DeWalt Compound Action Diagonal Pliers

Cutting tasks around the workshop often demand precision, strength, and ease of use. With the DeWalt Compound Action Diagonal Pliers (DWHT70275), I had high hopes for a tool that could deliver on all fronts. Having used various cutting tools over the years, I was eager to see how these pliers would stack up.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about these pliers was the bi-material handles. They offer a comfortable grip, which is essential for prolonged use. The handles are designed to reduce hand fatigue, and I found that they lived up to this promise during extended cutting sessions. The cross-hatch tooth design also adds to the grip, making it easier to hold onto various materials without slipping.

Made from chrome vanadium steel, the pliers feel robust and durable. This material is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear, which is crucial for a tool that is expected to cut through tough materials. The induction-hardened cutting blades are another highlight, designed to maintain their sharpness over time.

Performance

One of the standout features of these pliers is the increased cutting power. The compound action mechanism significantly amplifies the force applied, making it easier to cut through tougher materials. I tested these pliers on various materials, including nails, hardware cloth, and electrical wires. For the most part, the pliers performed admirably, cutting through nails and hardware cloth with relative ease.

However, I did encounter some issues when trying to cut thicker materials. The jaws do not open very wide, which can be a limitation when dealing with bulkier items. Additionally, the cutting edges need to align perfectly to achieve a clean cut, and I found that this alignment was not always consistent. On a few occasions, I had to apply extra pressure to cut through thicker wires, which somewhat negates the benefit of the compound action mechanism.

Usability

The spring-loaded handles are a nice touch, making it easier to operate the pliers with one hand. However, the locking mechanism designed to keep the pliers closed when not in use was a bit of a letdown. It often disengaged unintentionally, causing the pliers to spring open at inconvenient times. This could be a minor annoyance or a significant safety concern, depending on the situation.

Another point worth mentioning is the tool's ergonomics. While the handles are comfortable, the overall design could benefit from some refinement. The pliers are somewhat bulky, which can make them cumbersome to use in tight spaces. This is particularly noticeable when trying to cut flush with a surface, as the bulkiness of the tool can get in the way.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with these pliers. On the one hand, the chrome vanadium steel construction and induction-hardened blades suggest a tool built to last. On the other hand, I did notice some wear and tear after a few weeks of use. The cutting edges showed signs of dulling, and the chrome finish started to chip away in places.

I also experienced a couple of instances where the tips of the pliers chipped when cutting through tougher materials. While DeWalt offers a lifetime warranty, the inconvenience of having to replace the tool frequently can be frustrating.

Value for Money

At just under $15, these pliers are reasonably priced for the features they offer. The compound action mechanism and comfortable handles make them a good choice for light to medium-duty tasks. However, if you need a tool for more demanding cutting jobs, you might want to consider other options. There are other brands on the market that offer similar features with better durability and performance.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt Compound Action Diagonal Pliers are a solid choice for those who need a reliable tool for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. The increased cutting power, comfortable handles, and durable construction make them a good addition to any toolbox. However, they do have their limitations, particularly when it comes to cutting thicker materials and maintaining long-term durability.

Would I recommend these pliers? It depends on your needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option for occasional use, these pliers are a good fit. They offer good performance for the price and are comfortable to use. However, if you need a tool for more demanding tasks or frequent use, you might want to invest in a higher-end option that offers better durability and performance.

In summary, the DeWalt Compound Action Diagonal Pliers are a decent tool for the price, but they fall short in some key areas. With some improvements in design and durability, they could be a top-tier option. For now, they are best suited for those who need a reliable tool for occasional, lighter-duty tasks.