How many pliers do I need?

[finn]

I keep coming up with cheap pliers, mostly dating back to the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. I think I will start throwing them in a box to donate to the Habitat store.

I find that, while doing a little project, I will take time to locate “better” pliers, and avoid the orphans. They are essentially clutter.

Time for a housecleaning.

 

[steaks&anvils]

I ran across this quote on a french jewelers forum, from a distinguished french Quebec/Canadian jeweler:

"The ideal is to have several pliers, often dozens."

 

[Dzmax77]

Here is most of what I have. I need a new box and organizer for these.

 

[Dzmax77]

Interesting results on cutters. I have those Knipex; I thought they’d be the strongest of all. US, Germany, CCP and Taiwan all had decent makes. Im curious to see how Japanese cutters would’ve matched up.

Correct me if Im wrong but the harder the steel, the more brittle. So, with these types of pliers, it largely depends on that perfect balance. What is the preferred steel hardness rating for such pliers?

 

[bwringer]

I keep coming up with cheap pliers, mostly dating back to the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. I think I will start throwing them in a box to donate to the Habitat store.

I find that, while doing a little project, I will take time to locate “better” pliers, and avoid the orphans. They are essentially clutter.

Time for a housecleaning.

Yep, usable but cheap stuff gets donated to Habitat Restore and I don't feel so bad.

Cheap but dangerously crappy or worn-out stuff gets tossed. No point in letting it create a blood blister on someone else's fingers.