10Best.Guide

Channel Locks Plier

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Made in the USA with high-quality standards.
  • Good variety of pliers for general use.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Good ergonomics and performance.
  • More leverage in a simpler, more durable design.
Cons
  • Diagonal cutting pliers may not be very sharp.
  • Large tool pieces may not have a good precision fit.
Bottom Line
This is a great plier set for general work and perfect for someone who needs to start a collection of quality tools for household, vehicle, or shop maintenance. The variety covers a multitude of jobs and the pliers are all legendary ChannelLock quality with their only drawback being the occasional quality control issue.
Pros
  • Made in the USA
  • High quality and durable
  • Good grip and teeth
  • Good for daily use
  • Good for commercial and DIY jobs
Cons
  • Misaligned jaws
  • Coating causes jamming
Bottom Line
Channellock pliers are high quality and durable tools made in the USA, but some customers have experienced issues with misaligned jaws, coating causing jamming, rust stains, tough sliding, fit, QA, sharp edges, and lack of size options.
Pros
  • Made with high-quality steel
  • Made in the USA
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Versatile and multi-purpose
  • Good grip and comfortable to use
Cons
  • Some customers received rusted or damaged tools
  • Confusing labeling on the packaging
Bottom Line
Channellock pliers are a great investment for those who need durable and versatile tools. Made with high-quality steel and manufactured in the USA, they are built to last. However, some customers have received damaged or incorrect tools, so it's important to check the product carefully upon arrival.
Pros
  • Durable and long-lasting.
  • Strong grip for yanking and loosening.
  • Straight jaws are preferred by some users.
  • Handles can be used for removing stuck sink aerators.
Cons
  • Quality is slightly less than expected.
  • Tool arrived looking used.
Bottom Line
The Channellock 440 pliers are durable and long-lasting with a strong grip, but some users have reported issues with quality, construction, and smooth operation.
Pros
  • High quality and precision made
  • Soft grippy handles
  • Versatile and works well
  • Made in the USA
  • Adjustment channels don't wear out easily
Cons
  • Loose and flimsy bolt holding the jaws together
  • A ton of slop and play, very rough grinds
Bottom Line
The Channellock pliers are high quality, versatile, and made in the USA. However, some customers have experienced issues with loose bolts, rough grinds, and sideways jaws. It may be worth spending a bit more for a plier with a quick release for size adjustment.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Channel Locks Pliers: How to Choose the Best One for Your Needs

Overview

Channel locks pliers are a versatile type of hand tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from gripping and twisting to cutting and shaping. They are a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional tradesperson and come in various types, sizes, and styles. With so many options available, choosing the right channel locks pliers can be a daunting task. That's why we've put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Types

- Adjustable pliers: These are the most common type of channel locks pliers, featuring a sliding joint that allows you to adjust the jaw width to fit different sizes of objects.

- Tongue and groove pliers: These have a fixed jaw and a sliding jaw that interlock with each other, providing a strong grip on flat or round objects.

- Slip joint pliers: These have two or more pivot points that allow you to adjust the jaw width to fit different sizes of objects.

- Locking pliers: These have a locking mechanism that holds the jaws in place, making them ideal for holding objects in place while you work on them.

- V-jaw pliers: These have a V-shaped jaw that provides a better grip on round or irregularly shaped objects.

- Lineman's pliers: These are designed for electrical work and feature a cutting edge, a gripping surface, and a crimping surface.

- Electrician's pliers: These are similar to lineman's pliers but have a longer, thinner nose for reaching into tight spaces.

- Plumbing tools: These are designed for plumbing work and come in various types, including pipe wrenches, basin wrenches, and groove joint pliers.

Key Considerations

- Intended use: Consider what tasks you'll be using your channel locks pliers for. This will help you determine which type and size of pliers will be best suited for your needs.

- Jaw width: Look for pliers with a jaw width that can accommodate the sizes of objects you'll be working with.

- Material: Choose pliers made from high-quality materials, such as steel or chrome vanadium, for durability and longevity.

- Ergonomics: Look for pliers with comfortable grips and a design that reduces hand fatigue during extended use.

- Brand reputation: Choose pliers from a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality tools.

Features

- Cutting edge: Some channel locks pliers feature a cutting edge for cutting wires or other materials.

- Crimping surface: Some pliers have a crimping surface for crimping connectors or wires.

- Locking mechanism: Locking pliers feature a locking mechanism that holds the jaws in place, making them ideal for holding objects in place while you work on them.

- Non-slip grips: Look for pliers with non-slip grips for added comfort and control.

- Joint design: Look for pliers with a joint design that provides a smooth, precise action for easy use.

Prices

Channel locks pliers range in price from around $10 to $50 or more, depending on the type, size, and brand.

Tips

- Choose pliers with a jaw width that can accommodate the sizes of objects you'll be working with.

- Look for pliers made from high-quality materials for durability and longevity.

- Choose pliers with comfortable grips and a design that reduces hand fatigue during extended use.

- Consider the intended use of your pliers and choose the type and size that best suits your needs.

- Choose pliers from a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality tools.

FAQs

Q: How do I adjust the jaw width on adjustable pliers?

A: To adjust the jaw width on adjustable pliers, slide the joint to the desired position and lock it in place.

Q: Can I use channel locks pliers for cutting wires?

A: Yes, some types of channel locks pliers feature a cutting edge for cutting wires or other materials.

Q: What is the difference between lineman's pliers and electrician's pliers?

A: Lineman's pliers are designed for electrical work and feature a cutting edge, a gripping surface, and a crimping surface. Electrician's pliers are similar but have a longer, thinner nose for reaching into tight spaces.

Q: How do I maintain my channel locks pliers?

A: To maintain your channel locks pliers, keep them clean and dry, lubricate the joint with oil periodically, and store them in a dry place.

Q: Can I use channel locks pliers for plumbing work?

A: Yes, there are specific types of channel locks pliers designed for plumbing work, such as pipe wrenches, basin wrenches, and groove joint pliers.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Thinner than normal straight-jaw pliers, allowing them to fit into more places.
  • Griplock jaws provide the right grip with the best balance and don't slip under stress.
  • Cutout in the jaws helps to grab onto bolts and nuts better.
  • Made by a great American company that makes the best pliers around.
  • Thin low profile heads make it easy to g
Cons
  • Insulation on handles ripped on the first day for some customers.
  • Metal quality is not the same as other Channellock products.
Bottom Line
The Channellock 3-Piece Griplock Plier Set is a great choice for those who need pliers that are thinner than normal and provide the right grip with the best balance. The cutout in the jaws helps to grab onto bolts and nuts better, and the thin low profile heads make it easy to get into tight spots while working. However, some customers experienced issues with the insulation on the handles and the metal quality. Overall, this set is a good value for the price and is made by a great American company.
Pros
  • Makes removing large drain caps easy.
  • Accommodates various sizes of filters.
  • Good quality and built tough.
  • Useful for changing oil filter of all cars.
  • Essential tool for certain plumbing jobs.
Cons
  • Can dent oil filter and scrape off paint.
  • Handles are short and difficult to get leverage.
Bottom Line
This tool is useful for removing various sizes of filters and for certain plumbing jobs. However, it can be difficult to use on some cars and may not work well with seized oil filters. It is also a bit pricey.
Pros
  • Channellock brand is reliable and durable.
  • Perfect size for pocket carry and smaller items.
  • Good for light work and smaller pieces.
  • Top-notch machining and finish.
  • Good for plumbing work.
Cons
  • Feels narrow and flimsy.
  • Jaws should open wider.
Bottom Line
Channellock pliers are a reliable and durable choice for light work and plumbing, but may feel narrow and flimsy and rust quickly. Buyers should pay attention to the size description and check for proper finishing and coating.
Pros
  • Well-built and durable
  • Made in the USA
  • Good grip for plumbing and rounded fasteners
  • V-jaw design is useful for various tasks
  • Lifetime warranty
Cons
  • 442 model slips easily
  • Price is high
Bottom Line
The Channellock pliers are well-built, durable, and have a good grip for plumbing and rounded fasteners. However, the 442 model slips easily and the price is high. The pliers have a lifetime warranty, but there are some issues with sharp edges and floppy jaws.
Pros
  • Good for adjusting copper plumbing.
  • Comfortable grips.
  • Quality tools.
  • Heavy duty.
  • Affordable.
Cons
  • Jaws are thick and bulky.
  • Grips are bulky.
Bottom Line
These Workpro pliers are affordable, sturdy, and good for slip joint pliers. They are heavy duty and made like high-end tools. However, they have some cons such as thick and bulky jaws, bulky grips, and significant movement of the jaws.
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