Pliers are tools that grip, bend, twist, cut, strip wires, and much more. With the right type of pliers, you can tackle projects more efficiently.
Before we jump into plier types, let’s get acquainted with the different components of a pair of pliers:
Pliers have several distinct parts that each play a role in their functionality:
- Handles: The plier handles are the grips you hold; often rubberized for comfort and control.
- Pivot: The joint where the handles and jaws connect, allowing the jaws to open and close.
- Jaws: The top part that does the gripping, bending, or cutting; their shape varies depending on the plier type.
- Cutters: Edged sections near the pivot, used for cutting wires or small fasteners.
- Pipe grip: A rounded part of the jaws, often with shallow serrations, for gripping cylindrical objects.
- Teeth: Serrated edges on the jaws that provide extra grip and prevent slippage when holding objects.
Now that we know what parts pliers consist of, let’s take a look at the most common 40 types of pliers professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts rely on to make repairs a breeze.
General Purpose Pliers
General-purpose pliers are the versatile workhorses of any toolbox, built to handle a broad range of tasks with ease. From gripping and turning to twisting and cutting, these pliers bring the control and strength you need for everyday fixes and unexpected repairs.
Slip Joint Pliers
Slip joint pliers are the ultimate multi-purpose tool for basic gripping and turning tasks. These have an adjustable jaw that lets you switch between two widths, so it’s easy to hold onto objects of different sizes. Whether turning a nut or used as nail-pulling pliers, the adjustable pivot point gives you that extra control and flexibility.
Tongue and Groove Pliers (Channel Locks)
When you need a reliable grip on pipes or larger objects with irregular shapes, tongue and groove pliers are your best friend. Known as "channel locks" by many, these pliers have jaws that can be adjusted to a wider range of widths, which makes them great for plumbing work or grabbing onto bulky objects. They’re helpful when you’re dealing with slippery and awkwardly shaped items or odd angles. With the long handles and multiple jaw settings, you can get a solid grip on almost anything.
Combination Pliers
Combination pliers are the Swiss Army Knife of pliers. They offer a three-in-one functionality with gripping jaws, a cutter, and often a crimping tool for electrical connections. These are a must-have for anyone working with wires—you can grip, twist, and even strip wire without needing to reach for another tool. They’re super handy for DIY projects, especially if you’re setting up electronics or small home repairs.
Cutting Pliers
Cutting pliers bring precision and power to the table when you need to snip wires, fasteners, or small components. With sharp edges and a firm grip, these tools make quick work of cuts and leave clean edges on materials. Whether you’re handling electronics or tackling a basic repair, cutting pliers are the go-to choice for sharp, controlled cuts.
Diagonal Cutting Pliers
Diagonal cutting pliers, also known as diagonal cutters, step in when you need to cut wire or small fasteners flush with the surface. With angled cutting edges, they offer a clean cut without leaving any awkward protrusions. Used for electrical tasks or trimming edges on DIY projects, diagonal pliers deliver that smooth finish you need for a job well done.
End Cutting Pliers (End Nippers)
End cutting pliers, or end nippers, make trimming close to the surface simple. Their jaws are positioned perpendicularly to the handle, so they’re used to clip nails, screws, or wires right where they meet the surface. When precision matters, especially in woodworking or repairs, these pliers keep things neat and out of sight.
Lineman’s Pliers
Lineman’s pliers are a multi-functional tool for electricians, equipped with strong, flat-edged cutters and a built-in gripping area. They’re designed for cutting, twisting, and gripping wire, which makes them indispensable for electrical setups. From wiring installations to quick fixes, these pliers deliver on versatility and durability.
Flush Cutters
For the finest, cleanest cuts on soft materials, flush cutters are the tool of choice. They slice with a flat, even edge, and are used for delicate work in electronics or jewelry making. When you need precision and a flawless finish without rough edges, flush cutters keep things smooth and professional.
Wire Stripping and Crimping Pliers
These pliers strip, crimp, and prepare connections with ease, covering your basics for any wiring project. When you need precise wire prep or secure connections, these essential tools handle the job, so your electrical work is efficient and straightforward.
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers cut through insulation cleanly without touching the metal beneath. With carefully sized notches along the jaws, they let you grip, squeeze, and strip the insulation off in a single motion. They’re a must-have for anyone looking to keep their wiring prep precise and mess-free.
Crimping Pliers
Crimping pliers press connectors securely onto the wire and provide a stable electrical connection. You simply place the connector around the wire, position it within the pliers, and squeeze until the connection is tight. By compressing the connector just right, they give you peace of mind that your electrical setup will stay secure, even under daily use.
Electrical Pliers
Electrical pliers combine stripping, crimping, and cutting electrical wires in one handy tool. With a set of notches for stripping, a crimping section for secure connections, and a cutting edge for trimming electric wires, they’re equipped for a wide variety of tasks.
This all-in-one design lets you switch quickly between functions, which makes them especially handy for projects that require frequent adjustments and connections. Whether you’re wiring a new setup or making quick fixes, electrical pliers streamline the whole process.
If you’re looking for high-quality electrical pliers, check out our electrical disconnect pliers.
Gripping and Clamping Pliers
Gripping and clamping pliers bring control and stability to any project, whether you’re handling delicate work or securing objects in place. These tools provide the grip strength and precision needed to hold, bend, and shape materials effectively.
Vise-Grip Pliers (Locking Pliers)
Vise-grip pliers, also known as locking pliers, have an adjustable jaw with a locking mechanism that holds objects firmly in place, which allows for hands-free operations. Simply clamp them down and lock the handle—they’ll stay put. That’s why these adjustable pliers are a solid choice when you need a tight grip without constant pressure. Great for everything from automotive industry work to household repairs.
Needle Nose Pliers
Needle nose pliers feature slim, pointed jaws that excel at precision work in narrow spaces. Perfect for electronics, jewelry, or any project that requires a delicate touch. Their narrow shape allows you to reach into tight spaces with ease, grip small components, and make intricate adjustments with precision.
Long Nose Pliers
Long nose pliers take the narrow reach of needle nose pliers a step further with longer, tapered jaws that are used to bend, reposition, and snip wire in hard-to-reach places. Their extended reach makes them particularly useful in wiring and crafting projects where flexibility and precision are key.
Flat Nose Pliers
Flat nose pliers are a versatile tool that balances strength and control. They have broad, flat jaws that grip and manipulate flat objects without leaving marks. They’re handy for holding sheet metal, bending small components, or working with delicate materials where you want a firm grip without causing damage.
Round Nose Pliers
Round nose pliers feature rounded, tapered jaws that create loops, curves, and bends. Often used in jewelry making, they’re must-have tools for forming loops in wire and creating curved shapes without sharp edges. With a smooth, consistent bend, they bring creative flexibility to projects that require a gentle touch.
Pliers Wrench
Pliers wrenches come with flat, parallel jaws that adjust to grip nuts, bolts, or flat surfaces with impressive precision.
Unlike traditional pliers, plier wrenches apply force evenly across the jaws, which prevents damage to surfaces while delivering the grip strength needed to turn fasteners or apply torque. These versatile pliers are an asset in plumbing, automotive work, or any task where maintaining the integrity of surfaces is as important as getting a firm hold.
If you need a set of pliers for those demanding jobs where precision and protection go hand in hand, check out our 10-inch pliers wrench.
Specialty Pliers
Specialty pliers are specialized tools designed with specific tasks in mind and give you the control and precision needed for niche applications. From automotive repairs to crafting, these tools bring the right grip and function to specialized projects.
Bent Nose Pliers
With jaws angled to reach tight spots and awkward spaces, bent nose pliers are often used for delicate tasks in hard-to-reach areas. Their angled, ergonomic design lets you maneuver precisely around small components, which makes them a go-to for intricate work in electronics and crafts.
Snap Ring Pliers (Circlip Pliers)
Snap ring pliers, also known as circlip pliers, install or remove snap rings with tips that can be straight, bent, internal, or external depending on the ring type. They provide the grip and accuracy you need to handle these rings without slipping, which is particularly useful for automotive and machinery repairs where snap rings are common.
Hose Clamp Pliers
These pliers specialize in handling hose clamps, especially on automotive hoses. With a secure grip, hose clamp pliers make it easy to remove or install clamps quickly and safely, which saves you from the struggle of manual adjustments on tough fittings.
Grommet Pliers
Grommet pliers punch holes and set grommets, and are used for leather, canvas, or fabric work. With a simple squeeze, they create a clean hole and press a grommet into place. This makes them invaluable for crafting or any project requiring strong, reinforced holes.
Fencing Pliers
Fencing pliers are a versatile multi-tool designed for fence installation. They combine a hammer, staple puller, wire cutter, and gripping area in one tool. Whether you’re securing posts, pulling staples, or cutting wire, these pliers cover all the basics needed for efficient fence work.
Battery Pliers
Battery pliers feature short, wide jaws tailored to firmly grip battery terminal bolts without damaging the battery itself. Their design makes working around battery terminals easy and gives you the control you need to secure or loosen connections without risking any accidental harm to the battery.
Tongue and Groove Pliers (Water Pump Pliers)
These pliers have adjustable jaws that can grip large metal pipes or irregular shapes, which makes them a reliable tool for plumbing jobs. Their versatility with wide and narrow grips gives you the flexibility to handle various pipe sizes and shapes with ease.
Canvas Pliers
Canvas pliers come with broad, flat jaws, perfect for stretching canvas over frames without damaging the material. Widely used in artwork and upholstery, these pliers provide the firm grip needed to create a smooth, taut canvas.
Piston Ring Pliers
Piston ring pliers expand piston rings and make it easy to install them without causing damage. They give you the leverage to fit rings snugly onto pistons, and a smooth setup for any engine repair or rebuild project.
Precision and Electronics Pliers
Precision and electronics pliers bring fine control to detailed tasks, whether you’re working with tiny components or delicate materials. Designed for accuracy, these pliers are used for tasks that require a gentle, steady hand.
Mini Pliers
Mini pliers are scaled-down versions of regular pliers. They offer the same functionality, but they’re sized for smaller, delicate tasks. They’re great for electronics work and small craft projects, as they give you the control you need without the bulk of larger tools.
Electronics Pliers
Electronics pliers are made for the precision handling of circuit boards and small components and are often coated with anti-static material to protect sensitive electronics. Their fine tips and lightweight feel make them the go-to pair of pliers for anyone working with delicate electronic parts.
Parallel Jaw Pliers
Parallel pliers keep their jaws aligned while gripping and apply even pressure across surfaces. This makes them a top choice for precision work. They allow you to grip without slipping or misaligning, especially on delicate materials or small parts.
Jeweler’s Pliers
Jeweler’s pliers are fine-tipped and smooth-jawed, ideal for shaping and bending wire in jewelry making. They offer the finesse needed for intricate designs and let you form and adjust without leaving marks or scratches on your work.
Split Ring Pliers
Split ring pliers have a small, pointed jaw that makes opening split rings easy and quick. Often used in jewelry, fishing tackle, and keychains, they save time and frustration by securely gripping and opening rings without damaging them.
Chain Nose Pliers
With a tapered tip that’s slightly thicker at the base, chain nose pliers are used to grip, close jump rings, and form loops. They’re a staple in jewelry making, as they allow fine adjustments while providing the stability needed for intricate tasks.
Split Nut Pliers
Split nut pliers grip split nuts on threaded rods without damaging the threads. Their unique design gives you precise control so split nuts stay secure without the risk of wear or slippage on the threading.
Heavy-Duty Pliers
Heavy-duty pliers bring power and durability to demanding tasks, as they can handle thicker materials and heavy-duty projects. These tools provide the strength and leverage needed for projects that go beyond the capabilities of a standard pair of pliers.
Bolt Cutters
Bolt cutters are the heavyweights of cutting tools, built to slice through bolts, chains, padlocks, and thick wires with ease. Their robust jaws and long handles offer the power needed to tackle tough materials, which makes them a go-to for anyone needing fast, forceful cuts on sturdy materials.
Rebar Tying Pliers
Rebar tying pliers are specialized pliers for twisting wire around rebar, often featuring a spring-loaded mechanism to make repetitive tasks quicker and easier. Their durable construction and unique design make them indispensable for construction work where secure, tight twists are essential for stability.
High-Leverage Pliers
High-leverage pliers have extended handles that maximize cutting or bending power with minimal effort. Used for thicker materials, their design provides extra force, which allows you to cut or manipulate tough wires and metals with less strain.
Automotive and Mechanical Pliers
Automotive and mechanical pliers are built for specific tasks under the hood, as they provide the grip, strength, and design needed to handle car parts with precision. These tools keep vehicle maintenance and repairs smooth and efficient.
Brake Spring Pliers
Brake spring pliers can handle the installation and removal of brake springs in automotive brake systems. With their specialized design, they make working around tough, tightly-coiled springs straightforward, which saves time and effort in brake repairs.
Exhaust Hanger Removal Pliers
Exhaust hanger removal pliers remove and install exhaust system hangers and give you the leverage needed to release and secure exhaust parts safely. They simplify what would otherwise be a tricky job and help you handle exhaust hangers without straining or damaging them.
Oil Filter Pliers
Oil filter pliers feature jaws that can grip and twist oil filters, which makes oil filter replacement quick and hassle-free. With a secure grip on the filter, these pliers let you remove or tighten filters easily.
CV Boot Clamp Pliers
CV boot clamp pliers secure CV joint boots on automotive axles. Built to apply even pressure, they lock clamps in place without damaging the boot and provide a reliable seal that protects the joint from dirt and moisture.
Spark Plug Pliers
Spark plug pliers have insulated jaws that grip spark plug wires firmly and allow safe removal without damaging connectors. Perfect for working with high-voltage components, they make changing spark plugs easier and safer and keep connectors and wires intact during maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pliers
What Are Sharp Pliers Called?
Sharp pliers, often referred to as cutting pliers, include diagonal cutting pliers and flush cutters, which feature a cutting edge to cleanly cut wires and small fasteners.
What Is a Monkey Plier Used for?
Monkey pliers, also known as adjustable pliers, are used to grip and turn pipes, bolts, and other round or hex-shaped objects, with an adjustable jaw that adapts to multiple sizes.
What Kind of Pliers Do Plumbers Use?
Plumbers typically use tongue and groove pliers, often called water pump pliers, to grip large pipes and fittings.
Which Types Of Pliers Do I Use For Wire Wrapping?
For wire wrapping, jeweler’s pliers such as chain nose, round nose, and flat nose pliers are ideal—they provide control for bending, looping, and shaping wire without damaging it.
What Are Soft Jaw Pliers Used for?
Soft jaw pliers have padded or non-marring jaws designed to grip delicate surfaces, such as polished metal or glass, without scratching or damaging them.
Does Olsa Tools Carry Pliers Organizers?
We do carry plier organizers. In particular, we carry a plier organizer rack, which fits up to 16 pliers per pack.
If you need more additions to your tool kit, check out our entire tool range, as well as our wide range of tool organizers.