DeWalt Compound Action Combi Pliers

The DeWalt Compound Action Combi Pliers, model DWHT70276, have been a recent addition to my toolbox, and I’ve put them through their paces over the past few weeks. As someone who regularly engages in various home improvement and DIY projects, I was eager to see how these pliers would perform, especially given DeWalt’s reputation for quality tools.

Right out of the package, the first thing that struck me was the ergonomic design. The bi-material handles are a standout feature. They are designed to provide a comfortable grip, which is particularly beneficial during extended use. The handles are rubberized and have a good texture, preventing any slipping even when my hands were sweaty or oily. However, I did notice that the Dewalt name engraved in the rubber could sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable, especially during prolonged use.

The primary selling point of these pliers is the compound action mechanism. This design significantly enhances cutting power, and I could feel the difference immediately. Cutting through thick wires and even screws required noticeably less effort compared to my standard pliers. This is a game-changer for anyone with reduced hand strength or those who need to perform repetitive cutting tasks. The induction-hardened cutting blades lived up to their promise, slicing through materials with ease and showing no signs of dulling after considerable use.

However, the compound action does come with a trade-off. The jaws do not open as wide as traditional pliers. This limitation can be a bit frustrating when dealing with larger materials or trying to grip something broad. For everyday tasks like cutting wires or small cables, this wasn’t an issue, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to use these pliers for more extensive or varied applications.

Durability is another strong suit of these pliers. Made from chrome vanadium steel, they feel robust and well-constructed. I accidentally left them out in the rain overnight, and to my surprise, they showed no signs of rusting or degradation. This resilience is a testament to the quality of materials used, and it’s reassuring to know that these pliers can withstand harsh conditions.

One of the features I appreciated was the cross-hatch tooth design on the jaws. This pattern enhances gripping power, making it easier to hold onto small objects or twist wires. Whether I was working on electrical repairs or simple household fixes, the pliers provided a secure grip without slipping.

On the downside, the locking mechanism designed to keep the pliers closed can be quite finicky. It often engaged when I didn’t want it to, which interrupted my workflow. This feature, while potentially useful for storage, became more of a nuisance during active use. It’s an area where DeWalt could certainly improve the design, perhaps by using a more reliable or intuitive locking system.

Another point of contention is the overall quality control. While my pair of pliers appeared well-made, I found that others had issues with misaligned jaws or uneven cutting edges. This inconsistency suggests that not every unit meets the high standards one would expect from a brand like DeWalt. It’s worth inspecting the tool closely before purchase to ensure you’re getting a defect-free product.

In terms of application, these pliers excel in specific scenarios. For example, they were perfect for removing and applying small clamps on engine fuel lines, thanks to the wide nose and enhanced leverage. They also performed admirably in cutting and trimming tasks, such as shortening radial spokes on an antenna or cutting grid wire. However, they fell short when I needed to twist multiple thick wires together, as the limited jaw opening became a hindrance.

For professional electricians or those doing heavy-duty electrical work, these pliers might not fully replace traditional linesman pliers. The limited jaw opening and the somewhat awkward locking mechanism can be significant drawbacks in a fast-paced or demanding work environment. However, for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, or those with specific needs for enhanced cutting power, these pliers offer substantial benefits.

In conclusion, the DeWalt Compound Action Combi Pliers are a solid tool with a few caveats. They offer excellent cutting power, a comfortable grip, and good durability, making them a valuable addition to any toolbox. However, the limited jaw opening and the problematic locking mechanism are areas that need improvement. If your primary need is for a tool that reduces hand fatigue and provides strong cutting capabilities, I would recommend these pliers. For more extensive or professional electrical work, you might want to consider traditional linesman pliers or other specialized tools. Overall, they are a good investment for the right user, offering a blend of strength and comfort that can make many tasks easier and more efficient.