10 Best Pliers Sets | Reviews & Buyers Guide
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Pliers are the go-to tool for any DIY project. A quality set of pliers will last a lifetime and give your thousands of uses. Our top 10 list of plier sets is based on price, utility, performance, and durability.
Welcome to our guide to the best pliers sets money can buy! Pliers are used for various tasks, so whether you are a professional or homeowner, you need a set of pliers. You may find that some functions that are not maintenance-related still require pliers, and with so many different plier sets on the market, choosing can be challenging and confusing.
If you’re out looking for pliers sets, then you know how difficult it can be to find the best ones. There are so many different brands, models, and features that it’s hard to know where to start. This blog post will show you 10 of our favorite pliers sets, including what makes them great and why they might suit your needs. We have taken into account price, durability, and customer reviews when making our recommendations.
At the bottom of the article, you will see our Buyers Guide, which should help you quickly identify which set is suitable for your needs.
Here’s the lowdown on what we’ll provide in the best pliers sets article:
- First, we show you our top 10 picks in an easy-to-read comparison table
- Then, we’ll take a good look at their features and benefits that you’ll find useful
- Next, we’ll explore some of their drawbacks you might need to know about
- And finally, we’ll give you a better insight into the product with our buyer’s guide
Sound right? Let’s get started!
Buy on AmazonComparison of our Favorite Pliers Sets
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Price | Walt's Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top
Top | IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set (2078712) | Check Price | Best Overall |
Top | CRAFTSMAN Pliers (CMHT82547) | Check Price | Best Value |
Top | CHANNELLOCK HD-1 Pliers Set | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 |
Top | Channellock GS-3 | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 |
Top | Kobalt 5-piece Pliers Set | Check Price | 4.5 / 5 |
Top | FASTPRO | Check Price | 4.2 / 5 |
Top | WORKPRO Mini Pliers Set | Check Price | 4.1 / 5 |
Top | IRWIN VISE-GRIP Pliers Set with Case (2078714) | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
Top | TEKTON Pliers Set | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 |
Top | Stalwart 75-HT3005 | Check Price | 4.2 / 5 |
Top 10 Pliers Sets | Reviews
1. IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set (2078712) (Best Overall)
- Trusted by electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and do-it-yourselfers alike; the IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set should be a staple in every home toolbox. Easily adjust these locking pliers from the open position up to the workpiece with talented ratcheting action that provides excellent torque.
- IRWIN has the right tool for any job. Take these GrooveLock Pliers, for example. They're part of an 8-piece set and features a ratcheting action that lets you adjust from the open position up to the workpiece no matter what size they are.
- Plus, they have Press-n-Slide buttons which allow quick adjustments too! You'll also find that anti-pinch ProTouch grips provide increased comfort and reduced hand fatigue so your productivity doesn't suffer while handling large projects like plumbing systems or ironwork fences.
- The kit includes all the essentials: 8, 10, and 12 adjustable pliers including an adjustable wrench, long nose pliers, linemans pliers, diagonal cutters, and slip-joint (smooth opening) pliers. And don't worry about storage - just pop these into the handy bag when not in use and tuck them away out of sight.
- The IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set is the innovative toolbox essential. It has durably constructed cutting, slip joint, long nose and linesman's pliers as well as an adjustable wrench from chrome vanadium steel, and finally, GrooveLock pliers that are crafted from Metal Injection Molding (MIM) process ensuring precise performance with recessed gripping teeth for proper alignment.
- What more could an IRWIN user want? With all this alongside a lifetime guarantee backed by IRWIN USA. This 8 piece combo set will come in your handy carrying bag to keep you prepared for any job!
2. CRAFTSMAN Pliers Set (CMHT82547) (Best Value)
- Anyone who has done any work around the house will know how important pliers are. There's always some project that cant be completed without this hand tool. Thankfully, CRAFTSMAN thought of everything and equipped these 8 and 10 pliers with soft grips for comfort and durability for lifelong use from tough jobs.
- Precision machined drop-forged steel jaws ensure secure gripping so you don't have to worry about slipping or losing an edge while getting started on your next home improvement project.
- A lifetime warranty ensures these tools will be ready when you need them most whether it calls for small- or large-scale repair work-just send 'em back if anything goes wrong!
- The CRAFTSMAN 8 and 10-inch Groove Joint Pliers Set is a stylish, multi-purpose tool. The drop-forged steel construction will keep it going strong for long periods of time with ease. Even the best plier grips can get uncomfortable, so this set comes complete with two different comfortable grip zones.
- Precision-cutting jaws make these pliers all the more essential for precision work faster than ever before. These Groove Joint Pliers are versatile, easy to use, and will be your go-to tool for completing tasks.
3. CHANNELLOCK HD-1 Ultimate 4-Piece Pliers Set
- Whether you're a professional or an at-home mechanic for the entire family, get your hands on the best pliers money can buy. The CHANNELLOCK 4 Piece Plier Set includes their most popular and general use tools such as the 9.5 inch Tongue & Groove straight jaw pliers, 8 inches long nose pliers, 7-inch diagonal cutting pliers, and 6-inch slip-joint pliers.
- CHANNELLOCK Pliers Set is the perfect choice for professionals who need strong, durable pliers that will always meet their high standards. Fancy features like patented reinforcement and laser heat treatment make it a cut above all other tools in its class.
- The 7-inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers have Extreme Leverage Technology (XLT) making cutting easier and reduces hand fatigue, whilst the 6 inches Slip Joint Pliers has a 2 position adjustment jaw accommodating various pipe sizes, serrated jaw provides a firm grip and a wire cutting shear gives more functionality.
- This professional-grade set is built to last from high carbon steel coated to reduce rusting and with PERMALOCK fasteners for added quality and durability, making it a heavy-duty solution that can handle any tough job at hand - no problem!
- With these indispensable pliers, all while carrying around just one toolbag, there is nothing that will stand in your way from getting things done right!
4. Channellock GS-3 Pliers Set
- Channellock GS-3 locking plier set comes in three different sizes, 6.5, 9.5, and 12. They are designed with teeth that grip to prevent slips and failing grips. Plus, the Permalock fastener eliminates any risk of nut and bolt failures.
- This set includes three tongue and groove pliers. 6.5 inches, 9.5 inches, and 12 inches. The right-angle laser heat-treated teeth give a better grip, the patented reinforcing edge minimizes stress breakage and the PermaLock fastener helps to eliminate nut and bolt failure.
- Channellocks GS3 pliers set will get the tough jobs done. It features a patented reinforcing edge for minimizing stress breakage, high-carbon steel for superior performance on the job, and specially coated to prevent rust from setting in. The Channellock Blue grips offer you comfort and durability that will make working long hours seem like a breeze.
- Channellock knows that trust between worker and tool is critical for success on the job, which is why they've created these high-quality pliers. A set of tools that will last the test of time with revolutionary design grips like a pro, and its tough enough to get jobs done right.
5. Kobalt 5-piece Pliers Set
- With the Kobalt 5-piece Pliers Set, you'll be ready to tackle any job up to a full inch. Constructed from heat-treated chrome-nickel steel to provide maximum strength and durability with precision machined jaws for easy use, these quality pliers will last a lifetime.
- The ergonomic bi-material anti-slip grip offers comfort and traction whether your hands are wet or dry while eliminating slippage when using the pliers at odd angles.
- All five tools combine to make light work of tight spaces with a groove joint plier and linesman plier. The alloy steel handles fit comfortably in your hand, have an anti-slip grip so you can wrench tight things without fear of dropping it, precision machined jaws for extra gripping power, and are ergonomic! A solid, sturdy set of pliers for light, commercial or industrial use with good reviews.
6. FASTPRO Utility Pliers and Wrench Set
- This FASTPRO Utility Pliers and Wrench Set is the perfect kit to help you accomplish any task from heavy-duty cuts to precision tips. The forged steel construction and machined jaws grip items securely, delivering ultimate control.
- These seven basic type pliers come in various sizes and are useful for almost any job. The set includes: 1 x 8-inch adjustable wrench, 1 x 8-inch groove joint pliers, 1 x 8-inch slip joint pliers, 1 x 6-inch diagonal pliers, 1 x 6-inch long nose pliers, 1 x 6-inch combination pliers, and 1 x 6-inch slip-joint pliers.
- The hardened cutting edges give these pliers a bit of extra strength that makes it easier for tough jobs where traditional pliers couldn't quite conquer them on their own.
- Cushioned double-dipped handles provide enough comfort that might allow your arms to last longer than they would have otherwise, so those tight spots are no match for these sturdy tools!
- Seven different type pliers in multiple sizes guarantee that this utility set has what you need at a moments notice. If you've ever thought about buying some high-quality pliers or wrenches before then stop thinking-make the investment now!
7. WORKPRO 6-piece Mini Pliers Set
- At a time when things are getting smaller and more delicate, it pays to have the right tool for the job. The WORKPRO 6-piece Mini Pliers Set is perfect for small tasks and projects since it includes a 4-inch mini diagonal, 5-inch mini long nose, 4-inch mini end cutting, 6 Inch mini needle nose, 5-inch mini lineman plier and 5 inches bent nose.
- The 6-piece mini pliers set is made of drop forged carbon steel with nickel plating, the advantages of these pliers are better rust protection and stronger corrosion resistance. The high-frequency cutting edge processing makes the pliers sharper and more durable. This perfect little kit contains all the small necessary tools for your everyday needs.
- The bi-material TPR handle will amaze you, the soft elastic handle can prevent fatigue even for the longest of hard jobs and the anti-slipping tech helps keep your tool from slipping out of your hands when it counts.
- The WORKPRO 6-piece Mini Pliers Set is the perfect tool for confined twists and turns of nuts and bolts. The pliers are equipped with double spring shrapnel, which keeps them open automatically, saving you from some of the unnecessary fatigue that other pliers can cause when opening with two or three fingers in tight areas.
- The WORKPRO Mini Pliers Set is everything you need to get small jobs done. These pliers are perfect for working with jewelry, electronics, and other smaller projects. The set contains six pieces that come in a durable carrying pouch that protects all those small tools from harm.
8. IRWIN VISE-GRIP Pliers Set with Case
- This small and durable pliers set will have a need for tons of projects around the house. Induction hardened cutting edge can stay sharp up to three times longer than standard pliers, so you'll be able to use these for years without having to worry about handling a dull blade.
- ProTouch grips will keep your hands comfortable while reducing hand fatigue due to their spring-loaded grips that are easy to grip. The convenient storage case is just icing on the cake - it's perfect for keeping everything organized and right at your fingertips!
- These pliers can be adjusted quickly by a press- n-slide button. Included in the set are 1 x 5 inch Bent Nose, 1 x 5 ¼ inch Flat Nose, 1 x 5 ¼ inch Long Nose, 1 x 4 ¼ inch End Nipper, 1 x 4 ½ inch Standard Diagonal, 1 x 4 ½ inch Flush-Cut Diagonal, 1 x 4 ¾ inch Linemans, 1 x 5 ½ inch Needle Nose and 1 x storage case.
- The Irwin Vise Grip Pliers Set with Case will let you take on more projects without hand fatigue. Get the grip, control, and power you need to get the job done. A lot of plier sets only have one shape, which is not always what you need; this set comes with all shapes and sizes in one place for easy find-and-go convenience.
- Plus there are helpful organizing features like a convenient storage case that flips closed and a handle for carrying comfort. Lastly, it has an adjustable design so handles stay tight during your project no matter how many times they're tightened-they even exceed ANSI specifications! The lifetime guarantee lets you plan ahead knowing that your tools will be reliable time after time!
9. TEKTON Pliers Set
- Introducing the TEKTON Pliers Set, an all-encompassing piece of essential equipment for any person who needs to tighten a bolt or cut wire. With 7 different pieces ranging from heavy-duty gripping & cutter pliers to needle noses, these tools are handy to have on hand at any time.
- This set includes: 2 x 7 inch and 8-inch long nose pliers, 1 x 6 inch bent long nose pliers, 1 x 7-inch diagonal cutting pliers, 1 x 8-inch end cutting pliers, 1 x 8-inch cable cutting pliers 1 x 9 ½ inch linesman pliers.
- The 7-piece TEKTON pliers set is the ultimate multi-purpose tool for both household and professional use. The crosscut teeth on the gripping pliers evenly distribute jaw force, so your hands don't tire out as quickly. Induction-hardened cutting blades (except cable cutters) offer superior cutting performance and durability.
- Get easy cuts for chains, pipes, and wire. The wire cutter pliers have curved blades made especially for holding and shearing round wire and cable. Three long nose pliers provide multiple options, from a long, slender nose (straight or bent) to a stout, strong model for tougher jobs, and linesman's flat nose pliers which makes it perfect for heavy-duty tasks around the house.
- If you've been putting off picking up a bargain set of pliers for your garage work, this is the time to strike. This 7-piece Tekton Plier Set meets all the needs of a working garage and features non-greasy, vinyl-coated gripping surfaces with secure locking when in use.
- The slim grips offer improved comfort for prolonged periods without sacrificing control during precision tasks like wire cutting. The price alone will have DIYers around the globe running to their closest store!
10. Stalwart (75-HT3005) 6 Piece Utility Plier Set with Storage
- As a handy set of pliers, the Stalwart 75-HT3005 6 Piece Plier Set is just what you need when youre working on small projects and repairs.
- With six standard type pliers in multiple sizes, its got something for any task - from cutting the cable to tightening bolts to stripping wire! The drop-forged heat-treated steel ensures that these are tough little instruments and the chrome vanadium means theyll stand up well against abrasions, oxidation, and corrosion.
- Comfortable non-slip grips make all your jobs effortless. Plus theres an included storage pouch for easy organization. Get yours today so your toolbox will never be incomplete yet again!
Video: How to Choose and Use Pliers
Best Pliers Sets – Buyer’s Guide
When choosing pliers sets, it is essential to have a reliable set for all sorts of jobs. We hope the buyer’s guide will help you to determine the right set for your needs.
Different types of pliers
As there are many different pliers, you must choose a set with the pliers you need. Otherwise, you will be spending more money on a particular pair of pliers. Different pliers are needle nose pliers, safety wire pliers, fencing pliers, and snap-ring pliers.
Durability
The critical factor is to buy a pair of pliers that are durable and made to last. An important feature is to look at the craftsmanship and the material the pliers are made out of. The last thing you want is to use a pair of pliers a few times only to find they break or go rusty. It would be best if you had them to last.
Quantity of tools included.
Sets do vary in how many pliers are included, and some have just a few while others can consist of more than 15. Consider how often you will be using the pliers. If you use them frequently for DIY around the home, a more extensive set would be more beneficial than someone who only needs them in the toolbox, just in case!
However, bigger is not always cost-effective. You don’t want to buy a large set and have pliers in it that you will never use. Look for a set of pliers that you really will find helpful, and save yourself some money.
Handles
Handle material is essential. The pliers need to be comfortable when using them and also slip-proof. When your hands are greasy, you don’t want to keep dropping them. Not only is that a waste of time, but you could weaken or break the pliers. Molded handles are suitable for jobs where you need to apply a lot of pressure as this requires a better secure grip. Dipped handles are good when you are trying to work quickly and in tight spaces.
Material
Pliers are nearly always made out of steel, but this doesn’t mean that they are all the same. Steel made in the USA is usually consistent and reliable. Other countries vary in how they blend steel, making them less robust, but that doesn’t mean you should be put off by a tool if it is made elsewhere and not in the USA.
Ability to cut
Pliers aren’t usually used for cutting, but some professionals want to cut wires. If you’re going to use pliers for cutting, then look for ones that are induction hardened. This means they will be able to withstand handling more rigid wires and won’t dent or bend. Pliers that say ‘not made for steel’ can still cut copper and aluminum but are not suitable for cutting wire.
Cost
Pliers can vary quite a bit in price, and some are expensive while others are very cheap. It seems to depend upon the material, brand, quality, and the number of tools included. It is a fact that the more money you spend, the better quality set you will get. However, if your budget doesn’t allow you to spend too much, then get a set with fewer pliers in rather than a cheap set because then you will be buying a better quality set of pliers.
Pliers Sets Conclusion
All of the plier sets reviewed have their qualities at different prices. If you use pliers regularly either as a professional or around the home, investing in a robust and durable set would be advantageous and cost-saving in the long run.
Our Best Overall IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set would do the job. They are solid and robust with anti-pinch Pro-Touch grips, quick-adjust with the press-n-slide button, ratcheting action for the open position up to the workpiece, eight pliers in a set with a kit bag, and the IRWIN lifetime guarantee. They are in the upper price bracket, but worth the money for a quality set of pliers you can trust.
If you are on a budget but still want good quality pliers but not a whole set, then our Best Value CRAFTSMAN Pliers Groove Joint Set would be ideal. Robust construction, comfortable handles with a good grip, precision machined jaws for gripping and holding, along with a lifetime warranty, good reviews, affordable price with a good brand name.
The Best of the Rest
The Irwin 8 piece set and Tekton 7 piece set are quality pliers that will last but do come out at a high price which is why they didn’t make our Best Overall.
The Channellock 3 and 4 piece pliers sets and Kobalt 5 piece sets are solid and reasonable sets to own and are in the middle price bracket.
The Workpro mini-set with storage pouch, FastPro Utility Pliers and Wrench Set, and the Stalwart Utility set with storage pouch are good quality and suitable for DIYer’s and use around the home. They are cheap and in the low price bracket.
We hope the reviews and buyer’s guide have helped you understand which pliers sets would be suitable for your use, and you can now buy with confidence.
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Here Are the Best Snap Ring Pliers for the Money
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Price | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top  | KNIPEX Tools 00 20 04 SB | Check Price | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
  | Lang Tools (3495) | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 (Best Value) |
  | IRWIN VISE-GRIP Convertible Snap Pliers | Check Price | 4.2 / 5 |
  | CRAFTSMAN Snap Ring Pliers Set | Check Price | 4.0 / 5 |
  | Channellock 927 8-Inch Snap Ring Plier | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
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