This is exactly the video I was looking for! I think I'll get dipped for 250 water pump plier, vde for needle nose but I'm not sure what for 180 pliers wrench. What would you recommend, dipped or comfort grip?
I like comfort grip for larger tools that require more torque, for the smaller tools just go with the regular dipped handles, comfort grip also takes up more space in the tool bag if that’s a factor for you
I use almost exclusively use dipped handle tools. I have no ‘feeling’ with the bigger comfort grips and vde grips. Only comfort grips I liked a little are the Klein journeyman grips. I only use vde when neccesary.
Great video! I would like to add an observation. I really like the multi-component grips and ordered most of my pliers in that variety. The issue I ran into was space in my tool bag. They take a lot of extra space. I switched to dipped handles and wish I had chosen that for most prior purchases. Also, you discussed the durability of the handles. Years ago, I bought a larger VDE-handled pliers wrench. I stopped using it because it was just too big. Last weekend, I got the idea to remove the grips and replace them with multiple layers of heat-shrink tubing. It worked out well, but removing the old grips was a bear. I tried a utility knife, band saw, hack saw, and chisel and applied heat with the heat gun. It took over an hour to remove the grips with much cursing and banging. Yeah, those handles are durable.
I have a couple VBW waterpump pliers (german made) for at least 20 years now. They are still going strong. Been using them to build a house and working on cars etc.
No one ever talks about the KNIPEX pliers grips. I prefer the textured dip! I have requested for the “comfort grip” to be slimed down, KNIPEX complied. Not everyone has the same size hands 🙌🏻.
I have done the testing of the comfort handle, as the lab-rat myself, multiple times, by accidentaly cutting into live household single phase energy level wires (220-240V European). They are very insulating, at least in that voltges.
Great video! They also offer another style of VDE handles that is dipped, like 03 07 180. I don't know the difference in terms of functionality, but I've noticed that people who work on high voltage lines usually use the dipped VDE handles.
The VDE 1000V insulated tool are individually tested in a water bath to 10000V DC - that extra step certainly adds some to the cost. If you are looking at plier handles specifically, have a look at NWS. I don‘t know how or why, but their comfort grip handles are by far the best I‘ve ever used. Unfortunately that doesn‘t really go for the business end or the quality control …
Another great vid Doc. You have a unique way of looking at things most of us never think of. Last weekend, I picked up a pair of Pittsburgh long reach needle nose pliers. The only reason I bought them was because they had the texture grip handles, I wish all my pliers had texture grips. The worst handles are on the Vampliers. I love the needle nose, they are in my hip pocket from the start of the day. But the covers are like Thomas's English muffins with all the nooks and crannies. What a pita to clean..... .
Really enjoying watching your videos. I like to go with a dipped handle generally, for two reasons. The first being I don't have particular big hands, size8/m gloves, and find some bigger grips more awkward to use but mostly it is because I have to carry my tools around a lot and I can genrlly fit two dipped handles to ever comfort grip handle. The only real exception is all my electrical tools are VDE rated, I am in Europe so thats pretty standard but not a law, I just feel that if I have a tool specifically for electrical work it might as well be insulated just incase.
Great video! I prefer the dipped handles as they fit better in my tool bag's pockets and you can reposition your hands easier up and down tool depending on the requirement.
Generally thinner handles are nice for dexterity when doing light work but nice thick handles, like on the so 47acf pliers allow your finger joint to wrap around the handle. I find that far more comfortable than a thin pair that start to really dig in under high pressure
Hello again Doc Thank you for another Great Video. I agree with your assessment. Your spot on grip and use of your tools in general are as individual as you can get!!!! Again thank you
If a tool I use will be used with or near live wires, it will be VDE only for me; for other applications, dipped and comfort grip are also fine, although I try to get VDE versions for some tools, so I can have the option to use them in case I need that tool near live wires.
Since i grew up using channellock pliers, my hands prefer the knipex dipped handle pliers. I don't work on live wires, so I have no use for insulted. Actually in reality, I don't work on much of anything with tools so I probably have no use for tools in general, just enjoy collecting. Every once in a while I need to do bathroom work in my house or change valves but that's about it.
I find that I prefer the dipped handles slightly in most tasks…I think it’s just because what I am used to. I have a mix of them though and there isn’t one I “don’t” like. Thanks for the video, always interesting to hear your thoughts.
I’ve seen Knipex come in many more colors as well. Green dipped (RICA model) black dipped (Japan 2021 version) blue dipped (My first Knipex version) ect.
I’m pretty sure the comfort grip and the VDE grip is the exact same plastic/rubber material mix, just with a slightly more secure top and a different color. The real difference is that they are tested while the standard comfort grip isn’t. Testing and licensing for this kind of thing is unfortunately extraordinarily expensive and takes time. I’m not 100% sure if its the case here for sure so don’t take my word and don’t take any risk. If you need insulation, get something that has been tested. They also have 1000v rated handles that use the same rubber dipped vinyl-like material but with a more secured top (they are wider at the top of the handles so your hand doesn’t accidentally slip up and touch the metal of the pliers).
You can order up a replacement button kit for the old pair of Cobra's. When reassembling, be sure to press down the button cap before spring installation. For the record, I prefer the smooth dip handles for everything. Edit: Cobra's, not Alligators! Cringe.
I saw that kit was available. I just didn't want to pour another $11 into those particular pliers. I think it should be a warranty part, or maybe $1.99.
Good video as always. I will add another layer of OCD if I might. In my two primary tool sets, my pliers are all flat lay in toolboxes so I can see them. One set is dipped, one is comfort. Similarly, my Knipex electrical pliers set is all VDE and in an open top bag with the business end up. For my various to go bags, I mix and match so I can tell what pliers I am grabbing based on the handles sticking up in a pouch. So, in my day to day set. I have comfort grip forged wire strippers and dipped twin grip, VBW S-grip, Shalwille fast grip, Gedore pliers wrench etc.
I prefer the textured dip handles. I don't really like the smooth dip ones, they're just like the pliers I have from 30 or 40 years ago and I like to think that designs and materials have improved since then.
Hey there, I video idea for you :) Maybe it is just me, but Idk what are different knipex (or plier) surfaces for. Is there a different use-case, purpose for powder-coated and mirror polised or galvanized tools? Or is is just for the looks? (probaly isn't, there should be more behind it)
It is a good idea. Yes there is a reason for different finishes. Some of the reasons are described in tools description on the site. Some mini pliers for electronics are mostly available in mirror polished or polished versions. The chrome plating can exfoliate and can cause problems on a circuit board. Sometimes the chrome plated tools are better, especially when you work in wet environments or in contact with corrosive materials. Every vde rated tools that I have are chrome plated,reducing the risk of contamination of wires, that may appear if you are using a rusted plier. But a video would be nice on this subject.
Doc! There’s a fine tool present in all of your videos you’ve not talked about. It looks like you’re wearing a Rolex dive watch, but can’t tell if it’s a submariner, sea dweller or deep sea. All are great tool watches. Would love to know more :) My Explorer II lives on my wrist. A good tool watch is always needed.
To my knowledge Knipex has 7 handle types: 1) Plain- black oxide; 2) Plain- chrome; 3) Dipped smooth or textured; 4) Comfortgrip two-component; 5) Insulated VDE two component; 6) Insulated VDE dipped; 7) Others for specialty tools. For me dipped textured handles are very desirable but I cant say they make a great difference vs smooth dipped handles which are really easy to clean but may not hold up as well. However like you said the formulations have improved over the last 30 years. I think the Xcelite was the first company that put out textured handles , until then all pliers were either plain handle or dipped-smooth handles. Klein, Channelock, Proto, Wilde and other established names kept using the same smooth dip handles and still do to this day. Then double dipped handles showed up and quickly overtaken by two component handles. It is VERY hard to find the best handle configuration because it depends on many factors, your hand size, the pliers handle shape, the type of work, the work environment... I have different handle types because one handle type doesn't work for me. If you cant try em out in your hand the safest bet is to get dipped handles, molded handles can be bulky and for me often disappoint.
I don't like oversized bulky handles on really any tools including pliers, and especially dislike bi-material / overmolde handles. Mostly because I find them ugly, and I think it's okay to prefer classic/ traditional looking tools. Idon't find myself benefiting from anything these types of plier handles might offer, and they're too bulky to store. I'm used to vintage / old school tools, with that comes a preference for a classic portable steel toolbox over a tool bag and that's where the bulky handles really become an issue. You'd be surprised how many tools you can comfortably fit in a little Toyo ST350 if you know what you're doing. Out of everything available today I like the basic dipped handles, mostly the smooth vinyl dips I'm used to or the textured dips which feel really nice. I don't really care too much about how dirty my handle grips might get.
Definitely. Smooth dipped ones are easy to clean, easy to slide in to a tool bag/roll, take up minimal space and don't spread your hands as far apart which helps gripping things.
I wish more of the smaller styles came with the comfort grip as an option, but I can understand finer work needs finer control. I just really like the comfort grip feel.
Have you done a video on shears and snips? Asking because I found some pretty old wiss that are incredible compared to the new ones I have. Really long handle great spring back action and just cut so well.
Try trail running or long-distance backpacking, something more extreme to exaggerate the effect, and you'll understand. ;) Moving weight is totally different from static weight. "A gram on the feet is a pound on the back".
This is exactly the video I was looking for!
I think I'll get dipped for 250 water pump plier, vde for needle nose but I'm not sure what for 180 pliers wrench. What would you recommend, dipped or comfort grip?
probably just the regular red grip.. comfort grips are too bulky if youre getting a tiny plier wrench
I like comfort grip for larger tools that require more torque, for the smaller tools just go with the regular dipped handles, comfort grip also takes up more space in the tool bag if that’s a factor for you
I really like these types of videos--more of a "food for thought" style rather than just another "you *need* this tool" video.
Thanks!
I use almost exclusively use dipped handle tools. I have no ‘feeling’ with the bigger comfort grips and vde grips. Only comfort grips I liked a little are the Klein journeyman grips.
I only use vde when neccesary.
Great video! I would like to add an observation. I really like the multi-component grips and ordered most of my pliers in that variety. The issue I ran into was space in my tool bag. They take a lot of extra space. I switched to dipped handles and wish I had chosen that for most prior purchases. Also, you discussed the durability of the handles. Years ago, I bought a larger VDE-handled pliers wrench. I stopped using it because it was just too big. Last weekend, I got the idea to remove the grips and replace them with multiple layers of heat-shrink tubing. It worked out well, but removing the old grips was a bear. I tried a utility knife, band saw, hack saw, and chisel and applied heat with the heat gun. It took over an hour to remove the grips with much cursing and banging. Yeah, those handles are durable.
I have a couple VBW waterpump pliers (german made) for at least 20 years now. They are still going strong. Been using them to build a house and working on cars etc.
No one ever talks about the KNIPEX pliers grips. I prefer the textured dip! I have requested for the “comfort grip” to be slimed down, KNIPEX complied. Not everyone has the same size hands 🙌🏻.
Sharing your reasoning is really helpful and helps in the decision making. Thank you very much!
I have done the testing of the comfort handle, as the lab-rat myself, multiple times, by accidentaly cutting into live household single phase energy level wires (220-240V European).
They are very insulating, at least in that voltges.
Great video! They also offer another style of VDE handles that is dipped, like 03 07 180. I don't know the difference in terms of functionality, but I've noticed that people who work on high voltage lines usually use the dipped VDE handles.
The VDE 1000V insulated tool are individually tested in a water bath to 10000V DC - that extra step certainly adds some to the cost.
If you are looking at plier handles specifically, have a look at NWS. I don‘t know how or why, but their comfort grip handles are by far the best I‘ve ever used. Unfortunately that doesn‘t really go for the business end or the quality control …
6th handle type-knurled metal, no plastic. Think Cobra XS. Good video. Thx!
Another great vid Doc. You have a unique way of looking at things most of us never think of. Last weekend, I picked up a pair of Pittsburgh long reach needle nose pliers. The only reason I bought them was because they had the texture grip handles, I wish all my pliers had texture grips.
The worst handles are on the Vampliers. I love the needle nose, they are in my hip pocket from the start of the day. But the covers are like Thomas's English muffins with all the nooks and crannies. What a pita to clean.....
.
Really enjoying watching your videos.
I like to go with a dipped handle generally, for two reasons. The first being I don't have particular big hands, size8/m gloves, and find some bigger grips more awkward to use but mostly it is because I have to carry my tools around a lot and I can genrlly fit two dipped handles to ever comfort grip handle.
The only real exception is all my electrical tools are VDE rated, I am in Europe so thats pretty standard but not a law, I just feel that if I have a tool specifically for electrical work it might as well be insulated just incase.
Great video! I prefer the dipped handles as they fit better in my tool bag's pockets and you can reposition your hands easier up and down tool depending on the requirement.
Overall I like the textured dipped. If my tools look a little dirty I'm ok with that.
Generally thinner handles are nice for dexterity when doing light work but nice thick handles, like on the so 47acf pliers allow your finger joint to wrap around the handle. I find that far more comfortable than a thin pair that start to really dig in under high pressure
If Knipex makes it in VDE thats the one I get, just for the comfort so much better than the others even the blue and red.
Hello again Doc
Thank you for another Great Video. I agree with your assessment. Your spot on grip and use of your tools in general are as individual as you can get!!!! Again thank you
If a tool I use will be used with or near live wires, it will be VDE only for me; for other applications, dipped and comfort grip are also fine, although I try to get VDE
versions for some tools, so I can have the option to use them in case I need that tool near live wires.
I love the textured knipex stuff… i wish i could find a plasti-dip like that for my other stuff.
You should try stahlwille pliers and wrenches they are snap-on quality but quite a bit cheaper.
Since i grew up using channellock pliers, my hands prefer the knipex dipped handle pliers. I don't work on live wires, so I have no use for insulted. Actually in reality, I don't work on much of anything with tools so I probably have no use for tools in general, just enjoy collecting. Every once in a while I need to do bathroom work in my house or change valves but that's about it.
I find that I prefer the dipped handles slightly in most tasks…I think it’s just because what I am used to. I have a mix of them though and there isn’t one I “don’t” like.
Thanks for the video, always interesting to hear your thoughts.
I’ve seen Knipex come in many more colors as well. Green dipped (RICA model) black dipped (Japan 2021 version) blue dipped (My first Knipex version) ect.
Very useful. I am in the process of buying new tools, this helps a lot.
I’m pretty sure the comfort grip and the VDE grip is the exact same plastic/rubber material mix, just with a slightly more secure top and a different color. The real difference is that they are tested while the standard comfort grip isn’t. Testing and licensing for this kind of thing is unfortunately extraordinarily expensive and takes time. I’m not 100% sure if its the case here for sure so don’t take my word and don’t take any risk. If you need insulation, get something that has been tested. They also have 1000v rated handles that use the same rubber dipped vinyl-like material but with a more secured top (they are wider at the top of the handles so your hand doesn’t accidentally slip up and touch the metal of the pliers).
You can order up a replacement button kit for the old pair of Cobra's. When reassembling, be sure to press down the button cap before spring installation.
For the record, I prefer the smooth dip handles for everything.
Edit: Cobra's, not Alligators! Cringe.
I saw that kit was available. I just didn't want to pour another $11 into those particular pliers. I think it should be a warranty part, or maybe $1.99.
@@lastbesttool Ahhh... but they have such beautiful patina!
Not only that, but I don't think the Knipex warranty covers normal wear & tear.
Good video as always. I will add another layer of OCD if I might. In my two primary tool sets, my pliers are all flat lay in toolboxes so I can see them. One set is dipped, one is comfort. Similarly, my Knipex electrical pliers set is all VDE and in an open top bag with the business end up. For my various to go bags, I mix and match so I can tell what pliers I am grabbing based on the handles sticking up in a pouch. So, in my day to day set. I have comfort grip forged wire strippers and dipped twin grip, VBW S-grip, Shalwille fast grip, Gedore pliers wrench etc.
Textured grip adds character
Man thats a lot of knipex! new channel sponsor? great video as always i love your content
I prefer the textured dip handles. I don't really like the smooth dip ones, they're just like the pliers I have from 30 or 40 years ago and I like to think that designs and materials have improved since then.
Hey there,
I video idea for you :)
Maybe it is just me, but Idk what are different knipex (or plier) surfaces for.
Is there a different use-case, purpose for powder-coated and mirror polised or galvanized tools? Or is is just for the looks? (probaly isn't, there should be more behind it)
It is a good idea. Yes there is a reason for different finishes. Some of the reasons are described in tools description on the site. Some mini pliers for electronics are mostly available in mirror polished or polished versions. The chrome plating can exfoliate and can cause problems on a circuit board. Sometimes the chrome plated tools are better, especially when you work in wet environments or in contact with corrosive materials. Every vde rated tools that I have are chrome plated,reducing the risk of contamination of wires, that may appear if you are using a rusted plier. But a video would be nice on this subject.
Doc! There’s a fine tool present in all of your videos you’ve not talked about. It looks like you’re wearing a Rolex dive watch, but can’t tell if it’s a submariner, sea dweller or deep sea. All are great tool watches. Would love to know more :)
My Explorer II lives on my wrist. A good tool watch is always needed.
To my knowledge Knipex has 7 handle types: 1) Plain- black oxide; 2) Plain- chrome; 3) Dipped smooth or textured; 4) Comfortgrip two-component; 5) Insulated VDE two component; 6) Insulated VDE dipped; 7) Others for specialty tools.
For me dipped textured handles are very desirable but I cant say they make a great difference vs smooth dipped handles which are really easy to clean but may not hold up as well. However like you said the formulations have improved over the last 30 years. I think the Xcelite was the first company that put out textured handles , until then all pliers were either plain handle or dipped-smooth handles. Klein, Channelock, Proto, Wilde and other established names kept using the same smooth dip handles and still do to this day. Then double dipped handles showed up and quickly overtaken by two component handles.
It is VERY hard to find the best handle configuration because it depends on many factors, your hand size, the pliers handle shape, the type of work, the work environment... I have different handle types because one handle type doesn't work for me. If you cant try em out in your hand the safest bet is to get dipped handles, molded handles can be bulky and for me often disappoint.
I don't like oversized bulky handles on really any tools including pliers, and especially dislike bi-material / overmolde handles. Mostly because I find them ugly, and I think it's okay to prefer classic/ traditional looking tools.
Idon't find myself benefiting from anything these types of plier handles might offer, and they're too bulky to store.
I'm used to vintage / old school tools, with that comes a preference for a classic portable steel toolbox over a tool bag and that's where the bulky handles really become an issue.
You'd be surprised how many tools you can comfortably fit in a little Toyo ST350 if you know what you're doing.
Out of everything available today I like the basic dipped handles, mostly the smooth vinyl dips I'm used to or the textured dips which feel really nice.
I don't really care too much about how dirty my handle grips might get.
Definitely.
Smooth dipped ones are easy to clean, easy to slide in to a tool bag/roll, take up minimal space and don't spread your hands as far apart which helps gripping things.
Very useful. Thank you!
Helpful, thanks!
I do work in some hospital surgical suits and and pharma clean rooms. There the tools must be impeccable or you are not allow to go in
The textured grip is really hard to clean
I wish more of the smaller styles came with the comfort grip as an option, but I can understand finer work needs finer control. I just really like the comfort grip feel.
Dont forget some pliers have tether attachments.
Have you done a video on shears and snips? Asking because I found some pretty old wiss that are incredible compared to the new ones I have. Really long handle great spring back action and just cut so well.
👍
There is another one. Its a see through red vde handle.
Is the handle type coded into the part number? i.e. the middle part of the part number?
I hate to tell u but you don't have them all.....
Two things I’ll never understand. Guys complaining that boots are “heavy” and that dipped plier handles hurt their hands.
Those kind of guys also like cheese with their whine.
Maybe you are an insensitive grunt.
Try trail running or long-distance backpacking, something more extreme to exaggerate the effect, and you'll understand. ;) Moving weight is totally different from static weight. "A gram on the feet is a pound on the back".
Someone is whimpy!
Goog content but thumbs down due to my eyes started to ache and made me dizzy while wiggling the instruments like this 🤢
Wiha is far better than Knipex.
ruclips.net/video/-Civ0BsIx8E/видео.html
I strongly disagree! I have a set of Wiha pliers and they've not lasted anything like as well as my Knipex (or various other brands).
@@tomcardale5596 My experience is different, I use Wiha, Knipex and Wera for the most part, and Knipex has been the poorest of the three.
@@tunintunin3417 oh I like my Wiha and Wera screwdrivers :)
Just not the pliers.