Pliers compared: Snap-On Slip joint Vs Knipex Cobra

[Adam.C]

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[Makapuu]

I love German tools and wish Knipex or NWS manufactured straight slip-joint pliers. I see comparing the Cobras and Snap-on sorta as apples and oranges, but I do find myself grabbing those Cobras almost daily in situations where I used to use slip joints.

 

[Qualitytools]

I compared 2 very different "general purpose" pliers; Knipex Cobra 87 02 180, Snap On 47ACP. Though both pliers could be described as "general purpose", they are radically different pliers, almost to the point of being incomparable. But after reading, you may find one set more to your liking.

Overall Design
The Snap On models are 2 position, 7-1/2" slip joint pliers that will be familiar to just about everyone. The design could be considered antiquated.

The Knipex Cobras are the latest generation of an innovative design based loosely on arc joint pliers such as the familiar "Channel Locks". Knipex Alligators are more like traditional arc joint pliers. Knipex Cobra introduces a new spring loaded mechanism that makes size changes an easy one handed operation. This is a cool feature and nice to use as well as a real time saver, but has little to do with the core mission of this tool; gripping stuff, turning it, and pulling on it.

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General Build Quality
Both of these pliers could be considered premium models and both exhibit very high degree of fit and finish. The Knipex model functions smoothly with little play in the jaws. The gray finish is attractive with crisp, what look to be drop forged surfaces. The sides and tips of the jaws are ground to a bright finish.

The Snap On 47ACP is an older model for Snap On, now typically replaced in sets by the Talon series (47CP) which features new teeth in the jaws. The older model (here compared) has a ground finish, treated with black oxide. The fit at the joint is simply superb; these are not the slip joint pliers we grew up with from Craftsman. Even Craftsman's pro line don't hold a candle to these pliers. A tiny amount of draft, ground into the halves, makes it difficult to adjust the grip range in any position except with the halves perpendicular. This makes the selection never finicky or accidental. In short, I would say these are the absolute best of their type. The jaws meet perfectly, the teeth perfectly matched (more later). If you have high expectation of a Snap On tool, this tool will meet them.

Handle Comfort
The Knipex model features the more expensive comfort grip handles. These are larger and softer than the standard textured vinyl grips. A fine texture makes them grippy, even when wet with oil. They clean up easily with soap and water or your favorite degreaser. They are wide and do a good job of preventing hand fatigue or sore spots. Only regret with these are the nubs at the jaw end. These are generally comfortable, but can also get in the way.

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Surprisingly, the Snap On model grips are of a similar material and nearly as wide. They have more texture and are almost sticky when clean, but not in a bad way. Oily, they retain their grip. I was surprised at how comfortable they are.

Jaw design
The biggest difference between these pliers lies in their jaw design. The Snap On model has larger teeth, which meet tightly (point to point) over a longer length (toward the pivot). They are also much wider jaws, offering a significant advantage when twisting.

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The Cobra have smaller jaws with finer teeth. They feature three distinct gripping areas. The front jaws have fine, tight fitting teeth. Smooth flat jaws allow grip on a hex head bolt or nut, without the teeth scoring the fastener. The third jaw area is comprised of coarse teeth, effective on corroded fasteners, pipes etc.

The distance between the pivot and the tip of the jaw is very different between these models. The Knipex permit much greater force to be applied at the tip of the jaw. The narrowness of their jaws, allows a great amount of pressure to be applied to objects, which can make gripping and removing objects easy.

Grip Range
The Cobra grip range is easily twice that of the Snap On model. If having a single pair of pliers that can grip a wide size range is important, the Cobras are the wise choice.

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Automotive Use
Honestly, I don't use my pliers all that much working on cars. My absolute favorite automotive pliers are my duck bill pliers. I like their pointy, flat jaws that allow me to reach into small areas, grab and twist things. For this reason, I prefer the Snap On model. The angled Knipex jaw, while ergonomic, I find awkward reach into tight spaces. I far prefer the jaws to be roughly in line with my wrist. And for twisting things, drum brake springs for example, the Snap On pliers are far better. If you choose the Knipex pliers for general automotive work, you will also need a good set of duckbills.

Conclusion
For general household use, the wide range of grip sizes, different grip surfaces from coarse toothed to smooth jawed make the Knipex Cobra the hands down best choice. These truly are must-have pliers for every handy man. For all but the most occasional user, I recommend the comfort grip, which are far superior in comfort, and "grippiness" when oily, to the standard grip. If you don't know what you will encounter, Cobra is the right tool. If you are doing plumbing of any sort, then I would highly recommend the Knipex Plier Wrench for it's smooth, always parallel jaws.

While the Cobra is a jack of all trades, the Snap On 47ACP is the master of it's type. For automotive work, I think it is an essential tool, at least for all of us who grew up using this sort of tool. I was expecting an overly expensive version of an antiquated design. I was wrong. I was particularly impressed by their pointy jaws and wide comfortable grips. The quality of the jaw, precise and strong, was also unexpected. The 47CP is not really comparable, lacking the short overall length and long pointy jaws. If, like me, you appreciate duck bill pliers, the Snap On 47ACP will be a welcome addition to your kit.

Nice write up, pictures of the 2 would have been very helpful. Thanks!

 

[DodgeMech]

i love my cobras and prefer them over a small pipe wrench on the alignment rack...but, fwiw, i'm a believer in snap on dykes over any other brand...

 

[cgv69]

I agree with apples and oranges. And that may make more sense to we who have and use both, which was kinda my point.

I'll have to admit that I didn't even bother reading what you wrote because it is such and apples to oranges comparison. Obviously both tools have their strengths and weaknesses and application where they shine.

I can't think of any good reason why somebody wouldn't have both? Not necessarily the SO and Knipex versions but some type/brand of slip joint and water pump pliers) I consider both part of any basic tool box.

 

[bobcatdan]

I don't understand comparing the old style slip joint to a cobra. The new 3 position slip joints are the best slip joint out there simply because the 3rd position is so handy. Corbras are great pliers plain and simple. Now SO's "channellock" style do ****, big and clunky with a handle spread even Andre the giant would find awkward.