The Best Needle-Nose Pliers to Add to Your Toolbox

Your hands are capable of many things, but the immense strength and precise dexterity needed to work with wires and metal pieces are probably not one of them. That’s a job for the needle-nose plier — a tool commonly used by electricians, jewelers, and other craftsmen that handle small out-of-reach pieces. Whether one of these is your occupation or you need a needle-nose plier for a DIY project, take a look at the five best pliers we recommend for you.

What to Look for in a Needle-Nose Pliers

Here are a couple of considerations you may want to make before purchasing a needle-nose plier:

• Length: Especially if you are working in hard-to-reach spaces, the length of your pair of pliers will be important. While longer pliers will allow you to reach farther, you might have better precision and dexterity with a shorter set of pliers.
• Grip: Having a firm grip on your pliers is important. Your hands will be in a better position to produce force, and the pliers will be less likely to slip off your hands. Look for non-slip, ergonomic handles.
• Durability: No tool is worth keeping if it won’t last you down the road. Pliers that are constructed with strong materials can help keep the pliers from wearing, but it’s ultimately up to the plier’s build quality.

Best Overall: KNIPEX Tools Long Nose Pliers with Cutter

If you are expecting to use needle-nose pliers consistently in the long term, you may as well get the highest quality pair out there — the KNIPEX Long Nose Pliers. This is a precision-grade pair of 8-inch pliers that are designed with serrated teeth to firmly clench wires and other small objects. Its jaws are tapered for better reach in small spaces and are flexible enough for twisting movements. The tool is also equipped with an integrated side cutter that can cut any type of wire.

Best Long-Length Set: Neiko Long Nose Plier

For hard-to-reach, confined spaces, a pair of longer pliers may be handy. Here are a set of four long-length pliers from Neiko to get the job done. They are all 11-inch pliers made with drop-forged, high-carbon steel, cross-cut teeth, and a non-slip rubber grip. Along with two straight pliers, there are also two bent-nose pliers, one at a 90-degree angle and one at a 45-degree angle.

Best Budget: Sea Striker P6 Needlenose Plier

Whether it’s a DIY project or a one-time repair, you don’t have to invest in a pricey pair of pliers if you aren’t going to use them consistently. These needle-nose pliers from Sea Striker are easy to use and relatively well-built in comparison to other needle-nose pliers. The pliers are designed with serrated teeth for grip.

Best for Fishing: Amoygoog Fishing Needle Nose Pliers

Needle-nose pliers are great tools for anglers as they can effectively cut and crimp line and remove hooks. These needle-nose pliers are designed specifically for fishing, being constructed with anti-corrosion stainless steel and equipped with an ergonomic, non-slip grip. The pliers also come with a locking mechanism that keeps the tool in its closed position. Additionally, the pliers include a sheath, lanyard, and retractable lanyard.

Also Consider: IRWIN VISE-GRIP Long Nose Pliers

These pliers are certainly one of the strongest and most durable pairs you can get. This pair from IRWIN is constructed with tough nickel-chromium steel and equipped with strong machined jaws to allow for a firm hold. The pliers also feature ProTouch grips, which are ergonomic handles that offer comfort and hand support. The pliers are 6 inches long and feature an induction-hardened cutting edge for cutting wires or other materials.