Milwaukee 9" Comfort Grip High Leverage Lineman's Pliers With Crimper

When I first picked up Milwaukee's 9" Comfort Grip High Leverage Lineman's Pliers, I was immediately struck by the solid build and thoughtful design. The weight felt reassuring in my hand, indicating durability without being overly cumbersome. These pliers are clearly built to last, and the iron carbide cutting edge promises increased durability, a feature that becomes evident with each use.

The cutting edge is impressively sharp, slicing through #6 and #8 bolts with ease. This efficiency is a testament to the craftsmanship and engineering behind the tool. The knife edge length of 0.83 inches is adequate for most tasks, and the hardened cutting edges maintain their sharpness even after extensive use. I found the cutting performance consistent and reliable, making these pliers a go-to for various cutting needs.

One of the standout features of these pliers is the on-board crimper. Whether you're working with insulated or non-insulated terminals, the crimper performs admirably. It’s integrated seamlessly into the design, not feeling like an afterthought but rather a well-considered addition. This adds a layer of versatility to the tool, reducing the need to carry multiple tools for different tasks.

Another practical feature is the fish tape puller. This might seem like a minor addition, but in practice, it’s incredibly useful. The puller works smoothly, making the task of pulling fish tape through conduit much less of a hassle. This is particularly beneficial for electricians who often need to manage fish tape as part of their daily tasks.

Comfort is key when using any hand tool, especially for extended periods. The comfort grips on these pliers are designed to prevent peeling or digging into your hands, and they perform this function well. The grips provide a firm hold without causing discomfort, even during prolonged use. The 9-inch length of the tool, combined with the long handles, offers excellent leverage, reducing the effort needed for cutting and crimping tasks.

The pliers also feature a reaming head for ½ inch and 1 inch conduit, a thoughtful addition that enhances their utility. The ability to ream conduit with the same tool you use for cutting and crimping saves time and reduces the number of tools needed on the job site. This multi-functionality is a significant advantage, particularly for professionals who value efficiency and convenience.

Durability is another strong point of these pliers. The rust-resistant finish ensures that the tool maintains its integrity even in less-than-ideal conditions. This is particularly important for tools that are frequently exposed to the elements or used in damp environments. The forged strength design further enhances the durability, giving you confidence that these pliers will withstand heavy use over time.

In terms of overall build quality, these pliers are on par with other high-end brands like Knipex and Klein. Having used both Klein journeyman and Knipex pliers in the past, I can confidently say that Milwaukee’s offering holds its own. The solid construction, combined with the thoughtful design features, makes these pliers a worthy competitor in the market.

One minor downside is the price. These pliers are a bit on the pricey side, but considering the quality and range of features, they are worth the investment. After using them for various tasks, I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase another pair if needed. The value they provide in terms of performance and durability justifies the cost.

In conclusion, Milwaukee’s 9" Comfort Grip High Leverage Lineman's Pliers are an excellent addition to any toolbox. Their combination of cutting efficiency, crimping capability, fish tape pulling, and reaming head functionality makes them incredibly versatile. The comfort grips and durable construction ensure that they are comfortable to use and built to last. While they are a bit pricey, the investment is well worth it for the quality and convenience they offer. I highly recommend these pliers to professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike who are looking for a reliable, multi-functional tool that can handle a variety of tasks with ease.