Craftsman 8-in Compound Action Diagonal Pliers

The Craftsman 8-in Compound Action Diagonal Pliers (model CMHT81718) have recently found their way into my toolbox, and I’ve had the chance to put them through their paces. As someone who frequently works on a variety of projects—ranging from electrical wiring to general household repairs—having a reliable pair of diagonal pliers is essential. Here’s my detailed take on these pliers, based on several weeks of hands-on use.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about these pliers is their robust build. Made from drop-forged steel, they feel incredibly sturdy and durable. The induction-hardened cutting edges promise to maintain their sharpness over time, and so far, they have lived up to that expectation. The compound action design is a standout feature, significantly increasing the cutting force without requiring extra effort on my part. This is particularly useful when dealing with tougher materials like steel nails or thicker wire.

The multi-zone bi-material grips are another thoughtful addition. They provide a comfortable and secure hold, even during prolonged use. The grips are ergonomically designed, fitting well into my hand, which minimizes fatigue. However, I did notice that the handles are quite wide when fully opened, which could be a challenge for those with smaller hands.

Performance

In terms of performance, these pliers excel in multiple scenarios. The compound action mechanism is particularly effective, making it much easier to cut through thicker materials. I’ve used them on everything from electrical wires to small nails and even some stubborn screws, and they’ve performed admirably across the board.

One of the most impressive aspects is their ability to cut through materials cleanly and efficiently. The sharp cutting edges make quick work of most tasks, and the increased leverage means I don’t have to apply as much force as I would with standard pliers. This is a huge plus, especially when working on tougher jobs that require repeated cuts.

Ease of Use

While the pliers are generally easy to use, there are a few caveats. As mentioned earlier, the handles can be somewhat wide when fully opened, which might be cumbersome for users with smaller hands. Additionally, the action was a bit stiff right out of the package. It took some time and a bit of lubrication to get them operating smoothly. This initial stiffness could be a minor inconvenience, but it’s worth noting that they do become more manageable with use.

Versatility

These pliers are incredibly versatile, suitable for a range of tasks beyond just cutting electrical wire. I’ve used them for various DIY projects around the house, including trimming artificial flower stems and even some minor automotive repairs. The ability to handle different materials with ease makes them a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Durability

Durability is always a concern with tools that see frequent use, and these pliers don’t disappoint. The drop-forged steel construction and induction-hardened cutting edges suggest a long lifespan. After several weeks of heavy use, I haven’t noticed any significant wear or loss of cutting efficiency. The full lifetime warranty offered by Craftsman also provides peace of mind, ensuring that these pliers are a long-term investment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Increased Cutting Force: The compound action design significantly boosts cutting power, making it easier to tackle tougher materials.
• Durable Construction: Made from drop-forged steel with induction-hardened cutting edges, these pliers are built to last.
• Comfortable Grips: The multi-zone bi-material grips provide a secure and comfortable hold, reducing hand fatigue.
• Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of tasks, from electrical work to general household repairs.

Cons:

• Wide Handles: The handles are quite wide when fully opened, which might be challenging for users with smaller hands.
• Initial Stiffness: The pliers can be a bit stiff right out of the package, requiring some lubrication and use to smooth out the action.

Conclusion

After several weeks of use, I can confidently say that the Craftsman 8-in Compound Action Diagonal Pliers are a solid addition to any toolkit. They offer increased cutting power, durable construction, and versatile performance, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks. While they are not without their minor drawbacks—such as the wide handles and initial stiffness—these issues are relatively minor and do not significantly detract from their overall utility.

Would I recommend these pliers? Absolutely. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, these pliers offer a reliable and efficient solution for your cutting needs. The combination of durability, performance, and comfort makes them a worthwhile investment, backed by the reassurance of Craftsman’s full lifetime warranty. If you’re in the market for a new pair of diagonal pliers, the Craftsman 8-in Compound Action Diagonal Pliers should definitely be on your shortlist.