Best electrician pliers

Best electrician pliers report

There is a wide range of pliers best suitable for electricians.

They are generally rated to 1000v and have a VDE approval.

What is a VDE approval?

VDE is a standard to ensure screwdrivers and other hand tools are safe to use when working with electricity. VDE takes its acronym from the German company Verband der Elektrotechnik, who are responsible for testing and certifying tools and appliances.  

What is ASTM F1505 and IEC 60900?

ASTM F1505 is the American version of the above and IEC 60900 is the International (including Australia) version  of the European specific standard. So make sure one of these standards are applicable to your pliers.

 

What are the differences between brands and types of pliers?

Size

Pliers are generally 160 to 225mm long. The size needed depends on the task being done, and the size of the persons hand doing the work. Longer pliers will give you more force when working with larger cables, but would be too cumbersome when doing delicate work. It is important that the pliers suit your hand, and main work being done. 

Type

Combination (linesman) pliers for general electrical work for cutting and twisting cable

Long nose (needle nose) pliers for grabbing hard to reach wires

Shear cut pliers are similar to combination but have a purpose designed cutter for better cable cutting

Best brands 

Knipex-Made in Germany

Crescent- Made in China/USA

Channellock-Made in USA

Klein-Made in USA

Marvel-Made in Japan

Weidmuller-Made in Germany

Fujiya-Made in Japan

Wiha-Made in Germany/Vietnam

Wattmaster-Made in Japan/Taiwan