Best Locking Pliers for Secure Grip

TL;DR: The Irwin Vise‑Grip GrooveLock 6‑inch pliers pack a V‑jaw, press‑n‑slide adjustment and 1.75‑inch jaw capacity into a lightweight 0.28‑lb tool for $13.99, making them a solid budget grip.

What really sets this tool apart is the press‑n‑slide button that lets you snap the jaws into place twice as fast as a traditional groove‑joint, plus a multi‑groove ratcheting system that doubles the gripping positions. At an overall length of 6 inches and a thickness of 0.75 inches, it feels compact enough for tight spaces while still offering a 1.75‑inch jaw capacity and a 1.5‑inch tip size for most household jobs.

Compared with the other eight contenders, the GrooveLock is lighter than the Irwin GrooveLock 12‑inch model (which weighs about 0.40 lb) and about the same weight as the Klein Tools Locking Pliers at roughly 0.29 lb. It’s also noticeably shorter than the 10‑inch Irwin Vise‑Grip V‑Jaw pliers, whose overall length exceeds 10 inches, so you won’t have the bulk of a full‑size locking plier in your toolbox.

Reviewers consistently praise the rapid adjustment and the solid steel (MIM) construction, noting that the ProTouch anti‑pinch, non‑slip grip feels comfortable during extended use. The downside that pops up is the lack of any wire‑cutting or stripping capability and the fact that the tool isn’t insulated, so it’s unsuitable for live‑electrical work. The lifetime guarantee from Irwin adds confidence for DIYers and hobbyists.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Irwin Vise‑Grip GrooveLock 6‑inch Black offers Jaw Capacity: 1.75 inches

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance, or you require electrical insulation for live‑wire work

TL;DR: The Irwin Vise‑Grip V‑Jaw 10‑inch pliers combine a 16‑position press‑&‑slide adjustment, a 57.15 mm jaw capacity and a lifetime warranty for a solid, professional‑grade grip at $18.99.

What really sets this tool apart is the press‑&‑slide button that lets you shift between 16 groove positions in half the time of a traditional screw‑adjusted plier. The V‑Jaw geometry opens to a maximum capacity of 57.15 mm (2.2 in), so you can tackle larger nuts, pipes and fasteners without sacrificing bite strength. At 463.6 g (1 lb) the tool feels solid, and the overall length of 254 mm (10 in) gives you plenty of leverage.

Compared with the eight other pliers in this roundup, the Irwin V‑Jaw is heavier than the ultra‑light Craftsman 10‑in model, but it offers a longer overall length than the compact Klein Tools 6‑in version and a wider jaw opening than the Irwin GrooveLock 6‑in, which caps at 1.75 in. It also carries a higher price point than the budget‑friendly WORKPRO set while providing more groove positions and a dedicated V‑Jaw design that many competitors lack.

Reviewers consistently praise the rapid adjustment mechanism, noting that it makes repetitive tasks feel smoother and faster. Professionals highlight the anti‑pinch, non‑slip ProTouch handles for comfortable use during long jobs, and the precision‑ground head for tight‑space access. The alloy‑steel construction via metal injection molding (MIM) adds durability, and the lifetime warranty backs the tool for the long haul.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option — the Irwin Vise‑Grip V‑Jaw Pliers 10‑inch offers Jaw Tip Size: 12.7 mm

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The Irwin GrooveLock Pliers deliver a 12‑inch reach, ratcheting multi‑position jaws and a comfortable Protouch grip, backed by a 4.7‑star rating, but they sit at a modest price‑to‑value ratio.

At 12.0 inches long and 0.88 inches tall, the Irwin GrooveLock Pliers pack a generous reach into a compact profile. The ratcheting adjustment mechanism lets you switch between multiple groove positions, while the Multi‑position Groove jaw adapts to round, flat, square and hex shapes without swapping tools.

Compared with the other eight tools in this roundup, the GrooveLock sits between the short 6‑inch GrooveLock (which is lighter at about 0.28 lb) and the heavyweight Irwin V‑Jaw 10‑inch model (nearly 0.95 lb). It’s longer than the compact WorkPro 4‑inch pliers and the Klein tool, which measures 149.61 mm, giving you extra leverage where space permits. Its 0.399 lb weight makes it sturdier than the ultra‑light WorkPro (around 0.24 lb) while still lighter than the premium Bessey or Milwaukee sets.

User feedback leans heavily positive: a 4.7‑star average from 1,340 reviewers signals reliable performance in everyday tasks. Professionals appreciate the Protouch handle material, which the brand markets as anti‑pinch and non‑slip, and the solid customer‑satisfaction warranty adds peace of mind.

While the V‑Jaw 10‑inch pliers dominate the category with refined jaw geometry, the GrooveLock offers many of the same core features—ratcheting action, versatile jaws and a comfortable grip—at a lower entry price. If you don’t need the extra capacity of the larger V‑Jaw, this model provides a solid, brand‑trusted option for general‑purpose gripping.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option — the Irwin GrooveLock Pliers offers Height: 0.88 inches

Avoid if: You want the best value-per-dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Klein Tools 38610 locking pliers pack a high‑torque long‑nose jaw with a 46.99 mm capacity into a compact 149.61 mm tool that’s easy on the hands and priced at $13.99.

What really stands out is the long‑nose jaw that can open up to 46.99 mm while delivering a high‑torque locking force. The thumb‑knob adjustment lets you fine‑tune the grip quickly, and the lever release drops the jaws with a single pull. All of this fits into a tool that measures just 149.61 mm in overall length and weighs 0.29 pounds, making it easy to swing in tight spaces.

At $13.99, the Klein tool matches the price of the Irwin Vise‑Grip GrooveLock 6‑inch model and sits just above the $6.99 WORKPRO locking pliers. It’s a bit heavier than the Irwin Vise‑Grip V‑Jaw 10‑inch (which tips the scales at around 0.95 pounds) but lighter than the Bessey SG24‑PC pliers that weigh over 2 pounds. Compared with the Milwaukee Torque Lock set, which is a premium offering, the Klein pliers are far more affordable while still delivering a solid rust‑preventative finish.

Reviewers consistently praise the slim head design for reaching into cramped electrical boxes, and they highlight the thumb knob as a time‑saver during repetitive tasks. The lever release is also mentioned as a smooth, hassle‑free way to disengage the lock. The only caveat noted is that the tool isn’t rated for live‑circuit work, so it’s best kept for mechanical or dry‑electrical jobs.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Klein Tools Locking Pliers offers Jaw Capacity: 46.99 mm

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range or need a tool rated for live‑circuit work

TL;DR: The WORKPRO 4‑inch locking pliers weigh just 0.24 lb, feature a curved jaw and an adjustable screw, delivering solid grip in a compact, budget‑friendly package.

What sets this tool apart is its tiny footprint: at an Overall Length of 4 inches and a weight of 0.24 lb, it’s easy to stash in a pocket or a crowded toolbox. The curved jaw type, combined with a screw‑adjustable locking mechanism, lets you tighten the grip precisely for round objects, while the spring‑loaded release provides quick one‑handed opening.

Compared with the larger locking pliers in this roundup, the WORKPRO model is noticeably lighter and far more compact. While the Irwin V‑Jaw 10‑inch version and the Milwaukee Torque Lock set weigh several pounds each, the WORKPRO stays under a quarter‑pound, making it the lightest option among the nine tools. Its size also means it won’t compete with the longer 6‑inch or 10‑inch models on leverage, but it wins on portability and ease of carry.

Users appreciate the mini size for tight‑space jobs like automotive work or cramped plumbing repairs. Reviewers highlight the strengthened curved jaw teeth for a reliable grip on pipes and bolts, and the built‑in wire cutter for quick electrical tweaks. Professional reviewers note the ergonomic rubber‑alloy handle and the spring‑loaded release as comfort‑focused features, though they also point out that the reduced jaw opening and limited leverage make the tool less suited for heavy‑duty industrial tasks.

Beyond the grip, the pliers are forged from chromium‑vanadium steel and heat‑treated for durability, with a corrosion‑resistant finish. The anti‑slip rubber handle adds comfort during prolonged use, and the integrated cutter expands its utility beyond simple clamping.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the WORKPRO Locking Pliers offers Overall Length: 4 inches

Avoid if: You need heavy‑duty leverage or large jaw opening capacity for industrial‑scale projects

TL;DR: The Craftsman 10‑inch locking plier packs a 283 mm overall length, 47.6 mm jaw capacity and a lightweight 0.0006 lb build, delivering strong, comfortable grip at a mid‑range price.

This tool’s standout dimension is its 283 mm overall length, giving you extra reach compared with many rivals in the same class. The straight‑jaw design opens to a 47.6 mm capacity, which comfortably handles most nuts, bolts and pipe fittings you’ll encounter in DIY or professional tasks. Its multi‑zone bi‑material handles keep pressure off your palm, while the adjusting‑screw locking mechanism and one‑handed easy‑release let you lock and release quickly.

When you line it up against the other eight pliers, the Craftsman feels noticeably lighter – its 0.0006 lb weight is far below the Irwin V‑Jaw’s roughly 0.95 lb and even under the Klein’s 0.29 lb. It’s also longer than the Irwin V‑Jaw’s 254 mm overall length, giving you a bit more leverage. In terms of jaw capacity, it sits between the Klein’s 46.99 mm and the Irwin V‑Jaw’s 57.15 mm, offering a balanced bite without the bulk of the Bessey’s 114.3 mm reach.

Reviewers consistently highlight the solid grip and durable heat‑treated alloy steel jaws, noting that the bi‑material handles reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Professionals appreciate the one‑handed operation that speeds up repetitive tasks. On the flip side, some users mention the pliers feel a little stiff out of the box and that they lack specialized functions such as wire cutting or stripping, which means you’ll need a separate tool for those jobs.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the Craftsman Locking Plier 10‑in offers Jaw Capacity: 47.6 mm

TL;DR: The Milwaukee Torque Lock Pliers Set packs five mixed‑jaw tools with a Torque Lock mechanism, forged‑alloy steel construction, and ergonomic anti‑pinch handles, all for $72 and a limited‑lifetime warranty.

What really sets this set apart is the Torque Lock mechanism paired with a one‑handed thumb‑screw release, which professional reviewers say speeds up setup and adds extra clamping force. The jaws feature MaxBite teeth and are hardened HRC, while the forged alloy steel body promises durability on demanding jobsite tasks. At 4.10 pounds (1859.9 g) and a length of 279.4 mm, the tools feel solid without being overly cumbersome.

Compared with the other eight pliers in the roundup, the Milwaukee set is heavier than the Irwin Vise‑Grip V‑Jaw (under 1 pound) and the Irwin GrooveLock (about 0.40 pound), but lighter than the Bessey SG24‑PC plier, which tips the scales at roughly 2.87 pounds. Its overall length of 279.4 mm also exceeds the Irwin V‑Jaw’s 254 mm, giving it a longer reach for larger jobs while still staying shorter than the Bessey’s 270 mm length.

User sentiment highlights the ergonomic, anti‑pinch handles as a comfort boost during extended use, and the rust‑protective coating is praised for longevity in wet or oily environments. Professional reviewers note the combination of the Torque Lock’s quick engagement and the MaxBite teeth as a clear advantage over traditional vise‑grip designs. However, the set’s 4.10‑pound weight can make it less portable for users who need to carry multiple tools around a tight worksite.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Milwaukee Torque Lock Pliers Set offers Height: 2.54 mm

TL;DR: The Facom Q Long Nose Locking Plier packs a 5‑position slip joint, quick‑release trigger and 24 Nm torque into a 250 mm, 1.74‑lb tool that’s built for professional precision, though it carries a premium price.

What sets this plier apart is the patented 5‑position slip joint combined with a one‑handed quick‑release trigger. The adjustment system lets you shift jaw width in five steps without fully unlocking, and the trigger lets you release the grip with a light pull. At 250 mm overall length and a nose width of 17 mm, the tool reaches into tight spaces while still offering a solid 24 Nm of torque.

Compared with the other eight tools in the roundup, the Facom is lighter than the Milwaukee set (4.10 lb) and the Bessey SG24‑PC (2.87 lb), but noticeably heavier than the Irwin V‑Jaw (0.95 lb) and the WORKPRO model (0.24 lb). Its 250 mm length sits just under the Milwaukee’s 279.4 mm bar and matches the Irwin V‑Jaw’s 254 mm, giving it a balanced profile that isn’t as bulky as the larger torque‑lock sets.

Users consistently praise the plier’s strong retention and the smooth operation once the unlocking technique is mastered. Professional reviewers highlight the quick‑release trigger as a time‑saver that “requires virtually no effort,” while everyday users note a brief learning curve for the trigger motion. The tool’s chromium‑molybdenum steel jaws, chrome‑matte finish and ASME B107.500 compliance add confidence for demanding automotive and industrial tasks.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Facom Q Long Nose Locking Plier offers Height: 81 mm

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $124.61

TL;DR: The Bessey SG24‑PC hybrid plier delivers a 114.3 mm jaw capacity and 140.6 kg of clamping force in a compact 2.87‑lb tool, but its premium $70.34 price may deter budget‑focused DIYers.

The standout specification is the 114.3 mm (4.5‑inch) jaw capacity paired with a manufacturer‑claimed clamping force of 140.6 kg, giving you reliable grip on medium‑sized pipe and tubing without needing to readjust constantly.

At 2.87 lb, the Bessey is lighter than the Milwaukee Torque Lock set (4.10 lb) yet noticeably heavier than the Irwin Vise‑Grip GrooveLock (0.28 lb) and the WORKPRO Locking Pliers (0.24 lb). Its jaw opening outstrips the Irwin V‑Jaw’s 57.15 mm capacity and the Craftsman’s 47.63 mm, placing it near the top of the range for size‑flexibility.

Professional reviewers praise the cradle‑jaw geometry and the 7‑degree jaw‑angle adjustment for aligning pipe before welding, noting that the constant force stays steady across the full opening range. Users who have posted feedback appreciate the included soft protective pads, though the limited 4.5‑inch maximum opening means the tool isn’t suited for larger conduit work.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Bessey SG24‑PC Plier offers Jaw Capacity: 114.3 mm

Avoid if: Reliability and user satisfaction are your top concerns