A vice grip (properly “locking pliers” and often sold as Vise‑Grip) is a hand tool with adjustable serrated jaws that clamp onto objects and lock closed using a lever mechanism, letting you grip, hold, or turn parts hands‑free until you release them—useful for loosening rounded fasteners, clamping during repairs, or holding pieces while cutting, drilling, soldering, or gluing.
What is a vice grip?
A vice grip—more accurately called locking pliers and commonly seen under the brand name Vise‑Grip—is a plier-style tool that clamps onto a workpiece and locks in place. A screw at the handle tail sets the jaw width and clamping force, while a lever releases the lock. Once set, the jaws stay tightly closed without constant hand pressure, freeing your other hand for positioning, fastening, or operating another tool.
Note on naming: In American English, the tool is spelled “vise,” not “vice.” The general term is “locking pliers,” with “Vise‑Grip” being a famous trademark. In the UK, the generic term “Mole grips” is common. Many DIYers still say “vice grip,” and most people will understand the meaning either way.
How a vice grip works
- Turning the adjustment screw moves the jaws closer or farther apart and sets the clamping force.
- Squeezing the handles engages a toggle mechanism that multiplies force and locks the jaws at the set opening.
- A small lever (release trigger) on one handle pops the jaws open when you’re done.
This toggle action provides a stronger, steadier hold than standard pliers, which can slip if your grip weakens.
Common DIY and home uses
- Loosening damaged or rounded nuts and bolts that a wrench can’t grip.
- Holding a nut on the back side of a fastener while you drive the screw or bolt from the front.
- Acting as a temporary clamp for glue-ups, small welding jobs, or metalwork.
- Stabilizing parts while cutting, drilling, filing, or grinding.
- Extracting stripped screw heads by gripping the outside edge of the head.
- Pinching off flexible hoses (with purpose-made smooth-jaw locking pliers) during auto or appliance repairs.
- Straightening bent metal brackets or lightly crimping sheet metal seams.
Types and variations
Locking pliers come in many jaw shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one makes work faster and safer.
- Curved-jaw locking pliers: General-purpose style with serrated, curved jaws for gripping round stock (bolts, pipe) and hex heads. Often include a wire cutter near the pivot.
- Straight-jaw (flat) locking pliers: Flat, serrated jaws better for flat stock, sheet metal, and parallel edges.
- Long-nose (needle-nose) locking pliers: Narrow jaws reach into tight spaces and hold small items like wire or tiny fasteners.
- C-clamp locking pliers: Wide, C-shaped jaws with swivel pads; great for woodworking glue-ups, welding, and holding assemblies without marring.
- Sheet-metal locking pliers (duckbill): Broad, flat jaws spread clamping force over a larger area, useful for bending and seaming sheet metal.
- Chain locking pliers: A chain wraps around irregular shapes or large round objects (pipe, filters) and locks into the body.
- Specialty pinch-off locking pliers: Smooth or padded jaws designed to temporarily close off hoses without damage.
Features also vary:
- Quick-release vs. classic release: Most modern models have a one-handed quick-release lever.
- Jaw pads and covers: Some include removable pads to protect finished surfaces.
- Finish and material: Chrome or nickel plating resists rust; heat-treated jaws last longer.
- Size: Common lengths are 5–10 inches; larger sizes deliver more leverage.
How to choose the right vice grip
- Match jaw shape to the job: Curved jaw for bolts and pipe; straight jaw for flat stock; C-clamp for assembly and glue-ups; long-nose for tight spaces.
- Pick the right size: Larger pliers grip bigger parts and deliver more torque. Smaller ones fit tight spots and delicate tasks.
- Check build quality: Smooth action, solid rivets, precise jaw alignment, and a firm lock/release feel are signs of a reliable tool.
- Look for protective features: Swivel pads or plastic covers help prevent marring; choose smooth jaws for hoses.
- Consider the grip: Cushioned handles are more comfortable during longer tasks.
How to use them safely and effectively
- Clean the part you’re gripping to remove oil or rust flakes for better bite.
- Set the opening: Turn the adjustment screw until the jaws just fit over the part.
- Squeeze to lock: The tool should click or feel firmly locked without excessive force.
- Test the hold: Wiggle slightly; if it slips, open and tighten one quarter-turn at a time.
- Apply force in line with the jaws to avoid twisting the mechanism.
- Release with the trigger while keeping your fingers clear of the jaws.
Safety tips:
- Wear eye protection—parts can snap or fly when a stubborn fastener breaks loose.
- Avoid crushing or marring finished surfaces; add a thin shim, leather scrap, or jaw pads.
- Don’t use locking pliers as a hammer or pry bar; it can damage the pivot and spring.
- Keep metal tools away from live electrical circuits.
Care and maintenance
- Clean after use: Wipe off dust, metal filings, and glue squeeze-out.
- Lightly oil the pivot, toggle, and adjustment screw to prevent rust and keep action smooth.
- Store unlocked to reduce constant spring tension.
- Inspect jaws: If serrations are badly worn or chipped, replace the tool; filing can weaken hardened teeth.
- Protect the finish: A thin film of rust inhibitor helps in damp garages or job sites.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overtightening: Too much clamping force can crush tubing, deform bolt heads, or strip edges of soft metals.
- Using the wrong jaw type: Curved jaws on flat stock can slip; straight jaws on round parts reduce bite.
- Clamping on finished surfaces without protection, leaving permanent marks.
- Applying sideways torque: Twisting the tool perpendicular to the jaws can pop the lock or bend the mechanism.
- Ignoring clearance: Long handles can smack nearby parts or walls when they release.
Related terms
- Locking pliers: The general category of the tool.
- Vise (US)/Vice (UK): General bench clamping tool; not the same as locking pliers.
- Mole grips: UK term for locking pliers.
- C-clamp: A separate clamp; similar function but not handheld pliers.
- Adjustable wrench: Turns fasteners but does not lock like pliers.
Practical examples
- Free a rounded bolt on a lawnmower deck: Clean the bolt head, set curved-jaw locking pliers to just fit, lock on, and rock back and forth to break it loose. Add penetrating oil if needed.
- Hold a faucet nut under a sink: With limited space, clamp long-nose locking pliers on the nut to keep it from turning while you tighten from above.
- Clamp a small miter during glue-up: Use C-clamp locking pliers with swivel pads to hold two trim pieces in alignment while the glue sets.
- Extract a stripped screw: Grip the outer rim of the screw head with small straight-jaw locking pliers and back it out slowly.
- Pinch a dishwasher drain hose: Use smooth-jaw pinch-off locking pliers to stop water flow during a repair without damaging the hose.
With the right jaw style and careful setup, a vice grip can hold parts steady, turn stubborn fasteners, and act as a compact clamp across many household projects.