Combination Pliers

About Combination Pliers

Combination pliers are amongst the most versatile hand tools in any tradesperson's kit, combining multiple functions into a single compact design. These essential tools feature serrated gripping jaws for holding flat and round objects, integrated wire cutting blades positioned near the fulcrum for maximum leverage, and often include a curved section specifically designed for gripping pipes and cables. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade combination pliers from industry-leading manufacturers including Knipex, Bahco, DeWalt, and Bosch Professional, alongside dependable options from Draper Expert, Sealey, and Faithfull.

Available in sizes ranging from compact 125mm mini pliers for precision work through to heavy-duty 250mm models, our range includes VDE-insulated versions for electrical work on live circuits up to 1000V, high-leverage designs for increased cutting power, and ergonomic soft-grip models for extended comfort. Whether you're a qualified electrician, maintenance engineer, or DIY enthusiast, MyToolShed stocks combination pliers to suit every application and budget.

Applications

Combination pliers are essential across numerous trades and applications:

• Electricians and Sparkies: Cutting and stripping cables, gripping terminals, working with 240v circuits and electrical components in domestic and commercial installations
• Maintenance Engineers: General facility maintenance, equipment repair, and working with control panels across industrial settings
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Gripping pipes, removing fixings, and maintenance work on heating systems and water installations
• Motor Mechanics: Removing cable ties, gripping small components, cutting wire in automotive repair work
• HVAC Engineers: Installing and maintaining heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, particularly control wiring
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home maintenance, electrical repairs, garden projects, and general household tasks
• Joiners and Site Workers: Removing nails, cutting wire, and general construction site applications

Choosing The Right Combination Pliers

Size and Length: Most tradespeople find 180mm (7 inches) offers the ideal balance between control and leverage. Electricians often prefer 160-180mm for panel work, whilst maintenance engineers may choose 200mm for increased cutting power. Compact 125mm models suit precision work in confined spaces.

Insulation Requirements: VDE-insulated pliers are essential for working on or near live electrical circuits, featuring two-layer insulation tested to 10,000V and rated for 1000V AC. Each tool should display clear certification markings. For non-electrical work, standard pliers are perfectly adequate.

Handle Design: Ergonomic soft-grip handles reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Spring-loaded handles automatically reopen jaws after each squeeze, reducing repetitive strain and speeding up work in high-volume applications.

Cutting Capacity: Professional pliers typically cut copper wire up to 2.5-4mm diameter. High-leverage or compound-action models handle significantly thicker materials with less effort, essential for regular heavy-gauge cable work.

Build Quality: Premium brands like Knipex, Bahco, and Facom use superior steel and precision manufacturing, maintaining performance through years of professional use. Mid-range options from Draper Expert and Sealey offer excellent value for occasional use.

Safety Information

Electrical Safety: Only use properly certified VDE-insulated pliers when working on live circuits. Inspect insulation before each use for damage – even small nicks compromise protection. Always follow proper isolation procedures and verify circuits are dead before commencing work.

Cutting Safety: Cut wire at right angles, positioning material deep within cutting jaws. Keep hands and face away from the cutting area as wire ends can spring back. Wear safety glasses to protect against flying debris, particularly when cutting spring steel or stranded cable.

Maintenance: Regularly inspect for wear or misalignment. Cutting edges should close cleanly with no gaps. Keep pivot points lightly oiled and store in dry conditions. Replace pliers with damaged handles, worn cutting edges, or loose pivots immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between combination pliers and side cutters?

Combination pliers are multi-purpose tools featuring both gripping jaws and cutting edges positioned behind the jaws. Side cutters are specialised cutting tools with cutting edges at the very front, designed purely for cutting wire flush to surfaces. Combination pliers offer versatility for gripping and cutting, whilst side cutters provide superior cutting performance in tight spaces.

Do I need VDE-insulated pliers for electrical work?

Yes, absolutely. VDE-insulated pliers are essential for safety and required for compliance with UK electrical regulations when working on live circuits. The two-layer insulation provides protection up to 1000V AC. Standard pliers with plastic handles are NOT electrically rated and provide no reliable protection against electric shock.

What size should I buy as my first pair?

For general-purpose use, 180mm combination pliers offer the best balance between control and leverage, suitable for most tasks from cutting cable ties to gripping pipes. This size fits comfortably in tool bags and provides adequate cutting capacity for typical electrical cables up to 2.5mm diameter.