Who Makes The BEST Linesman's Pliers? Klein vs Channellock vs Irwin (NWS)

[@conservativeamerica9655]

I have a 27 year old channellock linesman, use them everyday and still kicking!

[@kuya_joey]

So here is what I will say....I work with my Kleins all day, everyday...never let me down...the thing is the Kleins I now call mine, belonged to my dad and he used them everyday, all day, for 38 years before he gave them to me. I dont think the new Kleins are made the same. But for me, when I am on a job, my dads old Kleins will be with me.

[@1trucxhondamov589]

100% THANK YOU! As a lifelong handyman, maintenance since I was 12, I always felt that channellock's were UNDERRATED and Klein's, a great tool co., was more about style! Only experienced electrical workers seem to appreciate the practically and economic value of Channellock tools! No sponsorship, I just like Channellock tools.

[@sebastiancannavo8786]

We have used the Klein's for over 30 years. I've never seen them fail or broken. They are lost or stolen first.

[@mdlee52]

That's what happened to my last pair of Kleins, Sebastian. I think I might need a lanyard...

[@adamsifford4448]

Sebastian Cannavo Klien is the best but very expensive my Green Lee's work just as well for half the price

[@tylerhurd9569]

True, i think i blew up 2 pair in 4 years. I carry a fluke volt pen now, no need for blowing them up now.

[@mos8541]

i paint my fav tools pink, purple, etc. and cant be determined who made them etc. and have never been stolen and everyone knows theyre mine...gay af

[@El_Diablo_LI]

I've been an electrician for over 30 years. I've tried and own many brands over the years, but the Klein HD20009NE model cinema's pliers are by far the best out there. Some of the others are good too but the Klein's just feel the best in my hand, last the longest, and never fail. They are literally like a extension of my hand and are tried and true.

[@wing7534]

Started my apprenticeship 4 months ago and my grandfather gave me some of his old tools from his career as a Journeyman and his Klein lineman’s are still solid pliers

[@nalurash2787]

I have Klein and Knipex lineman pliers. I love them both. The Knipex is very versatile being that it has a crimper, better cutters and a fish tape puller. However, the Knipex is kinda pretty, don't wanna abuse it too much. That's were the Klein comes in. The Klein is a beast, it doubles as a hammer (not framing houses with it, come on now) and it get's shit done.

[@mdlee52]

They all have their advantages and disadvantages, but I understand why a lot of electricians use Klein.

[@robertgillespie5382]

My Kleins have all that

[@rachavya]

1. The fact that Knipex products are "prettier" than their competitors is not a negative. Close yours eyes and abuse them; it will only give them "character." 2. Pliers that have to be "broken in" are suspect. Knipex linesman pliers are perfect day one and stay that way. 3. Mechanical advantage, HRC, spreading width, non-pinch design, immunity to certain fluids, balance, and functionality (and perhaps others) are important metrics that can and shouyld be objectively measured; they factor more into a scientific business decision than presence/absence of aesthetic features that can't be traced to functionality. 4. Price is absolutely a valid consideration for casual users on limited budgets. Tradesmen who worry about Knipex's consistent "priceyness" should realize that ALL fine brands (such as those reviewed in this video) will live for a LONG time. Amortized over that long time, NO up-front cost disadvantages could possibly weigh into a rational buy decision. 5. Personal preference varies, as is mentioned in the video. Very important. As for me, my preferences tend to center around the man-machine interface, productivity, safety, and such. Country of origin is the least of my factors, but I can understand how some buyers might consider it a leading factor. P.S.: As a result of my nasty "collector" habit, I own NWS, Channellock, Knipex, and Klein products. ALL are quality (I'd not have bought them otherwise). Dispassionate analysis steers me to Knipex more often than not.

[@joeypearson3958]

I have two pairs of the Kleins linesman pliers and they're my favorite pliers hands-down

[@mdlee52]

They are built to last, that's for sure, Joey.

[@chrish.6934]

Def love both Klein & Channellock but if I had to pick one, for me the Channellock is my 1st pick. I can remember seeing those famous blue-handled tools on my dads work bench @ his shoe repair shop. That was 25 years ago easy. Even then they stood out to me for whatever reason. Great American made stuff! Thx for the upload.

[@BrandonLund]

Former electrician, I've used Klein and channelock. I prefer the channelock's for fit and leverage.

[@caidencrawford9913]

It's so cool seeing channellock tools over where you live, being that I live 20 minutes away from the factory where all channellock tools are made. And that my grandpa worked there for a little over 20 years

[@mdlee52]

I feel that same kind of pride!

[@caidencrawford9913]

mdlee52 do you live around the meadville area where channellock tools are made. And it's awsome knowing that the tools that you use on a daily basis is made in the USA and often times your life could depend on the tools you use.

[@mdlee52]

I don't live near there, just proud of Made in USA tools!

[@joshbenton810]

I live in new Zealand and they are one of the prefered brands down here

[@RRaucina]

Maybe your grandfather fought the Germans in WW2 too. Good reason you wont find any KNIPEX in his tool box

[@declanbarrett6567]

I just got my first pair of lineman pliers as a gift. I got channellock 369s. They are awesome. Great video

[@arnieselectric007]

Klein's are made in USA too...Have had mine for 25+ years with extra insulated hand grips, however, would like to try the Channellocks as I have some of their other tools, slip joints, side cutters, etc

[@JDLarge]

For electrical work I’ve owned a pair of Klein 9’s for over 40 years and they’ve never let me down. However in my own garage I do have a pair of channel locks I got at a yard sale year’s ago that do fine for me. Coming up in the electrical trade one just automatically purchased Klein tools as an apprentice because it was what the senior guy owned... (I am still accustomed to the screwdriver grip style to this day too) I do however like the grip head on the Irwin so I may keep an eye out to try them someday, so thanks for the intro to them! Happy new year!

[@mdlee52]

Thanks, Joe. Happy New Year to you also!

[@robertcraciun9587]

Simplicity is always better than complex period. Channellock and Klein’s nice simple durable designs. Irwin’s complex uncomfortable handle I’ll take the Channellocks. They’re made about a 1/2hr away from where I live 👍🏼 good video

[@Jack_The_Biker]

Had Channellock. Currently running Klein journeyman linesman. Eyeballing Knipex and NWS(felo) linesman’s

[@mdlee52]

Stay tuned.

[@danfromga3002]

I used the irwins when i first got into linework before i was gifted a pair of kleins, prefer the kleins but the irwins were a badass pair of pliers, just too bulky for my pouch

[@jerrytindall6838]

Nice! I think I was with you when you bought the Klein’s 15yrs ago. But I keep two sets of the channellock 440s and the side cutters in my bags at all times. A must have for all occasions!

[@mdlee52]

Hey, old boy! Channellock is always a festive choice.

[@nolanriegsecker7131]

I have several different pair of linesman pliers maybe 7 Kline's on the top

[@louisoyola2762]

Irwin are great the new one has the her head attachment and the alen wrench adjustments available the griping rear teeth and a crimper as well. I love them. I can cut 10-4 with those wide mouth things

[@elderfarms]

I have used many brands of linesman pliers in the trade but I’ve never tried the Irwin rebranded ones. I own a channellock pair my dad bought me right when I got into the trade and upgraded last year to the klein comfort grip J2000-9NE and two days ago I picked up a 160 year anniversary comfort grip (red white and blue). I’ve used my co workers Pittsburgh 😂 some Chinese made Irwin, and I’ve used the knipex ones. Out of all the brands I’ve used, I like klein the most, knipex second and love the channel lock for home use because of the price!

[@mdlee52]

Thanks for the feedback, Dylan! I didn't even know Klein made a patriotic pair.

[@elderfarms]

mdlee52 it was limited time and amazon only had 1 left! People are selling them on eBay for over $100 lol I got mine for about $50

[@jackhammer9622]

Great insight on the channel locks. I have klein, 30 degree Irwin, and 1000v knipex. They're all great pliers. I find myself carrying my Quinn's quite a bit though in fear of messing them up. Looks like I could have just got the channel locks and not worried. The Irwin version I'd still have just for those odd places.

[@davidyoung6608]

Neat review dude. I like the fact that Channellocks are made in the USA.

[@mdlee52]

It does feel good to support American workers, David.

[@davidyoung6608]

mdlee52 Hell Yeah.

[@snap-off5383]

I will pay extra for that. Not "snap on extra" but extra.

[@psdaengr911]

I don't care where a product is made. Its price is secondary to how well it does the job. I believe that rewarding the best performance is the way to motivate all companies to make better products. If Americans don't choose to compete in design and or manufacturing quality, then we deserve to lose business to foreign competitors. Over time whatever labor cost advantages they have will narrow, and if we can''t maintain our determination to compete, we will never regain markets that we ceded through indifference. If you want to support American manufacturing, then become a stockholder in ones that do. Stockholders have more influence on companies than their customers do. Be active in insisting that they keep up with modern manufacturing processes instead of riding on old reputations, and invest in the future, not go cheap to improve quarterly profits. If not, they will lose as much market share as the big three, excuse me, big two, American auto assemblers have.

[@dolrr54]

I have several lineman's pliers (Klein, Channellock, Diamond and even some from Harbor Freight) all are fairly good pliers but I believe that the Kleins have the best steel. It's very hard like the steel in a Buck Knife. Sharpening the cutting edge on a Klein requires a diamond file and they hold that edge much longer then the other brands.

[@alamina17]

You could get always get something like the E347 7" XLT LINEMEN'S COMBINATION PLIER if you wanted a Channellock linesman that might be able to tackle some nuts

[@mdlee52]

I will check that out.

[@ccmogs5757]

Great combi. the e347 , @ 178 mm the perfect size for myself :]

[@friedmule5403]

I do like that the offcut are jumping away, first I hate if I have to shake the tool to get rid of the offcut. If I have a lot to cut, it can be directly dangerous to stand in the middle of the pile and maybe slip on a rolling piece of cable. So for me, it is nice that I don't have to think about the offcuts and still have a clean working-area .

[@MeuReview]

Hey great video! Congratulations! Just adding here, that design element of NWS are are to get more strenght to the cut edge, like a pillar in the oposite side of the cutting edge. Best Regards,

[@frugalprepper]

I find when I have done a lot of wiring in the past you just can't beat a pair of Kleins. I lost mine and have some Stanley ones now. They will get the job done, but with my carpal tunnel I really need to get another set of Kleins.

[@mdlee52]

I do appreciate the Kleins. Hard to go wrong with any of these brands.

[@asmautollc]

As an aside, while watching your video I realized your pair of Klein’s is actually the same model number as my old pair: D213-9NE where NE stands for “New England Nose”. Whereas my new pair is D213-9 “Square Nose”. Same pliers, different machined finish on the nose. I thought the Square Nose had replaced the New England Nose, but they do still offer both styles.

[@mdlee52]

I actually read that when I was researching this video. Klein certainly has the market cornered on the number of different options for these pliers.

[@asmautollc]

mdlee52 yeah no kidding lol

[@bloodsongsToolreviews]

I find the Klein cutting-edge last longer, as someone that uses Klein and Channel locks. I also feel as my Klein’s are smoother.

[@lightinside87]

I have the Irwin linesman 1902416 with the crimper, Its my number one tool.

[@danielhady3021]

I'll eventually get around to purchasing a pair of Kleins. I've been using Knipex for 8 months now since I started the JATC apprenticeship. I've loved them so far. They are rated to cut piano wire, so I cut whatever with them. I haven't had any chips or dents from hammering. They were broken in right out of the box, no need to work them in or anything. My biggest complaint is I don't like comfort grips, but Knipex does make a dipped handle version as well. Also I've pinched the crap out of my hand with the crimper. Next time I buy a pair of linemans they will be dipped handle and no crimper. I don't anticipate needing a new pair for many years though.

[@mdlee52]

I thought of testing Knipex, but they were a bit out of my price range for this video.

[@danielhady3021]

mdlee52 They certainly aren't cheap. I've heard if you buy Knipex pliers from Germany they are cheaper but will take longer to ship.

[@conservativeamerica9655]

Great video! I'm a knipex fan! But out of those three, I'd pick the channellock!

[@seanjmichel]

I always wondered how the channel lock were held together.

[@mdlee52]

ATTENTION: There is a camera glitch at about the 6:30 mark of the video. I have clipped it out, but it will take a short time for that edit to take effect. Just skip ahead about 40 seconds if it bothers you.

[@rustybrowneye]

mdlee52 what the fuck do u film with? A potato

[@mdlee52]

+fuzzy wuzzy lolz

[@HardKnocksForge]

fuzzy wuzzy I'm guessing the half of the potato that had to many eyes to be cut into some of them fried taters...

[@tested123]

im an electrician and i love both klein and channellock.....my latest pair of kleins are 3 years old and the pivot is messed up. it has some sticking spots all of a sudden. oil does not fix it.

[@mdlee52]

Have you tried to warranty them?

[@tested123]

@@mdlee52 i will try that and let you know what happens

[@gorkyd7912]

If you go to the store and twist the handle on a new pair of Kleins you'll most likely notice a wobble at the pivot. I noticed play on that joint in roughly 5 of 6 pairs tested; I only found 1 pair in the hardware store that didn't wobble. So I'm thinking craftsmanship has declined, someone got lazy, or corners are being cut somewhere. Probably still top-notch if you find a pair that doesn't have play in the joint but I feel bad for everyone paying $35 for a pair of pliers that's as loose as that $9 Harbor Freight pair.

[@jordansimpson9519]

Channellock 349 Wiremaster are the best. Such a shame they are discontinued.

[@starobinful]

I think they were just the best ever better then kleins even

[@choochoothelilsavage9573]

Ive had the same pair of Klein's for 15 years man

[@katzenpapa]

Do you have the Doyle pliers?

[@joeyliwanag4055]

I had my Klein lineman's plied but I chose to use my crescent lineman's plier,for the reason of hand size

[@stevethomas5849]

As a Brit sparky the Irwin NWS has more in common with whats known as Combination pliers in the UK, and the ejection of the cut material is normal with combination pliers.

[@DenyTheZeitgeist]

Gotta go with the ol Klein’s. Everyone in my immediate family has a pair. Mine are the newest of the bunch but they’ll see lots of use soon enough.

[@mattmcmillan8920]

Great video but I have always been a fan of the channelock,s.

[@mdlee52]

You and I think alike, Matt. I have never had any reason to look elsewhere, provided that Channellock made the style of pliers I needed.

[@alamina17]

amen

[@marcusagrippa8078]

id say if your a pro electrician go with klein, slim, light and battle-tested but for someone like me who would use them as a jack of all trades id go with the nws they seem more versatile. but its nice seeing good tools made again, always nice to be conflicted on a good tool. good stuff

[@mdlee52]

+mark robertson I know what you mean, it's a very good problem to have!

[@Lasurge1982]

All great pliers. Just comes down to personal preference. I own both channel lock and Klein tools. I use channel lock/rigid tools when I do plumbing jobs mostly . But when I do electrical I’ll reach for my Klein’s and channel lock linesman just as much . My favorite tool from Klein has to be there high leverage cable cutters. As far as linesman pliers I go with channel lock. Also Klein makes excellent diagonal cutters and nut drivers sets. IMHO there’s there’s no brand that’s better than the other.... It just boils Down to what people prefer to use. I use many different brands depending what the job is and what I like to use.

[@BrewCityRider]

Enjoyed the review. I agree, gotta go with Channellocks. At least as good, and lower cost. Liked & subscribed.

[@schoder78]

Between those three I would have to go: 1) Klein 2) Channellock 3) Irwin Electricians spend an awful amount of time with lineman’s pliers in their hand. If I had to use the Channellocks I would but the Irwin’s are too bulky for me.

[@mdlee52]

+Emery Great analysis, Emery.

[@tbm134]

Ive been an electrician for 29 1/2 years with my original Klein side cutters. Never had a reason to replace them, they perform better now than when new. IMO they are the best side cutters in the industry, and for the record i call them "Kleins"

[@gorkyd7912]

Just beware of brands coasting on their reputation and slacking on actual build quality. Like Fluke is doing. When I was shopping for linesman's yesterday I ended up with Kleins for good time's sake but I'll be damned if every other set of Klein's 9" had noticeable play in the pivot when you twisted the handles. I walked out with the only pair that didn't have a wobbly joint. More than a little unsettling when it says right there on the packaging that the "hot-rivet" or whatever prevents wobble. Obviously when there's play in the rivet it will only get worse as you use it over time. I'll be even more cautious next time, never take quality for granted.

[@rrpantalone]

I wish you would have had Greenlee in the mix. I have been using the same pare of Greenlee linesman almost daily for the past 10 years or more. Used as a hammer more than for cutting. You know to drive hub rings on and such. They have been used and abused and still keep on working. They may get passed on to my son when I retire. Not saying they are better than any you have on display, but it would have been a good tool to through in the mix.

[@racheldelgado1674]

i love channellock. but for this particular application, Klein all day.

[@LiveLaughJordan-oi6tg]

First year apprentice... Spent a long while researching these three, and some Knipex... you sold me on the Channellocks! We'll see how they do this week

[@joshbenton810]

The channelocks are so good

[@ozark_trapper]

I need a pr for trapping . I cut 14ga 11ga and 9ga wire. I been looking around nice video. Would the 7 inch chanelock have the same handles and cutting design as the 9 inch? I carry mine in my back pocket. Mud, rain, snow, all kinds of weather. But I need a good pr.

[@mdlee52]

Same design, but less leverage with the shorter handles.

[@honda9731]

I'll put my money on channellock, mines work like a charm

[@mdlee52]

They are hard to beat!

[@bitTorrenter]

Well in the UK, we would call them combination pliers. Because you can cut with them as well.

[@bluemantom77]

I like the Klein the Irwin not bad to actually all three I want a couple myself I have a Klein a fuller drop-forged these are my dad's tools as a mechanic

[@mahdavimail]

Channellock worths the money . I have Klein but my next would be Channellock

[@gregmercil3968]

I have the channellock version. They are amazing.

[@psdaengr911]

Klein is designed for durability under heavy duty professional use conditions. If you want a real world test, then use these 3 while wearing leather workman's glove on a ladder. Those dipped handles get very slippery when exposed to water or oil. I used Kleins a lot, and dropped them a lot.

[@billwieworka7250]

I have used all the LINESMAN PLIERS demonstrate in this video as well as many others. The three you compare are not comparable in price or utilization. If you what the best at the lowest possible price. 9 inch Channellocks are hard to beat. Followed by U.S. made Craftsman WESTERN FORGE(not APEX GROUP). On the high end Knipex will out perform and amaze user. They can and will cut ACSR cable and piano wire with ease. Most German made pliers including NWS, Gedore, VDW, and Irwin's are made with similar hardened steel while about 2x the price of Channellocks let price be your guide. In general I have found Kliens to be a bit over rated, they have to be broken in and in my experience lack the ability to cut hardened steel wire depending on verison.

[@Ghost-hi1dw]

My personal experience with knipex is they have a major flaw! I've owned 4 different pairs, and on each pair the cutting blades start to overlap each other instead of coming together like they're suppose to. When it does that it just kinda bends the wire between the blades instead of cutting it.

[@trumpenhammerofkek4821]

I have the glow in the dark Kleins and they cut framing nails like butter.

[@jeffmoss26]

I've used many brands but I always go back to Klein!

[@mdlee52]

+Jeff Moss They're great pliers, that's for sure!

[@fordmustangjaime]

Those Irwins are actually made by NWS, a German pliers company. I have the Kleins but I definitely want those NWS for the lighter feel and comfort grip. Anything NWS, Knipex, Kleins, or Channellock is great quality though, they're definitely the best pliers companies around.

[@HifiVega]

Great video! It would be awesome if you could update this video with some Doyle (harbor freight’s “premium” brand) linesman pliers. They feel decent in hand, but I’m curious to see if they could hang...

[@mdlee52]

I will keep that idea in mind!

[@TyLogan91]

Tried them... I’m an iron worker (rebar) and they cut like shit

[@MrAnonymousRandom]

Even from just looking at them when I shopped at Harbor Freight I've come to a simple conclusion - the quality is not good enough for the close to Channellock prices they are charging.

[@gorkyd7912]

I checked those out yesterday but didn't end up buying. The design is probably great; I mean it's like an 80 year old design, hard to screw it up. I know nothing about the quality of the steel. But the one thing you can easily test is how tightly the pieces fit together, which is a great indication of quality and craftsmanship. I admittedly only tested 1 pair of Doyle's in store, but if you twist the handles apart you'll immediately notice lateral movement on the pivot point indicating a loose swivel. I hate that, didn't buy, but I also found the same issue on some much pricier pliers (new Klein Tools, I'm disappointed.)

[@farmerdave7965]

I have Kleins and I have Channelock. Oddly enough, my favorite pair of lineman pliers is my Craftsman Professional model.

[@mdlee52]

Ergonomics?

[@Reunitepangea]

Klein for me, drop of oil once in a while and it's go time all the time. I don't like the big handles on the Irwin but I do have a couple irwin tools, for something I don't use too often I like them. For something I've used 8 hours a day klein feels like an extension of my hand.

[@slanford6767]

After useing a pair of snips for cutting aluminum and vinyl sideing.fore years .everyday all those rubber handles on a hand tools does is cause and irritate them more..

[@theengineroom1479]

Good vid. I personally have a Gearwrench pair. I don’t use them often but seemed decent when I have. Not USA made though.

[@mdlee52]

I like all of the Gearwrench tools I own.

[@Prairiedrifter1]

Would’ve loved to see Knipex instead of Irwin

[@johnd9402]

Channel lock love there pliers. Can't beat American made at a affordable price.

[@mdlee52]

Ditto!

[@colt2657]

I like my channelocks, but you can't go wrong with Klein's either. I agree that the channelocks cut considerably easier but the fit and finish is a little bit annoying

[@mdlee52]

I know what you mean, but I guess I am just used to their "rugged" looks.

[@shivanrajput5953]

They eject the wires because the cutting edges are perfectly matched than other two.. if u cut very thin soft wire you'll come to know the difference of blades matching.. rest all are very good brands .... its a personal choice

[@MisterDivineAdVenture]

Quite a lot of choices out there - but the price for Channelock and the Irwin's are about the same - so .. maybe the aesthetic Irwins - so long as they aren't made by whoever made the parallel "locking" jaw set, which only "lock" closed.. (Nope - those are Kobalt.)

[@TheSuperwrenchGarage]

What is your though on price point vs the three?....oops did not watch far enough :)

[@highplains7777]

If you don't use your pliers as a hammer, there's no reason to not get the Channellock 369's. They cut like butter. However, as an electrician who does abuse his tools from time to time, I prefer the superior robustness of Klein Journeyman Series or Knipex pliers.

[@mdlee52]

+Dick Tracy That's as good an explanation as I've read in this comment section. Thanks!

[@richarddietz6145]

I love channelock pliers but linesman pliers Klein takes it. I cut ceiling wire at work for 10 years with the same klein pliers no issues at all

[@mdlee52]

You can't argue with that track record of success, Richard!

[@desertdispatch]

ive read reviews and complaints on quality on all three.

[@YfelTheRealEmeraldKing]

ive bought most irwin tools the rubber gets beat up badly after 1 or 2 uses and there is lots of slack and play like using a cheap pair of siccors cutting cardboard and not cutting and going side ways... i highly recommend channel locks klien and knipex if you are on a budget go the channel lock brand all the way for a set great hand tools! the only thing good from irwin is their visgrips and vices.

[@ChrisRJ]

Were those irwin tools the vise grip made in Germany pliers and cutters?

[@Marcel_Germann]

The thing is, this is OEM manufacturing. Those pliers are made by NWS, other tools labeled as Irwin are made by other manufacturers, so you can't actually compare the grips. I like the NWS grips, but I got the VDE version (insulated up to 1000V). I got the combination pliers, and the electricians pliers (diagonal cutter, wire stripper, needle nose and crimper), both have the ergonomic design. And as a third one I got the "Fantastico" diagonal pliers, VDE version too. What I noticed is, the coating of the Irwin is much darker than the normal finish NWS uses. Looks like paint...I don't know, the VDE versions are always chrome plated here. www.amazon.de/NWS-138-49-VDE-200-SB-N138-49-vde-200-Fantastico-Hebelwirkung-Seitenschneider/dp/B00N7NGOEI/ref=pd_day0_hl_60_6/261-3817014-9756541?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00N7NGOEI&pd_rd_r=39eecdd5-f434-4c60-a20b-a5ef4baf2594&pd_rd_w=2uTQL&pd_rd_wg=iI6Sg&pf_rd_p=2201c3c9-4bbe-45b3-9e49-7948d9b16246&pf_rd_r=PX7SH8QVZEDTN368VF84&psc=1&refRID=PX7SH8QVZEDTN368VF84 www.amazon.de/gp/product/B007P37XZU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@jamesf9610]

Good lord why couldn't I have found those nws rebrands on sale at lowes. Love the German tools

[@mdlee52]

They definitely went fast. All told, I think I checked about 10 or 11 different Lowe's stores in order to find three pairs.

[@johnraybajao9678]

how about cresent

[@TheSuperwrenchGarage]

Hey Matt what is the significance of 06/10/06? Just wondering?

[@mdlee52]

That's the day I started my KZbin channel!

[@mdlee52]

It's a tongue-in-cheek joke. Me poking fun at myself for not doing anything with my channel for such a long time.

[@dyer2cycle]

Klein & Channelock= good. Irwin= Chicom, so I don't count those any more than Craftsman, Husky, etc. It would be interesting, though, to compare the Klein, Channelock, and Knipex. As a side note, I have 2 pair of the old green-handled Diamond brand, USA made, they are very good. No longer made, but you can still get NOS ones....

[@mdlee52]

I'll look those Diamond brand up. Ya, most newer Irwin are China or maybe Taiwan. I was surprised to find these German Irwins.

[@josephcastile5551]

I never been disappointed with Channellock

[@mdlee52]

You and me both, Joseph! The other pliers might look nicer, but they don't function any better for me.

[@b.a.lineman7582]

I've broken a jaw on a pair of "Channellocks "... see what I did there... I also have a pair that doesn't operate the best .. I've had the same " Kliens" for 11 years .. the cutting edges need touched up but that's it👍... I will continue to buy both brands ... just for different items... disclaimer ( I sometimes abuse my tools) 🤣

[@ramtrucks721]

When slipped in a crowded tool bag or pocket... Irwin's bulky handle suck

[@danfromga3002]

Thats why i prefer my kleins

[@Ghost-hi1dw]

Completely agree with you!!!

[@bms2550]

The Channellock pliers get our vote...

[@robgrujicic5380]

Hi there newbie here well they all are good but my preference is Knipex and also WiHA thank you for sharing 😃🍺👊🇨🇦

[@lancey1053]

I still like channellocks, well balanced.I hate the fat cushion grips on new pliers today.

[@86c5corvette]

I say you cant go wrong with all three but for the money Channellock all day and USA made.

[@mdlee52]

We are of one mind on this!

[@chrish.6934]

C.T Designs -Charlie Thompson agree. Very well put

[@peterford9369]

I buy many kline multi tipped screw driver and am kinda disappointed. They rust so easy,then you can't get tips out of driver head. Disappointed cause you pay more for the brand. I also have the channel lock lineman and endcutter. And am having problem with the pivot pin freezing up,,on both! Crazy. I'm writing to see about replacing both. Thanks for the video.

[@mdlee52]

Let me know how that goes for you. Both of those companies have a pretty good reputation for customer service.

[@peterford9369]

@@mdlee52 I did write an email to channellock about a week ago and haven't heard back. I always get the ones with crimp sleeve built in, for tying in grounds in outlet and switch boxes etc. They cost another 10 bucks more than without. That's why I'm a bit taken aback. Maybe made in USA doesn't mean much anymore. What bothers me is, I have older ones that are 20 plus years old and still work perfectly. So now I have 55 bucks worth of cutters and lineman pliers I don't even grab when loading my pouch. I may try some liquid rubbing compound. I'll write and let you know if that works.. Maybe u can pass it on if anyone else has issues. Thanks man.

[@victordobbins2009]

I have worked with Klein for the most part otherwise crescent

[@Marcel_Germann]

Actually Klein and Channellock are offering such grips too. Klein calls them the "Journeyman"-series, and Channellock calls them "Code Blue". In Europe Lineman's are uncommon, we use combination pliers instead. Link to Amazon, Klein combination pliers: www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-Universal-Combination-Pliers/dp/B0002RI4UY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1515950607&sr=8-3&keywords=klein+combination+pliers Channellock E348 is the comparing product. It seems Channellock no longer produces the 349 "Wiremaster", they're no longer listed on their site. I've got one, was hard to get here in Germany. They're cutting quite good! In Germany most electricians don't use the cutter on the combination pliers. In most cases we use the diagonal cutters, and cable shears for the whole cables to prevent a deformation of the cable which could ist make hard to remove the outer sheathing. Most cables here are round shaped, not flat.

[@mdlee52]

I knew they offered different style, padded grips, I just prefer the thinner style. I see that Klein and Channellock also offer combination pliers, as well.

[@Marcel_Germann]

NWS makes them also with a dipped handle. And most tools are a matter of personal preference, but sometimes you have no choice. If you must use insulated tools for example. They all have a massive handle.

[@mdlee52]

Yes, good point.

[@HAWKEYEWTNY]

All types of Knipex pliers are the highest rated among Amazon buyers, and I would have looked at Vampliers lineman's too!

[@mdlee52]

Engineer and Knipex are definitely on the list for the next go.

[@Ghost-hi1dw]

I'm an electrician by trade and spend a lot of time with my linemans in my hand. With saying that I've owned 4 different pairs of knipex linemans. I've had the same issue with all 4 of them. The cutting blades start to slip over each other instead of coming together evenly. Not worth the huge price tag when you can buy an Amazing pair of USA made Channellock's for less than half the cost.

[@Marcel_Germann]

@@Ghost-hi1dw The price tag for Knipex is only in the US that high. Here in Germany it's the other way arround, Klein and Channellock are expensive. I never had any issues with my Knipex pliers. Lineman's pliers are normally uncommon here, we use combination pliers instead. Mostly 200mm (8"). Knipex is the "bread and butter" like Klein is in the US. Knipex: www.reichelt.de/combination-pliers-200-mm-kn-03-05-200-p204541.html?&trstct=pos_1 Klein 9" Lineman: www.reichelt.de/9-slim-pliers-heavy-duty-side-cutting-klt-d2000-9ne-p216319.html?&trstct=pos_2 Channellock: www.amazon.de/Channellock-369-Linemens-Pliers/dp/B00004SBD6/ref=sr_1_2?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&keywords=channellock+369&qid=1564266887&s=gateway&sr=8-2 The price differences are caused by shipping, import tariffs, customs, taxes, traders in between which also want to earn money, exotic bonus, and so on...the customer pays it all, always. The prices already include a VAT of 19%.

[@FranciscoRodriguez-be6ik]

I don't know who could possibly have more tools or pliers than me. Those three brands are part of my collection and they are great quality. The rebrand nws - Irwin are now off production. It seems nws was losing money 💰 once people finally found out it's the same product with a different name brand.

[@gorkyd7912]

I had a great pair of Kleins; abused like hell with no problems ever. Couldn't find those the other day, decided to get another pair. In the store, of the 5 or 6 Klein Linesman's on the shelf only ONE of them did not wobble when you twisted the handle. That was insane to me because it even says on the package something like "Hot-riveted joint ensures smooth action and no handle wobble." Well when all but one of the un-used pliers still sitting on the damned shelf are already noticeably wobbling I'm inclined to say they're full of shit. I came very near to buying Milwaukee brand instead because, unlike every single other set I checked (2 brands at Harbor Freight, Commercial Electric, Crescent, Husky) the Milwaukees were the only pliers where every single pair on the shelf had no wobble. If you want to do a review, try wobbling the handle. I would swear by my 20+ year old Kleins if I could find them but I'm willing to wager if you grab a random new pair from the store the handles are already wobbly.

[@gorkyd7912]

BTW, the Klein's I ended up buying for loyalty's sake were $35. The Milwaukees were only about $25.

[@sebastiancannavo8786]

We call the Klein's, 9s.

[@mdlee52]

I can see where you get that! Is the model I show here the most common pair?

[@colemayes443]

Pretty much. Those or the ones with the yellow dipped handles. I have the journeymans (blue black overmolded handle) cause at the time the only way I could get the crimper and tape puller on one set of pliers. And I will say the overmolded handles have grown on me and now I don't like working without them.

[@franciscoburgos787]

Sebastian Cannavo why?

[@izdagrimeyone]

There is over 10 different Klein pliers. A couple hundred if you count that each year has a new model for the 10 different pliers. You are holding the most generic set of Klein pliers however.

[@desertdispatch]

snap on makes a version too.

[@chandatkumpunya6710]

Channellock 369 9-1/2-Inch High Leverage Linesman Pliers is great

[@mdlee52]

+Chandat Kumpunya Agreed!

[@starobinful]

My friend they are excellent until u try older model 349 !!! You cant find them anymore Nothing beats old school

[@escaflowne33055]

time to drop in the Knipex, there stuff is amazing and offer handle types for all their stuff. HF is also dropping some new pliers into the game that are worth looking at.

[@mdlee52]

I will keep those in mind for the future!

[@scottpearsontoolsmore185]

Great video thanks brother. I like the Channellocks .

[@mdlee52]

All of the pliers offer a lot of value, but I am of a mind to go with cheapest pair. Thanks, Scott.

[@dwhat598]

The japanese make the best tools period. And when it comes to pliers... Fuller makes the best hands down, their old ones i have are still good after almost 50 years of hard use. Fujiya pliers are a close second.