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What Are The Best Lineman Pliers in 2025

"Finding the Right Lineman Pliers: A Friendly Guide to Your Next Essential Tool" When it comes to choosing the best lineman pliers, it’s all about balancing quality and functionality. First and foremost, look for pliers with a solid grip; rubberized handles can make a world of difference, especially during long jobs. The material matters too—high-carbon steel is a strong choice for durability and longevity, so you won’t find yourself replacing them anytime soon. Don’t forget about the jaw design; a good pair should have a strong gripping capability for various tasks, from twisting wires to cutting through tough materials. Also, consider the size and weight; you want something that feels comfortable in your hand without being cumbersome. A well-balanced tool can make precision work much easier. Lastly, read reviews and check for warranties; a reputable brand will stand behind their product. Trust me, investing in a good pair of lineman pliers can make all the difference in your tool collection!

1

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch
Buy Now $11.99

Why We Love It

Users are impressed with the multifunctionality of these pliers, particularly the built-in wire cutter. The durable construction and sharp cutting edges are frequently praised. Many users also mention the comfortable grip, which they say allows for extended use without causing hand fatigue. The product is often described as a reliable and essential tool for electrical work.

Pros

  • Built-in wire cutter
  • Durable construction
  • Comfortable grip

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • The cutter may not work well with thicker wires

9-1/2-Inch Lineman's pliers with a built-in wire cutter.

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers feature a built-in wire cutter, making them the perfect tool for a variety of electrical work. Crafted with induction-hardened cutting edges that stay sharp longer, these pliers also feature a robust construction made from nickel chromium steel. The machined jaws provide maximum gripping strength and ProTouch grips offer extra comfort and reduce hand fatigue.

2

CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers

Buy Now $33.00

Why We Love It

Users love the unique knife and anvil style cutting edge that provides a clean, precise cut every time. The durability of these pliers is often praised, with many noting that they've lasted for years without any decrease in performance. The tight grip provided by the crosshatch pattern on the jaws is another feature that receives high praise.

Pros

  • Superior cutting edge
  • Long-lasting
  • Good grip

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Handles can be slippery

8.5-inch lineman's pliers with knife and anvil style cutting edge.

The CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers are a versatile tool with a unique knife and anvil style cutting edge that ensures perfect mating and superior cutting edge life. The pliers feature a laser heat-treated cutting edge for extended longevity. Constructed with high-carbon C1080 steel for superior performance, these pliers also feature a crosshatch pattern on jaws for a tight grip and an electronic coating for ultimate rust prevention.

3

Channellock 369 9.5 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Buy Now $33.00

Why We Love It

The Channellock 369 is loved for its durable cutting edge, which users say stays sharp for a long time. The high leverage design is also appreciated for its ability to cut through tough material with ease. The crosshatch pattern on the jaws is often mentioned as a standout feature that provides excellent grip.

Pros

  • Knife and anvil style cutting edge
  • High carbon steel construction
  • Crosshatch pattern on jaws

Cons

  • May require regular maintenance
  • Not insulated

9.5-Inch lineman's pliers with reinforced edge

The Channellock 369 Lineman's Pliers are crafted with a new knife and anvil style cutting edge. This high leverage plier is made from high carbon C1080 steel for superior performance. It also features laser heat-treated cutting edges for durability, and a crosshatch pattern on jaws for excellent grip.

4

CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers

CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers
Buy Now $34.98

Why We Love It

The high leverage design, which provides optimal cutting power, is frequently mentioned in positive reviews. Users also appreciate the durable construction, stating that the tool holds up well under heavy use. The comfortable grip is often praised for making the tool easy to handle, even for extended periods. Overall, users describe these pliers as reliable and well worth the investment.

Pros

  • High leverage design
  • Durable construction
  • Comfortable grip

Cons

  • May be too large for small hands
  • Not suitable for delicate tasks

9.5-Inch Lineman's pliers with high leverage design.

The CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers are designed for longevity with a high-carbon steel construction. They feature a high leverage design for optimal cutting power. The cross hatched jaw design provides a superior grip, while the blue comfort grips ensure a secure and comfortable hold. These pliers are perfect for heavy-duty tasks, offering reliability and performance.

5

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch (2078209)

Buy Now $14.00

Why We Love It

Users and professionals appreciate the IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers for their durability and comfortable grip. The machined jaws are often praised for their gripping strength, while the built-in wire cutter is seen as a useful addition. The pliers are also commended for their induction-hardened cutting edges that stay sharp for a long time.

Pros

  • Durable nickel chromium steel
  • ProTouch grips
  • Machined jaws

Cons

  • Wire cutter may not work well on heavy gauge wire
  • May be too heavy for some

9.5-Inch lineman's pliers with built-in wire cutter

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers are made of durable nickel chromium steel construction with ProTouch grips for extra comfort and reduced hand fatigue. The pliers have machined jaws for maximum gripping strength, and a built-in wire cutter for added versatility. The induction-hardened cutting edges stay sharper, longer.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 10 Products Updated Oct 09, 2025
Product Riveted Cutting Edge Material Comfort Grip Built-in Features Weight Insulation Rating
1 Klein Tools D213-9NE Lineman's Pliers
Yes US-made tool steel Streamlined design Crimper Heavy N/A
2 CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers
Yes High-carbon C1080 steel Crosshatch pattern on jaws N/A Bulky N/A
2 IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch
Yes Nickel chromium steel ProTouch grips Wire cutter Lightweight N/A
3 CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers
Yes High-carbon steel Blue comfort grips N/A Heavy N/A
3 IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch
Yes Nickel chromium steel ProTouch grips Fish tape puller, crimper Medium N/A
4 Klein Tools J213-9NECR Lineman's Pliers
Yes High-carbon steel N/A Integrated crimping die, side-cutting knife Heavy N/A
5 Southwire Tools & Equipment SCP9TPC 9-Inch Hi-Leverage Side Cutting Plier
Yes Drop forged steel Coated comfort grip N/A Medium N/A
6 Greenlee - Pliers, Nm Cable Ripper/Cutter (0151-09-INS)
Yes N/A Molded grips Cable ripping feature Medium Up to 1000 volts
7 Craftsman Evolve 5 Piece Pliers Set, 9-10047
Yes Durable steel Ergonomic handle N/A Lightweight N/A
8 Stanley 84-113 8-Inch Linesman Plier
Yes Forged steel Bi-material handle N/A Medium N/A
1

Klein Tools D213-9NE Lineman's Pliers

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
US-made tool steel
Comfort Grip
Streamlined design
Built-in Features
Crimper
Weight
Heavy
Insulation Rating
N/A
2

CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
High-carbon C1080 steel
Comfort Grip
Crosshatch pattern on jaws
Built-in Features
N/A
Weight
Bulky
Insulation Rating
N/A
2

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
Nickel chromium steel
Comfort Grip
ProTouch grips
Built-in Features
Wire cutter
Weight
Lightweight
Insulation Rating
N/A
3

CHANNELLOCK 369 Lineman's Pliers

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
High-carbon steel
Comfort Grip
Blue comfort grips
Built-in Features
N/A
Weight
Heavy
Insulation Rating
N/A
3

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Lineman's Pliers, 9-1/2-Inch

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
Nickel chromium steel
Comfort Grip
ProTouch grips
Built-in Features
Fish tape puller, crimper
Weight
Medium
Insulation Rating
N/A
4

Klein Tools J213-9NECR Lineman's Pliers

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
High-carbon steel
Comfort Grip
N/A
Built-in Features
Integrated crimping die, side-cutting knife
Weight
Heavy
Insulation Rating
N/A
5

Southwire Tools & Equipment SCP9TPC 9-Inch Hi-Leverage Side Cutting Plier

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
Drop forged steel
Comfort Grip
Coated comfort grip
Built-in Features
N/A
Weight
Medium
Insulation Rating
N/A
6

Greenlee - Pliers, Nm Cable Ripper/Cutter (0151-09-INS)

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
N/A
Comfort Grip
Molded grips
Built-in Features
Cable ripping feature
Weight
Medium
Insulation Rating
Up to 1000 volts
7

Craftsman Evolve 5 Piece Pliers Set, 9-10047

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
Durable steel
Comfort Grip
Ergonomic handle
Built-in Features
N/A
Weight
Lightweight
Insulation Rating
N/A
8

Stanley 84-113 8-Inch Linesman Plier

Riveted Cutting Edge
Yes
Material
Forged steel
Comfort Grip
Bi-material handle
Built-in Features
N/A
Weight
Medium
Insulation Rating
N/A

Frequently Asked Questions About Lineman Pliers

What makes a lineman pliers the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your lineman pliers recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of lineman pliers?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.