Definition of Wrench Pliers
Wrench pliers, also known as vise grips, are adjustable pliers that lock into place, allowing the user two free hands to complete a project. Generally constructed from heat-treated alloy steel for strength, modern wrench pliers come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and sizes. This allows versatility of use in both minor home repairs and professional construction and manufacturing. Does this Spark an idea?
-
History
-
Plato got it right almost 2,400 years ago when he said, "Necessity, who is the mother of invention." Fast forward to 1924 in DeWitt, Nebraska, when blacksmith Bill Peterson, a Danish immigrant, proved Plato's words true by successfully patenting the first wrench pliers. A man of foresight, Peterson recognized the waning market for his trade and used his skill to begin inventing new tools in the early '20s. That first design is nearly identical to the modern versions made today.
Most Common Types
-
Clamp: Standard vise grips with flat plastic or rubber pieces that hold two objects together between the jaws without causing marking or damage to the items.
Serrated: Standard vise grips with serrated jaws to grip objects that are more difficult to hold but can't be damaged by marking.
Pipe: Tongue-and-groove construction with jaws at a 90-degree angle for easier access to pipes in tight spaces and better leverage.
-
Uses
-
Considering the vast range of designs and sizes, the uses for wrench pliers are extensive. They are common critical components in construction, manufacturing and repair of countless projects in the home, workplace or construction site.
The most common uses for wrench pliers are:
1. Holding together flat materials like sheet metal or plywood while those layers are riveted, glued or nailed together.
2. Grasping pipe to secure it into fittings.
3. Tightening and loosening nuts and bolts.
4. Securing items to be welded.
Options and Upgrades
-
Fortunately for the do-it-yourselfer and professional contractor alike, the move toward ergonomics has not passed over the tool industry. Many wrench pliers now come with grips made of several different materials and in a multitude of shapes that allow for more control and comfort during a project. This reduces stress on the hands and potential injury from slipping during placement.
Those who work on precision projects like jewelry making have also benefited from advancements in wrench pliers. Recognizing a potentially untouched market, manufacturers saw created needle-nose pliers and other fine clamps with the same locking mechanism as wrench pliers.
Cost
-
The price of a set of wrench pliers can range from a couple of dollars to $40 or $50 or more. The price varies based on quality of materials, size, brand name, options (such as ergonomic grips and anti-rust coating) and length of the guarantee/warranty.
Most toolboxes in home garages can benefit from wrench pliers that fall somewhere in the mid-range of both price and size. Cheap pliers are made from softer, low quality metal and do not hold up well. Conversely, there is no need to buy at the top of the scale unless the intent is daily, professional and repeated use.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit tools image by Alexander Ivanov from Fotolia.com
