Tiny Knipex Cobra XS Pliers Wrench: amzn.to/3NG8sBU Standard 12" Channellock pliers: amzn.to/3UaMARC Disclaimer: Tested may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through the links here.
Adam, those knipex do support a tension feature where, when you grabbed something with them, if you put pressure on the handle in your palm they grab so good you can let the other handle at your finger tips go and they hold on.
Knipex is a really great brand, made in Germany. Actually all of my pliers are made by Knipex. They're do the whole production in Germany, the factory is about 4km away from where I'm living.
you can stand on those tiny knipex pliers if you put them on a pipe🤯 also if you wanz pliers for the rest of your life, yoj vant go wrong with knipex, also the "Zangenschlüssel" inthe 180mm version and the "Installationszange" are probably amongst my favourite
The killer feature of the Knipex is something Adam appears to have not quite decoded with 'the extra grabby feature': They *only* require pressure on the top handle to stay engaged, so you don't actually have to *grip* them, you just have to apply force to the top handle which means you can *really* wrench down on stuff without losing grip -- the more force you apply to move whatever you're grabbing, the harder they grab on. The holy trinity of Knipex, imo, is the Cobra (model #87), the Pliers Wrench (model #86), and the Twin Grip pliers (model #82). The 180mm versions are overall the most capable being in a great middle ground. The 220mm Cobra's may be more suitable in things like plumbing and bigger fittings, and the 125mm pliers wrenches may be more suitable if you do work with smaller nuts and bolts, but otherwise stick with 180s. I personally like the Comfort Grip handles, but that's far more subjective. You can give away every other traditional channel lock, every other crescent wrench, and every other slip-joint pliers you own. Everything else is second best without contest, imo.
@boogiedahomey One of my favourites is the Knipex 86 03 125. Because they have smooth and parallel jaws, no teeth, so you can use them directly on plated fittings in for example the bathroom, without risk of damaging the plating 👌
And there's some important accessories - soft jaws and dielectric handles. Soft jaws are cool for finish plumbing. Dielectric handles - for electrical stuff.
I have the 180mm Cobras and 150mm Pliers wrench, and both are perfect for my needs (mostly generally handyman work, misc repairs, and furniture assembly). Also the Twin Grips, which recently replaced a smaller pair of Vampliers / Engineer screw pliers. I agree that this is the 'holy trinity', these are three tools everyone should have, and along with a pair of needlnose, probably the first three pliers (if you count the pliers wrench as pliers..) anyone should get. That said though the current twin grips are a bit too large in my opinion, and I believe they will be making a smaller version at some point within the next year or so, so it may be worth waiting for those to come out, especially if you need your tool kit to be portable. I have the XS cobras featured here, and the XS pliers wrench. Both are awesome for their utility packed into a tiny size and weight, that you can easily EDC. But I've barely used either, since I have the larger version available most of the time when I need them. For general use, larger version are definitely more useful.
Knipex makes a straight-jaw pliers wrench that LOOKS like a Chennellock but functions like a Crescent (adjustable) wrench. Its better than a regular adjustable wrench because the jaws tighten against the bolt/nut flats when turning, no slop.
Dude Adam does not realize how bad he needs those. I bought mine thinking they were like channel locks, but for not marring surfaces, and months later realized they're much better as a crescent wrench replacement.
I'm an electrician in Colorado. Those tiny channel locks are a staple on my tool kit. I use them daily. The mini cobra is awesome. You wouldn't think something that size would be useful but they can fit into small nooks and crannies and lock down tight. Can't recommend them enough.
Knipex's Parallel-opening Plier-Wrench is definitely something you should check out. They have smooth jaws so they don't marr work pieces and they provide really strong clamping force on flat surfaces. They also work like a crescent wrench but the adjustability is much easier and you can ratchet a hex-nut one-handed. They also work as a mini press, super useful for pressing in small pins / inserts. Deffo recommend for the generalist maker, you'll find all sorts of uses for them. The 180mm / 250mm are good starting points
Those plier-wrenches are by far and away one of the most underrated hand tools for anyone doing shop work. I will sing their praises until the heat death of the universe.
@@muzzynat Yup in my opinion there is no reason to ever buy or use a Crescent wrench once you know that pliers wrench exists. It serves the same function as a Crescent wrench, but works far better.
I have moved around the world and regularly had to get rid of most of my tools - my channel locks stayed with me always - my favourite of all my tools. They feel so strong and the grip strength from the leverage is incredible.
I love your channel! I am a sprinkler technician, and I have an 8” pair of cobra knipex, I have almost replace my pipe wrench with them. amazing pliers!!!
Way back I got what to me was a huge set of channel lock pliers for some plumbing repair. Mine are just a bit smaller then the big set Adam was showing. And while I felt silly at the time, I have grabbed them and used them so many times for repair, building, ripping things apart over the last 20 years. Truly a huge set is an invaluable tool to have available. The power is intoxicating.
Hi, knipex also make a mini pliers wrench, 86-100, a real wrench for nuts and bolts etc. Their mini "channel-lock" is 87-100, the larger versions , cobra 87 01 150 etc come with a self locking feature really cool, press button thingy. They also make a regular version. Once you've tried the press button version you'll never go back to your normal c -locks liebe grüssen from switzerland. Hans
100mm They also sell them in set in a small soft case (you can buy all 3 things separetly) also lold when he cut open the packing 🤣its a easy open packing that you can close again
I recently got the 5" Pliers Wrench to go with my 7" and 10" (small ones are in my truck tool roll); I was also gifted the XS cobras and have the 10" Cobras in my tool roll as well. Knipex make the best wrenches I have ever used, the 7" Pliers Wrench is my most used tool beyond a screwdriver.
Hi Adam! Knipex is pronounced with the “k”. I have several sizes of the pliers wrench and will predict once used you will never pick up the channel locks again!
The pliers wrench is a replacement for a Crescent wrench, not channel locks. Cobras are a replacement for Channel Lock, but much better as they work slightly differently. And agreed, once he has a few pairs of Cobras, he would never use Channel locks again!
I love your stories from Mythbusters! As a retired plumber I have channel Locks from 6" to 36" in my tool box, right next to my pipe wrenches, from 6" to 36"...
Most commonly called Water Pump Pliers in the UK (slip joint is a more accurate description) Knipex are an excellent quality brand; they claim their central mortice design allows for stronger clamping pressure; and the clamping can be achieved with only one lever/handle being gripped, the other will simply lock. I particularly like the ratcheting, flat jaw type, which are better at spanner/Wrench type work than the pipe gripping jaw profiles
As a maintenance electrician, only place I would go without my 5"/125 mm knipex cobras is a tool store to replace the ones i clearly have lost couple minutes earlier. 150 mm would fit just a little better in my hand, but those weigh almost 3x as much, so edc choice was easy. I might not use them every day, but I need to have them in my pocket to know that I could use quite a bit of force to anything up to about 32 mm in size. Those XS/4"/100 mm cobras Adam got are just a few grams lighter and basically take about the same space in a pocket. I would say that Goldielocks size for EDC is 125 mm and for a toolbag/box I would go for 250 mm (which I have three, one for each hand and one for the apprentice, who would lose the second one they get).
My favorite pliers are the original robo-grip pliers. They function the same as channel locks however they self adjust as you squeeze down and once they are at the correct size they lock in and you can get crazy grip with them. Many a thing has been ripped apart with them.
Robogrips are an essential toolkit item. You can use them for just about any application pliers could possibly be used for, and they're even gentler in some aspects
I actually love the smooth jaw pliers wrenches from Knipex even more. I've got the 10" smooth jaw ones at home and work and carry the 6" ones in my EDC tool pouch.
Knipex makes hands down the best pliers. I’m a electrician and I don’t even buy Klein pliers anymore. Plus they do make the best channel locks. And the plier wrench is awesome
Those are not pliers wrench - that's a totally different Knipex tool. Those are mini Cobras. The Pliers Wrench is just as good, but has smooth jaws that move parallel to each other, like an adjustable wrench.
In Flanders, Belgium we call it 'papegaai tang' translate -> parrot tongs 😄 I have a few different kinds lying around, from very small to large. I use it a lot.
I love that you go over your favorite tools! I've been starting to collect tools for building my LEGO sets: tweezers, magnifying glasses, cutters, pliers, etc. It has been saving my fingers lol
That thought in the back of your mind... I deal with this often myself as I have chronic anxiety. My counselor told me it is the Zeigarnik effect. It's the idea that an unfinished task will remain in the back of your mind. Sometimes the answer comes to you an hour later. Sometimes it's 2 years later when you wake up in the middle of the night to grab a glass of water. I was just glad to hear there's a clinical label for it. 😁
My absolute favorite tool are these awesome Robo-Grip pliers that I got over 20 years ago. I can't seem to find them anywhere now, but they ratchet and I can absolutely crush anything with them that will fit in the jaws.
I don't believe they're being made anymore. They were first offered by Craftsman, but they have also been offered by RIGID. I know a lot of people don't like the Robogrips, but I quite like mine. The steel quality in the teeth could be a bit better, but other than that they work great and really do grip well.
I’ve been watching you since a kid and your still doing stuff that interests me, I got the xs set that came with pliers wrench too you should check that out!
I would say one sized bigger than the goldilocks is just as needed. If you are using channel locks, something is probably pretty stuck the slightly smaller one is good because the stuck thing is most frequently under a sink.
I am in industrial tech and have had and used some of my Channellocks for over 30 years. You will not hear me say anything disparaging about them. However, about 5 years ago I was able to start reasonable afford and replace all my pliers with Knipex. The amount of practical force you can apply because of the one handed locking action they provide is significant over other slip joint pliers. If you check out some of there product videos you will see people standing on the mid sized sets using just one of the grips. Seriously, as someone who loves tools both as a means to and end and as objects themselves I hope you get a few sets and put them to test. Side note, you mentioned in a different video you had an interest in tools us travel techs kept in our kits and Knipex is a key reason why I can keep my field service kit under the 50lb luggage bench mark and still get my job done.
My dad had a set of Craftsman RoboGrip channel locks that were self adjusting. Used some kind of spring-tensioned bar between the handle pieces to make them default to open, and when you squeezed down on it the jaws would close and then lock into a set of teeth instead of grooves once it had resistance from an object. Self-adjusting channel locks! Those things were monsters, I loved them. Gotta get me a pair haha
My dad also had robogrips. Maybe his were defective but the never locked in the channel well. They nearly always slid all the way past the range where they would grip, unless I very purposefully forced them to lock. They never worked with one hand. I tried the medium and small that came together in a kit 18 years ago.
I use a set if the knipex 87-01-180 pliers and they are absolutely the best thing I own. That and a leatherman and a set of klein snips and a klein 11 in 1 screw driver is basically all you need.
You mention twisting a door knob with them. Years ago, I read a book written by a professional burglar and one of his techniques for opening doors was grabbing the knob with big channel locks and simply twisting them open.
Thank you for a post-DST early Monday morning smile. Most definitely have a pair of very worn Channel-Lok pliers in my toolbox. They're definitely a go to, along with another of my favorite torque applicators, the Stillson wrench.
In Dutch they are called waterpomptang aka water pump pliers. Preferably not used at all because they can completely damage the nuts. If I use them, I always put a piece of cloth between the pliers and the nut.
I always have a Mini Cobra in a little pocket on the thigh of my motorbike pants, it is amazing how often it comes in useful for grabbing tiny things, re-tightening things that have shaken loose, straightening bent things (which happens often on motorcycles especially off-road) etc. They are small, but that extra bit of leverage and comfy handle allows me to lever some surprisingly large things... but they are precisely machined-enough to pull splinters from skin... Knipex aren't cheap, but they are ultra-quality and real life-time tools...
I have a set of tiny channellock pliers but the way I got them wasn't so funny at the time. I was headed home after a day out riding dirt bikes and got a flat tire on my truck. The culprit was the tiniest set of channellock pliers I had ever seen. They were super cheap feeling but they still worked. I think they are in a tool box somewhere in my garage. Also (and unrelated) - channellock style pliers made for removing oil filters are super useful!
This is more special than you knew in the video. They are not just smaller channel locks. They are one handed and grab. They can grip better than an actual wrench.
Nothing like the ole universal rounders 😂. In all seriousness they are extremely handy, I used to use my Irwin every single day working maintenance at a sawmill. They are the quick adjust like a lot of the knipex ones.
i actually got the small size ones for my youngest son hes 8 tomorrow and hes severe on the autism spectrum but he loves helping me with working on the car i'd have him help by holding the wrenches and such, but he always wanted to help more. so, i got him those little channel locks they are all his and he loves them lol. i admit i do borrow them from time to time lol.
A lot of people carry the Cobra XS alongside a small Swiss Army knife as an alternative to a pliers based multitool. I do something similar, but with a small pair of hardened-cutter long nose pliers in a pocket sheath.
Ohhhh... could you please send me a link to those?? I'm constantly on the look out for good quality itty bitty tools (small hands working on small projects means small tools...)
As an industrial mechanic, I use my 8 inch Knipex Cobra pliers daily. They're my most trusted tool. I had to rotate a drum, weighing a few thousand pounds, that rasted on a shaft probably 2 inches in diameter. It was either Jack up the entire drum, or turn the shaft. I was able to grab my cousin's matching pair, put both on that giant stainless shaft, and turn the entire thing with just those pliers. That's a very serious and lovely tool. I keep a 6 inch pair in the kit with my torquing ebike these days as well.
It's funny how you were unaware of Knipex. Take a look at their famed "Stand on them" video. Those Channellock pliers will eat dust when compared to the Knipex Cobra equivalent. No, seriously! One look at the jaw profile and tooth orientation will tell you. BTW, that video on the Backstage Handbook is GOLD!
I have a big pair like that from Craftsman that I bought to open barrel bungs for opening coolant concentrate for a machine shop. a few years ago, I found a pair of the Channel locks brand of the same size laying at an intersection. my big pair closes at 4 5/8" on the largest slot.
I have an idea for a video. Not quite a tool tip but a technique tip on why certain practices are followed and what may be best to use and why. Such as why use red under gold leaf, and why you would choose a white grey or black primer depending on how you want the final color to look after application.
HA! My grandfather assembled a beginner's toolkit for me when I was maybe 10, and it included a tiny pair of channel lock pliers which have been remarkably useful for me ever since. I tried to buy another pair for work and had to shop McMaster to find anything close. I don't know why these aren't common impulse items near the register at most hardware stores.
I knew a Chief Engineer on an oil tanker that when he found anyone using "Channel Locks" would ask to see them, and would then deposit them over the side. He felt that whenever they were used there would be damage. Nuts and bolts would be rounded over. When used on pipes, coatings would be damaged. You always knew when Channel Locks were used based on scars left behind. He knew that Channel Locks were of value if used as intended. His issue was that too often they became a tool of convenience. Knipex (pronounced kuh-nip-x) makes "pliers wrenches" that are similar to Channel Locks, but with smooth flat jaws so no damage is done. It is important to note that Knipex pliers can provide a ratcheting motion so it is possible to reposition the tool without having to readjust the opening. Also, pressure can be applied by pushing on one handle. Bob
Okay, I hate doing this, but I need to share two links to other videos because Adam's tool tip video needs more context! First, the Channellock Big "Azz" pliers...these things are absolutely hilariously big: ruclips.net/user/shortsg_3s72AooUQ Secondly, Pliers Wrench is actually another type of Knipex with flat jaws for nuts/bolts, and they are awesome: ruclips.net/video/8C-NfQa0z-4/видео.html
@@underwoodblog I also have the twin grips, they are definitely neat. I like particularily the forward serrations on the front for end gripping. I have a fairly wide Knipex collection :) ruclips.net/user/shortsz9nzieehW0s?feature=share
I was coming on here just to point out the channel lock big azz they are fantastic when you need them. It used to be their sizes were like 440, 460, 480, and big azz that was the actual size name
@@samkleinbaum8406 the 480's are the big azz size :) I also have the 460's and a bunch of other sizes: ruclips.net/user/shortsW9qgOk4b7fw?feature=share
Hi Adam. Its totally reasonable that they are pronounced with that hard K. K-nippex. BECAUSE...its from germany, Wuppertal, and when we, over here in Germany, cut a wire, we say "Knippsen". So its probably developed from Knippsen to a brandname for tools to cut wires, with what the brand started back 140 yrs ago. Cheers from Germany.
Can confirm that the Knipex ads I have seen they pronounce the K. My favorite set that is a bit more budget friendly is the Irwin brand, with the push button release and a ratchet to close.the Knipex I have borrowed have slightly sharper teeth, but my Irwins have been nearly as good. They were 1/4 of the price of the Knipex when I bought them, but that was 15 years ago so that may have changed. At that time they were just over half the price of Channel Lock brand. The generic term for this type of pliers is "water pump pliers".
The 'K' in Knipex is indeed not silent, as it is a German brand based in Wuppertal (where I lived for a few years). I assume it's a play on the words "knipsen" which means to snap/clip and "knipser" which what some pliers/cutters are called.
I think in German there's no silent consonants unless the word is loaned from another country. So we don't exaggarate the K like Keh-nipex but it's a short K in front of the N - Knipex. And they make great tools :)
These tiny Knipex Cobras are not the same as "Knipex Pliers Wrench" (as per the description) (although do check out the Knipex pliers wrenches, 'cos they're awesome too!)
Tiny Knipex Cobra XS Pliers Wrench: amzn.to/3NG8sBU
Standard 12" Channellock pliers: amzn.to/3UaMARC
Disclaimer: Tested may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through the links here.
Adam, those knipex do support a tension feature where, when you grabbed something with them, if you put pressure on the handle in your palm they grab so good you can let the other handle at your finger tips go and they hold on.
In fact all knipex have this feature which typical channel lock pliers do not.
My dad calls them water pump pliers
Knipex is a really great brand, made in Germany. Actually all of my pliers are made by Knipex. They're do the whole production in Germany, the factory is about 4km away from where I'm living.
you can stand on those tiny knipex pliers if you put them on a pipe🤯
also if you wanz pliers for the rest of your life, yoj vant go wrong with knipex, also the "Zangenschlüssel" inthe 180mm version and the "Installationszange" are probably amongst my favourite
The killer feature of the Knipex is something Adam appears to have not quite decoded with 'the extra grabby feature': They *only* require pressure on the top handle to stay engaged, so you don't actually have to *grip* them, you just have to apply force to the top handle which means you can *really* wrench down on stuff without losing grip -- the more force you apply to move whatever you're grabbing, the harder they grab on.
The holy trinity of Knipex, imo, is the Cobra (model #87), the Pliers Wrench (model #86), and the Twin Grip pliers (model #82).
The 180mm versions are overall the most capable being in a great middle ground. The 220mm Cobra's may be more suitable in things like plumbing and bigger fittings, and the 125mm pliers wrenches may be more suitable if you do work with smaller nuts and bolts, but otherwise stick with 180s. I personally like the Comfort Grip handles, but that's far more subjective.
You can give away every other traditional channel lock, every other crescent wrench, and every other slip-joint pliers you own. Everything else is second best without contest, imo.
@boogiedahomey One of my favourites is the Knipex 86 03 125. Because they have smooth and parallel jaws, no teeth, so you can use them directly on plated fittings in for example the bathroom, without risk of damaging the plating 👌
Exactly
And cobras are locally hardened. The teeth are hard, but brittle. The handles are soft and springy. But that's a single piece of metal.
And there's some important accessories - soft jaws and dielectric handles. Soft jaws are cool for finish plumbing. Dielectric handles - for electrical stuff.
I have the 180mm Cobras and 150mm Pliers wrench, and both are perfect for my needs (mostly generally handyman work, misc repairs, and furniture assembly). Also the Twin Grips, which recently replaced a smaller pair of Vampliers / Engineer screw pliers. I agree that this is the 'holy trinity', these are three tools everyone should have, and along with a pair of needlnose, probably the first three pliers (if you count the pliers wrench as pliers..) anyone should get.
That said though the current twin grips are a bit too large in my opinion, and I believe they will be making a smaller version at some point within the next year or so, so it may be worth waiting for those to come out, especially if you need your tool kit to be portable.
I have the XS cobras featured here, and the XS pliers wrench. Both are awesome for their utility packed into a tiny size and weight, that you can easily EDC. But I've barely used either, since I have the larger version available most of the time when I need them. For general use, larger version are definitely more useful.
I think I've probably watched this 15 times now, and I smile every time. I am so glad you enjoy the gift, and thanks again for everything you do.
Knipex makes a straight-jaw pliers wrench that LOOKS like a Chennellock but functions like a Crescent (adjustable) wrench. Its better than a regular adjustable wrench because the jaws tighten against the bolt/nut flats when turning, no slop.
Probably the best tool in my collection
Yes! The Pliier Wrenches! Have the 5", the 7" and the 10" versions. They are easily my most used wrench/pliers in my collection.
Dude Adam does not realize how bad he needs those. I bought mine thinking they were like channel locks, but for not marring surfaces, and months later realized they're much better as a crescent wrench replacement.
They are pricy but worth it. I would say its my favorite tool I own.
Yep, I have them in several sizes. Outstanding tools.
I'm an electrician in Colorado. Those tiny channel locks are a staple on my tool kit. I use them daily. The mini cobra is awesome. You wouldn't think something that size would be useful but they can fit into small nooks and crannies and lock down tight. Can't recommend them enough.
Same. Those and the small Knipex pliers wrench.
I'm a 2nd year apprentice and we use the big ones too for threading together rigid pipe
@@haydenhudleston3738 I replaced 95% of my pliers/cutters with Knipex because I was so impressed with them. Wouldn't go without them.
Yeah im electrician from germany and i love the cobra xs. knipex is a german brand so nearly all my pliers are from knipex.
@@florianb.4278 It's the only way to go. Even here for me in Florida.
Knipex's Parallel-opening Plier-Wrench is definitely something you should check out. They have smooth jaws so they don't marr work pieces and they provide really strong clamping force on flat surfaces. They also work like a crescent wrench but the adjustability is much easier and you can ratchet a hex-nut one-handed. They also work as a mini press, super useful for pressing in small pins / inserts. Deffo recommend for the generalist maker, you'll find all sorts of uses for them. The 180mm / 250mm are good starting points
Those plier-wrenches are by far and away one of the most underrated hand tools for anyone doing shop work. I will sing their praises until the heat death of the universe.
They've replaced all other adjustable wrenches for me
I have the 150mm Pliers wrench, and I think for most purposes that is the ideal size, unless you're using large plumbing fittings.
@@muzzynat Yup in my opinion there is no reason to ever buy or use a Crescent wrench once you know that pliers wrench exists. It serves the same function as a Crescent wrench, but works far better.
Really need to engrave "Be careful what you wish for..." on the giant set, Adam.
I have moved around the world and regularly had to get rid of most of my tools - my channel locks stayed with me always - my favourite of all my tools. They feel so strong and the grip strength from the leverage is incredible.
I love your channel! I am a sprinkler technician, and I have an 8” pair of cobra knipex, I have almost replace my pipe wrench with them. amazing pliers!!!
2:54 Yes, since Knipex is a german brand the K is pronounced.
Nobody cares
@@j.robertsergertson4513 Grow up
I have the mini knipex pliers and I carry them every day. They are fantastic!!!
Way back I got what to me was a huge set of channel lock pliers for some plumbing repair. Mine are just a bit smaller then the big set Adam was showing. And while I felt silly at the time, I have grabbed them and used them so many times for repair, building, ripping things apart over the last 20 years. Truly a huge set is an invaluable tool to have available. The power is intoxicating.
Hi, knipex also make a mini pliers wrench, 86-100, a real wrench for nuts and bolts etc. Their mini "channel-lock" is 87-100, the larger versions , cobra 87 01 150 etc come with a self locking feature really cool, press button thingy. They also make a regular version. Once you've tried the press button version you'll never go back to your normal c -locks liebe grüssen from switzerland. Hans
100mm They also sell them in set in a small soft case (you can buy all 3 things separetly) also lold when he cut open the packing 🤣its a easy open packing that you can close again
I recently got the 5" Pliers Wrench to go with my 7" and 10" (small ones are in my truck tool roll); I was also gifted the XS cobras and have the 10" Cobras in my tool roll as well. Knipex make the best wrenches I have ever used, the 7" Pliers Wrench is my most used tool beyond a screwdriver.
Hi Adam! Knipex is pronounced with the “k”. I have several sizes of the pliers wrench and will predict once used you will never pick up the channel locks again!
The pliers wrench is a replacement for a Crescent wrench, not channel locks. Cobras are a replacement for Channel Lock, but much better as they work slightly differently. And agreed, once he has a few pairs of Cobras, he would never use Channel locks again!
Yes, those tiny Knipex pliers are awesome! Surprisingly useful. Knipex cutters are top quality too.
I love your stories from Mythbusters! As a retired plumber I have channel Locks from 6" to 36" in my tool box, right next to my pipe wrenches, from 6" to 36"...
Most commonly called Water Pump Pliers in the UK (slip joint is a more accurate description) Knipex are an excellent quality brand; they claim their central mortice design allows for stronger clamping pressure; and the clamping can be achieved with only one lever/handle being gripped, the other will simply lock.
I particularly like the ratcheting, flat jaw type, which are better at spanner/Wrench type work than the pipe gripping jaw profiles
This made me laugh so much. Those are humungous pliers, and I love that whoever it was just took you for your word and bought them. ROFL
Did you know those 20" Channellock tongue and groove pliers are officially known as the #480 Bigazz.
Cobra xs pliers are super useful, my first impression was that they were atoy but end up as my #1 tool super powerful
“Channel locks & the three squares”…
I’m so writing that book 👍🏻
As a maintenance electrician, I rarely go into an unknown situation without my tiny channel lock pliers
As a maintenance electrician, only place I would go without my 5"/125 mm knipex cobras is a tool store to replace the ones i clearly have lost couple minutes earlier. 150 mm would fit just a little better in my hand, but those weigh almost 3x as much, so edc choice was easy. I might not use them every day, but I need to have them in my pocket to know that I could use quite a bit of force to anything up to about 32 mm in size. Those XS/4"/100 mm cobras Adam got are just a few grams lighter and basically take about the same space in a pocket. I would say that Goldielocks size for EDC is 125 mm and for a toolbag/box I would go for 250 mm (which I have three, one for each hand and one for the apprentice, who would lose the second one they get).
@@villehietala9677 I’ve done more with those pliers and a 4 inch crescent wrench then should be allowed
My favorite pliers are the original robo-grip pliers. They function the same as channel locks however they self adjust as you squeeze down and once they are at the correct size they lock in and you can get crazy grip with them. Many a thing has been ripped apart with them.
Robogrips are an essential toolkit item. You can use them for just about any application pliers could possibly be used for, and they're even gentler in some aspects
I actually love the smooth jaw pliers wrenches from Knipex even more. I've got the 10" smooth jaw ones at home and work and carry the 6" ones in my EDC tool pouch.
But I do have the 10" versions of the cobra pliers both at home and work as well and they are fantastic. As are their angle cutters, too.
The plier wrenches are awesome
Knipex makes hands down the best pliers. I’m a electrician and I don’t even buy Klein pliers anymore. Plus they do make the best channel locks. And the plier wrench is awesome
Tongue-and-groove pliers (like the ones made by Channellock) are known as polygrip in Sweden.
multi grips in australia
Those are not pliers wrench - that's a totally different Knipex tool. Those are mini Cobras. The Pliers Wrench is just as good, but has smooth jaws that move parallel to each other, like an adjustable wrench.
The thumbnail for this video, pliers on the tongue, reminds me of the vacuum motor to the lip incident. LOL!
In Flanders, Belgium we call it 'papegaai tang' translate -> parrot tongs 😄 I have a few different kinds lying around, from very small to large. I use it a lot.
The thought of Adam Savage tearing a fire hydrant out of the ground with that giant channel lock is priceless
I love that you go over your favorite tools! I've been starting to collect tools for building my LEGO sets: tweezers, magnifying glasses, cutters, pliers, etc. It has been saving my fingers lol
Knipex pliers wrench with cam drive (!) feature are the lovely child of a regular channellocks and an adjustable wrench. 🙂
That thought in the back of your mind... I deal with this often myself as I have chronic anxiety. My counselor told me it is the Zeigarnik effect. It's the idea that an unfinished task will remain in the back of your mind. Sometimes the answer comes to you an hour later. Sometimes it's 2 years later when you wake up in the middle of the night to grab a glass of water. I was just glad to hear there's a clinical label for it. 😁
My absolute favorite tool are these awesome Robo-Grip pliers that I got over 20 years ago. I can't seem to find them anywhere now, but they ratchet and I can absolutely crush anything with them that will fit in the jaws.
I don't believe
they're being made anymore.
They were first offered by Craftsman, but they have also been offered by RIGID.
I know a lot of people don't like the Robogrips, but I quite like mine.
The steel quality in the teeth could be a bit better, but other than that they work great and really do grip well.
I’ve been watching you since a kid and your still doing stuff that interests me, I got the xs set that came with pliers wrench too you should check that out!
Love the Cobra pliers I carry the 125mm version and a Leatherman Wave in my backpack everyday super useful combo!
I would say one sized bigger than the goldilocks is just as needed. If you are using channel locks, something is probably pretty stuck the slightly smaller one is good because the stuck thing is most frequently under a sink.
I am in industrial tech and have had and used some of my Channellocks for over 30 years. You will not hear me say anything disparaging about them. However, about 5 years ago I was able to start reasonable afford and replace all my pliers with Knipex. The amount of practical force you can apply because of the one handed locking action they provide is significant over other slip joint pliers. If you check out some of there product videos you will see people standing on the mid sized sets using just one of the grips. Seriously, as someone who loves tools both as a means to and end and as objects themselves I hope you get a few sets and put them to test. Side note, you mentioned in a different video you had an interest in tools us travel techs kept in our kits and Knipex is a key reason why I can keep my field service kit under the 50lb luggage bench mark and still get my job done.
Channellocks in a couple of different sizes are definitely a must-have in any toolbox...
Though in Sweden they're called Polygrip
Such relief. I've been posting how Knipex is pronounced but gave up!
My dad had a set of Craftsman RoboGrip channel locks that were self adjusting. Used some kind of spring-tensioned bar between the handle pieces to make them default to open, and when you squeezed down on it the jaws would close and then lock into a set of teeth instead of grooves once it had resistance from an object. Self-adjusting channel locks! Those things were monsters, I loved them. Gotta get me a pair haha
Still have an original set of these.
My dad also had robogrips. Maybe his were defective but the never locked in the channel well. They nearly always slid all the way past the range where they would grip, unless I very purposefully forced them to lock. They never worked with one hand. I tried the medium and small that came together in a kit 18 years ago.
I see channel Lock every day when I go to work. Not just the tool but the factory in Pennsylvania.
I use a set if the knipex 87-01-180 pliers and they are absolutely the best thing I own. That and a leatherman and a set of klein snips and a klein 11 in 1 screw driver is basically all you need.
You mention twisting a door knob with them. Years ago, I read a book written by a professional burglar and one of his techniques for opening doors was grabbing the knob with big channel locks and simply twisting them open.
I have those mondo Channellocks!! I used them in the 90's for connecting DC-9 aircraft engine connectors.
Thank you for a post-DST early Monday morning smile. Most definitely have a pair of very worn Channel-Lok pliers in my toolbox. They're definitely a go to, along with another of my favorite torque applicators, the Stillson wrench.
Tools are the simple things in life that make a person happy.
In Dutch they are called waterpomptang aka water pump pliers.
Preferably not used at all because they can completely damage the nuts. If I use them, I always put a piece of cloth between the pliers and the nut.
I always have a Mini Cobra in a little pocket on the thigh of my motorbike pants, it is amazing how often it comes in useful for grabbing tiny things, re-tightening things that have shaken loose, straightening bent things (which happens often on motorcycles especially off-road) etc. They are small, but that extra bit of leverage and comfy handle allows me to lever some surprisingly large things... but they are precisely machined-enough to pull splinters from skin... Knipex aren't cheap, but they are ultra-quality and real life-time tools...
I have a set of tiny channellock pliers but the way I got them wasn't so funny at the time. I was headed home after a day out riding dirt bikes and got a flat tire on my truck. The culprit was the tiniest set of channellock pliers I had ever seen. They were super cheap feeling but they still worked. I think they are in a tool box somewhere in my garage. Also (and unrelated) - channellock style pliers made for removing oil filters are super useful!
"That's the SECOND biggest pair of channel locks I have ever seen".
I love it when someone uses channel locks to strip all the flat edges of a bolt/nut down to a rounded un-removable nut!
That's one heck of a thumbnail! XD I wonder if it goes against TOS...? Feels like something we're not supposed to see!
They're my go to wrench. I always reach for them when working on plumbing, even if I don't need to use them.
I have those big channellocks, they are great. As for the small ones, I like the smooth jaw pliers wrench
You should put those huge channel locks in a case and put the words 'be careful what you ask for'.
Those large one do come in handy with plumbing though
Thank you, best laugh I've had all day!
This is more special than you knew in the video. They are not just smaller channel locks. They are one handed and grab. They can grip better than an actual wrench.
Nothing like the ole universal rounders 😂. In all seriousness they are extremely handy, I used to use my Irwin every single day working maintenance at a sawmill. They are the quick adjust like a lot of the knipex ones.
Here on ship those large channel locks come in handy .
Rusty parts need those channels along with the biggest hammer.
-"It is magnificent"
-Yes it is !
I have a pair of those large size channel lock pliers. Only used the 3 times so far!
Channellocks and the three bolts?
The main character goes on adventures rounding off the hex heads of various fasteners.
That got me absolutely lol! This is great. Thanks for the share
i actually got the small size ones for my youngest son hes 8 tomorrow and hes severe on the autism spectrum but he loves helping me with working on the car i'd have him help by holding the wrenches and such, but he always wanted to help more. so, i got him those little channel locks they are all his and he loves them lol. i admit i do borrow them from time to time lol.
A lot of people carry the Cobra XS alongside a small Swiss Army knife as an alternative to a pliers based multitool.
I do something similar, but with a small pair of hardened-cutter long nose pliers in a pocket sheath.
Ohhhh... could you please send me a link to those?? I'm constantly on the look out for good quality itty bitty tools (small hands working on small projects means small tools...)
As an industrial mechanic, I use my 8 inch Knipex Cobra pliers daily. They're my most trusted tool. I had to rotate a drum, weighing a few thousand pounds, that rasted on a shaft probably 2 inches in diameter. It was either Jack up the entire drum, or turn the shaft. I was able to grab my cousin's matching pair, put both on that giant stainless shaft, and turn the entire thing with just those pliers. That's a very serious and lovely tool. I keep a 6 inch pair in the kit with my torquing ebike these days as well.
Dude, tinny channel locks are my most useful tool I own.
It's funny how you were unaware of Knipex. Take a look at their famed "Stand on them" video.
Those Channellock pliers will eat dust when compared to the Knipex Cobra equivalent.
No, seriously!
One look at the jaw profile and tooth orientation will tell you.
BTW, that video on the Backstage Handbook is GOLD!
Slotted pliers, love’em!
I have a big pair like that from Craftsman that I bought to open barrel bungs for opening coolant concentrate for a machine shop. a few years ago, I found a pair of the Channel locks brand of the same size laying at an intersection. my big pair closes at 4 5/8" on the largest slot.
I really like the 125 cobra, its 25mm longer but it also has the button adjustment from the cobra pliers which I prefer
I have an idea for a video. Not quite a tool tip but a technique tip on why certain practices are followed and what may be best to use and why. Such as why use red under gold leaf, and why you would choose a white grey or black primer depending on how you want the final color to look after application.
HA! My grandfather assembled a beginner's toolkit for me when I was maybe 10, and it included a tiny pair of channel lock pliers which have been remarkably useful for me ever since. I tried to buy another pair for work and had to shop McMaster to find anything close. I don't know why these aren't common impulse items near the register at most hardware stores.
I have the very large channel locks. Found them at a swap meet in Salinas 35 years ago.
I knew a Chief Engineer on an oil tanker that when he found anyone using "Channel Locks" would ask to see them, and would then deposit them over the side. He felt that whenever they were used there would be damage. Nuts and bolts would be rounded over. When used on pipes, coatings would be damaged. You always knew when Channel Locks were used based on scars left behind.
He knew that Channel Locks were of value if used as intended. His issue was that too often they became a tool of convenience.
Knipex (pronounced kuh-nip-x) makes "pliers wrenches" that are similar to Channel Locks, but with smooth flat jaws so no damage is done. It is important to note that Knipex pliers can provide a ratcheting motion so it is possible to reposition the tool without having to readjust the opening. Also, pressure can be applied by pushing on one handle.
Bob
I carry the knipex cobra xs everyday everywhere I go. Also the 5" pliers wrench.
LOL, I got a good belly-laugh from that story. Thanks for sharing it.
Adam get the 10” knipex you’ll thank us for it i no longer Carry a Leatherman do too How many cobras
Okay, I hate doing this, but I need to share two links to other videos because Adam's tool tip video needs more context!
First, the Channellock Big "Azz" pliers...these things are absolutely hilariously big: ruclips.net/user/shortsg_3s72AooUQ
Secondly, Pliers Wrench is actually another type of Knipex with flat jaws for nuts/bolts, and they are awesome: ruclips.net/video/8C-NfQa0z-4/видео.html
Hahah those big azz pliers are awesome
also worth mentioning ruclips.net/video/K5TvKSJBE40/видео.html
@@underwoodblog I also have the twin grips, they are definitely neat. I like particularily the forward serrations on the front for end gripping.
I have a fairly wide Knipex collection :)
ruclips.net/user/shortsz9nzieehW0s?feature=share
I was coming on here just to point out the channel lock big azz they are fantastic when you need them. It used to be their sizes were like 440, 460, 480, and big azz that was the actual size name
@@samkleinbaum8406 the 480's are the big azz size :) I also have the 460's and a bunch of other sizes:
ruclips.net/user/shortsW9qgOk4b7fw?feature=share
I'm a huge fan of opening packages with tin snips.
Tools come in every size!
big channel locks make stuck oil filters turn easy.
Channel locks are a must have for any one
Those cobra xs is always in my work trousers with me.. those have saved me so many trips back to the bigger tool pack just to open few nuts..
Hi Adam. Its totally reasonable that they are pronounced with that hard K. K-nippex. BECAUSE...its from germany, Wuppertal, and when we, over here in Germany, cut a wire, we say "Knippsen". So its probably developed from Knippsen to a brandname for tools to cut wires, with what the brand started back 140 yrs ago. Cheers from Germany.
I prefer the next size up, what they can do is amazing. I have a pair in the car, in my bike backpack and in a pouch on the belt of my bunker gear.
Adam seems like such a fun and cool guy to hangout with. Lol
Can confirm that the Knipex ads I have seen they pronounce the K.
My favorite set that is a bit more budget friendly is the Irwin brand, with the push button release and a ratchet to close.the Knipex I have borrowed have slightly sharper teeth, but my Irwins have been nearly as good. They were 1/4 of the price of the Knipex when I bought them, but that was 15 years ago so that may have changed. At that time they were just over half the price of Channel Lock brand.
The generic term for this type of pliers is "water pump pliers".
The 'K' in Knipex is indeed not silent, as it is a German brand based in Wuppertal (where I lived for a few years). I assume it's a play on the words "knipsen" which means to snap/clip and "knipser" which what some pliers/cutters are called.
I think in German there's no silent consonants unless the word is loaned from another country. So we don't exaggarate the K like Keh-nipex but it's a short K in front of the N - Knipex. And they make great tools :)
Now you have channel locks in sizes Wee, Not so wee and frigging huge!!
Thank you, Adam ❣❣❣Pliers and wrenches are my most useful tools ❣ 😁👏❣
Kurtis from Cutting Edge Engineering in Australia (on their RUclips channel) has an even bigger pair of channel locks!!!
I’m pretty sure we’ll gonna see a video soon on the Knipex pliers wrench.
I would have loved to see Adam's immediate reaction when the PA returned. I can hear his maniacal laugh now.
In Sweden we call then "polygrip" :) wonderful invention!
These tiny Knipex Cobras are not the same as "Knipex Pliers Wrench" (as per the description) (although do check out the Knipex pliers wrenches, 'cos they're awesome too!)
In the Knipex product videos, they always pronounce it kinipex.
Wee, not so wee, and frickin' huge!