Wiha vs Knipex

[jsharpphoto]

I'm a homeowner. I do homeowner types of projects and work on my motorcycle, and fix my kids toys (or destroy them completely). I want to replace my cheapo set of pliers with something nicer.

I am torn between this set of Wiha...

Wiha 30993 Ergo Soft Grip Industrial Set In Pouch, 3 Piece Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00578QY64/?tag=atomicindus08-20

And piecing together the same basic configuration from Knipex, with their insulated comfort grip.

The Wiha pliers are now made in Vietnam, but are reportedly still excellent quality. The Knipex are German. The knipex are around 50% more in price. Is it worth it? I don't have a problem with the cost, I just like to make wise decisions.

I'm open to other recommendations. I looked at Williams, but I prefer the insulated comfort grip. For me, tools are a hobby so I need to enjoy using them.

 

[jsharpphoto]

Sorry. This was supposed to go to the General Tool Discussion not General Garage Discussion

 

[stonesfan68]

I don't own the Wiha pliers, but if they are built like the Wiha small screwdrivers then I'm sure that they are of really great quality!

I own Knipex pliers and they are very well made and will last me a lifetime. I'm an avid DIYer, not a professional.

I also own Channellock pliers, and for the money they are hard to beat. They are still made in the USA.

Amazon ASIN B001A3ZBCI

 

[jsharpphoto]

My only problem with the channellock brand is they don't have the comfort grip handles. I know, I'm a pansy.

 

[sac02]

Google Channellock Code Blue

 

[dutchgray]

Knipex or NWS or even CK, go German if your not gonna go for Channellock or another USA make.

 

[jsharpphoto]

I'm not familiar with NWS or CK. I will check them out. But so far I'm not hearing anyone say that the Knipex ones aren't worth their asking price. Good to know

 

[pauls_workshop]

In terms of cost, instead of the Knipex cobras you have options. You can get Irwin groovelock, very similar to Knipex Cobras for not much at all. Very good. You can also get a Craftsmen set of two groovelock button style, which are made by Knipex for Craftsman, for much cheaper than the real Knipex. In terms of their pliers wrenches, nobody else makes those yet. Other stuff, I'd buy Klein or Channellock vs the cost of the Knipex. - Paul

 

[dutchgray]

I'm not familiar with NWS or CK. I will check them out. But so far I'm not hearing anyone say that the Knipex ones aren't worth their asking price. Good to know

I should say I have modern Knipex and NWS but only old CK, I would buy more of any though.

 

[fastev]

I use both Wiha and Knipex professionally every day. They are both top quality and will serve you well. If I were in your shoes I'd get whichever is less expensive.

 

[fivespdcat]

There is no way I would pick wiha over Knipex. The Knipex are still made in Germany and excellent pliers, while the Wiha has moved to Vietnam. Wiha is also a screwdriver company that happens to make pliers, Knipex is a pliers company. If I wasn't getting Knipex, I would be buying channellock.

 

[jsharpphoto]

It looks like the channel lock code blue series is just about the same price as the knipex. So I'll just go with knipex. Thanks for all the feedback guys.