iCRIMP PEX Clamp Tool Kit for 3/8-in, 1/2-in, 3/4-in, 1-in PEX Clamp Cinch & Removal, c/w 1/2''(20 Pack) and 3/4''(10 Pack) PEX Clamp Rings, PEX Tubing Cutter

Why this kit earned a spot in my plumbing bag

I put the iCrimp cinch tool through a handful of real jobs—replacing a water heater, adding a few stub-outs, and tweaking a tight manifold—and it’s become my go-to when I’m working with stainless steel PEX clamp rings. It’s compact, straightforward, and it does two important jobs with one head: it cinches clamps and removes them. That combination, plus a capable tubing cutter and a stash of rings in a tidy case, makes this kit a strong value for DIYers and pros who use ASTM F2098-style stainless clamps.

This is not a copper crimp tool and it’s not an expansion tool. If your fittings are PEX barb style and your rings are the stainless “ear” type, you’re in the right place.

What’s in the box

• Cinch/removal tool for 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4", and 1" PEX
• Stainless clamp rings: 20x 1/2" and 10x 3/4" (ASTM F2098, NSF)
• PEX tubing cutter rated up to 1"
• Blow-molded storage case

Out of the case, the kit is ready to build a few circuits. You’ll need to supply 3/8", 5/8", or 1" rings if those sizes are part of your project.

Build, ergonomics, and ratcheting action

The tool feels solid and purpose-built without being bulky. The handles are coated and shaped well enough that I could work through a dozen connections without hot spots on my palms. The ratcheting mechanism is tuned nicely: it doesn’t release until you’ve completed the crimp, which prevents half-finished clamps. That’s a meaningful upgrade over simple lever designs if you’re working overhead or in a crawlspace and can’t reset your grip easily.

Two ergonomic notes:

• Leverage on 1" rings: the handles are on the short side for big-diameter clamps. I could finish 1" crimps reliably, but it takes real hand strength or a two-hand squeeze. For 3/4" and below, it’s effortless.
• Mode selector: the toggle that switches between cinch and removal works well, but the markings are small and not high-contrast. In dim light, it’s easy to second-guess which mode you’re in. I added a paint dot to the “cinch” position.

Overall, the size and weight are a plus. I can get this tool into spaces where a longer crimper or expansion tool simply won’t fit.

Cinching performance and reliability

With quality PEX and fittings, crimps were consistent and leak-free. The tool centers well on the clamp ear and pulls evenly without cocking the ring. My routine that delivered reliable results:

1. Cut the tubing square (more on the cutter below).
2. Slide the ring on first, then fully seat the tubing on the barb.
3. Position the ring 1/8"–1/4" from the tubing end.
4. Center the tool on the ear and squeeze until the ratchet releases.
5. Visually check that the ear is fully collapsed and the ring sits evenly.

The included rings are finished cleanly with no burrs inside the band. They tightened predictably and didn’t drift away from the fitting shoulder during cinching. The tool meets the ASTM F2098 clamp standard, and the rings are NSF certified, which is what I look for when I’m putting this in a potable system.

Removal function: fast and practical

The built-in removal mode is the feature that turned me into a regular user. If you misposition a ring or need to salvage a fitting, you don’t have to reach for a separate cutter or a Dremel—flip the selector and the same jaws split the clamp ear. It works quickly and, importantly, it doesn’t gouge the fitting barb when used with a steady hand.

A couple of safety notes from the field:

• Wear eye protection. When you split the ear, the clamp can fracture into a couple of sharp pieces that pop free.
• Inspect the fitting after removal. If you see deep scratches or burrs on the barb, retire it. The whole point of stainless clamps is reliability; don’t compromise it with a damaged fitting.

Being able to reuse fittings is a big cost and time saver on small rework jobs.

The cutter does its job cleanly

The included tubing cutter is better than I expected for a bundled accessory. It makes square, clean cuts on PEX up to 1" with one-hand operation. The blade track stays true, so you don’t end up with an angled cut that fights you during assembly. It’s not intended for PVC, CPVC, or multilayer composite; keep it on PEX and it will serve you well.

Compatibility and use cases

This tool is designed for stainless steel clamp rings that meet ASTM F2098. That means:

• Works with: PEX-A, PEX-B, or PEX-C tubing when used with standard PEX barb fittings (brass or poly) and stainless clamp rings.
• Does not replace: copper crimp tools (ASTM F1807) or expansion tools (ASTM F1960). If your system uses copper rings or expansion sleeves, choose a tool built for that system.

If you’re already set up on stainless clamps or you’re starting fresh and want a single tool that both installs and removes clamps, this kit is a straightforward choice.

Limitations and small frustrations

• Power on 1" clamps: It’s doable, but it’s the edge of the tool’s leverage. Repeated 1" work will fatigue your hands.
• Mode markings: The cinch/remove indicator is hard to read in low light. A sticker or paint mark fixes it.
• Ring assortment: Only 1/2" and 3/4" rings are included. You can cinch 3/8", 5/8", and 1", but you’ll need to buy those rings separately.

None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth knowing before you start a larger job.

Tips for best results

• Prep matters: Cut square, push the tube fully home, and position the ring close to the fitting shoulder without hanging over the tube end.
• Keep the tool clean: A quick wipe and a drop of light oil on the pivot and ratchet pawl keeps the action smooth.
• Mark your selector: A bright dot on the cinch position prevents mistakes when you’re working in tight, dim spaces.
• Pressure test: As with any PEX system, pressure test before closing up walls or backfilling.

Value and who it’s for

For the price of a single-purpose crimper, you get a dual-function cinch/removal tool, a capable cutter, and enough rings to complete several common household tasks. The compact size suits service work, remodels, and any situation where you’re navigating joists and cabinets. If you’re building new and running a lot of 1" main lines, a longer-handled tool may be kinder to your hands—but this kit will still get you there.

Bottom line

The iCrimp kit nails the basics: consistent, standard-compliant clamps, quick removal when you need it, a cutter that makes clean prep cuts, and a case that keeps the small parts in order. It’s not a flashy tool and it doesn’t try to be—what it offers is reliable performance in a compact package.

Recommendation: I recommend this kit to anyone working with stainless PEX clamp rings, especially if you value a small footprint and the convenience of a built-in removal function. It’s a smart choice for repairs, retrofits, and small-to-medium installs. If your day-to-day includes lots of 1" connections, plan on two-handed squeezes—or pair this with a longer-handled model—but for everything else, this is an easy tool to live with.