The Best Pliers for Any Job
Most people think needle nose pliers are a specialty tool for jewelers or people who work exclusively with small electronics. Quite the contrary, a good set of needle nose pliers belongs in every basic tool chest. In fact, the first set of modern-day pliers appeared around 1857. Known originally as lineman’s pliers, these pliers are still commonly used today by electricians, linemen, and other tradespeople. Needle nose pliers, specifically, are designed to help clamp and grab when an object is small or held in a tight space. But just how small? And just how tight? These are the questions you'll need to ask when searching for a good pair of needle nose pliers. We also took quality, durability, and ease-of-use into consideration, and here are the best we found.
Dykes Needle Nose Pliers
On the nose
When you need a basic but dependable set of needle nose pliers, Dykes has you covered. With a carbon steel construction and plastic-dipped handles for comfort, these pliers are a workhorse, making them the perfect addition to any toolbox. The spring-loaded design makes these six-inch needle nose pliers easy to use by reducing the strain on your hand. The long jaws with a tapered nose are perfect for working in hard-to-reach areas and narrow spaces. These are ideal for bending wire, jewelry making, computer maintenance, electronics repair, and a lot more.
Pros:
- Small enough for quilting and needlework
- Lightweight
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Smooth surface inside jaws
- Do not close fully at the tip
Sea Striker P6 Needle Nose Pliers
Mighty tighty
Sea Striker is one of the most respected manufacturers of fishing tackle, including lures, line, and sinkers. So it only makes sense that their branded needle nose pliers would not only be perfect for fishermen, but also for anyone looking for a specialized pair of pliers to reach tight spaces. Measuring just over 4 inches long with 1.5-inch jaws, these needle nose pliers have a comfortable grip as well as serrated teeth to help hold small objects or wire sections in place.
Pros:
- Integrated wire cutter cuts line and steel leader with ease
- Plated steel construction
- Perfect for small hands
Cons:
- Not rust-proof
- No spring mechanism in the handles
EZRed Kiwi Bent Head Needle Nose Pliers
The right angle
Some people have found that normal needle nose pliers have a basic design flaw: the straight head forces your hand to block your line of sight. By altering the head of their needle nose pliers by 45 degrees and adding a notched grip, EZRed has created a truly unique and useful set of pliers. This set includes a 6-inch tool with a 1.5-inch nose and an 8-inch tool with a 3.25-inch nose. Each one features thin, spring-loaded heads & rubberized grips with built-in hand notches for ergonomic comfort.
Pros:
- Also available in two-, three-, and four-packs
- Secure hold
- Carbon steel construction
Cons:
- The larger tool has a tendency to not line up on the teeth
- No retention clip or hook to keep the pliers open
Strong Arm Tools 12-Inch Needle Nose Pliers
Size matters
One thing to look out for when purchasing needle nose pliers is how length is measured on the tool. When a set of pliers is described as “six inches,” that’s the length of the entire tool, not just the jaws. So, if you’re looking for a set of pliers with extra-long reach, make sure you look at the jaw length, like the 7-inch jaws of these pliers from Strong Arm Tools. These jaws are a full seven inches in length, allowing you to work in a variety of hard-to-reach spots and constrained areas while helping you avoid painful pinches or burning your skin.
Pros:
- Serrated jaws create a tight grip
- Anti-slip handles
- Industry-grade carbon steel construction
Cons:
- Not a lightweight tool
- Jaws are wide at the base
Craftsman 6-Piece Pliers Set
All set
If you’re dealing with electronics or are an artisan working with small materials, you need a set of mini-pliers that you can depend on every time. Craftsman, a brand that has been synonymous with quality for decades, provides the perfect set of six precision-crafted pliers. Each set includes lineman’s, long nose, diagonal, needle nose, and bent nose pliers, as well as a set of end cutters. Made from drop-forged steel, these Craftsman pliers offer serious strength and durability. Each piece also includes multi-zone, dual-material grips that provide for lasting comfort and secure grip zones.
Pros:
- Zippered nylon pouch included
- Entire set weighs less than two pounds
- Each piece just under four inches in length
Cons:
- Grips can peel after too much sun or water exposure
- No latch to keep pliers locked in place
Frequently Asked Questions
Is that space between the clamps of my pliers made for cutting wire?
If it’s there, then yes. Some pliers for electrical work are fitted with wire-cutter blades either built into the jaws or on the handles just below the pivot. Others are not. Diagonal pliers are a specific tool designed for cutting wires as well as holding them. However, not every set of pliers is designed for this purpose.
Are pliers magnetized?
Not usually. In fact, most people find that magnetized pliers are kind of a pain. However, pliers can become magnetized over time. A quick way to demagnetize pliers is to use a soldering gun, preferably the kind with a trigger. Replace the soldering tip with a loop, then pass the pliers through the loop. This should demagnetize them.
I just got my first set of new pliers. Any tips?
Here are a few. Never force your pliers beyond their clamp range. Don’t expose your pliers to excessive heat. Don’t use pliers on any live wires. Never try to cut wires with pliers that aren’t meant to cut. And finally, keep your pliers in great shape by occasionally adding a drop of oil to the joint.