Linesman pliers are a versatile hand tool used by electricians, network engineers, and other professionals working with electrical wiring. Also known as lineman’s pliers or side-cutting pliers, they are specifically designed for gripping, twisting, and cutting wire. Linesman pliers typically have serrated jaws for securely gripping wire, built-in wire cutters, and a crimping tool for forming connections. While originally developed for use by linesmen working on electrical poles and cables, linesman pliers are now a standard tool for any task involving electrical wiring. In this article, we will look at the many uses and benefits of linesman pliers.
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Key Features of Linesman Pliers
Linesman pliers have several unique features that make them well-suited for working with wire:
- Serrated jaws – The serrated teeth on the jaws provide an extremely secure grip on wire and cabling of all sizes. This allows the user to firmly grasp, twist, and pull wire.
- Wire cutters – Linesman pliers have heavy duty wire cutters built into the jaws. This allows clean cuts through thick cables and wire.
- Crimping die – Many linesman pliers also integrate a crimping section for crimping connectors and lugs onto wire.
- Side cutting – The jaws are angled or side-cutting to give good visibility and allow flush cuts in tight spaces.
- Insulated handles – Quality linesman pliers have thick insulated rubber handles to protect the user from electric shocks.
- Durable steel construction – Linesman pliers are made from high strength steel for maximum durability on the jobsite.
These features make linesman pliers indispensable for working safely and efficiently with electrical wiring. The combination of gripping, cutting, and crimping abilities in a single tool is what makes linesman pliers a unique and versatile wire working tool.
Common Uses of Linesman Pliers
Here are some of the most common applications for linesman pliers by electricians, network engineers, and other professionals:
Twisting and Securing Wire Connections
One of the primary uses of linesman pliers is securely twisting copper wiring when making connections. The serrated jaws allow a tight grip when twisting wire nuts and joining conductor ends together prior to application of wire nuts. The firm hold and twisting ability of linesman pliers helps create very solid and safe connections that will withstand vibration and other environmental factors.
Cutting Wire
The hardened steel cutting blades found on linesman pliers make quick work of cutting through copper wiring and cable of varying sizes. The angle of the cutting jaws and long handle allow flush cutting even in confined spaces. Linesman pliers can cut through romex, coaxial cable, network cable, and individual conductor wiring. The cutters can handle wire up to 20 gauge size for most general purpose models.
Cutting Small Screws and Nails
Though not their primary purpose, linesman pliers are often utilized to cut small screws and nails in a pinch. The diagonal cutting blades have enough shear strength to cut through small gauge screws and nails when no other tool is available.
Crimping Connectors and Lugs
Many linesman pliers integrate a crimping section that allows crimp style connectors to be properly compressed onto bare conductor wire. Common applications include crimping spade connectors, ring connectors, terminal lugs, butt connectors, and insulated crimp sleeves. Proper crimping requires less force than twisting and provides a very reliable connection.
Bending Conduit
The strong jaws of linesman pliers also enable bending and shaping thin wall electrical conduit up to 1/2 inch size. The versatile jaws can crimp, flatten, or bend conduit to route wiring through structures. The serrated teeth help grab and bend conduit without deformation or flattening.
Pulling and Prying
Though not recommended for heavy pulling and prying, linesman pliers are occasionally utilized to pull new wiring through conduit and electrical boxes by an attached fish tape. Their slim shape can access tight spaces. The jaws also provide moderate prying ability in electrical applications.
Turning Screws and Bolts
In a pinch, linesman pliers can turn slotted or hex head screws and bolts. Their wide flat jaws provide reasonable grip much like adjustable pliers or tongue and groove pliers. However, linesman pliers do not replace regular wrenches or drivers for routine bolt turning.
Hammering and Chiseling
Again, while not their intended purpose, the steel construction of linesman pliers enables light hammering and chiseling if no other tools are available. The jointed jaws can deliver light hammer blows without damaging the pliers. The tip can also be used for minor chiseling or chipping of plastics, wood, or plaster.
Key Selection Criteria for Linesman Pliers
When choosing linesman pliers, here are some key factors to consider:
Jaw Design
The jaws may be either serrated or knurled. Most linesmen prefer serrated jaws for maximum gripping ability. Knurled jaws provide excellent grip but are harder to clean after wire work. Look for deep serrations or knurling to really grip wire.
Cutting Blades
Look for induction hardened cutting edges for long life and clean cuts through thick cable. Cutting blades should meet cleanly with no gap at the joint.
Comfortable Handles
Thick cushioned handles that feel good in the hand are important for reducing hand fatigue during repetitive work. Ergonomic handle shapes may include finger grooves or rubber overmolds for comfort.
Overall Construction
Choose linesman pliers made from drop forged high carbon steel for strength and long term durability. Joints and hinges should be tight with no sloppiness during operation.
Size Range
Linesman pliers typically range from 7 to 10 inches in length. Personal preference and hand size determine ideal length. A locking clip secures the jaws in the closed position for storage.
Side Cutters vs. Frontal Cutters
Side cutting pliers place the cutting blades at an angle while frontal cutters align perpendicular to the jaws. Choose angled side cutters for better wire cutting visibility.
Crimping Die
Some linesman pliers integrate a crimping section for secure wire crimps. This can be very useful for solid electrical connections.
Leading Linesman Pliers Brands
Here are some of the leading manufacturers of quality linesman pliers for professional use:
- Channellock
- Klein
- Knipex
- Irwin
- Stanley
- Armstrong
- Milwaukee
- Ideal
When buying linesman pliers, look for established brands with a reputation for high performance and durability. While less expensive generic pliers are available, they typically do not offer the same quality and longevity as branded models from reputable manufacturers.
Types of Linesman Pliers
There are a few specialized variants of linesman pliers that excel in particular applications:
High Leverage Linesman Pliers
These provide greater cutting and gripping force for hard wire and cable thanks to extended handles. Higher leverage reduces hand fatigue.
Telephone Linesman Pliers
Designed for low voltage network cabling work. They have finer precision cutting blades and lack crimping dies.
Ironworker’s Pliers
Feature a durable bolt cutting section for cutting bolts and rivets up to 3/8″ diameter. Helpful for structural iron work.
Cable Splicing Pliers
Equipped with both cutting shears and crimping dies to create a compact all-in-one cable splicing tool. Great for joining fiber optic cables.
Needlenose Linesman Pliers
Have slimmer, tapered jaws that provide greater access to tight confines. Jaw serrations grip small nuts and bolts.
Safety Tips for Linesman Pliers
Here are some important safety guidelines when using linesman pliers:
- Wear eye protection – bits of flying metal or insulation can injure eyes
- Avoid contact with live power during cuts – can cause electrocution
- Ensure a proper grip – pliers can slip if not gripped firmly
- Keep cutting blades sharp – dull blades can cause wires to get stuck and spark
- Cut away from your body – cutting direction should point away from yourself
- Maintain good working condition – repair or replace worn or damaged pliers
- Use properly sized pliers – oversized pliers can bend or kink thin wires
- Don’t use pliers as a hammer or pry bar – misuse can damage the tool
Following basic electrical safety principles and best practices for plier usage will help avoid personal injuries and faulty connections.
Conclusion
In summary, linesman pliers are a versatile electrician’s tool with many benefits:
- Tightly grips wires for twisting connections
- Cuts various sizes of cable and wire cleanly
- Integrated crimping die for wire terminals
- Durable steel construction
- Useful for conduit work, pulling, and prying
- Trusted brands offer quality and longevity
Choosing the right pair of linesman pliers from a leading brand is an important investment for any electrical professional. Keeping the blades sharp and jaws clean will maintain their usefulness for years of reliable wire work. Understanding the capabilities of linesman pliers allows them to be used safely and effectively for a variety of applications. They are one of the most versatile tools for working with electrical cabling and wiring.