Pincers

About Pincers

Pincers are essential hand tools designed for gripping, pulling and removing nails, tacks and other fasteners from wood and various materials. Featuring hardened steel jaws and long handles for leverage, pincers provide the mechanical advantage needed to extract embedded fixings cleanly and efficiently. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a professional range of carpenters pincers, tower pincers and specialist nail pullers from trusted brands including Draper, Faithfull, Irwin and Expert by Facom.

Available in various sizes and jaw configurations, quality pincers are indispensable for carpentry, demolition work, renovation projects and general construction tasks. Many models feature soft-grip handles for comfortable prolonged use, whilst tower pincers offer extended reach for accessing recessed or stubborn fixings. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or DIY enthusiast, MyToolShed.co.uk provides the right pincers for efficient fastener removal and material dismantling.

Applications

• Carpentry and joinery: removing old nails from timber, dismantling wooden structures
• Construction and renovation: stripping out old fixings, pulling embedded nails from beams and joists
• Demolition work: salvaging timber, extracting nails from reclaimed materials
• Roofing: removing roofing tacks and nails during repair work
• Flooring installation: extracting old floorboard nails and fixings
• Fencing and decking: removing damaged fixings during repair or replacement
• DIY and home improvement: general nail removal, furniture dismantling
• Furniture restoration: carefully extracting old nails without damaging wood

Choosing The Right Pincers

Jaw design: Carpenters pincers feature curved jaws ideal for gripping nail heads flush with surfaces, whilst tower pincers have elongated parallel jaws for deep or recessed fixings. Consider the typical applications you'll encounter.

Handle length: Longer handles provide greater leverage for stubborn or large nails, reducing effort required. Compact models offer better manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

Handle grip: Soft-grip or cushioned handles reduce hand fatigue during extended use and provide better control. Essential for professional tradespeople working throughout the day.

Material quality: Look for drop-forged steel construction with hardened jaws for durability and longevity. Quality pincers from brands stocked at MyToolShed.co.uk resist bending and maintain sharp jaw edges.

Size and weight: Match pincer size to typical fastener dimensions you'll be removing. Heavier-duty models suit larger nails and construction work, whilst lighter versions suit finishing carpentry.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses when using pincers, as sudden fastener release can cause fragments or the tool itself to move unpredictably. Ensure a secure grip and stable footing before applying leverage. Inspect pincers regularly for worn or damaged jaws that could slip during use. Position your body to avoid injury if the tool slips or the nail releases suddenly. Keep fingers clear of pinch points between handles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between pincers and pliers?

Pincers are specifically designed for pulling nails and fasteners with opposing jaws that meet at the tips, whilst pliers have parallel or crossing jaws primarily for gripping and manipulating objects. Pincers provide greater leverage for extraction tasks.

Can pincers damage the wood surface?

Quality carpenters pincers are designed to minimise surface damage, but placing a thin piece of scrap wood under the tool head when levering provides additional protection for finished surfaces and prevents bruising or indentation.

How do I maintain my pincers?

Keep jaws clean and free from debris, occasionally apply light oil to the pivot point, and store in a dry location. Remove any rust promptly with wire wool, and sharpen or replace pincers if jaws become too worn to grip effectively.