Your Recommendations for Snap Ring Pliers?

[giants]

Last week, I was working on my Craftsman ratchets, which involved my first use of snap ring pliers to remove the internal snap rings. It was very difficult, so I don't know if the tools I used were the problem or my technique. One problem was that the tips crossed each other, like someone crossing legs.

I'm going to repair my car's CV joints so I need to improve my skill and/or tool.

I have a no-brand and a pair of Harbor Freight snap ring pliers (see first photo and these links):

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Craftsman-...b~EhA:sc:USPSFirstClass!94131!US!-1:rk:3:pf:0

https://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-63845.html

The Snap-on pliers don't look any different (see second photo and this link):

https://store.snapon.com/Snap-Ring-...p-Convertible-0-070-tips-7-7-16--P636947.aspx

Anyone have suggestions on technique or better features in a snap ring plier set?

Thanks

 

[nbpt100]

I suggest not buying ones with detachable tips. Those are the worst...

I agree in general. I assume you mean the kind that come with different tip sizes and configurations that attach to the handle with a cheap clamp. It is a good idea but usually not well executed. The are not ridged enough for thick snap rings. They just deflect and can't hold the ring open.

There are some with replaceable tips that are good. It comes down to how well the tips are made and how they attached to the tool. The tips can wear out and it is good to just replace the tips and not the whole tool. You want a tool with good stiffness and the tips are securely held in the tool so they will not move or deflect.

I had a reversible pair(flipped from internal to external) from NAPA that was better but still frustrated me at times. The flipping mechanism would malfunction and I had to disassemble, clean and oil it multiple times. It had pretty good stiffness and I was able to remove some good sized snap rings.

Make sure the tips and tool have plenty of stiffness to open a heavy snap ring.

The Quinn Reversible tool I saw on the HF page from your link looks like a good step up. But hard to judge from just that one picture.

I am sure most any of the Brand names that people often speak highly of on here will serve you well.

 

[giants]

Thanks to both of you for your comments.

I noticed that the Snap-on needle nose and slip joint pliers both have criss-cross patterns on the teeth and Talon grips for better gripping strength. However, their snap ring pliers don't seem to have these features.

 

[jsmeece]

I have the three piece Craftsman set similar to this Channellock set: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002M058TO/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Also have old replaceable tip version from Craftsman probably 30 years old, I can still get replacement tips from Sears.

I have a older Tekton set too that are solid tip, I HATE these.

 

[L.Cheapo]

They all ****, just to different degrees. I do agree with ecotec that the interchangeable tip pliers seem to **** the most. I bought the big set of Knipex precision pliers after asking around here and the forgings are so much bigger than the tips that they are difficult to get into tight spaces...you know...the kind of places you generally find snap rings. The damn things still go flying half the time.

 

[giants]

Thanks.

jsmeece, I'll check Ebay. Would you look up the model number?

Your link gave me a link to a single pair of Channellocks which got good reviews, is made in the US, and looks sturdy:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TG80SY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Anyone have experience with this model?

How do you warranty Channellocks and any problems with that?

 

[jsmeece]

Thanks.

jsmeece, I'll check Ebay. Would you look up the model number?

Your link gave me a link to a single pair of Channellocks which got good reviews, is made in the US, and looks sturdy:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TG80SY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Anyone have experience with this model?

How do you warranty Channellocks and any problems with that?

This is the Craftsman set I have, I do not think Sears carry these anymore. I get my set for $57 when they were closing them out at a local Sears.

https://www.sears.com/craftsman-pro...nal-convertible-retaining-ring/p-00947394000P

Cripe on Ebay have an Armstrong set for $75 plus shipping. Same set as Craftsman and Channellock.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Armstrong-...-Snap-Retaining-Ring-Pliers-Sets/401712770238

I have never warranted anything from channellock, so I cannot comment on their process. Maybe someone else on GJ can chime in with their experience on Channellocks warranty policies.

 

[Xcursion88]

I suggest not buying ones with detachable tips. Those are the worst...

Best advice here.

If you really want. Some for life....knipex makes all types. Straight on..90 degree...etc etc.

IMO knipex is the very best in the plier business.

Made in Germany.

P.s.
So good that most snap on trucks sell knipex.

 

[JBH]

I haven't used Knipex, NWS, or VBW/Stahlwille, but Gedore's function well and are much more finely crafted than the Snapper ones linked above. They have a proper riveted joint too.

Internal:
https://www.kctoolco.com/gedore-800...r-internal-retaining-rings-straight-19-60-mm/

External:
https://www.kctoolco.com/gedore-800...r-external-retaining-rings-straight-19-60-mm/

They also have a nice set with flat and 90deg for both internal and external circlips in several sizes, that comes in an I-BOXX.

 

[kenc184]

Knipex snap ring pliers are wonderful.

 

[R_einan]

Knipex snap ring pliers are wonderful.

I totally agree with this, the knipex are the best snap ring pliers I’ve ever used.

 

[Gone Boating]

Knipex.

 

[mudflap]

This is one case where the SOs are worth the $$ Channellock are also very good. I work around hydraulics alot/rebuild cylinders. Also have some old Proto ones that wont die.

 

[Rabid Badger]

Thanks.

jsmeece, I'll check Ebay. Would you look up the model number?

Your link gave me a link to a single pair of Channellocks which got good reviews, is made in the US, and looks sturdy:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000TG80SY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Anyone have experience with this model?

How do you warranty Channellocks and any problems with that?

I have a pair of those. They're perfectly fine for occasional use. If you use them frequently and/or work on stuff with multiple sizes of snap rings it becomes a pain in the *** to swap out the tips.

I would avoid the Quinn version at Harbor Freight. The jaws are cast zinc and not as durable.

 

[rhys99]

Knipex are excellent, i also have some Facom ones which are very good. I have never got along with any of the snap on circlip pliers...

 

[87FoRunner]

I own Snap on and Icon. Icon are perfect for 99% of jobs. Snap on are good for the 1% of crazy stupid thick ones found on heavy equipment.

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

VBW/Stahlwille are great.

 

[paulsomlo]

They all ****, just to different degrees. I do agree with ecotec that the interchangeable tip pliers seem to **** the most. I bought the big set of Knipex precision pliers after asking around here and the forgings are so much bigger than the tips that they are difficult to get into tight spaces...you know...the kind of places you generally find snap rings. The damn things still go flying half the time.

I'm guessing you're referring to the Knipex with the inserted tips. I bought the fully forged ones based on similar complaints and I'm very happy with them - no problems with access, and very well made. I bought the eight pc set, plus some add-ons from amazon.de, saved about $100 over buying them domestically, even with shipping. I paid around $150 for the 12 pairs of pliers. In the budget arena, there's two sets made by Astro, probably Taiwan COO, roughly $20 each set of four.

I used to use the Craftsman convertible with interchangeable tips and dreaded dealing with snap rings - now I almost look forward to it.

Here's the link to my post regarding this purchase, there's a screen shot of all the part numbers: https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=402976&highlight=knipex

 

[plinker]

I noticed that the Snap-on needle nose and slip joint pliers both have criss-cross patterns on the teeth and Talon grips for better gripping strength. However, their snap ring pliers don't seem to have these features.

Apples vs. oranges as far as why the snap ring pliers dont have teeth (not sure how they could actually). Snap ring pliers dont grip the way needle nose, slip joints & channellock type pliers do. Snap-ring pliers are more or less spreaders that either expand or contract, depending on application.


I have the 3pc Lang set but Matco branded, they are interchangable tip style but I've not had an issue with the tips other then normal wear. I did manage to break the largest plier of the set one time. The only down side is they are some what bulky.
http://www.langtools.com/sku-1465-3-pc-quick-switch-retaining-ring-pliers-set/

I also agree if you use them enough they will break at some point. Snap-on's warranty would likely edge out Knipex in that regard. Couldnt really go wrong with either though.

These would be a good set too from the looks of it. Especially if they arent a daily use item.
https://www.amazon.com/Lang-Tools-12-Piece-Combination-Internal/dp/B005MVB6TG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=lang+3495&qid=1551226403&s=gateway&sr=8-1
I dont think Snap-on is rebranding these "Snap-on". Maybe Blue point (read reviews). They may have before, but not currently/last few years (slightly different style).

 

[L.Cheapo]

I'm guessing you're referring to the Knipex with the inserted tips. I bought the fully forged ones based on similar complaints and I'm very happy with them - no problems with access, and very well made. I bought the eight pc set, plus some add-ons from amazon.de, saved about $100 over buying them domestically, even with shipping. I paid around $150 for the 12 pairs of pliers. In the budget arena, there's two sets made by Astro, probably Taiwan COO, roughly $20 each set of four.

I used to use the Craftsman convertible with interchangeable tips and dreaded dealing with snap rings - now I almost look forward to it.

Here's the link to my post regarding this purchase, there's a screen shot of all the part numbers: https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=402976&highlight=knipex

I have the same 8 pc Knipex set you do. And I don't like them. Yes they're rigid. Yes they're pretty. But I do not like the inserted tips. Every time I have to go after a small recessed internal snap ring they get in the way. Sure, on a ball joint external snap ring they're great, but I seem to encounter small internal rings about 90% of the time. I had to buy a cheap pair of Craftsman snap ring pliers to get to one I simply couldn't with my Knipex set due to their design.

 

[paulsomlo]

I have the same 8 pc Knipex set you do. And I don't like them. Yes they're rigid. Yes they're pretty. But I do not like the inserted tips. Every time I have to go after a small recessed internal snap ring they get in the way. Sure, on a ball joint external snap ring they're great, but I seem to encounter small internal rings about 90% of the time. I had to buy a cheap pair of Craftsman snap ring pliers to get to one I simply couldn't with my Knipex set due to their design.

Are you sure they're the same ones I have? They make two styles - the style with the inserted tips that Knipex refers to as "precision circlip pliers" and the style with the tips forged from the same material as the rest of the body. Here's some pictures - which set do you have? Because someone in the future is going to land on this thread in their search, and when they read your comment, they'll conclude that Knipex circlip pliers are no good.

 

[RedneckWelder]

Are you sure they're the same ones I have? They make two styles - the style with the inserted tips that Knipex refers to as "precision circlip pliers" and the style with the tips forged from the same material as the rest of the body. Here's some pictures - which set do you have? Because someone in the future is going to land on this thread in their search, and when they read your comment, they'll conclude that Knipex circlip pliers are no good.

I’m still confused as to the correct part number for the forged, not insert, 8 piece set. The various venders do not adequately distinguish their product and they seem to all call them “precision”

 

[paulsomlo]

I’m still confused as to the correct part number for the forged, not insert, 8 piece set. The various venders do not adequately distinguish their product and they seem to all call them “precision”

00 20 04 V01 is the 8pc set, here's the link that shows both 4pc and 8pc sets:
https://www.knipex.com/index.php?id=1216&L=1&page=group_detail&parentID=1373&groupID=2238

 

[L.Cheapo]

Are you sure they're the same ones I have? They make two styles - the style with the inserted tips that Knipex refers to as "precision circlip pliers" and the style with the tips forged from the same material as the rest of the body. Here's some pictures - which set do you have? Because someone in the future is going to land on this thread in their search, and when they read your comment, they'll conclude that Knipex circlip pliers are no good.

You are correct. I have the style on the left. Oddly, the part number for the set I have is the same as the set you have, aside from the suffix. (00-20-04)

I didn't say they were no good, I even said they were great. I don't like them because their design makes accessing the most common snap rings I deal with difficult, which it does.

 

[paulsomlo]

You are correct. I have the style on the left. Oddly, the part number for the set I have is the same as the set you have, aside from the suffix. (00-20-04)

I didn't say they were no good, I even said they were great. I don't like them because their design makes accessing the most common snap rings I deal with difficult, which it does.

I can believe that - in fact, I would have rather have had the ones with the insert tips - Knipex claims something like 10x the lifespan, but there were others as well here on GJ that complained about access issues. Looking at the two styles, I can understand why. But, even at that, the forged ones are leagues better than what I had. Yes, confusing on the PNs - the forged are 00 20 04 V02, the insert tips are 00 20 04 SB

 

[nbpt100]

Question here on the knipex. Are the inserted tips welded in place? Are they removable? If a tip breaks can you replace the it?
I know this is a high end brand as I own some Knipex pliers. I appreciate the thought put into the design.

 

[jask]

not going to plug a single brand but... the Hazzard fraught ones you linked to will cause you to loose your mind..you will probably kill someone and end up in jail.. so don't buy those.
they have a goofy little center retainer pin to allow you to swap even more useless little tips that climb up and out of alignment when you apply any force... they will cause you to probably kill someone.. and you will go to jail... don't buy those.
the craftsman ones are good for little stuff but you will need a stout pair for CV clips, a big stout pair...(reversible inside/outside) I have Proto,Westward, snap on and some odd unbranded ones that all work well, but find a solid set with integral tips.

... the guard says I am making too much noise and need to go back to my cell now.... remember - don't buy the cheap ones..

 

[paulsomlo]

Question here on the knipex. Are the inserted tips welded in place? Are they removable? If a tip breaks can you replace the it?
I know this is a high end brand as I own some Knipex pliers. I appreciate the thought put into the design.

Not welded, crimped. No, not removable - if you break a tip, it's over, unfortunately.

 

[Yamaguy]

I have had these Craftsman reversible for years and they have always worked perfectly.

https://www.acehardware.com/departments/tools/hand-tools/solid-joint-pliers/2298826

 

[brollona]

Last week, I was working on my Craftsman ratchets, which involved my first use of snap ring pliers to remove the internal snap rings. It was very difficult, so I don't know if the tools I used were the problem or my technique. One problem was that the tips crossed each other, like someone crossing legs.

I'm going to repair my car's CV joints so I need to improve my skill and/or tool.

I have a no-brand and a pair of Harbor Freight snap ring pliers (see first photo and these links):

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Craftsman-...b~EhA:sc:USPSFirstClass!94131!US!-1:rk:3:pf:0

https://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-63845.html

The Snap-on pliers don't look any different (see second photo and this link):

https://store.snapon.com/Snap-Ring-...p-Convertible-0-070-tips-7-7-16--P636947.aspx

Anyone have suggestions on technique or better features in a snap ring plier set?

Thanks

I have exactly the same one on the first image, the price was 4$. They have done the job, but with lot of trouble. They are absolute **** for any serous job. Tips are hard enough, but they bend and then even dangerous because the ring slips. But hey they where 4$, what to expect for that "money".

 

[lafester]

I have had these Craftsman reversible for years and they have always worked perfectly.

https://www.acehardware.com/departments/tools/hand-tools/solid-joint-pliers/2298826

Ace has a 25% off in store coupon today. Might have to give these a shot.
They also show a Channellock version that looks identical for $2 less, but not available near me. - edit - the Channellock are 8" but otherwise the same.

 

[giants]

Ace has a 25% off in store coupon today. Might have to give these a shot.
They also show a Channellock version that looks identical for $2 less, but not available near me. - edit - the Channellock are 8" but otherwise the same.

Thanks.

I see the link that yamaguy posted clearly, but not the 25% off coupon. I'll keep looking. Meanwhile, can you easily find the 25% off coupon?

Thanks again.

 

[dnschmidt]

Actually, my boys at Astro Pneumatic made very nice snap ring pliers in the Knipex style (pins on the ends) and sell them a hell of a lot cheaper. They make them in both a 7" version and a big version that they just came out with. Part numbers 94220 (0.050 tips), 94221 (0.067 tips), and the big boys 94222.

 

[nbpt100]

Thanks.

I see the link that yamaguy posted clearly, but not the 25% off coupon. I'll keep looking. Meanwhile, can you easily find the 25% off coupon?

Thanks again.

If you read the review on the ACE website, the person complains about what I was saying earlier about some of tools with removable tips. The tips are not stiff enough and make it very hard to work or just do not work on heavier snap rings.

Seems like a good tool for smaller retaining/snap rings and for the occasional home user.
That is a very good deal with the coupon. I wish it had 45 deg angled tips. A larger variety of tips would be good upgrade.

 

[lafester]

Thanks.

I see the link that yamaguy posted clearly, but not the 25% off coupon. I'll keep looking. Meanwhile, can you easily find the 25% off coupon?

Thanks again.

Try the ACE home page.

https://cdn-tp3.mozu.com/24645-m1/cms/files/d664c2b0-7e00-43ec-b7d2-8c2dc98dfb7d

I also searched and found them at Sears Hometown for $20 but it's too far for me.
If you have points to use or a Hometown nearby it might be worth checking out.

 

[paulsomlo]

Don't waste your time with convertibles or replaceable tips - if you're gonna go the cheap route, get the dedicated ones from Astro. A set of four is $20 in either 0.050" or 0.067" tip size. If you want 0.090", they'll cost you $34 for the set.


http://www.astrotools.com/catalog/category/view/s/pliers/id/34/
https://www.amazon.com/Astro-94220-Pneumatic-Tool-Internal/dp/B01GE0PFDQ
https://www.amazon.com/Astro-94221-Pneumatic-Tool-Internal/dp/B01GE0PFHM
https://www.tooltopia.com/astro-pneumatic-94222.aspx

 

[Krokodil]

VBW/Stahlwille are great.

Ditto!

 

[KDoug]

This is off topic, but I was looking at the Lang snap ring pliers and got to looking at some of the other stuff they sell. I saw that they sell locking pliers made in Germany, how long have they offered those? They are a little more pricier than Knipex, Bollmann Grip, and Grip On.

http://www.langtools.com/locking-pliers/

10 inch Straight Jaw:

Bollmann: https://www.harryepstein.com/index.php/10-inch-straightjaw-bollman-lockingpliers.html

Lang: http://www.langtools.com/sku-106-10-locking-pliers-parallel-jaw-10/