DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier

When I first laid my hands on the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and the ergonomic design of its grips. DeWalt, a brand synonymous with high-quality tools, has certainly lived up to its reputation with this particular model, the DWHT70797. Over the course of several weeks, I put these pliers through a variety of rigorous tasks to see how they held up. Here’s my detailed review based on my hands-on experience.

Build Quality and Durability

The first thing that stands out about these pliers is the Cr-V steel construction, which ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The material feels robust, and the pliers have a reassuring weight of 1.19 lbs. This weight, combined with the 11.2-inch length, provides a good balance that facilitates ease of use without causing hand fatigue over extended periods.

The precision-machined jaws are another highlight. They are designed for gripping, twisting, and cutting, and they perform each of these tasks with impressive efficiency. Whether I was cutting through small cables or twisting wires, the jaws maintained their alignment and sharpness, showing no signs of wear even after considerable use. This level of durability is crucial for professionals who rely on their tools day in and day out.

Comfort and Ergonomics

One of the most notable features of these pliers is the dipped grips. They are comfortable to hold, providing a secure grip that reduces the strain on your hands. The anti-tear material on the grips is a thoughtful addition, as it helps extend their lifespan. Even after prolonged use, the grips showed no signs of tearing or wearing out, which is a testament to their quality.

The pliers do have a slightly stiff opening and closing action, especially when new. However, I found that this stiffness actually helps in holding wires securely when crimping or twisting. Over time, the stiffness eased up a bit, making the pliers even more comfortable to use.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier excels in several areas. Cutting through various materials, including small cables, bailing wire, and even light steel electrical screws, was a breeze. The sharpness of the cutting edges remained intact, even after extensive use. This is a significant advantage, as dull edges can make cutting tasks more laborious and less precise.

The jaw capacity of 1.75 inches is adequate for most tasks, and the tip size of 0.56 inches allows for precise work in tight spaces. Whether I was working on electrical installations, making hay feeders, or repairing fences, the pliers handled each job with aplomb. The precision-machined jaws ensured a clean cut every time, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the wires and materials being worked on.

Practical Applications

In a commercial setting, these pliers proved to be indispensable. As an electrician, I often encounter situations where I need to cut through tough materials or twist multiple wires together. The DeWalt pliers performed exceptionally well in these scenarios, providing the reliability and performance that professionals demand.

For DIY enthusiasts, these pliers are equally valuable. Whether you’re working on home repairs, crafting projects, or general maintenance tasks, the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of applications. Its sturdy build and sharp cutting edges make it a reliable addition to any toolbox.

Comparisons and Considerations

While I am thoroughly impressed with the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier, it’s worth noting that they are slightly larger than some other brands, such as Klein. This can make them a bit cumbersome to carry in your back pocket. However, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by their performance and durability.

Another consideration is the absence of a crimper. For those who frequently need to crimp wires, this might be a drawback. However, for basic tasks involving gripping, twisting, and cutting, these pliers are more than adequate.

Warranty and Value

DeWalt offers a lifetime warranty on these pliers, which is a significant assurance of their quality and durability. This warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that the tool is backed by the manufacturer for its lifetime.

In terms of value, the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier is competitively priced. While they may cost slightly more than some budget options, the superior build quality and performance justify the investment. When compared to higher-end brands, these pliers offer comparable performance at a more affordable price point.

Conclusion

After extensive use, I can confidently say that the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier is a top-tier tool that delivers on its promises. Its robust construction, comfortable grips, and exceptional cutting and gripping performance make it a reliable choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The slightly larger size and lack of a crimper are minor drawbacks, but they do not significantly detract from the overall utility of the tool.

If you’re in the market for a durable, high-performing pair of lineman pliers, I highly recommend the DeWalt 9" Lineman Plier. Its combination of quality, performance, and value makes it a worthy addition to any toolbox. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend warrior, these pliers are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.