Made for twisting wires, gripping round objects (such as pipes), cutting wires, and the like, pliers have always been a man’s best friend when it comes to garage tools. Even those who are not that into DIY projects would have at least a pair or two of pliers at home.
However, having a whole set of pliers makes jobs easier, regardless of what you’re handling. The different head shapes are built for various kinds of jobs. In this article, we’ll look at some plier sets that you might find useful.
Channellock Tool Roll-5E E Series Set in a Tool Roll
The Channellock Tool Roll-5E E Series Set in a Tool Roll is a 5-piece kit that’s made in the USA with specially-designed grips that make each plier comfortable to use. What’s more, the sleek and lightweight design will help you feel less fatigued when gripping them.
As for the design, the knife and anvil style cutting edge will help with their durability, grip, and cutting capability. Moreover, each of the pliers have XLT Xtreme Leverage Technology so you don’t have to exert too much effort when handling them, when compared to regular pliers. What’s more, the case has a mesh container that houses each of the five pliers for easy access, and also provides secure placement for them.
The tool kit contains the pliers E348, E338, E318, 358, and GL10, with the longest of them at 12 inches in length. Since the case can be rolled, you don’t have to bring the entire set to the job site or working area. You can just bring some tools and the rolled case with you and it will fit easily in a small bag or pocket.
Things I Like About This Product: Because these tools have a high torque function, they are a big help during tough and labor-intensive clamping jobs.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The linesman pliers may have a bit of gap when closed and the paint on the handles might not be that great on some batches.
Irwin VISE-GRIP 2078714 8-Piece Pliers Set with Case
If you’re looking for more tools in a plier set, you’ll like the Irwin VISE-GRIP 2078714 8-Piece Pliers Set with Case. This set contains a bent nose (5 inches), flat nose (5-1/4 inches), flush-cut diagonal (4-1/2 inches), lineman’s pliers (4-3/4 inches), needle nose (5-1/2 inches), standard diagonal (4-1/2 inches), long nose (5-1/4 inches), and an end nipper (4-1/4 inches).
Because they all meet or exceed ANSI specifications, these pliers are job site-worthy and are meant to tackle difficult tasks. Due to the ProTouch Grips, they have a non-slip grip that will allow you to get more done with less fatigue. I like that the case has molded compartments for each of the pliers, allowing you to keep them easily organized when traveling.
What’s more, each of the pliers are made with durable chrome vanadium. This allows the pliers to stay sharp for a long time due to the induction-hardened cutting edge. Moreover, the jaw grip is spring-loaded to reduce tiresome handling with the pliers and to provide you with more control.
Things I Like About This Product: There are many pliers in this set so you can use it for a wide variety of applications. The spring-loaded mechanism and the non-slip grip will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Although the plier set case has a molded design, it might still cause the tools to fall off if you’re not careful, since they don’t have a strap.
Workpro 5-Piece Pliers Set with Storage Pouch
For those who want a simple kit, you’ll like the Workpro 5-Piece Pliers Set with Storage Pouch. This set has a foldable storage pouch that’s easy to take with you to the job site. Included in the kit is a long nose (6 inches), diagonal (6 inches), groove joint (8 inches), linesman pliers (7 inches), and a slip joint (6 inches).
Each of the pliers have hardened cutting edges to reduce the effort needed to use them. Moreover, the corrosion-resistant fine polishing will keep them durable for long-term use. The 50CrV steel also keeps the pliers durable while the heat-treated and blackening surface maintains its hardness just fine.
When it comes to the handle, it has a non-slip grip thanks to the bi-material handle, making it comfortable to work with. Their unique 3-color design reduces the chances of losing or mixing them in with other sets.
Adding to the durability features is the transparent electrophoretic coating. As for the case, it is made with 600D oxford fabric that won’t easily tear apart through job site abuse. Each of the pliers is 45-50 HRC heat-treated for added sturdiness.
Things I Like About This Product: The pliers have durable steel construction and a bi-material handle for a secure grip.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The channel locks are a bit loose and due to being a rivet-style, adjusting them may be a challenge.
Channellock Tool Roll-8 Professional Pliers Set
If you’re searching for a professional kit, you’ll find the Channellock Tool Roll-8 Professional Pliers Set to be a good choice. Channellock is a great brand when it comes to durable pliers and this set proves that. They all use Channellock Blue grips to keep hand fatigue at bay and they are all specially coated for corrosion protection.
It uses high-carbon steel for each of the tools, which contain a tongue & groove (6.5, 9.5, and 12 inches), a long nose (8 inches), adjustable wrench (8 inches), end cutting plier (7 inches), XLT linemen’s (9.5 inches, and diagonal cutting plier (7 inches).
Being cased in a vinyl pouch, they’ll stay put, also thanks to the secure design on each tool pocket. Because the cutting edges and teeth are laser heat-treated, their sharpness is long-lasting. Moreover, the streamlined design of the cutting pliers adds strength.
What I like about this set is the inclusion of a wide adjustable wrench that’s handy for big jobs despite its compact design. From the sets mentioned above, this is the only kit that has a wrench included, which will help with clamp tasks.
Things I Like About This Product: This set includes a lot of tools, all of which are specially coated for corrosion protection and are heat-treated for sharpness. They also include a handy adjustable wrench for handling big jobs.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The rolling case may sometimes be a bit tricky to fold.
GearWrench 7-Piece Dual Material Mixed Plier Set
A kit containing black and red colored handles, the GearWrench 7-Piece Dual Material Mixed Plier Set is made from alloy steel for durability without making it too heavy. Because the jaws were machine-processed, they have a precise tolerance and fit for your specific needs, whether it’s on the job site or with DIY projects at home.
I like that the rounded inside edges on the handles help you to have a better grip on each of the tools. Likewise, the grips have textures on them, which is good news for people with sweaty hands (or those who wear gloves). Adding to the secure grip is the dual material design of the pliers.
Included in the set are diagonal cutting pliers, long nose, lineman’s pliers, tongue and groove (with 2-1/2-inch jaw capacity and 7 positions), mini diagonal cut pliers, mini long nose pliers, mini end cutting pliers, and mini thin needle nose pliers.
Like most of my picks above, it also comes in a case, although it is a plastic tray with 18-1/2 x 15 x 1-inch dimensions. This molded tray will keep the pliers from going all over the place, making it a presentable enough to gift someone for the holidays.
Things I Like About This Product: Aside from the dual-material handle, the textured grips will also help to decrease user fatigue.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The storage tray is only ideal for presentation purposes since it isn’t foldable like the above-mentioned plier sets.
Craftsman Evolv 5 Piece Pliers Set
For those who prefer a simple kit, you will like the Craftsman Evolv 5 Piece Pliers Set. It includes diagonal pliers, long-nosed, and slip joint pliers, all at 6 inches, while it also has 7-inch lineman’s pliers and 8-inch groove joint pliers. These tools are among the most basic pliers that you’ll need for general jobs around the house.
Each of them have ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip. Since they are bright green in color, they will be easy to spot in dark areas and job sites. The tools are ideal for entry-level mechanics as well as weekend warriors who just want to have a plier set at home for DIY tasks.
The rubber-covered handles are a great extra grip during long hours of usage. As well, this will help if you’re working with sweaty hands or wearing gloves. Each of the pliers were built precisely, so there is no space in between. Last but not the least, the pliers are backed by a lifetime warranty from Craftsman.
Things I Like About This Product: The ergonomic handles not only provide a better grip but the bright green color will make it easy to spot in a dark area – ideal for basement repairs.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The clamshell packaging is a bit difficult to work with when you first open it.
Knipex 4-Piece Plier Set
The Knipex 4-Piece Plier Set is ideal for the weekend warrior as a basic set for DIY needs. They are solidly-built and forged well for all your twisting and cutting needs.
This set comes with 8-inch long nose pliers with a 12 AWG stripping hole, a 10-inch diagonal cutter, 8-inch combination pliers, and 10-inch cobra adjustable pliers. Because the tools are made in Germany, you’re assured of quality with its manufacturing process.
Each of the tools are made with precision and comfort in mind, such as the extra-long handles on the diagonal cutters. Moreover, the needle-nose pliers have a good width for better reach. Likewise, the lineman’s pliers have good precision for electrical repairs and the slip joint pliers are made just right for a wide variety of bolts and nuts.
I also like that the cobra grip adjustable pliers have a slim fit without making it too awkward to hold. This is perfect for people with small hands that may have trouble with standard pliers. Due to the push-button mechanism for the opening adjustment, it is easy to deal with when it comes to tweaking and saving time. The entire toolset is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: All of the pliers have long and slim handles, which are easier to hold than bulky ones.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The handles are made of plastic so they might become a bit slippery during long hours of use.
Workpro 4-Piece Snap Ring Pliers Set
Made with hardened CR-V steel, the Workpro 4-Piece Snap Ring Pliers Set is also great for beginners and casual DIY workers at home. It has four snap ring pliers, all measuring 7 inches but with different designs – internal and external straight jaw, and external and internal bent jaw.
With a tip diameter of 5/64 inch, it has a 29/32 to 1-25/32-inch internal range and a 29/32 to 1-25/32-inch external range. Because it has a 600D polyester roll-up pouch, it will be easy to transport to the job site or wherever you need since it will fit easily into a bag or pocket.
Because the pouch has individual fitted compartments for each of the pliers, they’ll stay snugly organized. The double-dipped handle ensures a secure yet comfortable grip for hours of work with the snap ring pliers.
What’s more, the premium spring allows less effort yet more torque when you use these tools. To add to the durability of the pliers, they are fully polished with a black finish and electrophoretic coating. They are also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: I like the large internal and external range of these snap ring pliers and the spring, which adds more torque.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: They are not for heavy-duty work and the tip is bendable in a vice grip (which can be either a pro or a con depending on your preferences).
Stalwart 75-HT3005 Utility Plier Set with Storage Pouch
Yet another neatly-rolled kit for travel or on-the-go use is the Stalwart 75-HT3005 Utility Plier Set with Storage Pouch. Each of them feature non-slip ergonomic grip handles for comfort during long hours of cutting or twisting. The construction of the pouch is well-made to keep the pliers safe and secure.
Since they are all made of chrome vanadium, they are resistant to corrosion, oxidation, and abrasion with proper storage. Likewise, they are also made with drop-forged heat-treated steel for added durability.
The set includes 6.5-inch diagonal cutting pliers, as well as lineman’s pliers, long nose pliers, and slip-joint pliers (all at 8 inches) plus a 6-inch slip joint and a 10-inch groove joint plier with a 1.5-inch jaw capacity. Moreover, the lineman’s plier has a 0.75-inch jaw capacity, the 8-inch slip joint with a 1.5-inch capacity, and the 6-inch slip joint plier with a 1-inch jaw capacity.
Things I Like About This Product: It has a rolled pouch that makes it easy to store and carry between job sites. It is also made with chrome vanadium and heat-treated steel for durability and sharpness.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: The steel is not as hard as compared to other pliers so they’re not for heavy-duty use.
Craftsman CMHT81716 6-Piece Mini Plier Set with Pouch
If you want small tools, the Craftsman CMHT81716 6-Piece Mini Plier Set with Pouch is for you. The bi-material grips are not only easy to spot in the dark but are also comfortable to hold thanks to the multi-zone textures. The drop-forged steel will help the pliers withstand work abuse for all your twisting and cutting needs.
Like most of my picks here, it comes with a case, which is zippered and slim enough to fit into bags or pockets. The set includes mini versions of standard pliers, such as lineman’s, long nose, diagonal, end cutters, needle nose, and bent long nose pliers.
If you get stuck working in tight spaces, these smaller tools will do the job, which may be otherwise troublesome for standard-sized pliers to work with.
As mini pliers, they have about 4 to 5-inch lengths, which makes them easy to store. If you’re not used to large pliers or easily get fatigued when holding them, this is a set you will like. It is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: The small size of the pliers makes them easy to use in tight areas where a standard plier set would be uncomfortable to use. They also come with a convenient case pouch.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Due to their size, they are only meant for light-duty tasks.
Monster & Master 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set
For extreme hold, the Monster & Master 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set is a great choice. This set contains curved jaw locking pliers (5, 7, and 10 inches) and long nose locking pliers (6 and 9 inches). All of them were made of heat-treated chrome vanadium steel for durability and stability on the job.
The wire cutter design on the long nose makes it easy to reach difficult areas while the non-slip locking grip keeps your material in place using compound action. What’s more, it has an adjustable screw to the handle for applying just the right clamping pressure without breaking your material.
Among its design features include a rivet solid construction for durability and a curved saw mouth for adding gripping power to your material. Likewise, it has a TPR handle that makes gripping comfortable for hours of work.
I like that each of the pliers has machined jaw teeth for keeping their constant gripping strength. The same goes for the cutting edges, which are induction-hardened for longer-lasting sharpness. They are all backed by a 30-day warranty.
Things I Like About This Product: They have great adjustability (tension screw) for the holding force, which is not easily seen in standard clamping pliers.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying This Product: Some of the bigger pliers may have inconsistent alignment.
The Methodology: What I Considered When Picking the Plier Sets Featured Above
To give you an idea of how I picked the plier sets above, here some criteria that I depended on (and you should, too):
Number of Tools Included
How many pliers do you need in one set? Most kits have about four to seven in a pack, which contains most of the common pliers, such as lineman’s, flat nose, standard diagonal, long nose, slip joint, and the like. Consider how many tools you need, especially if you tend to work with different projects.
Common Tools
Which of the pliers do you need regularly? For basic DIY jobs, you’ll need most of the common pliers I mentioned above. However, for particular tasks, you might need a specialty plier – some even having a locking mechanism or extra leverage.
Tool Length
It’s good to know the tool’s length – long tools will finish the job faster while shorter tools are applicable for tight spaces. Along with the standard-sized plier sets mentioned above, I also included some mini sets that are applicable for people who aren’t comfortable with heavier tools (or just want a set for casual use).
Tool Materials
Chrome vanadium and heat-treated steel are common materials that are used to make pliers. This makes them quality-made and corrosion-resistant while keeping their sharpness and grip.
Handle Construction
Consider plier sets that have durable handles to avoid accidents when gripping them. Fortunately, many pliers on the market have well-constructed grip handles that not only present durability but also comfort (mentioned below).
Ergonomic Handling
Comfortable and easy to use handles are an essential quality of hand tools such as pliers. To reduce user fatigue, pick a plier set with textured or rubberized handles to make sure they’re easy to grip and control, whether you’re barehanded (with sweaty hands) or wearing gloves. This assures safety and precision in your work, whether on a job site or at home doing repairs.
Resistance to Corrosion
It’s difficult to find a plier set that’s 100% rust-proof, but if it is made with quality materials, such as chrome vanadium, and if you store it properly then it will last longer.
Storage Case
Many plier sets mentioned above have a rolled case, which is great for traveling due to the lightweight feel and convenient space-saving design. Such storage cases are ideal for when you only need to carry a few of the pliers.
Adjustability Features
If your pliers are locking types, they may have adjustable knobs, which will be convenient to avoid applying too much tension onto your material. The Monster & Master 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set is an example of that.
Warranty Policy
You should know about the warranty policy and period of the plier set – some companies even offer a lifetime warranty.
Summary
My overall top pick had to be Channellock Tool Roll-5E E Series Set in a Tool Roll since it is a standard 5-piece kit that packs both durability and high torque. If you want more tools in one go, the Irwin VISE-GRIP 2078714 8-Piece Pliers Set with Case is also a decent choice – all made of chrome vanadium steel.
However, for the weekend warrior or casual DIY jobs, I’d suggest the Workpro 5-Piece Pliers Set with Storage Pouch, which has bi-material handles that stand out from the crowd. On the other hand, for heavy-duty usage, I’d recommend the Channellock Tool Roll-8 Professional Pliers Set, which also comes with an adjustable wrench not seen in most kits.
For people with sweaty hands, the GearWrench 7-Piece Dual Material Mixed Plier Set has well-made textured handle grips while the Craftsman Evolv 5 Piece Pliers Set has a bright green color that’s easy to spot in the dark.
If you prefer to work with smaller tools, you’ll like the Knipex 4-Piece Plier Set with slimmer handles and the Craftsman CMHT81716 6-Piece Mini Plier Set with Pouch with smaller-sized snappers and holders.
You may also want to check out the Workpro 4-Piece Snap Ring Pliers Set which has good torque due to the spring. For job site portability, you’d like the Stalwart 75-HT3005 Utility Plier Set with Storage Pouch. For fine-tuning your clamping torque, the Monster & Master 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set is for you.