Milwaukee 20" Straight-Jaw Pliers

The Milwaukee 20" Straight-Jaw Pliers, model 48-22-6320, have quickly become an essential addition to my toolkit. Their robust construction and thoughtful design make them a standout choice for heavy-duty tasks, particularly those involving large pipes and electrical work.

From the moment I picked up these pliers, I could feel their heft and solid build. At 20 inches in length, they are undeniably large, but this size translates directly into increased leverage and power. The jaws open up to a generous 5.5 inches, making them suitable for a variety of applications, from gripping large pipes to handling substantial plumbing fittings.

One of the standout features of these pliers is the hardened teeth. The sharp edges provide a secure grip that doesn't slip, even under significant pressure. This is particularly beneficial when working with smooth or slippery surfaces, where maintaining a firm hold is crucial. The teeth have shown no signs of dulling, even after extensive use, which speaks volumes about their durability.

The handles are another highlight. Milwaukee has designed these pliers with slim profile over-molded comfort grips that are resistant to peeling, even under harsh job site conditions. This is a significant improvement over other pliers I've used, where the grips tend to wear out or slip off over time. These grips are not only comfortable but also provide excellent control, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.

However, the pliers are not without their quirks. The adjustment mechanism, while effective, can be a bit clunky. When fully opened, the pliers can sometimes get stuck in the wide-open position, requiring a bit of fidgeting to find the right slot. This is a minor inconvenience but worth noting, especially for those accustomed to smoother adjustments. The sliding alignment bar could benefit from a tapered design to facilitate easier closing.

Another point of consideration is the alignment of the handles. While the jaws themselves are tight and well-aligned, the handles exhibit a slight misalignment, roughly half an inch. This is due to the rivet fastening, which doesn't allow for tightening to minimize the sloppiness. Although this doesn't significantly impact the tool's performance, it does affect the overall feel and precision, especially during delicate tasks.

Despite these minor issues, the Milwaukee 20" Straight-Jaw Pliers excel in their primary function: providing a powerful and reliable grip for heavy-duty applications. The exposed metal handles are designed for reaming pipes and punching electrical knockouts, adding to the tool's versatility. The ability to deburr smooth pipes up to 3.5 inches and handle electrical knockouts with ease makes these pliers a valuable asset for electricians and plumbers alike.

The rust-resistant forged design ensures longevity, even in challenging environments. This durability is further backed by Milwaukee's limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind for those investing in these pliers.

In practical use, I've found these pliers to be particularly effective when working with large electrical metal conduits and compression connectors. The sharp teeth grip metal boxes and other flat surfaces securely, while the handle-ends are perfect for box punch-outs. However, the flat throat design can make gripping cylindrical surfaces like pipes a bit challenging. This is a trade-off worth considering depending on the primary tasks you intend to use the pliers for.

One aspect that consistently impresses is the pliers' ability to withstand significant abuse. I've used them for tasks that would typically ruin ordinary pliers, such as reaming out pipes and grabbing hot pipes during soldering. The Milwaukee pliers handle these tasks with ease, showing no signs of wear or damage. This resilience makes them a reliable choice for demanding job site conditions.

The sheer size of these pliers can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, the increased torque and gripping power are unmatched, making them ideal for serious jobs. On the other hand, the weight and bulk can be cumbersome, especially for tasks that require precision or extended use. For those in trades that frequently deal with large fittings and heavy-duty applications, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 20" Straight-Jaw Pliers are a formidable tool for any professional's arsenal. Their robust construction, powerful grip, and versatile features make them well-suited for heavy-duty tasks, particularly in the electrical and plumbing trades. While the adjustment mechanism and handle alignment could be improved, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of the tool's performance and reliability.

I would highly recommend these pliers to anyone in need of a durable and powerful tool for large-scale applications. Their ability to handle tough jobs with ease, combined with the comfort and control provided by the over-molded grips, make them a worthwhile investment. Whether you're an electrician, plumber, or simply someone who frequently works with large pipes and fittings, the Milwaukee 20" Straight-Jaw Pliers are sure to become a trusted and indispensable part of your toolkit.