I am a tool guy, I love to have and use my tools. Due to this I also prefer to have and use ones that I know will last. I have a few off brand pairs of vise grip style locking pliers and honestly none of them compare to these. This is a very nice set. A 7" and a 10" set both in one package and for a good price.
I use mind holding pieces together for welding, so I prefer this set that does NOT have the plastic coating on the handles. I find that the plastic just gets melted by the flying sparks when I use the plastic coated handles. These can get hot enough to actually turn a little blue when I weld really close to where they are clamping, that's how hot they get! These are a very thick metal, very solid and secure and it's immediately apparent when you hold them. Compared to my others (including Craftsman) these are by far the best.
Concerning how far these open up, fully opened, the small set will clamp down on something about 1.5" across. They larger set clamp down on something about 2" across. If you need wider mouth than that there are custom ones available with larger C style clamps.
When Irwin bought the Vise Grip brand I was worried they might mess with them, that has not happened, these are just as solid and reliable as my pre-Irwin brand Vise-Grips. About the only difference is the additional Irwin logo on them now.
The big box stores sell a set similar to these, but those have the plastic coated handles. They might feel great but if you are going to use them for welding, shy away.
5 stars, these are solid, reliable and do last a lifetime. I've had my oldest set over 30 years now and they are just a dependable as the new ones.
| Brand | IRWIN |
|---|---|
| Material | Alloy Steel, High Carbon Steel |
| Color | Multi |
| Handle Material | Alloy Steel |
| Specific Uses For Product | Gripping, Twisting, Turning |
| Grip Type | Ergonomic |
| UPC | 038548991443 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00038548991443 |
| Manufacturer | Irwin Tools |
| Part Number | 1771879 |
| Item Weight | 1.94 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 1 x 6.5 x 11 inches |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item model number | 1771879 |
| Size | One Size |
| Style | Classic |
| Finish | Brushed |
| Pattern | Solid |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Power Source | ac |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Included Components | 10WR + 7WR ORIGINAL LOCKING PLIERS |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
