Good, cheap Linesman Pliers (preferably USA)

[rlitman]

...What separates the good from the bad will really be the hardness of the metal used, which is important for the cutters, and the longevity of the teeth. Other than that it will be the general machining of the tool, the smoothness of the joint, and the size and placement of the rivet. Smaller joints more closely placed to the "throat" of the jaw will result in more leverage and easier cutting. A little difference gives a big result with that respect.

... Klein are good but they can take years to break in and be butter smooth at the joints...

All so true. Pliers that use cheap and soft metal get away with not falling apart by using a larger diameter rivet. Better makers will use a better steel, which allows for a smaller joint, which gives more leverage.

I own several pairs of Kleins. Some were bought new, and to be honest, I avoid these pairs as much as possible. My favorite Kleins are the two vintage pairs I have at work (the red handled ones I pictured in another thread). They were both clearly "loved" for many years before I got my hands on them, and they've broken in beautifully.

But my go-to pair of linesman pliers are Knipex. Out of the box, they're just right. Knipex has perfected a level of fit and finish on their linesmans pliers that is at the pinnacle of the industry.

 

[kctyphoon]

Also, don't know why I didn't mention this earlier, but there is a specific tool made to cut the armor on BX cable to make smooth, burr free cuts on the jacket. I grew up in NYC so I have one, but it's been a LONG time since I've used it.. this is just what pulled up on the hd site, but I'm sure cheaper models are available if it's not too late. It won't leave any sharp edges on the jacket when you strip it back to secure it on the metal box.

http://www.homedepot.com/s/Armored%20cable%20cutter?NCNI-5

You can probably check eBay or Amazon for a cheaper model.. they are worth getting IMO if you have a project since everything is BX over there..

 

[WhiskeyRanger]

I have Klein and Knipex linesmans and both do an equally good job of weighing down my tool pouch without ever being used. The Knipex are better reamers for EMT and at pulling fish tape.

 

[NoiseRacing]

Kleins or Gray is what I use daily (Lineman) both are excellent for longevity and we cut #4copper and #2 ACSR everyday. I too agree with channel locks being a happy medium and look forward to trying out Knipex in the future.

 

[48548]

A few I have....

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

My advice is to spend the money on Klein. In 10 years you won't remember what they cost. If you go with a cheap set, you'll remember how bad they are every time you use them.

I prefer the Kleins over the Knipex, but Knipex would be my second choice.

 

[1969]

Just go buy 9" high leverage and be done with it, case closed.

 

[Ign]

I will say.........one thing I liked about the WirePro dykes I got yesterday: the hinge moves very freely, but isn't sloppy. Personally I prefer that over a stiff hinge you have to force open.

 

[Tennessee Cattleman]

Klein lineman's pliers are heavy duty and tough. We use the Journeyman series to cut and fix high tensile barb wire.

 

[jeffmoss26]

Klein all the way. Buy once, cry once!