Pliers

Pliers FAQ

What are pliers?

Pliers are a hand tool designed to hold or grip small objects by exerting more force than your standard hand grip. Pliers as a tool are commonly used to hold materials firmly in place, though they can also be used to cut, bend, crimp and strip, among other things.

Most pliers are made from a mix of steel alloys with additives for extra strength and to prevent corrosion, along with rubber or plastic handles for comfort and to act as an insulator so electrical currents cannot pass through them. This makes them a staple for safe electrical work.

The design of your pliers can change depending on the type of job. For example, multigrip pliers can be used to clamp pipes or rods of different shapes or to tighten or loosen fittings. A pair of end cutting pliers, with their jaw-like clamps, are used to cut through bolts and nails, to remove electrical staples or when fabricating metals.

What are pliers used for?

Pliers can be used to perform a variety of tasks, coming in a wide range of fits and designs to suit your needs. Whether you’re doing a little DIY at home or tackling those large-scale jobs onsite, you’ll find what you need right here.

Adjustable pliers, like combination or locking pliers, can be used to tighten nuts and bolts or to clamp down on wood or metal. Expanding pliers (like a pair of long nose pliers) can be used to cut, grip or bend, making them ideal for those fiddly little tasks or reaching those tight narrow spaces.

Other types, like diagonal or side cutting pliers, can also cut through metal and other materials. Although similar in nature, diagonal and side cutting pliers slightly differ when it comes to the types of jobs they can do. Side cutting pliers are best suited to bigger jobs like cutting aluminium or copper, while diagonal pliers are more commonly used for smaller tasks.

What are the different types of pliers and pincers called?

Pliers and pincers come in a range of shapes and sizes to suit a multitude of tasks—making them a great option for any tradie or professional DIY-ers toolbox.

A pair of long nose pliers is a must for any type of work that involves nooks and crannies, especially when it comes to electrical or automotive work. Long nose pliers are also known as electrician pliers, often used to strip away the outer coating of wires, and equipped with rubber handles to prevent electric shock. Electrical pliers are also useful for bending, shaping and cutting wire.

For the hardcore angler, fishing pliers in the form of side cutters or straight nose pliers are crucial for cutting lines and removing hooks. They’re also a staple in the professional tradies’ kit, along with concrete nippers, tower pincers for builders, and end cutting pliers for carpenters and metal workers.

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