Milwaukee 7 in. Diagonal Cutting Pliers

As a seasoned professional who has handled a myriad of tools over the years, the Milwaukee 7 in. Diagonal Cutting Pliers (model 48-22-6107) certainly caught my attention, especially given the brand's reputable history in the tool industry. With a mix of high expectations and cautious optimism, I put these pliers through their paces to see if they lived up to the Milwaukee name.

First impressions are crucial, and the Milwaukee Diagonal Cutting Pliers make a strong one. The build quality is immediately apparent, with a forged design that promises added strength and durability. The tool feels solid in hand, and the comfort grips are a notable feature. These grips are designed to withstand heavy use without peeling, and I found them to be both comfortable and secure during extended use.

The hardened cutting edges are a key selling point of these pliers, and they certainly delivered in terms of durability. Over several weeks of use, the edges maintained their sharpness, handling a range of materials from copper wires to plastic zip ties with ease. The tapered nose with flush cutting blades is particularly useful for precision cutting, allowing for close cuts without leaving protruding ends. This feature is invaluable when working in tight spaces or when a clean finish is required.

One of the standout features of these pliers is the integrated reaming ridges, designed for removing burrs from pipes. I found this to be a practical addition, saving me the trouble of switching tools mid-task. The reaming ridges worked effectively on various pipe sizes, up to 1-1/2 inches, as specified. Additionally, the on-board fish tape puller is a thoughtful inclusion. It simplifies the process of pulling fish tape, which is a frequent task in electrical work. This feature, combined with the pliers' sturdy build, made my workflow more efficient.

However, despite these positive aspects, the Milwaukee Diagonal Cutting Pliers are not without their flaws. One issue I encountered was with the pivot joint. Initially, it was quite stiff, making the pliers difficult to open and close smoothly. While this loosened slightly with use and some lubrication, it was still a noticeable hindrance. This could be a quality control issue, as not all units seem to have this problem, but it did affect my experience with the tool.

Another significant drawback was the pliers' performance on thicker wires. Cutting through 10 gauge wire required more effort than expected, and the tool struggled with multiple twisted copper wires. This was disappointing, especially given Milwaukee's reputation for high-performance tools. It seems that while the cutting edges are durable, they may not be as sharp as those on some competing models. This limits the tool's effectiveness for heavy-duty tasks, which could be a deal-breaker for professionals who need reliable, powerful cutters.

Rust resistance is another advertised feature of these pliers, but my experience was mixed. After accidentally leaving the tool exposed to a small amount of surface water overnight, I noticed some surface rust forming. While this did not affect the pliers' performance, it did detract from their visual appeal and suggested that the rust-resistant coating could be improved.

On a positive note, the design of the Milwaukee Diagonal Cutting Pliers is well thought out. The flush cutting edge allows for clean, precise cuts, which is a significant advantage over many other diagonal cutters. The textured edges on the back side handle and outside of the cutting edges add to the tool's versatility, allowing it to function as a crude pliers and a reamer. These design elements demonstrate Milwaukee's attention to detail and commitment to creating multifunctional tools.

In terms of value, the Milwaukee Diagonal Cutting Pliers are priced higher than many other diagonal cutters on the market. While they offer several unique features and a generally robust build, their performance on thicker wires and the potential for rust may make some users hesitant to invest in them. For those who prioritize precision cutting and comfort, these pliers are a solid choice. However, for heavy-duty tasks, there may be more effective options available.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 7 in. Diagonal Cutting Pliers have several commendable features, including durable cutting edges, a tapered nose for precision, integrated reaming ridges, and a fish tape puller. The comfort grips and overall build quality are also strong points. However, issues with the pivot joint, performance on thicker wires, and rust resistance cannot be overlooked.

Would I recommend these pliers? It depends on your specific needs. If you require a tool for precision cutting and light to moderate electrical work, the Milwaukee Diagonal Cutting Pliers are a worthy investment. Their design and comfort make them a pleasure to use for extended periods. However, if your work involves frequent cutting of thicker wires or you need a tool that can handle heavy-duty tasks effortlessly, you might want to consider alternatives that offer sharper cutting edges and better performance in those areas.