Hoseclamp Pliers - knipex 85 51 250 A

[T45]

These knipex pliers look pretty cool...basically a 250 cobra modified for hoseclamps...

Has anyone used these and have real world feedback?

Previous GJ thread is here> http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=237711&highlight=8551250A&showall=1

But this was before they were wideley available in the US.

Thanks for any comments.

 

[jgreen-fsi]

I have one on the way. I'm looking forward to trying it out.

 

[Cope]

I bought a pair after reading the other thread. I've officially used them once, and tried them out on a few other clamps. They take a little getting used to, but they are great.

 

[Fedwrench]

Have them at work. I honestly don't use them as much as I thought I would. Why? They take a little getting used to. With Mayhew fixed jaw or the cable operated ones, it's basically line up the jaws on the clamp and squeeze. Both the older style fixed and cable operated versions have a lock where you can lock the clamp open as to wiggle it on and off.
There's no lock on the Knipex. Because the Knipex fit such a wide range of sizes, you have to hold the fixed jaw against one clamp ear, and slide the movable jaw against the other ear and squeeze. I want to like the Knipex but, I find myself reaching for older spec tools, facom, and Mayhew hose clamp pliers instead.

 

[woodstockva]

I actually shot some footage of them being used yesterday.....I will be putting out a video review on them within a week or so if you want to see how they work.