Circuit Specialists stocks standard and extra-long pliers and cutters for electronics in a variety of different nose styles (tapered needle nose, bent nose, etc.). Our low-cost pliers and cutters feature double-leaf spring handles that give you precision control, ergonomic and cushioned handles for comfort, and a nickel finish for corrosion protection and extension of operating life. We also carry a set of our standard pliers and cutters for electronics.
What Are Precision Pliers and Cutters?
In general, pliers are handheld tools that resemble tongs and allow users to hold, manipulate, compress, or even cut an object without touching it.
The tool is made from two metal levers joined at a fulcrum, forming the shape of an X, with the longer end acting as handles and the other end representing the pliers’ jaws or nose. Many pliers come with cutting capabilities, which is why pliers and cutters are sometimes used interchangeably. Some pliers, like diagonal pliers, only cut and don’t actually “ply” or hold on anything.
Precision pliers and cutters are hand tools designed for working with smaller, more delicate materials. As the name suggests, these pliers provide more precision control, which is why they’re often used for prototyping, repairing electronics, and working with small electronic components.
Types of Pliers
Needle Nose Pliers (Long Nose Pliers)
Needle nose pliers have a long, narrow, pointy nose and usually include a cutter either at the tip of the nose or at the crux of the handle and the nose (or both). These pliers are ideal for hard-to-reach places and offer excellent control when it comes to bending, cutting, or gripping small wires and component leads.
Needle nose pliers also go by long nose pliers or snipe nose pliers.
Diagonal Cutter Pliers (Side Cutting Pliers)
Diagonal pliers are designed to cut wire and cable. Unlike scissors, which cut via a sheering action, diagonal pliers first dent and then wedge the wire apart, slicing through cable without any gripping or pulling. They’re called “diagonal” pliers because the jaws are at an angle.
Diagonal pliers might also be called wire cutters, diagonal cutters, or side cutting pliers
Round Nose Pliers
Round nose pliers have rounded ends or jaws that are designed for creating perfectly round, looped wire. Also called rosary pliers, round-nose pliers are commonly used in jewelry to make jump rings, toggle clasps, and bails.
Bent Nose Plier
Bent nose pliers are similar to needle or long nose pliers in relative size and length. However, bent nose pliers have a signature curve or bend in the nose. Both needle nose and bent nose pliers are used the same, although bent nose pliers are able to get to trickier spots at weird angles.
Bent nose pliers can also feel more ergonomic, especially when placing components or screws, which you can do from a more comfortable angle than you would with a needle nose plier.