and specific design features.
• Set of functions (for pliers). The presence of cutting surfaces, the ability to cut through steel wire using a groove on the outer surface of the jaws, a return spring, etc.

• Hinge type. There are fixed or adjustable designs
• Availability of rubber, PVC or plastic linings for handles
• View
• Coatings: Tools are available in chrome or blued finish.

The main feature of the tool is the presence of two handles that perform dual functions:

• Used for holding in hands.

• Adjust the amount of opening and compression force of the jaws.

Expert opinion

Levin Dmitry Konstantinovich

Working with insulated handles allows you to protect yourself from electric shock and provides comfort when using the tool in severe frost. However, there are pliers and pliers that do not have additional elements. They are usually used for working with hot objects when the safety of the handles cannot be ensured. In such situations, hand protection is necessary - mittens, suede gloves, etc.

The best combination pliers (pliers)

Rating:

• The best combination pliers are Knipex. Their manufacturer is a German company that produces high-quality hand tools according to VDE standards.

The pliers from this company can cut through hard wire. They are the most expensive, but at the same time durable, ergonomic and highly productive.

• Bahco brand (Sweden) are among the best and are produced in factories in Western Europe and the USA.

Products comply with ISO standard. All Bahco combination products are electrically insulated.

• Tools under the IRWIN (USA) brand are also professional and of high quality.

This manufacturer's electrically insulated combination pliers comply with VDE standards, but they have a shorter service life than the above models.

The combined product has wire cutters in the middle and on the sides (side slots in the hinge area). In addition, the pliers have a notch with teeth for gripping round objects of small diameter.

This model is designed primarily for gripping and manipulating wire and cylindrical objects. Modern pliers can be equipped with a return spring or an adjustable hinge for adjustment to pipes of different sizes.

Pros:

• multifunctionality,
• versatility.

Minus: most often household-oriented.

Pros and cons of the tool

The advantages include:

• Multifunctionality, versatility of use, ability to perform various tasks.
• Compact, light weight, easy to carry the tool with you.
• Wide choice of size, shape, additional functionality.
• Affordable price.

Flaws:

• The metal is prone to corrosion, so it is necessary to organize appropriate conditions for storing the tool.
• The fixed hinge is subject to loss of mobility and requires periodic lubrication.
• The handles wear out quite quickly and require replacement.

The disadvantages can be considered design features, since they are equally inherent in all pliers. The high demand and demand for pliers and pliers is well confirmed by the presence of one or several copies for every specialist and home craftsman.

Tool characteristics

Both pliers and pliers are classified as pliers. Each type of instrument has its own characteristics.

When analyzing the properties of pliers, it is necessary to focus on the following points:

• The main part of the structure is manufactured using hardened steel, resistant to strong mechanical stress.
• Pliers are characterized by a flat main working part.
• Notches can be applied to the main surface of the tool.
• Semicircular rods form the handle, and they are designed in such a way that they are comfortable to hold in the hand.

The main feature of pliers is the structure of the working part.

Both tools are very easy to use

The pliers are designed for fixing thin and flat parts. Moreover, the material from which the structure is made can be almost any.

The key characteristics of a tool such as pliers include the following:

• They are most widespread in the field of electrical installation and plumbing.
• The working part must have notches, as well as a special recess, due to which the parts are captured. This groove has the shape of a cylinder.
• The pliers also have side notches. Their main purpose is to bite metal objects, such as wire.
• Those pliers that are characterized by the presence of a special design designed to change the force when performing work have become widespread. This design causes the hinge installed on the device to move.
• Often the front part of the pliers is characterized by the presence of special edges. The purpose of these is to cut through metal plates and wires by spreading the handles of the pliers.

In plumbing, a plier is very helpful.
The working surface of the tool can vary significantly. These differences are determined by the purpose of the specific model. Most often it is made of steel. This material is characterized by increased hardness.

There are a number of recommendations that should be taken into account when selecting a tool:

• Give preference to professional pliers and pliers. Unlike household products, they have a longer service life and should not break down after several uses.
• Particular attention should be paid to the quality of such an element as a hinge. The presence of even minimal play in the moving part is likely to lead to negative consequences. The build quality is excellent if, during operation of the tool, the movement of the moving elements is characterized by smoothness and lack of locking.
• It is not allowed to have a significant gap between the lips when in their original position.
• The quality of the tool handle is important. It must be securely fixed. Sliding your palms along the handle is unacceptable. This rule is most relevant for those tools that are used in conditions of electrical voltage.
• Preference should be given to products from well-known brands. This will ensure that the originally stated characteristics match the actual ones.
• Never use low-quality tools when working under voltage in order to significantly reduce the risk of electric shock.

The choice should be approached responsibly

Criterias of choice

You can choose a high-quality and convenient tool based on the following criteria:

• Purpose, main tasks to be solved. Determine the size and width of the sponges, check the comfort of the hand grip and other organoleptic indicators;
• Set of functions. For electricians, it is important to have insulating pads on the handles. In addition, it is necessary to inspect the working part and find out what operations are available when using this instance. It is recommended to choose the most multifunctional tool possible, although some additional functions may be redundant;
• The color of the handles should be bright enough so that you can immediately find them in low light conditions;
• The tool manufacturer must be well-known and reliable. There are a large number of products from Southeast Asian countries on the market. They do not provide sufficient strength and are made from the wrong steel. Sometimes the handles or jaws of such specimens simply break during operation. It’s better to pay more, but get a high-quality and durable tool;
• There are household and professional pliers. The first ones are produced for home use, are not durable and are intended for occasional use. The latter are noticeably more expensive, but fully meet all quality requirements. It is recommended to give preference to professional samples that are guaranteed to perform all available tasks;
• It is necessary to check the tool by squeezing the handles. Ideally, the jaws should compress tightly, without gaps. The cutting edges are adjacent to each other. The movement of the jaws is soft, without resistance.

Expert opinion

Levin Dmitry Konstantinovich

You should not save on buying a tool. The result will be the need to soon go to the store again and spend money again, so it is better to immediately choose a high-quality copy, even if it is somewhat more expensive than other varieties.

Pliers

Pliers have a less extensive range of applications. Considering what the features are, let’s pay attention to the following points:

1. The main part is made using hardened steel, which can withstand significant mechanical stress. Recently, alloy steels, characterized by increased resistance to moisture, have also begun to be used.
2. The main working part is flat and may have notches.
3. The handle is made in the form of semicircular rods, which, when compressed, fit well into the hand.

Don't forget that high-quality pliers can last for a long period. However, due to the use of expensive materials and quality control at each stage, the cost increases. The main features and differences lie precisely in the shape of the working part.

Popular makes and models

The number of manufacturers producing various types of pliers is very large. When purchasing, you may find yourself in a situation where all offers are of good quality and functionality.

Let's consider several popular models:

KNIPEX KN-0306160

A tool with dielectric pads that can withstand voltages up to 1000 V. The shape of the jaws is narrowed towards the end to make it easier to work in hard-to-reach places. There are cutting surfaces and a cutout for comfortable grip of round parts.

INFORCE 200 mm 06-18-03

A convenient tool for working with electrical wires. On the cutting edges in the upper part there is a special cutout that keeps the wire itself intact, cutting only the insulation. The large size (20 cm) provides access to terminals or other parts in hard-to-reach places.

NWS CombiMax 180mm, C5.2, H2.2, K12

An excellent choice for installers of metal containers, panel elements and other work with threaded fasteners. The side cutters are combined with a special gear-type crimp that securely holds the bolt head. Comfortable handles with a projection for one-handed operation.

Delo Techniki 413160 160 mm

Lightweight and convenient tool with massive stops on the top of the handles to prevent slipping. Optimal for installation work in narrow, hard-to-reach places. Weight is only 150 g. The shape of the jaws is narrow, curved, making it easier to install small elements.

STANLEY CONTROL-GRIP 200 mm

Classic-type pliers with comfortable insulated handles. Manufactured from carbon steel and easy to move. The weight is quite large - 400 g, which is explained by the strength and reliability of the tool.

MATRIX 16906, 200 mm

An optimal and compact example of pliers suitable for any work. They have all the necessary functions and are equipped with a groove for cutting wire on the outer sides of the jaws. Tool weight: 380 g.

NIH 2212-1-20

Pliers, which belong to the group of household tools, but in terms of functionality and quality are practically no different from professional ones. They have high stops on the handles, precise and tight connection of the jaws, and have cutters and a groove for cutting nails or wire. With a large length (20 cm) they weigh only 290 g.

Ombra 400107

A convenient tool with a smooth ride thanks to the abundant lubrication of the hinge. The handle covers have a two-component design with an anti-slip coating on the outside. With a length of 18 cm, the tool weighs 200 g. The side edges can cope with wire up to 3 mm thick.

WEDO 160 mm 41-160/30R7

The pliers are distinguished by precise German assembly, which allows you to securely clamp the thinnest materials. Made from C60 tool steel. The weight of the instrument is 300 g. Among the disadvantages is the relatively high price.

KNIPEX KN-0202180

Expensive professional tool made of tool steel 63 HRS. It undergoes forging and heat treatment, which makes the cutting edges capable of cutting through the hardest materials, even piano wire. In addition, the length of the side cutters allows you to work with cables up to 11 mm thick. Based on test results, it was determined that working with these pliers requires 35% less effort.

It is impossible and impractical to list all the quality tools. The number of offers on the market is too large. When purchasing, you should consult with a consultant who can recommend the most suitable option for existing conditions.

Best Wire Stripping Pliers

Rating:

• BAHCO wire stripping pliers made of high quality alloy steel with plastic coated handles are treated with oxidation and anti-corrosion treatment; capable of cleaning wires up to 5 mm.
• Electric pliers for stripping KRAFTOOL are made of high-quality carbon steel with plastic handles and have an anti-corrosion coating.

These products are of good quality at an average price, but can only strip wires up to 2.5 mm.

• Insulation stripping pliers “ ZUBR ELECTRIC ”, high-voltage, made of high-quality tool steel, have a durable chromium-nickel coating.

Wire stripping pliers are electrically insulating. They are suitable for use on electrical equipment with voltages up to 1000 V (AC) and 1500 V (DC).

Using such tools you can strip wires up to a maximum of 5 mm. Their mechanism allows you to remove insulation without damaging the current-carrying conductors.

Such products are safe and functional, but cannot be used for other purposes.

Tips from experienced users

To increase the service life of the tool, you should not use it for unusual work. Sometimes pliers are used as a stand when riveting metal parts with a hammer, or to hold live contacts. This leads to loosening of the hinge, and a strong spark when the contacts open can melt the jaws like welding. It is necessary to lubricate the pliers in a timely manner, wipe them from moisture with a rag, and clean them from aggressive chemical compounds. A careful and careful attitude will help keep the linings on the handles intact and increase the overall service life of the tool.

Which tool do you use most often?

PliersPliers

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.

You might be interested in: Features of dcv and acv on a multimeter

Everything must be up to standard

What you need to know about pliers?

As is known, a protective coating is applied to the surface of the pliers.

But no matter what its strength, over time the layer on the working part collapses, causing the lips to corrode.

To prevent rust formation, it is necessary to regularly lubricate the inner surface of the jaws.

It should be remembered that in the process of cutting wire, pieces often bounce off along an unpredictable trajectory, for this reason you should be careful and use safety glasses.

Types of pliers

Tools are classified according to the type of working surface:

1. Devices with elongated jaws are used to perform work in narrow and cramped spaces.
2. For electrical work, models with jaws that are elongated and curved at a certain angle are more often used.
3. Duckbill pliers are used like tweezers: their jaws have a maximum length and are strongly extended forward. Another key advantage of the model is its increased compression force.
4. When working with fragile materials, pliers are used, the working surface of which either does not have notches or is additionally equipped with a softening coating. For this type of tool, you can additionally buy soft silicone tips.
5. There are also combined models that have a special recess on the working surface that allows you to securely hold round parts. Pliers are also available with a cutting edge.
6. Sliding models will help you firmly grip hexagonal, round or square-shaped parts. The jaws of such pliers have a strong bend, and the tool itself is larger in size than models of other types.
7. Side pliers can be easily distinguished from other types by the cutter on one side of the jaws. A tool is used to cut elements from different materials: wire, plastic, sheet metal, cardboard.

When purchasing side-type pliers, check which materials the model is intended to work with, since using a tool for copper and cardboard on materials that are more rigid and durable can easily damage the tool.

Pliers with semicircular jaws are used when working with wires. The working surface of the tool may or may not have cutting edges. If edges are present, pliers can be used to cut wire material. The shape of the tool's jaws allows you to grip uneven surfaces, and therefore this type of pliers is in demand in plumbing and repair work.

A separate type of tool are dielectric models that have insulating handles, which allows the pliers to be used in live work. The permissible operating voltage must be indicated on the tool handle. Typically its value is 1000 Volts.

What are pliers for?

Standard pliers are used to hold parts of various shapes, from flat to cylindrical, for cutting, bending wire and soft rods.

Also suitable for crimping wires and lugs, they can partially replace side cutters, wrenches and pliers.

This combined tool has found application in many areas of both professional human activity and outdoor activities, for example, fishing, where it is used during the preparation of equipment.

With appropriate skill, pliers allow you to remove locking rings if you don’t have suitable pliers at hand, and to straighten and bend the edges of thin metal sheets.

In fact, the scope of application is limited solely by human imagination, and they are used in the absence of a specialized tool.

Multifunctional stripper with tester

BUY ON ALIEXPRESS -45%

Cost - US $34.89

A very interesting tool that combines the functions of three devices for working with wiring. One housing contains a voltage tester, a screwdriver with a bat, and a device for stripping wires from one to six millimeters. The tool comes in a box for storage and transportation.

Pliers: what kind of tool is this?

The name is translated from French as “clamping the rod.” Standard pliers are a multifunctional tool that is used to grip and fix various parts. They are most often sold in stores.

On each side they have jagged grooves - one or two. They are used to grip cylindrical products. To prevent slipping, a notch is provided on the surface. Often the jaws are equipped with side cutting edges.

Main functions:

• crimping terminals on wires,
• fixing parts during processing,
• holding hot objects.

Universal pliers combine several functions: pliers, side cutters and cutters.

Pliers: what are they used for?

In short: for gripping and clamping parts of various shapes, including cylindrical ones. They are used in electrical installation, processing of metals, wood, plastic, rubber, glass and other plumbing work. They are used in the installation of various structures, as well as in the installation of plumbing equipment, kitchen appliances, and electrical wiring.

Important: to eliminate the risk of electric shock, electrical manipulations can only be performed with dielectric pliers that can withstand a certain voltage level.

Some models provide adjustable jaw compression force. This is achieved by moving the hinge into a special groove, which adjusts the opening width. This function is useful if the part dimensions are larger than what a standard tool can handle.

The best models according to Domovushkin:

• Topex 160 mm . The most practical model for household needs. Rubber handles, carbon steel jaws.
• CombiMax for cutting wire of any hardness. Very comfortable. The cutting edges are inductively hardened.
• PRO Connect 12-4611-4 . Reliable, durable. The handles are covered with PVC.
• Vira 397017 . Dielectric pliers with sharp cutting edges. The length of the working part is 160 mm.
• Haupa 211200 180mm . Dielectric, chrome plated and reinforced cutting edges.