The 30 best side-cutting plier brands in 2026
KNIPEX, Klein Tools and Bahco lead our ranking of 30 side-cutting plier brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Side-Cutting Plier brands, ranked
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1
KNIPEX
KNIPEX makes German-made side cutters, many with insulated handles, in precision and heavy-duty versions.
Website: knipex.com |Brands like KNIPEX
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Klein Tools
Klein Tools makes electrician-focused side cutters and diagonal pliers, often with insulated grips and sharp cutting edges.
Website: kleintools.com |Brands like Klein Tools
Popularity 8.1/10
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3
Bahco
Bahco makes hand tools including pliers and cutting pliers for workshop and trade use.
Website: bahco.com |Brands like Bahco
Popularity 6.8/10
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4
Silverline
Silverline sells budget hand tools in the UK, including side cutters and other pliers.
Website: silverlineelectronics.com |Brands like Silverline
Popularity 5.4/10
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5
Amtech
Amtech sells hand tools in the UK, including pliers and cutting tools for DIY and workshop use.
Website: amtechdiy.com |Brands like Amtech
Popularity 4.4/10
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6
Southwire
Southwire sells electrical wire and cable plus electrician hand tools, including cutters for wire work.
Website: southwiretools.com |Brands like Southwire
Popularity 3.0/10
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7
FUJIYA
Initially manufacturing handmade pliers, Fujiya is a Japanese company founded in 1918. With a spirit of creating something which won't deteriorate, they constantly manufactured pliers as the demand grew exponentially. Based on the belief of serving products with the best quality, they continue to make the best use of the skills of their highly skillful artisans. If you are looking for pliers, Fujiya has got to be your next stop as it promises never to disappoint.
Website: fujiya-kk.com |Brands like FUJIYA
Popularity 2.7/10
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8
Marksman
Marksman strives to live up to its name and provide aspiring and professional shooters with confidence in their activities. It aims to provide safe yet reliable equipment that can guarantee accurate results. As a world leader in the shotgun and rifle sectors, it uses cutting-edge technology to maintain the quality of its products. Its products are the mark of the modern era as they come with built-in calculators and similar features to enhance your shooting.
Website: marksman.se |Brands like Marksman
Popularity 2.6/10
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9
Rolson
Rolson sells UK hand tools, including pliers and side cutters for general and DIY use.
Website: rolsontools.com |Brands like Rolson
Popularity 2.6/10
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10
TOLSEN
TOLSEN makes hand tools including pliers and cutters sold for general and trade use.
Website: tolsentools.com |Brands like TOLSEN
Popularity 2.5/10
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11
BlueSpot
BlueSpot sells UK hand tools, including pliers and cutting tools for DIY and workshop use.
Website: bluespot.uk.com |Brands like BlueSpot
Popularity 2.4/10
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12
Maun
Maun is a tool manufacturing company. Its forte is multipurpose pliers that move parallelly, unlike traditional pliers. They also manufacture other tools admired for their sturdy build and easy to use. Maun's mission is to make tools that will assist...
Website: maunindustries.com |Brands like Maun
Popularity 2.4/10
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13
Teng
Teng makes UK hand tools, including pliers and side cutters for workshop and trade use.
Website: tengtoolsusa.com |Brands like Teng
Popularity 2.4/10
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14
Greenlee
Greenlee makes electrician and cable tools, including cutting pliers and wire cutters for electrical work.
Website: greenlee.com |Brands like Greenlee
Popularity 2.3/10
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15
Channellock
Channellock is known for water pump and slip-joint pliers, and also sells cutting pliers for general use.
Website: channellock.com |Brands like Channellock
Popularity 2.3/10
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16
Facom
Facom makes French professional hand tools, including side cutters and other pliers for workshop use.
Website: facom.com |Brands like Facom
Popularity 1.6/10
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17
Hilka
Hilka sells UK hand tools, including pliers and side cutters for DIY and trade use.
Website: hilka.co.uk |Brands like Hilka
Popularity 1.6/10
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18
Engineer
Engineer makes Japanese hand tools, including pliers and side cutters for precision and electronics work.
Website: engineertools-jp.com |Brands like Engineer
Popularity 1.5/10
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19
GearWrench
GearWrench is known for ratchet tools and also sells pliers and cutting tools in its hand tool range.
Website: gearwrench.com |Brands like GearWrench
Popularity 1.3/10
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20
HOZAN
HOZAN makes Japanese hand tools, including cutting pliers and side cutters for electrical and general work.
Website: hozan.co.jp |Brands like HOZAN
Popularity 1.3/10
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21
Renegade
Renegade Marketing is a full-service digital marketing agency that helps brands and businesses grow their customer base online. They combine their expertise in search engine optimization, content marketing, mobile app development, graphic design, social media management, and web development to...
Website: renegade.com |Brands like Renegade
Popularity 1.0/10
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22
Fervi
Fervi is a leading manufacturer of machine tools & MRO (Materials, Repair & Operations) tools that deliver the best quality machines and devices to the international market. Its mission is to provide its customers with products and services that exceed...
Website: fervi.com |Brands like Fervi
Popularity 1.0/10
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23
Kraeuter
Organic harvest is the healthiest option in today’s world where everything is chemically infused. Kraeuter delivers handpicked, fresh, and chemical-free herbs, spices, and harvest. They grow organically in their garden and use organic manure that will benefit your body. They...
Website: kraeutermanufaktur.com |Brands like Kraeuter
Popularity 1.0/10
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24
NWS
NWS makes German hand tools, including side cutters and pliers for electrical and general workshop use.
Website: nws-tools.de |Brands like NWS
Popularity 1.0/10
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25
TAPARIA
TAPARIA makes hand tools, including pliers and cutters, sold for industrial and general use.
Website: tapariatools.com |Brands like TAPARIA
Popularity 1.0/10
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26
HART
HART is your go-to resource for all you need to know about home renovation. They provide you with the most thorough and useful information on all parts of DIY projects, from setting up and utilizing instruments such as saws, drills,...
Website: harttools.com |Brands like HART
Popularity 0.7/10
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27
NEO
NEO Tools makes Polish hand tools, including pliers and side cutters for workshop and trade use.
Website: neo-lite.com |Brands like NEO
Popularity 0.7/10
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28
Sheffield
Sheffield sells UK hand tools, including pliers and cutting tools for general workshop use.
Website: sheffieldknives.co.uk |Brands like Sheffield
Popularity 0.7/10
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29
Westward
From industrial hand tools to tool storage, Westward products are engineered to meet the demands of professionals like you.
Website: westward-tools.eu |Brands like Westward
Popularity 0.7/10
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30
COGEX
Cogex is a French-established 1979 brand that offers a range of technical and consumer solutions to the market. A reliable partner and a trusted brand, the company, makes it a point to deliver high-quality and consistent products on time. Customers...
Website: cogex.com |Brands like COGEX
Popularity 0.7/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KNIPEX | knipex.com | /knipex.uk | knipex_uk | – | KnipexTools |
| Klein Tools | kleintools.com | /kleintools | klein_tools | @klein_tools | – |
| Bahco | bahco.com | – | – | – | – |
| Silverline | silverlineelectronics.com | /silverlineelectronics | – | – | – |
| Amtech | amtechdiy.com | /AmtechDIY | amtechdiy | – | Amtech DIY |
| Southwire | southwiretools.com | /Southwire-Tools-Equipment-1533421220285729 | southwiretools | @SouthwireTools | Southwire Tools & Equipment |
| FUJIYA | fujiya-kk.com | /fujiyapliers | – | – | – |
| Marksman | marksman.se | /marksmantrainingsystems | cinematir_chasse | – | Marksman Shooting Simulator |
| Rolson | rolsontools.com | /rolsontools | – | @rolsontools | Rolson Tools |
| TOLSEN | tolsentools.com | – | – | – | – |
Side-Cutting Pliers Buying Guide
Side-cutting pliers, also known as wire cutters, are essential tools for any electrician, mechanic, or DIY enthusiast. These pliers come in various sizes, designs, and qualities, making it challenging to pick the right one that suits your needs. However, with this buying guide, you can learn about the features and factors to consider when choosing the ideal side-cutting pliers for your projects.
Types of Side-Cutting Pliers
Before you delve into the features of side-cutting pliers, you must first understand their types. Generally, there are two types of side-cutting pliers, and they are:
Standard Side-Cutting Pliers
Standard side-cutting pliers come with a sharp edge on one or both jaws. They are mainly used for cutting wires and cables up to a certain diameter. These pliers have a simple design and are the most affordable option. They are ideal for DIY enthusiasts who want to cut wires for basic electrical projects.
High-Leverage Side-Cutting Pliers
High-leverage side-cutting pliers come with an added joint that increases their cutting power. This design provides more force with less effort, making it easier to cut thicker wires and cables. This type of plier is ideal for professional electricians and mechanics who deal with heavy-duty electrical projects.
Features to Look Out for When Choosing Side-Cutting Pliers
Now that you know the types of side-cutting pliers, you need to consider several factors to choose the right plier for your project. These factors include:
Size of the Plier
The size of the plier is crucial when choosing the right tool for your task. Pliers come in various sizes, with the most common being 6-inch and 8-inch options. Smaller pliers are ideal for tight spaces and precise cuts, while larger pliers are suitable for heavier-duty projects. When choosing the right size, consider the thickness of the wires and cables you intend to cut.
Material
Side-cutting pliers can be made of different materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, and nickel-chromium steel. Stainless steel pliers are durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. Carbon steel pliers are more affordable but can rust easily. Nickel-chromium pliers are ideal for heavy-duty projects but can be expensive.
Handle Design
The handle of the pliers is just as important as the cutting edge. A comfortable and ergonomic handle design can reduce fatigue and provide a better grip. The handles can come in different materials, including plastic, rubber, and vinyl. Some handles have a textured grip that provides a better hold, while others have insulated grips that prevent electrical shock.
Joint Design
The joint design of the pliers can affect their performance and durability. Some pliers come with a lap joint, where one jaw overlaps the other, while others have a box joint, where the jaws are flush for more significant cutting power. Additionally, some pliers have a knife-and-anvil cutting edge, where one jaw is sharpened to cut against a flat surface.
Cutting Edge
Another critical feature to consider when choosing side-cutting pliers is the cutting edge. The cutting edge can be either semi-flush, which leaves a small piece when cutting, or flush, which produces smooth cuts with no pieces left behind. Additionally, some pliers come with a beveled cutting edge, which improves their cutting performance.
Price
The price of side-cutting pliers can vary, depending on the quality, materials, and features. You can find affordable options for basic DIY projects, or invest in high-quality, professional-grade pliers for heavy-duty projects. Whatever your budget, ensure that the pliers meet your needs and provide value for your money.
Conclusion
When choosing the right side-cutting pliers for your project, consider the size, material, handle design, joint design, cutting edge, and price. With these features in mind, you can select the ideal pliers that meet your needs and provide the best value for your money. Remember, the right pliers can make all the difference in the success of your project.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Side-Cutting Pliers
Aside from the features mentioned above, there are other tips to consider when selecting the perfect side-cutting pliers. These tips include:
Brand
Choosing a reputable brand is crucial when selecting side-cutting pliers. Brands with a good reputation often produce high-quality products that meet the needs of their customers. Some of the top brands to consider include Klein Tools, Knipex, and Channellock.
Intended Use
Consider the projects you will be using the side-cutting pliers for before making a purchase. For instance, if you are an electrician or mechanic, you need pliers that can withstand heavy-duty use. Consider investing in high-quality pliers that can handle the demands of your job.
Tips and Tricks
Using side-cutting pliers effectively requires some tips and tricks. For instance, it's best to position the wire closest to the pivot point of the pliers. This position provides the most cutting force and reduces the risk of breaking the pliers. Additionally, it's important to avoid cutting live wires or wires under tension, which can cause injuries or damage the pliers.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your side-cutting pliers can prolong their life and ensure their performance. After use, clean the pliers with a soft cloth to remove any debris or dirt. You can also apply a small amount of oil to the hinged area to prevent rusting. Additionally, store the pliers in a dry place to avoid moisture buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, side-cutting pliers are essential tools for any DIY enthusiast, electrician, or mechanic. When selecting the right side-cutting pliers, consider the size, material, handle design, joint design, cutting edge, price, brand, intended, and maintenance requirements. Always choose a plier that suits your needs and provides value for your money. With these tips, you can confidently select the perfect pliers for your project and achieve excellent results.
