Pliers are one of the most versatile and commonly used hand tools, essential for many tasks. If it’s household repairs, automotive tasks, electrical work, or plumbing projects, or understanding the different types of plier and their applications, it makes all the difference.
At Tools Warehouse, we are committed to providing the right tools for every job. In this all-inclusive guide, we will discuss numerous plier types, their uses and advantages as a tool – so you can select just the perfect one for your next project.
10 Types of Pliers
Discover the top 10 types of pliers every toolbox needs: slip joint, needle nose, lineman’s, locking, channel lock, diagonal cutters, bent nose, fencing, snap ring, and hose clamp pliers. Each serves unique purposes from gripping and cutting to bending and clamping, offering essential versatility for any task.
Slip joint pliers are one of the most basic multipurpose pliers, featuring an adjustable pivot point that allows the jaws to open to different widths.
Plier Uses:
- Gripping and turning nuts or bolts.
- Bending metal or wires.
- Holding or pinching materials together.
Their adjustable jaw makes them highly adaptable, perfect for general maintenance and repair work.
2. Needle Nose Pliers (Long Nose Pliers)
These types of pliers are characterised by long, tapered jaws, which allow users to work in tight or narrow spaces.
Plier Uses:
- Bending and shaping wires.
- Precision electrical work.
- Crafting and jewellery making.
Needle-nose pliers are ideal for precision tasks, offering fine control where other pliers can’t reach.
Commonly used in electrical trades, lineman’s pliers combine gripping, cutting, and twisting functions in one tool.
Uses of Pliers:
- Cutting heavy-gauge wires.
- Twisting multiple wires together.
- Pulling or gripping cables.
These multipurpose pliers are built for strength and reliability, making them essential for electricians and contractors.
Locking pliers can clamp onto objects and hold them securely without continuous pressure. Their adjustable design allows for a firm grip on various materials.
Plier Uses:
- Holding objects in place for welding or assembly.
- Loosening rusted nuts or bolts.
- Acting as a temporary clamp.
Their strong, secure grip gives you extra control in high-pressure tasks or when working solo.
This plier type features an adjustable jaw that slides along a groove to handle different sizes of fasteners and materials.
Uses of Pliers:
- Plumbing and pipework.
- Holding large fittings.
- Adjusting fixtures and joints.
Ideal for plumbing, these multipurpose pliers handle larger diameters and irregular shapes with ease.
6. Diagonal Cutting Pliers (Wire Cutters)
Designed for cutting rather than gripping, these pliers have sharp, angled jaws that cut wires cleanly.
Plier Uses:
- Snipping electrical wires.
- Cutting small nails, screws, or zip ties.
- Trimming cable ends.
Precision and power in one—perfect for electrical installations and repairs.
Bent nose pliers offer the same precision as needle nose pliers but with angled jaws, perfect for hard-to-reach spots.
Uses of Pliers:
- Accessing tight corners.
- Jewellery and craft work.
- Looping and shaping wire.
They provide better reach and leverage in confined or awkward areas.
This multipurpose pliers combines multiple tools in one: a hammer, staple puller, wire cutter, and gripping jaws.
Plier Uses:
- Building or repairing wire fences.
- Removing staples.
- Twisting and cutting wire.
Especially useful for farm work and outdoor projects, fencing pliers reduce the need for multiple tools.
Specialised pliers designed to install or remove snap rings (circlips), which are common in mechanical assemblies.
Uses of Pliers:
- Automotive repairs.
- Gear and bearing installations.
- Machinery maintenance.
They prevent damage to snap rings and surrounding components, ensuring proper assembly and disassembly.
10. Hose Clamp Pliers
Engineered specifically for compressing spring-type hose clamps, these are a staple in automotive toolkits.
Plier Uses:
- Removing radiator or fuel line clamps.
- Holding hose clamps open during repairs.
- Replacing cooling system components.
They simplify tasks under the hood, saving time and effort.
Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Glue Guns
Top Benefits of Plier Tools
Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, here are some benefits of plier tools that make them indispensable:
- Versatility: There’s a plier for almost every task—from delicate jewellery work to rugged mechanical jobs.
- Efficiency: Pliers improve your grip, leverage, and precision, making tasks faster and easier.
- Durability: Quality pliers last for years, even with regular use.
- Safety: The right pliers reduce strain and enhance control, helping prevent accidents.
- Space-saving: Many multipurpose pliers replace multiple single-use tools, saving room in your toolbox.
Also Read: How to Choose the Best Angle Grinder: Buyer’s Guide for Every Task
Final Thoughts
Knowing the right types of plier and their uses can significantly boost your productivity and craftsmanship, whether you're tightening a bolt or installing a fence. With so many specialised and multipurpose ones available today, it’s easier than ever to find the right tool for every task.
At Tools Warehouse, we stock a full range of plier types from trusted brands—built for durability, comfort, and precision. Whether you're an electrician, mechanic, plumber, or DIYer, we have the perfect pliers to match your needs.