10 best locking pliers

Locking pliers, often known by the brand name "Vise-Grips," are versatile hand tools used for gripping, clamping, and locking onto objects. They are a type of pliers distinguished by their unique locking mechanism, which allows them to maintain a specific grip or clamp force without requiring constant manual pressure.

Here are some key details about locking pliers:

  1. Locking Mechanism: The distinctive feature of locking pliers is their adjustable locking mechanism. Once the pliers are clamped onto an object, the locking mechanism holds them securely in place. This allows for a hands-free operation, which can be particularly useful in situations where a sustained grip is needed.

  2. Jaws and Gripping Surfaces: Locking pliers typically have toothed jaws or gripping surfaces that provide a firm hold on objects. The teeth are designed to prevent slipping and ensure a secure grip.

  3. Adjustable Jaw Opening: Most locking pliers have an adjustable jaw opening, which allows them to accommodate a wide range of object sizes. This adjustability is crucial for versatility in different applications.

  4. Release Lever or Screw: To release the grip, locking pliers have a release lever or screw that disengages the locking mechanism, allowing the jaws to open.Some models have a release lever conveniently located near the handle, while others may require manual adjustment using a screw.

  5. Types and Variations:

    • Long-Nose Locking Pliers: These have a slender, pointed jaw, making them suitable for reaching into tight spaces.
    • C-Clamp Locking Pliers: These have a C-shaped profile and are designed for clamping onto flat surfaces.
    • Curved Jaw Locking Pliers: These have curved jaws, providing a more secure grip on rounded objects.

  6. Applications:

    • Locking pliers are commonly used in automotive, construction, plumbing, welding, and various other industries.
    • They are versatile tools and can be employed in tasks such as clamping, turning, twisting, holding, and securing objects.

  7. Brand Name: "Vise-Grip" is a well-known brand of locking pliers, and the term is often used colloquially to refer to this type of tool.

  8. Durability and Materials: Locking pliers are typically constructed from durable materials like steel. This ensures they can withstand the forces exerted during gripping and clamping tasks.

When using locking pliers, it's important to ensure that the grip is secure and that the tool is properly adjusted to prevent slippage. Additionally, like any hand tool, it's advisable to wear appropriate safety gear and exercise caution to avoid injury.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best locking pliers on the market
  

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers Set with Wire Cutter, 2-Piece (36)

IRWIN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter Set includes 7" curved jaw and 6" long nose locking pliers, both with wire cutters for increased versatility. Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel, they feature the classic trigger release for maximum locking force and hardened teeth to grip from any angle. Backed by the IRWIN Lifetime Guarantee.

From the Manufacturer

The Irwin Tools 36- 2 Pc. Original Locking Pliers Set Contains: 7WR and 6LN. These two tools provide you with the versatility to do a lot of jobs. The 7WR features a curved jaw with wire cutter for a wide array of applications. The 6LN Long Nose Plier allows you to get into tight spaces and work with small parts. These locking tools are ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning. Vise-Grips are constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability.

  • Ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting, and turning
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Classic trigger release designed to provide maximum locking force
  • Hardened teeth are designed to grip from any angle
  • Set includes 7" curved jaw locking pliers with wire cutter and 6" long nose locking pliers with wire cutter

User questions & answers

Question: Someone told me this can remove one way screws, any ideas? thx
Answer: Thank you for choosing Irwin tools. Our goal is to provide the highest quality service. We cannot guarantee the product will remove the one-way screw however, with the locking feature, you may be able to grasp the edges of the screw to turn it.
Question: Someone told me this can remove one way screws, any ideas? thx
Answer: Yes you can. Adjust the pliers to the one way screw and make it tight. You can carefully unbolt the screw. I used visegrips to remove my old security door screws this way.
Question: How do these compare to the originals
Answer: The current Vise-Grip is not as strong as the original Vise-Grip made in the USA. Ask any Farmer who uses them every day and they'll tell you. Don't blame China for that as Irwin gives the specifications to the the China company that builds the tool and China gives Irwin exactly to the contract specifications that Irwin demands.
Question: Are these made in the USA? I've been shopping for a pair, but can only find these labeled made in China
Answer: A lot of today's even though are label made in china or indonesia these tools are made by american companies sad thing is alot of times these tools will lack quality .

WORKPRO 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set(5/7/10 inch Curved Jaw Pliers,6.5/9 inch Long Nose Pliers)， W001316A

Based on 320 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Included: 5" Curved jaw locking pliers 7" Curved jaw locking pliers 10" Curved jaw locking pliers 6-1/2" Long nose locking pliers 9" Long nose locking pliers.

  • Chrome-vanadium steel jawfor maximum durability
  • Quick, easy locking andrelease action
  • Versatile curved jaw design also features integral wire cutter
  • Includes: 5" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, 7" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers
  • 10" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, 6-1/2" Long Nose Locking Pliers, 9" Long Nose Locking Pliers

User questions & answers

Question: Cananyof these open the quick release buckles on a fanny pack
Answer: Unknown about the tray as I have never inquired. There is, however, a holder made just for pliers which I do have.
Question: Does this come with 6 locking pliers, a roll-up tool pouch and 6 can koozies
Answer: Thank you for choosing Irwin Tools. Our goal is to provide our customers with the highest quality and service. The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Tool Set with Tray, 10 Piece, 1078TRAY falls under the HAND TOOLS GUARANTEE FULL LIFETIME GUARANTEE: Each IRWIN hand tool is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the tool under normal wear and tear, except for damage caused by misuse or alteration. Return the tool to place of purchase for replacement if warranty applies. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, which vary from state to state.

Product features

WORKPRO W001316A

Workpro 5 piece Locking Pliers Set - Ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning. Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force. Constructed of high-grade heat-treated chrome vanadium steel for maximum toughness and durability.

Adjust pressure and work fit with turn screw that stays adjusted for repetitive use.

5 inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

Perfect for tight spaces, the curved jaw puts maximum pressure on four points and includes a convenient wire cutter.

6.5 inch Long Nose Locking Pliers

Ideal for small work requiring precision and includes a convenient wire cutter.

7 inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

Curved jaw puts maximum pressure on four points and includes a convenient wire cutter.

9 inch Long Nose Locking Pliers

Ideal for large work requiring precision and includes a convenient wire cutter.

10 inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

Curved jaw puts maximum pressure on four points on medium and large nuts and bolt heads.

Adjustable Wrench

Turn nuts and bolts like a wrench, but with the extra bite to loosen stripped fasteners. Locks onto pipes to prevent twisting while fittings are tightened or loosened.

Trigger Release

Pliers stay securely locked until released with just a touch of the guarded trigger.

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter, Curved Jaw, 10-Inch (502L3)

IRWIN

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Curved Jaw Pliers with Wire Cutter are ideal for a wide variety of applications and material shapes with hardened teeth designed to grip from any angle. Constructed of high-grade, heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability, these pliers have a hex key adjusting screw to vary pressure and draw materials together. Includes a convenient wire cutter for even more versatility. Backed by the IRWIN Lifetime Guarantee.

From the Manufacturer

This Vise-Grip 5-10WR Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter measures 10 inches and has a jaw adjustment range up to 1-7/8 inches, locks instantly, releases quickly, and adjusts to plier action, features curved jaws, knurled tips, and wire cutters able to cut a 1/4-inch bolt. Involute jaw curve permits user to put tremendous pressure on four points of any style nut or bolt head. Irwin tools are made of only the finest materials, manufactured to exacting tolerances.

  • Curved jaw with hardened teeth are designed to grip a variety of shapes from any angle
  • Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force
  • Includes wire cutter for more versatility
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Hex key adjusting screw tightens to adjust pressure and draw materials together for a controlled release

User questions & answers

Question: Does anyone know if the adjustment bolt on these is interchangeable with a puller bolt
Answer: No, we do not recommend our product for use with a puller bolt.
Question: Are they made in the u.s.a
Answer: No, they are made in China
Question: They open to almost 2 inches
Answer: They actually open a bit further that 2", but when you close them at the maximum opening it's just over 2". If you are trying to grip a round 2" pipe, you're going to have problems since the jaws are not that deep ...like a 10" fish trying to swallow a 6" fish ...too much fish.
Question: Are these made in U.S.A
Answer: The story of how the maker, Irwin, sold out To Rubbermaid (another former is producer that makes everything in China now) and almost ALL US employees at their two factories were fired and the the towns the factories were in were catastrophized, is one of the more we’ll known examples of Clinton era imposed “free trade“ mess. They save about $0.30 per tool by making them in China.

Product features

IRWIN VISE-GRIP The Original Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter, 10"

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter feature hardened teeth for securely gripping a wide variety of surfaces from any angle. It has a hex key adjusting screw to vary pressure and draw materials closer together. With the classic guarded trigger, these durable, heat-treated alloy steel pliers offer a controlled release with just a touch.

Legendary Performance

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original locking tools, with the classic guarded trigger release, provide maximum locking force for the exceptional performance that professional tradesmen depend on.

Secure Grip From Any Angle

The hardened teeth on the curved jaw of these pliers are designed to grip a variety of shapes tightly from any angle.

Guarded Trigger Release

Pliers stay securely locked until released with just a touch of the classic guarded trigger.

Adjustable Pressure

A turn-screw fine-tunes pressure to fit work and stay adjusted for repeated use.

CRAFTSMAN Locking Pliers, 2-Piece Fast Release Set (CMHT81727)

Craftsman

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

2 pc. Locking pliers set have easy release handles for a one-handed operation with no pinch. The multi-zone bi-material grips allow for dedicated comfort and secure grip zones. Control the jaw opening and locking pressure with the adjustable screw.

  • 2-Piece set., 10Wr, 7R
  • Easy-release mechanism for one-handed operation.
  • Multi-zone bi-material grips for comfort and control.
  • Adjustment screw for adjusting the jaw opening and locking pressure.
  • Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details

User questions & answers

Question: how big are grips
Answer: The grips range from 3-5 inches.
Question: Where are these made
Answer: The CMHT81727 are manufactured in China.
Question: Where are these made
Answer: CMHT81727 is made in China

WORKPRO 3-Piece Locking Pliers Set, Chrome-vanadium Steel, 10-inch and 7-inch Curved Jaw, 6-1/2-inch Straight Jaw, for Home & Workshop Use, W001310A

WORKPRO

Based on 685 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Set includes: 1 pc 10-inch curved jaw, 1 pc 7-inch curved jaw, 1 pc 6-1/2-inch straight jaw.

  • Chrome-vanadium steel jaw for maximum durability
  • Quick, easy locking and release action
  • Guarded release helps keep work fast and safe
  • Turn screw to adjust holding pressure and fit work
  • Comfortable WORKPRO moulded soft grip handle

Product features

WORKPRO W001310A 3-piece Chrome-vanadium Steel Jaw Locking Pliers Set

  • Chrome vanadium jaws, circular saw mouth, strong grip to prevent slipping.
  • Rivet solid connection, strong and durable.
  • Ergonomic design, comfortable TPR handle.

Easy operation

  • Turn the screw to adjust the clamping pressure.
  • By using the mechanical dynamics of the handlebar, the levers combine two handlebar grips to achieve the effect of clamping force.

Set includes

  • 1 PC 10-inch curved jaw locking pliers.
  • 1 PC 7-inch curved jaw locking pliers.
  • 1 PC 6-1/2-inch straight jaw locking pliers.

Quick release

  • Quick adjustment lever, quick release.

Usage

  • Ideal for gripping, twisting and holding small components.

TEKTON 6 Inch Long Nose Locking Pliers | PLK30006

TEKTON

Based on 120 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tapered to a fine tip that's slim enough to reach into tight spaces and stay out of the way, the long, straight jaw profile clamps flat stock, L-angle, and sheet materials in position for welding or assembly. The pull-type release lever allows fast and controlled one-handed operation.

  • Long nose straight jaw with curved profile section reaches into narrow spaces and holds round, hex, and square shapes, flat stock, and sheet materials
  • Strong chrome molybdenum jaws with sharp teeth provide a sure bite
  • Pull-type release lever works like a trigger for controlled one-handed operation and fast repositioning
  • Generously sized tension adjustment knob offers a large, nonslip knurled surface and a through hole for added leverage with a second tool

User questions & answers

Question: Where are they made
Answer: Heavy Body is one of our professional series of color. It is a larger palette size than Basics. It also has more pigment load per volume per color than Basics. Lightfastness standards are the same, however. Heavy Body is more like an oil color or toothpaste texture, while Basics is softer, like heavy cream.

Product features

Long Nose Jaws

  • Designed to reach into tight spaces, the long, tapered straight section clamps flat stock, L-angle, and sheet metal in position for welding or assembly. Its shallow, regularly spaced teeth provide an evenly distributed grip on smooth, flat surfaces.
  • The curved section locks onto smaller hex, round, and square-shaped pieces with the aggressive bite of deep, sharp teeth.

Pull-to-Release Lever

Our pull-to-release lever allows you to clamp, release, reposition, and clamp again with one hand and with more control than a traditional pinch-style trigger.

Wide Adjustment Knob

  • A generously sized knob with deep diamond tread knurling makes for easy tensioning even if you’re wearing heavy gloves or have slippery hands.
  • The round shape of the knob allows you to quickly spin it with your fingertips like a dial to make adjustments much more easily than is possible with other paddle-type knob designs.

Tensioning Through-Hole

Create a T-handle by inserting a screwdriver or hex key into the hole in the adjustment knob. With this extra leverage, you can lock the pliers onto the workpiece and gradually add or release tension to fine-tune the clamping force.

Milwaukee 48-22-3402 Torque Lock Curved Jaw Locking Pliers Set (2 Pieces)

MILWAUKEE'S

Based on 130 reviews Check latest price

Product description

:If you’re working in plumbing, construction, or carpentry, you need the most heavy duty pliers possible. End your search with the Milwaukee 48-22-3402 pliers. This twin set of 7 and 10 inch torque lock pliers will help you wrench fasteners, keep wood stabilized while you apply glue, and any other variety of applications on the jobsite. They come equipped with a variety of features that help you get your work done right. For one, they have a rubberized overmold lining their ergonomic handles. This allows you to maintain maximum control, even when working in slippery conditions. Even more assistance is afforded to you with the torque locking technology. A screw on the back lets you keep these pliers shut to your chosen level. This screw can be closed to its absolute maximum with the help of the thumb hole. Insert a screwdriver or other thin rod through it and use it for extra leverage. Couple that with the strong locking jaws with a ribbed surface for maximum friction, and you’re working with a powerful piece of equipment. With strength and utility like this, it’s no wonder it’s Milwaukee.

  • Exclusive torque lock design
  • Curved, jaw locking pliers set
  • Torque lock for faster setup & easy release

User questions & answers

Question: How do you unlock these when
Answer: If you can't pull them apart normally stick a screwdriver in the loop and loosen.
Question: Are these made in the U.S.A
Answer: Made in Taiwan

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter, Curved Jaw, 7-Inch (702L3)

IRWIN

Based on 509 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter are ideal for a wide variety of applications and material shapes with hardened teeth designed to grip from any angle. Constructed of high-grade, heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability, these pliers have a hex key adjusting screw to vary pressure and draw materials together. Includes a convenient wire cutter for even more versatility. Backed by the IRWIN Lifetime Guarantee.

From the Manufacturer

The Original Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter. Curved jaw puts tremendous pressure on four points of any style nut or bolt head; includes convenient wire cutter. Ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning. Turn screw to adjust pressure and fit work. Stays adjusted for repetitive use. Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability. Guarded release trigger quickly unlocks and protects from accidental release. Hardened teeth are designed to grip from any angle.

  • Curved jaw with hardened teeth designed to grip a variety of shapes from any angle
  • Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force
  • Includes wire cutter for more versatility
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Hex key adjusting screw tightens to adjust pressure and draw materials together for a controlled release

User questions & answers

Question: Purchased this item in wrong size how can I return this
Answer: Yes
Question: What is the 7" jaw capacity
Answer: Yes, they work with soft bodies as well as oils.
Question: Do these work well for cracking the nuts in shells or other size is needed? Nut crackers are useless
Answer: Absolutely yes. I only use 2 types of paint this one and Golden Fluid paints and am regularly mixing them with no problem at all.
Question: Origin (made in) USA? Check and verify
Answer: It sure doesn't..

Crescent 5 Piece 5", 7" & 10" Curved Jaw & 6" & 9" Long Nose Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter - CLP5SETN

Crescent

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Crescent locking pliers are made to an exacting standard that results in a durable, long-lived tool. They meet stringent ASME B107. 24 and B107. 36 standards as applicable, including proven strength and maximum jaw opening capacity. All Crescent locking pliers have a plastisol grip trigger release for easier opening and large hex key recess when additional leverage is needed for tightening. Head and body also have a narrow profile necessary for work in tight and confined spaces.

  • 5 piece set includes 5, 7, and 10 inch curved jaw locking pliers, plus 6 and 9 inch long nose locking pliers
  • Versatile curved jaw also features integral wire cutter
  • Plastisol dip on release lever for improved comfort
  • Adjust the pliers by winding the bottom screw from the hex key receiving hole
  • Angled tooth pattern for a better grip
  • Nickel-plated finish resists rust and corrosion
  • Compound action for powerful non-slip locking grip

User questions & answers

Question: Carry case or bag included
Answer: No bag or carrying case.
Question: Ive have been ripped of so many times on junk vise grips...lowes had to have to worse set ever..are these good quality
Answer: These a decent quality
Question: Made in usa
Answer: China
Question: Where are these manufactured? I don't buy Chinese tools
Answer: I only buy tools made of chinesium when forced to. Proto and Channel Lock still seem to made here. I wanted a 15" Crescent wrench. Shocked to they are made in China. So I bought a Proto.

Product features

Crescent Locking Pliers

Crescent locking pliers are made to an exacting standard that results in a durable, long-lived tool. They meet stringent ASME B107.24 and B107.36 standards as applicable, including proven strength and maximum jaw opening capacity. All Crescent locking pliers have a plastisol grip trigger release for easier opening and large hex key recess when additional leverage is needed for tightening. The head and body also have a narrow profile necessary for work in tight and confined spaces.

Updated design for greater comfort and performance

  • Red plastisol-dipped lever is more comfortable to use
  • Deep-ribbed knurl pattern is easier to grip and turn

CRAFTSMAN Locking Pliers, 10-Inch Straight Jaw (CMHT81726)

Based on 345 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Locking pliers have an easy release handle for a one-handed operation with no pinch. The multi-zone bi-material grips allow for dedicated comfort and secure grip zones. Made of high grade heat-treated alloy steel for strength and durability.

  • Easy-release mechanism for one-handed operation.
  • Multi-zone bi-material grips for comfort and control.
  • High grade heat-treated alloy steel for strength and durability.
  • Adjustment screw for adjusting the jaw opening and locking pressure.
  • Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details

User questions & answers

Question: Lifetime Warranty
Answer: My husband loves the brand haves alot of there tools
Question: Lifetime Warranty
Answer: The CMHT81726 comes with a full lifetime warranty.
Question: Trying to find out the difference between wr and r? please respond if you know. thank you
Answer: The R indicates a straight jaw and the WR indicates a curved jaw with wire cutters.
Question: Sorry but, the jaw won't open I've adjusted the screw, backwards and forward. who can assist me before I return it
Answer: I don't have mine handy, but I think if you squeeze the handles together, it releases. Try that with the screw all the way in & if not, try screwed out.

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