For my criteria I wanted each set to have one 6 to 8 inch set of slip joint pliers, and one 8 to 10 inch tongue and grove or “channellock” type pliers. “Channellock” is one of those brand names that has become a generic in the language, like “Band Aid”.
There are two types of tongue and groove, or arc joint pliers, one you want, and one you don’t. You want the ones with the full groove for the second jaw to ride in. A lot of people have hurt their hands trying to use the kind without the full groove to exert serious pressure. It is often difficult to tell from photos of the front side which is which. Everything I recommended here was pictured as having the full groove or channel.
After those two essentials I wanted a set of long reach or needle nose pliers, and whatever else looked to be generally useful. No real specialty pliers in this group. But those three are must haves for a tool set. Judging quality for pliers is difficult if you do not have them in your hands. It largely a matter of the quality of the metals used, the manufacturing techniques and the closeness of finish. If they are too tight or too loose they are useless or dangerous. So I relied on research and reputation in making these choices.
Why it's best: This Craftsman 3 piece set is comprised of the first three pliers you want to own. No extras or frills but the solid set that will allow you to handle standard, oversized and delicate items. Sure you will add more later; but you will continue to use these time and time again. You cannot go wrong starting a pliers selection with these three shapes and sizes. And you have that Craftsman warranty as close as your nearest Sears store. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: This is a 4 piece set; the core 3 plus a diagonal cutter. Channellock is a company that started making pliers and is very conscious that its reputation depends on producing quality pliers. They are often copied, but for quality in a pair of pliers they are hard to beat. In addition to the core three pliers that everyone should have: standard slip joint, tongue and groove, and narrow or needle nose pliers this set adds another standard type.
This set contains a diagonal or in common shop parlance a side cutter. This is a pair of pliers with two cutting jaws that meet on one edge. These are the standard tool used for cutting: wire, tie wraps, anything else that needs cutting. Quality is important here because the jaws must meet square and be hard enough to last after cutting hard materials. The comfort grips are a nice touch to allow you to exert pressure when you need to and also to avoid slipping. NOTE: the grips are not warranted to be an electrical insulator. All of this in a genuine Channellock tool set makes this set a best choice for a core set of pliers for a toolbox.
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Why it's a best pick: SK is generally thought of as professional level of tools and I would fully expect these tools to last anyone who bought them for as long as they needed them, even if they did subject them to daily use. But this is an expensive set to purchase if you are not very serious about tools. This 5 piece set from SK Tools is unusual in that it supplements the three basic choices with both a set of diagonals or side cutters and a second set of tongue and grove pliers.
Diagonals or side cutters are pliers that have two short blades that are on one side in front of the pivot. They are used as cutters for things such as wire or tie wraps or anything you wish to cut. SK tools are made in the USA and carry a lifetime warranty. This set is sold at steep discounts off the list price in the SK catalog, so check around.
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Why it's a best pick: GearWrench is part of the KD, tool group. KD has been a highly respected maker of specialty automotive tools for years. So I trust these pliers from that company. In addition to the core three pliers that everyone should have: standard slip joint, tongue and groove, and narrow or needle nose pliers, this set adds another standard pliers.
This set contains a diagonal or in common shop parlance a side cutter. This is a pair of pliers with two cutting jaws that meet on one edge. These are the standard tool used for cutting: wire, tie wraps, anything else that needs cutting. Quality is important here because the jaws must meet square and be hard enough to last after cutting hard materials. The comfort grips are a nice touch they allow you to exert pressure when you need to and also to avoid slipping.
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Amazon.com$48.99
Why it's a best pick: This 4 piece set from ACE Hardware takes the core three pliers that I consider mandatory: a standard slip joint, a tongue and groove and a needle nose and it adds a “linemans” pliers and a carrying case. The linesman pliers would not be my first choice but at this price it is an acceptable addition. Linesman pliers are thick and strong and good for exerting a lot of force, but not as convenient as other choices. On the positive side the tongue and groove pliers in this set are a full 10 inches and the slip joints are a full 8 inches. You get the grips for minimum slip and maximum comfort. They do not give any specifications for how hard these pliers are “hardened” so I have moved them down in ranking even though they are at an attractive price point. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
