Let’s talk about one of the hand tools you’ll find in just about every toolbox, from the casual DIYer’s garage to the professional workshop—pliers! They may not look flashy, but don’t let that fool you. These handy gripping tools are absolute workhorses when it comes to getting the job done.

Whether you’re fixing a broken wire, assembling furniture, or working on a creative DIY project, the right pair of pliers can make your life a whole lot easier. So, if you’ve ever wondered what type of pliers to use for what task or just want a better handle on your tools this article is for you.

What Are Pliers, Really?

In short, pliers are hand tools designed for gripping, bending, twisting, or cutting materials like wire, metal, or plastic. They typically consist of two handles joined at a pivot point, with jaws that do all the heavy lifting. Think of them as an extension of your own hands—only much stronger and more precise.

The Most Common Types of Pliers (and What They’re Good For)

There are a bunch of different pliers out there, each designed for specific tasks. Here are some of the most popular types you’ll want to have in your toolkit:

1. Needle-Nose Pliers

These have long, thin jaws that taper to a point—perfect for reaching into tight spaces. Great for wirework, jewelry making, electronics, and bending small bits of metal.

Use them for:

• Grabbing tiny parts
• Bending wire
• Holding components in place

2. Slip-Joint Pliers

These are the classic pliers most of us recognise. They have adjustable jaws that can grip objects of different sizes.

Use them for:

• Household repairs
• Light plumbing
• Gripping and turning nuts or bolts

3. Linesman Pliers

These beefy pliers are great for electrical work. They have a strong grip, flat jaws, and a cutting edge for snipping wires.

Use them for:

• Electrical jobs
• Cutting and twisting wires
• General Construction

4. Locking Pliers (aka Vise-Grips)

These pliers lock in place when you squeeze them, making them ideal for holding onto something tightly while you work on it.

Use them for:

• Holding bolts or pipes steady
• Acting as a mini-clamp
• Removing stripped screws

5. Cutting Pliers (Diagonal Cutters)

These are specially designed to cut through wires and small pins. Unlike scissors, the cutting edges are angled, which gives them a cleaner, more powerful snip.

Use them for:

• Cutting electrical wire
• Trimming zip ties
• Removing nails or fasteners

Choosing the Right Pliers for the Job

Having the right tool makes all the difference. If you're into DIY projects, you'll want a few different types of pliers in your collection. Needle-nose for precision work, locking pliers for heavy-duty holding, and cutting pliers for cutting! Think about the tasks you do most often and build your kit from there.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry—there are tool guides out there who can help you find what you need based on your projects.

Pro Tips for Using Pliers

• Keep them clean and dry. Moisture leads to rust, which makes pliers stiff and harder to use.
• Don’t use them as a hammer. It sounds obvious, but it happens more than you’d think!
• Use the right type. Trying to cut wire with non-cutting pliers can damage both your tool and your material.

Pliers might seem simple, but they’re essential for just about any hands-on task. They help you grip, twist, bend, and cut with confidence—whether you're wiring up a light, fixing a bicycle, or taking on your latest DIY masterpiece. At Avex Online Tool Store, you’ll find a wide selection of high-quality pliers for every job—from precision needle-nose to heavy-duty locking pliers. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned pro, Avex makes it easy to gear up with reliable tools delivered right to your door.