I'm kinda in the same boat - rare use, but a critical thing when I need them kinda thing.The three problems I have with this tool are:
- tips don't hold the ring securely
- tips bend under load
- pliers don't open wide enough.
This particular tool goes into my "rarely used, but invaluable when needed" bin (or, as the wifey calls it: the "why do you need all these tools" bin), and one plier with swappable tips works well in that schema. The solution may just be to get myself an ample set of fixed-tip pliers with good leverage.
I've never heard anyone complain about the Snap On (other than price) - I forget
Knipex is, by all counts pretty great, and less brutal when it comes to price. But not exactly budget-friendly either at ~$190
I have the Icon set several people have posted here, and they've been fine. Good engagement, nothing has launched into oblivion, nice case and $75. Occasionally they're on sale for as little as $50. The tips have held up fine, but I can't really say that's the result of anything more than occasional use.
If I needed them just a bit more often, I could have probably talked myself into the Knipex set.

