Snap-On vs Knipex

[Bruster04]

I wish I could get the Damn snappy grips on my knipex needle noses.

 

[Engine]

Well, Snap On, as I understand the situation, bought out the old Vacuum Grip company many decades ago, which is how their plier line came about! Those were top grade pliers, and no less so for Snap On's takeover! Indeed, some of the original 'Vacuum Grip' models were still offered up till the late 80's - I bought some!

Back then, those all steel Vacuum Grip models were really the top end of their line...

My grandfather was a mechanic back in the 50's through the 70's and used mostly SO and New Britain tools. When he passed away several years ago I inherited a few of his hand tools including these Vacuum Grip needle nose pliers you mention. Until now, I didn't know that they were SO. I saw the strange pattern of circles on the handles and my first thought was that they reminded me of the suckers on octopus legs. So, I guess "vacuum grip" is not too far off. They must have been used a lot since the rivet is rather loose. There isn't any coating on the handles, only plain steel. Even though they are well worn now, they still function just fine. Below is a pic from Alloy-artifacts.org that shows the exact pliers and they were apparently made around 1957-58. Makes you wonder if the best pliers made today will still be as good after the next sixty years.