The Handles
KNIPEX pliers are available in different shapes and finishes. Each handle style is developed to achieve the optimal interaction between your hand and the tool.
The shape of the handles
Straight handles are used when the hand has to be positioned in different places on the handle during a work step. This is often the case with carpenters' pincers and concreters' nippers.
The all-metal design without plastic sleeves, which is common for carpenters' pincers, makes it possible to slide the hand on the pliers handle during the transition from gripping to twisting and clamping and finally to cutting in a single operation.
Convex (arched) handles ensure a precise position of the hand, which is useful for side cutters.
Thin plastic coatings, which are manufactured using the immersion process, make the pliers non-slip and comfortable to hold. They protect the hands from contact with the bare steel in cold or warm temperatures.
Curved handles support the hand at the front and the back. This is an advantage whenever high force has to be applied.
Pliers with multi-component sleeves are easier on the hands. This design doubles the contact area between the handles and the hand. This significantly reduces the risk of blistering or pressure points. They are recommended for frequent use and when great manual force is used.
VDE, ASTM and ESD grips
In addition to the handle coatings, which are intended to improve grip comfort, there are also handle covers that have an (electro) technical function.
VDE and ASTM grips for pliers
Insulated sleeves for working on electrical systems - often referred to as 1000V insulated VDE*-sleeves - must not conduct electrical current if components that are under voltage are gripped with the pliers heads. Since these pliers conform to the norms DIN EN / IEC 60900, they are subject to significantly stricter standards and safety standards.
*Association of electrical engineering, electronics and information technology
ESD grips for pliers
This is different for dissipative grips, often referred to as ESD*-sleeves. These are intended to allow the slow and controlled compensation of any differences in electrical potential that may exist between the operator and sensitive electronic components.
*Electrostatic discharge
With over 1100 length and size combinations, the professional tool user will always find what they need with KNIPEX.