Great review Doc. From Eugene Oregon. I’m a retired Commercial laundry Equipment Installer ,Steam Fitter, Welder etc., worked on 4-different Special Effects Movies. I like that you showed different size Bolts/Nuts. Thats exactly what we to see. You’re so right that you like to see these in-depth user videos before you buy. Knipex needs to pay you to make these Videos, your Excellent at it. Love the new word “ Handgle “ 😂 I combine words all the time. Thanks 🙏
My friend, as always, a simple, reasonable, and practical, approach to quality tools. Love the "tools" being the star, of your videos. No screaming, vulgarity, or adult material, safe to view anywhere. Even more importantly, safe to share with friends and family, without worries, of offending someone. I have great respect, trust, and value, your opinion on quality tools, and have used your insight when purchasing specific tools. Please keep up the good work, I know thousands appreciate it, besides myself, 👍. Stay safe, healthy, and aware, during these stressful and trying times, -- Paul A. Trujillo- So Cal.
I've used those for years when I was in the oilfield as an electronics technician. They are awesome pliers using one handed to remove different sized connectors and sensors in tight areas in awkward positions when adjusting the standard cobras might require two hands. That all said they need to redesign that locking lever. Over the years it becomes very loose, and when you have the pliers pointed down or up it will move on its own, causing frustration. They were generally the first pliers I would grab, but always had a set of small alligators and larger cobras on reserve if they didn't quite fit the bill
Smartgrip is my first choice. I carry Cobra’s and Plier Wrenches as well. My first pair of Smartgrip’s does flex a bit more than when new. Still prefer the one handed speed thế provide. I’d like to see Knipex offer these in more sizes and also a pliers wrench.
I do confirm that Knipex electricians pliers meant to limit jaws width so that you can do operation more quicker, bisides that ''lock'' prevents cable shears from unconcious damage. I got one last December and its fantastic tool for basic electrical inslalation operations
Knipex makes the best pliers. I have had a set of Cobra pliers for years, use them often, and really like them. But I will admit to having to fiddle with the button to get the right position. Even if it is workable I will still adjust the pliers if the handles aren't in the optimal position. But if I never thought that was an issue until I watched this video, then that indicates that lack of speed isn't really a problem that I need solved. So I too would go with the original non-automatic Cobra, but I also drive manual transmission vehicles so you probably don't want to listen to me. I like that the original non-automatic Cobra has fewer parts, the handle is thinner, you have better control over the separation distance of the handle, and the pivot appears to be more solidly fixed in the adjustment track. The one thing I think I like about the automatic pliers is they spring apart. Over two decades ago I bought a Craftsman two pliers set at Sears. I immediately recognized they were really well made and the best pliers I had used. They have the word "Germany" formed into them but I didn't think much of it. After some years Knipex became readily available in the United States and I started buying them. When I got my Cobra pliers I realized that those Craftsman pliers were a rebranded early version of Knipex Cobra pliers. The Craftsman pliers are almost identical except there are fewer notches in the adjustment track, the edge of the grabbing lip isn't finished as nicely, and they are branded Craftsman instead of Knipex.
Another option rarely mentioned is the QuickSet Cobra 87 22 250. You can slide the top handle without having to press the button and it will auto-lock once your reach the fastener. Makes it easier to work in very confined and restricted areas. However, you still need to push the handle up with one hand while holding the QuickSet Cobra, rather than just squeezing the handles like the SmartGrip seems to allow.
I was trying to clean a fan and in addition to the hand catches holding the cage, there was a tiny nut and bolt with a damaged head. I used the Knippex Cobra 125mm to grasp the nut between the cage bars and undid it.
I got my first Sears RoboGrip when I was 11 or 12, so I HAD to get this when it first came out. Unfortunately, within a month of heavy use, and I mean heavy use, the auto-locking mechanism started acting up. On pipes, if you're really cranking on it, it will not let go. If you manage to squeeze the handles really hard, it will make an unusual clicking sound, and close together just a tab bit more. But now, it's a vice grip, and it's a b***h to get it open again. Luckily, I sold them around 6 years ago to someone that said they'll be gentle.
Hello again Doc Thank you for another Great Video. I have to agree with the other comments here. Very practical and nicely done. As one Pro speaking to another Pro. Again thank you
Nice video, as always! I even see the ear-hoseclamp pliers on the right. Looks like you are really getting into the Knipex collection. Can’t wait to see that one on a video, will purchase one today, regardless. 😎
I'm about to order the twin grips, but they just need a pair of wire cutters built in just like traditional slip joint pliers. Thos autos look nice. Thanks for your videos!
I'm going to get both the Smartgrip and the cobras to add to my pliers wrench. Carrying out plumbing work on 1/2", 3/4" and 1" nuts will be a breeze............
I'll stick with my regular Cobras, not impressed by the way the handles are spread so far apart on larger fasteners which is exactly when you'd need a tighter grip and more strength.
I'll stick with the original cobra, but this version does address some of the problems I had with the original cobras when I first started my newish career in maintenance. I will say that they look like something I would have bought back then, and really quickly gone back to the original. If you work with large size bolts, that handle gap will stress your hand out. Not really even the maximum diameter stuff, looks like anything 17mm or over would force your hand too far open or too far up the handle to get good leverage.
Kind of depends on your hand size doesn’t it? Sometimes my pliers/wench is to close together. But I wear an XXL glove but slim build. I would love to see a smaller set as having them semi-auto lock would be fantastic to drop into my divided pocket on my 5.11 Alex pants.
I made the mistake of not buying the Twingrips last year when they were $25-$30. Now that I could really use them, they’re $58-$70! God damned ridiculous! But, understandable, demand is high for quality tools.
Do you know the maximum teeth capacity for self adjusting cobras? I use compression couplings and connectors a lot that are almost 2" having trouble finding the info
I love my Knipex but would be lying if I said I didn't struggle with the button. The jaws have to be in the right position to push in the button and adjust. Probably more than 50% of the time I have to readjust. I like the XS as there is no button. This could be interesting.
Nice tool, but I recently bought the knipex Quickset model cobra pliers, and I like it more than this one. You can better adjust the handles opening. Do you have this Quickset version? I have a video with this tool, and more from knipex, on my channel.
I have these auto grip cobras and over time they will jam and get stuck on fasteners and fittings. Only way to get them off is with a hammer. For the price I wouldn't recommend them. They are great at first but not as durable as classic cobras.
I don't like that design, Seems like it makes them harder to hold on to. they should have beefed up the handle (like on the 2 component grips) and fit it inside there.
I had the robogrips maybe 30 years ago and I remember them losing traction and slipping rather quickly. Both in the jaws grabbing, and the closing mechanism. I got rid of all but one pair, and I gave those away to a friend who still has them. Maybe I'll borrow them back for a video. The riveted steel plates making up the robogrips, I found, was hard to clean once greasy.
@@lastbesttool They are harder to clean for sure. Not having much to compare to but but maybe locking pliers I have been happy with the performance, I have only used them on rare occasions when I needed to get a better grip but couldn't really use locking pliers. That's not a common occurrence though so mine have held up fairly well.
I still have a few Robogrips. They kind of suck. The just don't grip. I still use my small pair with soft jaw covers to grab onto stuff that I just need to hold without scratching it.
Great review Doc. From Eugene Oregon. I’m a retired Commercial laundry Equipment Installer ,Steam Fitter, Welder etc., worked on 4-different Special Effects Movies.
I like that you showed different size Bolts/Nuts. Thats exactly what we to see. You’re so right that you like to see these in-depth user videos before you buy.
Knipex needs to pay you to make these Videos, your Excellent at it. Love the new word “ Handgle “ 😂 I combine words all the time. Thanks 🙏
My friend, as always, a simple, reasonable, and practical, approach to quality tools. Love the "tools" being the star, of your videos. No screaming, vulgarity, or adult material, safe to view anywhere. Even more importantly, safe to share with friends and family, without worries, of offending someone. I have great respect, trust, and value, your opinion on quality tools, and have used your insight when purchasing specific tools. Please keep up the good work, I know thousands appreciate it, besides myself, 👍. Stay safe, healthy, and aware, during these stressful and trying times, -- Paul A. Trujillo- So Cal.
I've used those for years when I was in the oilfield as an electronics technician. They are awesome pliers using one handed to remove different sized connectors and sensors in tight areas in awkward positions when adjusting the standard cobras might require two hands. That all said they need to redesign that locking lever. Over the years it becomes very loose, and when you have the pliers pointed down or up it will move on its own, causing frustration. They were generally the first pliers I would grab, but always had a set of small alligators and larger cobras on reserve if they didn't quite fit the bill
Smartgrip is my first choice. I carry Cobra’s and Plier Wrenches as well. My first pair of Smartgrip’s does flex a bit more than when new. Still prefer the one handed speed thế provide. I’d like to see Knipex offer these in more sizes and also a pliers wrench.
Agreed. These are my go to on the outside of my bag. I find them to be quite a bit faster in 90% of situations I need cobra’s for.
I do confirm that Knipex electricians pliers meant to limit jaws width so that you can do operation more quicker, bisides that ''lock'' prevents cable shears from unconcious damage. I got one last December and its fantastic tool for basic electrical inslalation operations
Knipex makes the best pliers. I have had a set of Cobra pliers for years, use them often, and really like them. But I will admit to having to fiddle with the button to get the right position. Even if it is workable I will still adjust the pliers if the handles aren't in the optimal position. But if I never thought that was an issue until I watched this video, then that indicates that lack of speed isn't really a problem that I need solved. So I too would go with the original non-automatic Cobra, but I also drive manual transmission vehicles so you probably don't want to listen to me. I like that the original non-automatic Cobra has fewer parts, the handle is thinner, you have better control over the separation distance of the handle, and the pivot appears to be more solidly fixed in the adjustment track. The one thing I think I like about the automatic pliers is they spring apart.
Over two decades ago I bought a Craftsman two pliers set at Sears. I immediately recognized they were really well made and the best pliers I had used. They have the word "Germany" formed into them but I didn't think much of it. After some years Knipex became readily available in the United States and I started buying them. When I got my Cobra pliers I realized that those Craftsman pliers were a rebranded early version of Knipex Cobra pliers. The Craftsman pliers are almost identical except there are fewer notches in the adjustment track, the edge of the grabbing lip isn't finished as nicely, and they are branded Craftsman instead of Knipex.
I definitely need to buy a pair of these to add to my knipex pliers collection. 😊
The robogrip pliers from the 80s used the same autoadjust mechanism. They work very well and I still have mine.
Great practical review from a fellow tool user. Thanks 🙏🏼
Another option rarely mentioned is the QuickSet Cobra 87 22 250. You can slide the top handle without having to press the button and it will auto-lock once your reach the fastener. Makes it easier to work in very confined and restricted areas. However, you still need to push the handle up with one hand while holding the QuickSet Cobra, rather than just squeezing the handles like the SmartGrip seems to allow.
I was trying to clean a fan and in addition to the hand catches holding the cage, there was a tiny nut and bolt with a damaged head. I used the Knippex Cobra 125mm to grasp the nut between the cage bars and undid it.
Thanks for reviewing them Doc. I may just have to get myself a pair off your recommendation.
Just bought a pair of cobra pliers, off amazon the other day on a flash sale for $28
Like you, I love the Twin Grips. I am hoping they come out with a 6" model soon, would be the perfect edc size for me.
I'd like a 6", as well.
“Hangle”… love it.. it works.
I think I’m sold .I will be ordering 1 soon.thanks Doc
Ideal for speed-work or when you really need a one-handed tool when holding a fixture/material , etc.
I got my first Sears RoboGrip when I was 11 or 12, so I HAD to get this when it first came out. Unfortunately, within a month of heavy use, and I mean heavy use, the auto-locking mechanism started acting up. On pipes, if you're really cranking on it, it will not let go. If you manage to squeeze the handles really hard, it will make an unusual clicking sound, and close together just a tab bit more. But now, it's a vice grip, and it's a b***h to get it open again. Luckily, I sold them around 6 years ago to someone that said they'll be gentle.
Hello again Doc
Thank you for another Great Video. I have to agree with the other comments here. Very practical and nicely done. As one Pro speaking to another Pro. Again thank you
Nice video, as always!
I even see the ear-hoseclamp pliers on the right. Looks like you are really getting into the Knipex collection. Can’t wait to see that one on a video, will purchase one today, regardless. 😎
I just got a pair for my birthday. I must admit I was skeptical but I seem to be pretty good.
I'm about to order the twin grips, but they just need a pair of wire cutters built in just like traditional slip joint pliers. Thos autos look nice. Thanks for your videos!
I'm going to get both the Smartgrip and the cobras to add to my pliers wrench.
Carrying out plumbing work on 1/2", 3/4" and 1" nuts will be a breeze............
Nice video as always. Funny you didn't mention the robogrip
You should try the vbw / stahlwille pliers wrench. It is smooth on the sides and much easier to adjust than the Knipex.
I'll stick with my regular Cobras, not impressed by the way the handles are spread so far apart on larger fasteners which is exactly when you'd need a tighter grip and more strength.
its okay sometimes we say " hangle " to describe ways to handle and angle stuff
I'll stick with the original cobra, but this version does address some of the problems I had with the original cobras when I first started my newish career in maintenance. I will say that they look like something I would have bought back then, and really quickly gone back to the original. If you work with large size bolts, that handle gap will stress your hand out. Not really even the maximum diameter stuff, looks like anything 17mm or over would force your hand too far open or too far up the handle to get good leverage.
Kind of depends on your hand size doesn’t it? Sometimes my pliers/wench is to close together. But I wear an XXL glove but slim build. I would love to see a smaller set as having them semi-auto lock would be fantastic to drop into my divided pocket on my 5.11 Alex pants.
I would use this on alignments
Fast easy no fiddling
I made the mistake of not buying the Twingrips last year when they were $25-$30. Now that I could really use them, they’re $58-$70! God damned ridiculous! But, understandable, demand is high for quality tools.
Love your vids thanks so much!!
Please do a video on best handle for these wrenches
I really don’t like the handles staying that wide open. Makes it really uncomfortable on larger fasteners to me anyway
I wonder if they had to buy the patent for the Craftsman robo grip pliers in order to make these
The hangle of the dangle as they say
Do you know the maximum teeth capacity for self adjusting cobras? I use compression couplings and connectors a lot that are almost 2" having trouble finding the info
I love my Knipex but would be lying if I said I didn't struggle with the button. The jaws have to be in the right position to push in the button and adjust. Probably more than 50% of the time I have to readjust. I like the XS as there is no button. This could be interesting.
Craftsman had a set out 20 years ago
Great vid as always! You should definitely coin the term "hangle" :)
Yeah, I think hangle will show up more now.
Nice tool, but I recently bought the knipex Quickset model cobra pliers, and I like it more than this one. You can better adjust the handles opening. Do you have this Quickset version? I have a video with this tool, and more from knipex, on my channel.
Thanks for helping me get a hangle on the differences.
Do you have any opinions on Alligators versus Cobras?
The tools, not the wildlife.
ruclips.net/video/dnLYbYlJP_A/видео.html
do they make a pliers wrench with this smart grip also?
I’m surprised Knipex hasn’t made a version for a pliers wrench….Knipex SmartGrip pliers wrench.
if the screenprint or lazer etched lettering is still there.. can you really provide an accurate review?
I have these auto grip cobras and over time they will jam and get stuck on fasteners and fittings. Only way to get them off is with a hammer. For the price I wouldn't recommend them. They are great at first but not as durable as classic cobras.
Similar to Robogrip pliers, but higher quality.
I don't like that design, Seems like it makes them harder to hold on to. they should have beefed up the handle (like on the 2 component grips) and fit it inside there.
Faster but uncomfortable.
So basically Knipex copied the old Robogrip pliers.
They don't quite work perfectly unless you use them just though.
I had the robogrips maybe 30 years ago and I remember them losing traction and slipping rather quickly. Both in the jaws grabbing, and the closing mechanism. I got rid of all but one pair, and I gave those away to a friend who still has them. Maybe I'll borrow them back for a video. The riveted steel plates making up the robogrips, I found, was hard to clean once greasy.
@@lastbesttool
They are harder to clean for sure.
Not having much to compare to but but maybe locking pliers I have been happy with the performance, I have only used them on rare occasions when I needed to get a better grip but couldn't really use locking pliers.
That's not a common occurrence though so mine have held up fairly well.
I still have a few Robogrips. They kind of suck. The just don't grip. I still use my small pair with soft jaw covers to grab onto stuff that I just need to hold without scratching it.
Horrible Design and limited utility..I've had same design Chinese cheaper ones and i've removed the spring cuz it was too awkward..😑
Thanks don't think they are worth having from your video