Cutting Pliers

Carol Flores
14 min readJun 8, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the best cutting pliers on the market! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional craftsman, cutting pliers are an essential tool in your arsenal. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top cutting pliers available, each with its unique features and benefits. Get ready to discover the perfect pair of cutting pliers for your next project.

The Top 9 Best Cutting Pliers

  1. Xuron Xbow Series Heavy-Duty Wire Cutting Pliers — Xuron’s XBow Small Oval Head Cutting Pliers offer ergonomic grips, a non-glare finish, and durability to handle various gauge wires from heavy to finer, resulting in a nearly flat cut.
  2. Ideal Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Drop-Forged, High-Carbon Steel Construction — Discover unrivaled resilience and precision cutting capabilities with the Ideal 35–028 8" Diagonal Cutting Pliers, which come with an assurance of a lifetime warranty.
  3. GearWrench Diagonal Cutting Pliers — GEARWRENCH Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers 7" Dipped Handle 82183–06 — Introducing the ultimate cutting tool with 35% greater cutting power, laser-hardened edges for clean cuts, and easy-to-clean ergonomic grips.
  4. GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Experience unmatched strength and precision with the GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers, featuring K9 Jaws, laser-hardened cutting edges, and a high leverage joint design for unparalleled performance in the industrial and automotive sectors.
  5. GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Robust and Durable — The GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers deliver up to 35% more cut power with laser-hardened, long-lasting edges and a reliable grip on any angle.
  6. Stainless Steel Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Perfect for Home Maintenance — Discover the meticulous precision offered by the Tsunoda CN-160N Diagonal Cutting Pliers, perfectly tailored for domestic repairs and expertly handcrafted in Japan.
  7. Ace 7" Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Versatile Tool for Various Tasks — Ace 7" Diagonal Pliers: Precision, forged alloy steel for strength and durability, induction hardened cutting edges ensure a clean cut, and spring loaded handles simplify the job.
  8. Kobalt 7-Inch Home Repair Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Kobalt’s robust 7-in diagonal cutting pliers boast superior grip and durability, perfect for home repair projects.
  9. Professional 5" Cutting Pliers Set — Experience ultra-sharp and ergonomic wire cutters for versatile cutting tasks, with a convenient spring-loaded design that won’t tire during extended use.

As an Amazon Associate, I receive compensation from qualified purchases!

Reviews

Xuron Xbow Series Heavy-Duty Wire Cutting Pliers

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Initially, I was excited to try out the Xuron Xbow Small Cutter Pliers; after all, they were billed as a worthy investment for any handyman. As a frequent user of pliers in my home repair endeavors, the opportunity to test out this promising addition to my toolkit sounded enticing. At first glance, I noticed how comfortable these pliers felt with their ergonomic grips and the smooth, non-glare finish. These details make all the difference in handling the tool for prolonged durations without the worry of hand fatigue setting in.

What really sets the Xbow Pliers apart is their remarkable strength and alignment. This is evident in the precise blade alignment delivered by the precision-engineered lap joint screw. Another aspect I greatly appreciated was their robustness. The pliers are constructed of stainless steel, an asset for its durability, but also a drawback as it adds weight. Thankfully, the dual leaf spring strikes a balance between strength and accessibility, enabling efficient cutting of heavy materials, all the way up to 17-gauge copper wire, in addition to finer ones. This produces a remarkably flat cut.

Despite their many advantages, the one drawback I encountered was the high 63 Rockwell Hardness. While this imbues incredible strength into the pliers, it also means cutting certain materials demands a slightly greater effort compared to their softer alternatives. Lastly, the Swiss manufacture of the Xbow Small Cutter Pliers adds an air of quality, reaffirming the high-grade craftsmanship that goes into their creation.

In sum, the Xuron Xbow Small Cutter Pliers are an excellent addition to any toolkit, providing a blend of comfort and outstanding performance when it comes to cutting through a wide variety of wire gauges. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, these pliers are sure to facilitate your tasks efficiently.

Ideal Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Drop-Forged, High-Carbon Steel Construction

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As a DIY enthusiast, I’ve tried my fair share of cutting pliers, and I must say, the Ideal 35–028 8" Diagonal Cutting Plier stands out from the crowd. The high-carbon steel construction is sturdy and durable, making it perfect for tackling even the toughest cutting tasks. The knife-to-anvil blades are a game-changer, never requiring resharpening and offering superior cutting power.

One of the standout features is the high-leverage design, which provides an impressive 40% more cutting power than standard pliers. The vinyl-coated comfort-grip handles are a thoughtful addition, making the pliers comfortable to use even during prolonged projects. Despite being a bit hefty, they meet both US and ESA standards for safety.

While the pliers are generally well-received, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported issues with the cutting head size and sharpness, which may affect its performance on certain wires. Additionally, the rubber grips on the handles could be more durable, as a few reviewers have experienced them coming off prematurely.

Overall, I’d highly recommend the Ideal 35–028 8" Diagonal Cutting Plier to anyone in need of a reliable and sturdy cutting tool. Its durable construction, impressive cutting power, and ergonomic design make it a top choice for DIY projects and professional use alike.

GearWrench Diagonal Cutting Pliers

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The GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers are a must-have addition to any tool belt. I’ve used these pliers in countless situations, from automotive repair to plumbing jobs. The high leverage joint design really shines, providing up to 35% more cutting power than other pliers I’ve used.

The laser hardened cutting edges are another game-changer, keeping their sharpness even after prolonged use. I also appreciate the ergonomic grips, which make it comfortable to hold, especially when working in tight spaces. The only downside, albeit minor, was the weight compared to other pliers I’ve used.

However, with the added power and cutting performance, I’ve deemed it a worthy trade-off. These Pitbull pliers truly live up to their name — the strength, durability, and professional quality can’t be beat.

GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers

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The GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers stand out in the market with their innovative features and durability. The 20-degree head angle ensures a flush cut, while their laser-hardened cutting edges remain sharp 50% longer compared to others.

The professional, ergonomic grips offer excellent comfort and precision with their unique handle style and dual material construction. The pliers meet or exceed ASME requirements, showcasing their robust performance. Despite their impressive capabilities, some users may find their cutting power a bit weaker compared to other traditional cutting solutions.

GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers: Robust and Durable

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I’ve been using the GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers for a while now, and let me tell you, they’ve made a huge difference in my daily tasks. The high leverage joint design provides up to 35% greater cutting power, which has made my cutting experience a lot smoother and more efficient. The laser hardened cutting edges cut clean and stay sharp for 50% longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

The 20° head angle for flush cutting ensures that my cuts are always neat and precise, while the reaming edges for deburring pipes make it quick and easy to finish the job. The professional, ergonomic grips not only provide a firm hold but also wipe clean effortlessly when needed. The overall design exudes durability and longevity, thanks to its alloy steel construction and precision machining.

My only complaint is the handle color, which can be a bit eye-catching in certain settings. However, I’ve found that the 4" handle length and 4" straight handle style offer just the right amount of leverage without being too bulky or cumbersome. Overall, the GearWrench Pitbull Diagonal Cutting Pliers have become an essential part of my toolkit, and I highly recommend them for anyone in need of a reliable, high-performance cutting tool.

Stainless Steel Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Perfect for Home Maintenance

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The Tsunoda CN-160N Diagonal Cutting Pliers, known for their exceptional cutting capacity, are an ideal tool for home maintenance tasks. With its stainless steel blade, it can cut through various wires, including copper and soft iron, making it a versatile choice. Made in Japan, these cutting pliers are designed with quality in mind, ensuring durability and precision.

Despite being made from polyvinyl chloride, the handle feels comfortable in the hand, offering a secure grip for users. Although some customers have reported issues with the grip’s surface and the initial tightness when opening and closing the pliers, they have found that this issue fades away with consistent use.

With a cutting capacity of 1.6mm/14AWG, 2.0mm/12AWG, 3.2mm/8AWG, and 5.5mm square/10AWG, these pliers are capable of handling a wide range of wires. The affordable pricing, combined with its impressive capabilities, makes the Tsunoda CN-160N Diagonal Cutting Pliers a must-have for any home maintenance enthusiast.

Ace 7" Diagonal Cutting Pliers — Versatile Tool for Various Tasks

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These Ace 7-inch pliers, with their high leverage handle design and heat treated, forged alloy steel for durability, are a valuable tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional. The pliers’ induction hardened cutting edges ensure fast and clean cuts while the red and black cushioned grips provide comfortable handling.

Some users find the pliers a bit weaker than expected, but overall, they deliver excellent performance and are well worth the investment.

Kobalt 7-Inch Home Repair Diagonal Cutting Pliers

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Kobalt’s 7-inch diagonal cutting pliers are a perfect addition to any homeowner’s toolkit. Made from strong drop-forged chrome nickel steel, these durable pliers are perfect for cutting through various materials with ease. Featuring hardened, precision-machined jaws that grip better and last longer, the pliers are built for longevity.

One of the standout features is the ergonomic bi-material anti-slip grips, providing a comfortable and secure hold. Users have praised the tool for its ease of use and sharpness, making it perfect for cutting wires, zip ties, and other household tasks. The tool is well-suited for home repair applications, where strength and durability are critical.

Despite its impressive features, the pliers are relatively affordable, offering great value for the price. The Kobalt 7-inch diagonal cutting pliers have received high ratings and reviews from users, who appreciate the tool’s performance, ease of use, and affordability. However, some users have noted a slightly bulkier design compared to other brands, but this minor concern does not outweigh the overall positive experience.

In summary, the Kobalt 7-inch diagonal cutting pliers in blue are a reliable and affordable tool for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, providing superior performance and ease of use.

Professional 5" Cutting Pliers Set

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The BOOSDEN Wire Cutter Set impresses with its versatility and ergonomic design. These 5-inch cutting pliers are crafted from Chrome Vanadium Steel, ensuring a sharp and durable edge for cutting various soft wires like copper, plastic, and aluminum. Their spring-loaded design makes them suitable for heavy use and easy to operate. The non-slip rubber handle offers a comfortable grip and protects the user’s hands from potential accidents.

Aside from its practicality, the BOOSDEN Wire Cutter Set is also perfect for jewelry making, crafting, and other artisanal pursuits. Its compact size and lightweight nature allow it to be easily transported and used on the go. However, users are reminded to cut off power before using the flush cutters, and not to attempt cutting hard materials like steel wire with this tool.

Overall, the BOOSDEN 5" Wire Cutter Set provides a reliable and comfortable solution for users seeking a versatile and ergonomic cutting tool. Its high-quality materials and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any professional toolkit or DIY enthusiast’s collection.

Buyer’s Guide

Whether you’re a hobbyist, DIY enthusiast, or a professional, cutting pliers are an essential tool that can make your tasks easier and more efficient. This buyer’s guide will walk you through the important features, considerations, and general advice to help you choose the right cutting pliers for your needs. Remember to consider these factors when making your purchase, as they can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your tool.

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Material

The material of the cutting pliers is crucial for its durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. Common materials include stainless steel and chrome-vanadium steel. Stainless steel cutting pliers are generally budget-friendly and suitable for occasional use, while chrome-vanadium steel cutting pliers offer increased strength and corrosion resistance for heavy-duty applications.

Handle Design

Consider the handle design when selecting cutting pliers, as it can significantly impact your comfort and grip. Ergonomic handles with textured or rubberized grips provide better control and reduce the risk of slipping. Choose cutting pliers with a straight handle for general cutting tasks and those with a curved handle for more precise work.

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Tips

The number of tips on a cutting plier determines its versatility. Some cutting pliers come with only one tip, suitable for general cutting tasks, while others have multiple tips for various applications, such as wire cutting or notching. If you need to work with different materials and applications, consider cutting pliers with multiple tips.

Locking Mechanism

A locking mechanism helps to secure the cutting pliers when not in use, preventing involuntary opening and keeping your fingers safe. Look for cutting pliers with a secure locking mechanism that is easy to operate, ensuring the tool remains closed when not in use and providing added safety during transport or storage.

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FAQ

What are cutting pliers?

Cutting pliers are a tool used for cutting wires, cables, and rope. They are designed to provide precision and control while making cuts, and are often handheld, making them user-friendly for various applications. The cutting edge of these pliers is usually serrated or sharp, allowing for easy cutting.

Cutting pliers come in different sizes and styles, catering to various needs. Some pliers are used for cutting thin wires, while others are designed for cutting thicker, larger gauge wires, cables, and ropes. They are commonly used in electrical work, mechanical work, and a range of other industries.

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What are the benefits of using cutting pliers?

Cutting pliers have several advantages over other cutting tools. Firstly, they offer precision and control during the cutting process, making it easier to cut materials in specific lengths or shapes. This precision is beneficial for tasks that require accuracy, such as making cable connections or assembling electrical components.

Another advantage is their ease of use. Cutting pliers are designed to be handheld, which reduces the time and effort required to make cuts. They are also portable, making them ideal for use in various locations or situations, and can be carried around easily, making them a versatile tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What are some essential features to consider when choosing cutting pliers?

Several features should be considered when selecting cutting pliers. Firstly, the material of the pliers is crucial. High-quality pliers are typically made from durable materials, such as steel, which can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. Additionally, the material should resist corrosion, ensuring that the pliers maintain their functionality in different environments.

Another vital feature to consider is the handle size and design. The pliers should be comfortable to grip, allowing for a firm and secure hold while cutting materials. A well-designed handle can also reduce the strain on your hand during prolonged use. Finally, the cutting edge’s design and sharpness should be considered. Serrated or sharp edges may be preferred depending on the material being cut.

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Are cutting pliers suitable for cutting all types of wires?

Cutting pliers are versatile tools that can be used for cutting various types of wires, regardless of their size or gauge. However, it is essential to select the appropriate pliers for the job at hand. Thinner wires may require a smaller plier, while thicker wires or cables may require a larger or more robust plier.

Moreover, it is crucial to maintain the pliers’ sharpness and replace them if they become dull. This will ensure that the pliers can make accurate and clean cuts, reducing the risk of damages to the wires or cables. Additionally, different types of cutting pliers may have specific applications, and it is crucial to select the right one for the job.

How do you maintain and clean cutting pliers?

To maintain cutting pliers, it is essential to keep them clean and free from debris. After use, the pliers should be wiped down with a clean cloth or tissue to remove any dirt or dust. Additionally, the cutting edge should be checked frequently for sharpness and replaced if necessary. A dull cutting edge can result in damaged wires or cables.

It is also crucial to store the pliers correctly to prevent damage. They should be kept in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight, and not exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity. Additionally, the pliers should be hung or placed in a way that prevents them from bending or twisting, ensuring that they remain functional and useful for future tasks.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using cutting pliers?

One common mistake to avoid is selecting the wrong pliers for the job. It is essential to choose a plier with the appropriate size, style, and sharpness for the specific wire or cable to be cut. Using a plier that is too small or too large can result in inaccurate cuts or damage to the material being cut.

Another mistake is not maintaining the pliers’ sharpness. Dull pliers can cause damage to the wires or cables being cut, reducing their effectiveness and creating a potential risk of injury. Therefore, it is crucial to check the pliers’ sharpness frequently and replace them if necessary. Lastly, it is essential to handle the pliers with care, avoiding any sudden movements or impacts that could cause them to bend or break.

As an Amazon Associate, I receive compensation from qualified purchases!

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