Best Locking Pliers
Locking pliers are an essential tool for every DIY enthusiast, handyman, and professional worker. They are versatile, allowing you to grip, hold, and twist various objects with ease. In 2023, there are numerous options on the market, which can make choosing the best one a challenge. To help you pick the right tool, we have researched and compiled a list of the top locking pliers available in 2023.
Types of Locking Pliers
There are several types of locking pliers available, each designed for specific applications or materials. Some of the most common types include:
- Straight Jaw Locking Pliers: These pliers have straight, flat jaws that are ideal for gripping flat or square materials. They are versatile and suitable for various tasks, such as holding metal sheets or pipes.
- Curved Jaw Locking Pliers: Curved jaw pliers have a rounded gripping surface, making them perfect for holding round or irregularly shaped objects. They are commonly used in plumbing, automotive, and construction applications.
- Long Nose Locking Pliers: These pliers feature a long, needle-nose tip, which is ideal for reaching into tight spaces or holding small parts. They are commonly used in electrical work and precision tasks.
- C-Clamp Locking Pliers: These pliers resemble a C-clamp, with a wide opening and deep throat to hold larger workpieces. They are ideal for woodworking, metalworking, and welding applications.
- Sheet Metal Locking Pliers: These pliers have wide, flat jaws specifically designed for gripping and forming sheet metal. They are commonly used in metal fabrication and HVAC work.
Key Factors to Consider
When buying locking pliers, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best tool for your needs:
- Jaw Type: Select the appropriate jaw type based on the materials and applications you'll be working with. For instance, choose curved jaw pliers for round objects and straight jaw pliers for flat materials.
- Size: Locking pliers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 4 inches to 12 inches. Consider the size of the objects you'll be working with and the space constraints of your work area when choosing the right size.
- Material and Build Quality: High-quality locking pliers are made from durable materials, such as high-carbon steel or chrome-vanadium steel, to withstand heavy use and resist corrosion. Look for pliers with a robust construction and a reliable locking mechanism.
- Adjustability and Ease of Use: Choose locking pliers with an easy-to-use adjustment screw that allows you to set the jaw width precisely. Additionally, look for pliers with ergonomic handles and a release lever for comfortable use and easy release of the workpiece.
- Price and Warranty: While more expensive locking pliers often provide better quality and durability, it's essential to find a pair that offers the best value for your budget. Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this can be a good indicator of the product's quality and longevity.
Our Top Picks of 2023
Here are some of the best locking pliers available in 2023, catering to various needs and budgets:
1. VISE-GRIP Original
Key Features:
- Classic Trigger Release
- Hardened teeth for maximum grip
- Adjustable pressure and fit
- ProTouch grip for comfort
The VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers have been a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts for decades. These pliers feature a classic trigger release that provides maximum locking force, ensuring that your grip will not slip even under heavy pressure.
The hardened teeth of the pliers are designed to grip a variety of surfaces, from flat to round, and even hexagonal shapes. The adjustable pressure and fit allow you to customize the pliers to your specific needs.
One of the standout features of the VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers is the ProTouch grip. This grip is designed for comfort and to reduce hand fatigue, making it perfect for extended use.
2. Knipex Cobra Locking Pliers
Key Features:
Self-locking mechanism
Fine adjustment for optimum adaptation
Box-joint design for high stability
Special hardened gripping teeth
Knipex is known for producing high-quality tools, and their Cobra Locking Pliers are no exception. These pliers feature a self-locking mechanism that allows for easy and secure gripping of objects without the need for excessive hand pressure.
The fine adjustment mechanism ensures that the pliers can be adapted to different sizes and shapes of objects with ease. The box-joint design increases the stability of the pliers, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
The special hardened gripping teeth provide a strong grip on various materials, including hardened steel. If you're looking for a reliable and durable set of locking pliers, the Knipex Cobra Locking Pliers are a fantastic choice.
3. Milwaukee Torque Lock
Key Features:
- Torque Lock for faster setup and easy release
- Hardened jaws for increased gripping power
- Rust protection finish
- Overmolded grips for comfort and durability
Milwaukee's Torque Lock Locking Pliers are designed with the user in mind. The Torque Lock feature allows for faster setup and easy release when compared to traditional locking pliers. This innovative design can save you valuable time and effort during your projects.
The hardened jaws of the pliers provide a strong and secure grip on various materials, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. The rust protection finish ensures that the pliers will remain in excellent condition even after prolonged exposure to moisture.
The overmolded grips are not only comfortable but also durable, ensuring that your hand will not slip during use. If you're looking for a reliable set of locking pliers with a modern design, the Milwaukee Torque Lock Locking Pliers are a great option.
4. CHANNELLOCK Griplock
Key Features:
- Special jaw design for versatile gripping
- Adjusting screw for precise pressure control
- Guarded release trigger for safety
- High-carbon steel construction for durability
The CHANNELLOCK Griplock Locking Pliers are known for their unique jaw design, which offers versatile gripping capabilities. The special jaw design allows you to grip objects of various sizes and shapes with ease.
The adjusting screw enables you to control the pressure applied by the pliers precisely, ensuring that you have the perfect grip for your specific needs. The guarded release trigger provides an added layer of safety by preventing accidental release during use.
Constructed from high-carbon steel, these pliers are built to last and can withstand the demands of heavy-duty applications. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile set of locking pliers, the CHANNELLOCK Griplock Locking Pliers are worth considering.
5. TEKTON Locking Pliers Set
Key Features:
- 3-piece set for various applications
- Quick-release lever for easy adjustments
- Forged and hardened steel construction
- Comfortable non-slip grips
The TEKTON Locking Pliers Set offers a variety of pliers designed for different applications. This 3-piece set includes a 7-inch straight jaw, a 10-inch curved jaw, and a 6.5-inch long nose locking plier.
The quick-release lever on each of the pliers makes it easy to adjust the grip and release objects quickly. The forged and hardened steel construction ensures that the pliers are durableand can withstand the rigors of regular use.
The comfortable non-slip grips provide added control and reduce hand fatigue during extended use. If you're looking for a versatile set of locking pliers suitable for various tasks, the TEKTON Locking Pliers Set is an excellent choice.
6. Stanley MaxSteel
Key Features:
- Bi-material handle for a comfortable grip
- Adjustable jaw for versatile gripping
- Built-in wire cutter
- Chrome vanadium steel construction
Stanley's MaxSteel Locking Pliers are designed with user comfort and versatility in mind. The bi-material handle offers a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended use.
The adjustable jaw makes it easy to grip objects of various sizes and shapes, while the built-in wire cutter adds an extra level of functionality. The chrome vanadium steel construction ensures that the pliers are durable and can withstand the demands of heavy-duty applications.
If you're looking for a comfortable and versatile set of locking pliers, the Stanley MaxSteel Locking Pliers are a solid option.
7. Crescent Locking Pliers Set
Key Features:
- 5-piece set for various applications
- Curved jaw design for maximum gripping power
- Compound action for non-slip locking grip
- Nickel-plated finish for corrosion resistance
The Crescent Locking Pliers Set offers a wide range of pliers designed for different applications. This 5-piece set includes a variety of sizes and styles, such as curved jaw and long nose pliers.
The curved jaw design provides maximum gripping power on a variety of surfaces, while the compound action ensures a non-slip locking grip. The nickel-plated finish offers corrosion resistance, ensuring that the pliers will remain in excellent condition even after prolonged exposure to moisture.
If you're looking for a versatile and durable set of locking pliers, the Crescent Locking Pliers Set is a great choice.
8. DEWALT Locking Pliers
Key Features:
- One-handed operation for convenience
- Trigger release for easy locking and unlocking
- Chrome vanadium steel construction for durability
- Ergonomic bi-material handle for comfort
DEWALT's Locking Pliers are designed for convenience and ease of use. The one-handed operation allows you to lock and unlock the pliers quickly, making it easy to switch between tasks.
The trigger release ensures that the pliers can be locked and unlocked with ease. The chrome vanadium steel construction guarantees that the pliers are durable and can withstand the demands of heavy-duty applications.
The ergonomic bi-material handle offers a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended use. If you're looking for a convenient and comfortable set of locking pliers, the DEWALT Locking Pliers are worth considering.
9. IRWIN VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking Pliers
Key Features:
- Fast-release mechanism for easy operation
- Hardened teeth for maximum grip
- Adjustable pressure and fit
- ProTouch grip for comfort
The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking Pliers are designed for easy and efficient use. The fast-release mechanism allows you to lock and release objects quickly, saving you time and effort during your projects.
The hardened teeth provide maximum grip on various surfaces, while the adjustable pressure and fit ensure that you can customize the pliers to your specific needs. The ProTouch grip is designed for comfort and to reduce hand fatigue, making it perfect for extended use.
If you're looking for a set of locking pliers that are easy to use and efficient, the IRWIN VISE-GRIP Fast Release Locking Pliers are a fantastic choice.
10. Craftsman Locking Pliers
Key Features:
- One-handed operation for convenience
- Adjustable jaw for versatile gripping
- Forged alloy steel construction for durability
- Comfortable grip for reduced hand fatigue
Craftsman's Locking Pliers are designed with user convenience and versatility in mind. The one-handed operation allows you to lock and unlock the pliers quickly, making it easy to switch between tasks.
The adjustable jaw makes it simple to grip objects of various sizes and shapes, while the forged alloy steel construction ensures that the pliers are durable and can withstand the demands of heavy-duty applications.
The comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue during extended use, making these pliers a great option for those who frequently work with locking pliers. If you're looking for a convenient and versatile set of locking pliers, the Craftsman Locking Pliers are a solid choice.
Conclusion
Locking pliers are a must-have tool in any toolbox, offering versatility and convenience for a wide range of tasks. When choosing the best locking pliers for your needs, consider factors such as jaw type, size, material and build quality, adjustability and ease of use, as well as price and warranty.
By selecting a pair of locking pliers from a reputable brand and considering the factors mentioned in this guide, you can ensure that you invest in a high-quality, reliable tool that will serve you well for years to come.