Pliers, Wrenches and Gripping Tools

Pliers by job: grip, cut, bend or clamp

Pliers are specialists. Slip-joint and combination pliers are general grippers, long or bent nose pliers reach into tight spots and bend wire, and diagonal cutters only cut. Tongue-and-groove pliers open wide for pipe and large nuts, and locking pliers clamp shut and stay clamped. Length sets leverage and jaw capacity: around 4 to 6 inches suits electronics and fine work, while 9 to 10 inches is a typical general size. Handles range from steel to dipped plastic, TPR and fiberglass.

Adjustable or fixed wrench: the jaw-capacity trap

An adjustable wrench is sold by length, but the number that decides whether it fits is jaw capacity, the widest nut it can open. A 10 inch wrench opens wider than a 6 inch one, yet the long handle is no substitute for a snug fit. Set the jaw tight on the flats and pull so the force is carried by the fixed jaw. Fixed open-end, box-end and socket-style wrenches hold the corners better and are kinder to worn fasteners.

Mind the standard on loose items. Wrenches, sockets and hex keys come in inch and metric sizes, so confirm which one a listing uses. Read the pack quantity too, because some listings are multi-packs of one tool rather than a graded range. Chrome vanadium and alloy steels are tougher than plain steel for the same jaw thickness, while a non-slip jaw profile suits rounded nuts but can mark clean ones.

Questions about Pliers, Wrenches and Gripping Tools

What size adjustable wrench should I buy?

A 10 inch wrench handles most household and automotive nuts, an 8 inch one suits smaller work and tight spaces, and 12 to 15 inch models take large nuts and pipe fittings. Check the stated jaw capacity rather than relying on length alone, since designs differ.

Can I use pliers instead of a wrench on a nut?

Avoid it where you can. Pliers grip at two points and their serrated jaws dig into the corners, rounding the nut so a proper wrench no longer fits. Use a six-point socket or box wrench when you can, and keep pliers for round stock, wire and clamping.

Are cutting pliers meant for hardened wire?

Check the listed cutting capacity. Standard side cutters and linemen's pliers handle soft copper and mild steel wire, but hardened wire such as piano wire or screws can notch the edges. Look for a stated capacity and hardened cutting edges before cutting anything harder than soft wire.