Pliers are versatile hand tools designed primarily for gripping, bending, and cutting a variety of materials, ranging from wires to thin metal sheets. Their fundamental structure comprises two metal levers joined at a fulcrum, enabling a powerful clamping force at the jaws with minimal effort from the user. The main functions of pliers include holding objects securely, manipulating small or difficult-to-handle items, and often providing mechanical advantage for cutting through materials such as wire or cable.
The main uses of pliers depend on their specific design and include tasks in electrical work, jewelry making, and general household maintenance. Characteristics such as a long nose for reaching into tight spaces, insulated grips for electrical safety, and varying jaw configurations for different tasks distinguish the types of pliers and their best applications. Several well-known manufacturers of pliers include Klein Tools, Channellock, and Knipex.
