Best Diagonal Pliers for the Money | 7 Reviews & Buying Guide
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Are you looking for the best diagonal pliers money can buy? We know you’re busy. So we did all the work for you. We cover their price, size, grip, handle material, and durability in-depth like no one else does.
Diagonal pliers have one primary purpose – cutting wire. They are not meant to pull or grip wire as their jaws are razor sharp. With these, you get an exact cut, and while it is accurate other pliers can cut wire, they are not nearly as accurate.
As with all tools, some good and bad models to choose from, and some aren’t worth the money. So, we took it upon ourselves to scour the market to see what was available. The net result being we filtered it down to the top 7.
We have written a detailed review of each model, but if you don’t have the time to read it all, we have laid them out side-by-side in our Comparison Table, where I have scored them and chosen the Best Overall and Best Value options. At the bottom of the article, you will find our Buyers Guide packed full of top tips, so you buy the right pair of diagonal pliers.
Comparison of Our Favorite Diagonal Pliers
| Image | Model | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top
Top | Klein Tools D248-9ST | Check Price | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
Top | IRWIN VISE-GRIP (2078306) | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 (Best Value) |
Top | CRAFTSMAN | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
Top | Crescent 8” PS5429C | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
Top | iExcell 4.5” | Check Price | 4.5 / 5 |
Top | Channellock 436 | Check Price | 4.7 / 5 |
Top | TEKTON PCT00007 | Check Price | 4.6 / 5 |
Best Diagonal Pliers – Reviews
1. Klein Tools D248-9ST (BEST OVERALL)
- Our first recommendation is a relatively expensive pair of pliers. It has a high leverage design, which makes it suitable for several projects. This 9-inch cutter is made of steel, which makes it highly durable and reliable.
- The construction is unique and different from the average set of diagonal pliers. It has short jaws and beveled cutting edges, which allow users to cut wires tactfully and closely. This product only weighs 0.7 ounces, which is conducive while working on raised platforms.
- The edges are induction-hardened, allowing you to cut for a long time and the pliers to stay sharp for a relatively longer duration. Also, this product comes with plastic-dipped handles for comfortable usage and ease of identification. You do not want to spend ages looking for a tool and ruin your schedule.
- You should also note that these pliers were designed for rebar work and are therefore popular with ironworkers. Users enjoy a 13-degree angled head when working in confined spaces. This product also has a hot-riveted joint, which ensures smooth operation and eliminates unnecessary wobbling.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. IRWIN VISE-GRIP 2078306 (BEST VALUE)
- IRWIN is one of the major producers of industrial tools, having been around for several years. You can therefore stay assured that these diagonal pliers will measure up to your standards. Retailing at below ten dollars, this item is made of steel, showing you just how durable it is.
- One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for any pliers is the grip. Luckily, this product comes with ProTouch grips that offer users added comfort during usage and reduces overall fatigue.
- The cutting edge is also made to precision thanks to induction hardening. This enables the edge to stay sharper for a longer time. To offer you maximum cutting strength, this product has machined and well-made jaws.
- It is also worth noting that this first recommendation has met and even exceeded all ANSI specifications. It is also highly portable, with a record weight of 0.8 ounces. You can, therefore, easily take this tool along with you.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Further Reading: 9 Different Types of Pliers – Which One is Right For You?
3. CRAFTSMAN Diagonal Cutting Pliers
- In case you are looking for aesthetically-pleasing diagonal cutters, here is an end to your search. This fantastic tool from Craftsman cutters offers you what you need at a relatively lower price. It is perfectly designed to increase cutting force thanks to the compound action design, beating standard cutting pliers.
- To ensure that you are comfortable and enhance smooth action, it comes with multi-zone bi-material grips that are perfectly designed and well-made. In case you are big on durability, this product has your interest at heart.
- It is made of forged steel, which provides strength and durability for efficient usage. Users also get induction hardened edges to save them the stress of occasional sharpening. At 8 inches and 11.3 ounces, these pliers are highly portable.
- This product also comes with a warranty to save you from unnecessary costs and disappointment.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Further Reading: 5 Best Fencing Pliers -Reviews & Buyers Guide
4. Crescent 8” PS5429C
- You will have come across Crescent when shopping for tools. Like most brands in this review, it is one of the most trusted industrial tools manufacturers. This fourth recommendation is an eight-inch diagonal cutter from this prominent brand.
- This polished tool weighs only 0.23 kilograms. It has an ergonomic grip, which offers users the level of comfort and efficiency necessary. With polished and well-thought-out colors, it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing products on our list.
- The construction is top-notch. It has a compound leverage design, which offers a 50% increase in cutting power. This design also provides users added comfort, making this product extremely easy to use. It also provides a broader contact area that spreads out the load of the grip against the fingers and the palm for greater comfort and control.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. iExcell 4.5”
- This is one of the most comfortable wire cutters on our list. It acts as a repair tool owing to its versatility and design. It is quite different from most of the products on our list, which are more than six inches.
- This product weighs only 85g, small enough for easy operation in raised platforms. You don’t have to strain while going about your projects since it can be easily operated using one hand as y0u work with the other.
- It comes with spring-loaded handles, making it convenient to use. You won’t have to force it to open when cutting a piece of wire or close after cutting. The handles are covered with soft PVC, which adds to the overall comfort of the user.
- One of the useful considerations that one ought to make when buying any pliers is the material used. Luckily, this product is made of High-Quality Chrome-Vanadium steel that assures you of quality.
- Both electricians and jewelers can use this product. Its versatility allows for cutting zip ties, thin wires, headpins, tiger tails, beadings, among many other things
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Channellock 436
- Our second last recommendation is these outstanding diagonal pliers from Channellock. This highly durable tool is made of stainless steel, which makes it immune to rust. Its handles are reinforced with bright colors for easier identification.
- One of the essential parts of every pair of pliers is the edge. Fortunately, this product has Laser heat-treated cutting edges that last longer than standard cutting pliers. While still on the cutting edge, it comes in a knife and anvil cutting style, which offers users a superior cutting experience.
- It is made of High-carbon C1080 steel, which also adds to its performance, making it one of the best options on our list. It also has a special coating on the steel construction for ultimate rust protection. This product is made to precision for those who love quality items.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. TEKTON PCT00007
- Our final product is this superb diagonal cutter from TEKTON. It is highly versatile and can be used to cut through several materials such as copper, aluminum, and soft steel wire, whether in stranded or braided form.
- It is made to high standards thanks to the induction-hardened blades hardened to HRC 58-64, offering users superior cutting performance and durability. You want to avoid the hassle of getting a new diagonal cutter all the time.
- When it comes to construction, this product has a stout and robust build and will not, therefore, bend easily or twist unnecessarily when pressure is applied. The unique body is made possible by the choice of material used to make the pliers.
- On comfort, this product boasts of broad, gently rounded handles that have slim and nonslip grips offering users a comfortable squeeze. You can squeeze this product as hard as you want as you go about your projects. Thanks to the build, this product can cut up to 4 AWG wire easily. It is also compact enough for easier portability. Users love the fact that it offers them value for their money
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Video: What are Diagonal Pliers Used For?
Diagonal Pliers Buyers Guide
Buyers need to consider certain factors when shopping for different tools. Not all fencing pliers have the same qualities, and therefore before you set out to shop, make sure that you have a list of factors. Knowing what to look out for in a tool will save you unnecessary disappointment and stress. Let’s take a look at some of these factors.
Warranty
Warranty is a massive factor of consideration that should not be overlooked. This is a written guarantee by the manufacturer that it is willing to repair the item or replace it if any problem within a given duration of time.
Therefore, a warranty will save you any repair or maintenance cost if your tool starts malfunctioning, provided that it is within the given duration. It also reveals the manufacturer’s trust in the product in question since nobody can offer an extended warranty period on a faulty product. Therefore, make sure that you settle on diagonal pliers with an extended warranty cover, preferably two or more years.
Performance
We all want tools that can perform excellently, saving us both time and effort. Therefore, when buying diagonal pliers, one of your main concerns should be cutting-edge performance. Ensure that the pliers you settle on can cut through relatively more rigid materials such as wires.
If the product has an inferior cutting edge, the chances are that you will end up disappointed and angry. You will have spent money on a tool that cannot deliver. The better the cutting edge, the better the pliers.
Customer reviews
This should be your starting point, whether you are buying a tool online or from the store. We all want to know how previous buyers feel about the tools that we are yet to purchase. Ensure that you look up consumer feedback and reviews.
Consumer feedback will help you know whether a tool is durable or not. You will also learn whether it is valid or will give you loads of stress during usage. Some customers even go ahead to provide the pros and cons, which should simplify the decision-making process.
Therefore, settle on the tool with lots of positive reviews. We also encourage that you look at the number of reviews. Do not rely on one or a couple of thoughts to make up your mind. Try and find out what different consumers think about the product and some areas that need improvement.
Handle
The handle of your pliers dictates whether you will be comfortable or not. You don’t want to end up with blisters after a short while or lose grip of your tool. The handle will also dictate whether you will have an easy time doing a specific task or not.
You need to settle on a tool with an ergonomic handle if you want to be relaxed and comfortable as you go about your projects. Also, ensure that the pliers have extra padding on the handles to prevent blisters and wounds from interfering with your work.
Price
There is everything for everyone, just like the old saying goes. Diagonal cutters come at different prices, depending on your budget and the amount you can comfortably spend. The features and the brand determine costs.
However, all said and done, the best diagonal cutter should offer you value for your money. Therefore, if you spend a significant amount on one, make sure that it is directly proportional to what you will get.
Value for money means that the tool should be durable to save you the stress of future replacement and maintenance. Luckily, most diagonal cutters have a fair price as compared to most of the tools out there. Ensure that you settle on one that is within your budget without making a compromise on some of the essential features.
Ease of use
The ease of use speaks volumes about a tool. We all want something that will help us handle our projects faster without applying lots of energy. This is usually dependent on the design of the device. Ensure that the diagonal pliers have a comfortable handle. It should also be sturdy enough to accord you the level of grip necessary.
Also, think about where you will be working. If it is a narrow space, make sure that you get relatively more minor pliers.
Conclusion
Our Best Overall pick:
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Best Value choice:
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
We hope you have found this article helpful in searching for suitable diagonal pliers for your needs. Our job is to present you with what we think are the best options available, rather than tell you to go and buy this model or that one. Making a purchase is a personal choice, but we hope we have given you enough information to make the right decision.
Here are some other articles you may like:
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Here are our top Slip Joint Plier Picks
| Image | Title | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | SK Tools (Model SKT-7208) Combination Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.9 /5 (Best Overall) |
 | Stanley 84-026 Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) |
 | IRWIN VISE-GRIP Slip Joint Plier 8-Inch (2078408) | Buy Now | 4.7 / 5 |
 | Channellock 528 Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.7 / 5 |
 | CRAFTSMAN Pliers 8 & 10-Inch (CMHT82547) | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | GEARWRENCH Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | DeWalt (DWHT71924) Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | Klein Tools D511-8 Slip-Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.4 / 5 |
 | TEKTON Slip Joint Pliers | 37122 | Buy Now | 4.3 / 5 |
 | Wilde Tool G262FP.NP Slip Joint Pliers | Buy Now | 4.2 / 5 |
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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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