Pliers are essential tools for any homeowner or professional tradesperson. They can grip, twist, cut, and pull, making them indispensable for a wide range of tasks. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of pliers available and how to use them. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows the proper techniques for selecting and using different pliers.
Types of Pliers
Understanding the different types of pliers helps you pick the right tool for your job. Here are some common varieties.
Slip-Joint Pliers
Slip-joint pliers are versatile tools suitable for light-duty tasks. They feature an adjustable pivot point that allows the jaws to open wider to fit various sizes of nuts, bolts, and pipes. These pliers are ideal for:
- Gripping small to medium-sized objects
- Light twisting and turning tasks
- General household repairs
Tongue-and-Groove Pliers
Also known as channel-lock pliers, tongue-and-groove pliers offer greater holding power and are easier to adjust than slip-joint pliers. They have a unique channel design that allows for multiple jaw positions, making them suitable for many object sizes. Key features include the following:
- Multiple adjustment positions
- Strong gripping power
- Ideal for plumbing tasks and larger objects
Adjustable Pliers
Adjustable pliers, sometimes called pump pliers, automatically adjust to the thickness or diameter of the workpiece. This self-adjusting feature makes them incredibly versatile and easy to use. Benefits of adjustable pliers include the following:
- Quick and easy size adjustment
- Comfortable grip
- Suitable for various tasks and object sizes
Lineman’s Pliers
Lineman’s pliers are multi-purpose tools primarily used in electrical work. They can perform various tasks, such as the following:
- Gripping and twisting wires
- Cutting wires and small nails
- Making crimp connections
- Pulling nails or staples
Diagonal Wire Cutters
Also known as side cutters or diagonal pliers, these tools are best for cutting wires and small nails. They feature angled cutting edges that allow for flush cuts. Key advantages include the following:
- Clean, precise cuts on wires and small nails
- Compact design for use in tight spaces
- Reduced hand strain during repetitive cutting tasks
Needle-nose Pliers
Needle-nose pliers have long, tapered jaws that make them ideal for working in tight spaces or with small objects. They come in various sizes and configurations, offering versatility for different applications. Common uses include the following:
- Bending and shaping wire
- Gripping small objects in confined areas
- Precision work in electronics or jewelry making
Proper Techniques for Using Pliers
To get the most out of your pliers, you should employ proper techniques. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.
Gripping and Turning
When using pliers to grip and turn objects, proper orientation is key. First, position the pliers so that when you swing the handle, the top jaw follows the lower jaw. Avoid orienting the pliers in the opposite direction, as this will make the jaws open and lose their grip. For maximum grip, slide the pliers all the way onto the nut or object to create a three-corner bite.
Adjusting Pliers
Many types of pliers feature adjustable jaws to accommodate different object sizes. Here’s how to adjust them properly:
- For tongue-and-groove pliers, open the handles and slide the lower jaw to the position you need.
- With adjustable wrenches, rotate the knurled cylinder to open or close the jaws to the appropriate size.
- For self-adjusting pliers, simply place them on the object and let the mechanism adjust automatically.
Cutting with Pliers
When using pliers for cutting tasks, choose the appropriate type of pliers for the material you’re cutting (e.g., diagonal cutters for wire and end nippers for nails). Then, position the cutting edges as close to the joint as possible for maximum leverage. Apply steady pressure to make a clean cut without damaging the surrounding area.
Specialized Pliers for Specific Tasks
While general-purpose pliers can handle many jobs, some tasks require specialized tools. Here are a few examples.
Locking Pliers
You can adjust locking pliers, also known as vise-grips, to automatically clamp onto a workpiece. This feature removes the need for constant hand pressure, making them ideal for the following:
- Holding pieces together during welding or gluing
- Removing stuck or stripped screws
- Clamping materials in place for cutting or drilling
End Nippers
End nippers are made for pulling and cutting nails. Their unique jaw design allows you to securely grip nail heads, cut nails flush with surfaces, and remove embedded nails with minimal damage to surrounding materials.
Fencing Pliers
These multi-purpose tools are designed for working with wire fencing but can be useful in various applications. Fencing pliers typically include features for gripping and twisting wire, cutting wire and small nails, hammering staples, and pulling staples or nails.
Groove Joint Pliers
Groove joint or water pump pliers are versatile with their adjustable size settings, making them a go-to tool for plumbing and other tasks where you need to grip various sizes of nuts and pipes.
These pliers can be particularly useful when transitioning between different nuts or bolts on the same project. Trethewey showcases in the video how groove joint pliers can quickly adjust to different widths, saving time and effort on the job.
Pipe Wrench
A pipe wrench, also known as a Stilson, is best for plumbing tasks involving round pipes. Its unique design allows for a firm grip on cylindrical objects. Trethewey highlights the importance of adjusting the wrench to touch the pipe in three places—a technique known as the three-corner bite—so the pipe doesn’t deform during work. This method prevents leaks and helps get a proper fit.
Safety Considerations When Using Pliers
When working with pliers, always prioritize safety. Keep these precautions in mind:
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Use insulated pliers when working with electrical components, and make sure the power is off.
- Avoid using pliers as hammers or pry bars, as this can damage the tool and potentially cause injury.
- Keep your workspace clean and organized to prevent accidents.
- Always use the correct plier type for the task to avoid damaging the tool or workpiece.
Understanding the mechanical advantage and torque required for different tasks can also help you pick the right pliers and use them safely. For example, using needle-nose pliers for heavy-duty gripping can result in tool damage and strain injuries.