Wire pliers can be regarded as necessary tools that help in installing fasteners from getting loose or falling out from their attachments. The safety wires are used in gripping loose ends of a piece of safety wire.
They are sometimes referred to as safety twisters because they can also be used in twisting the end of safety wires for other purposes.
For whatever reason, safety wire pliers are needed not only in handling safety wires but for several other purposes, in a workshop or home.
Can’t wait long to see the best safety wire pliers? Here’s a table with the top 3 picks at a glance:
Our Pick – Top 3 Safety Wire Pliers
In case you’re in a hurry, here are my top three recommendations for the best safety wire pliers.
Still confused about which safety wire pliers is best for you?
Let me help by providing detailed reviews on the best safety wire pliers that I found in the market (and the ones you can buy online).
These reviews will definitely help you gain awareness and understanding of the best features, pros, and cons of each safety wire plier.
Let’s get started!
Best Safety Wire Pliers Reviewed
Below is the table that shows all the safety wire pliers covered in this review.
| NAME | IMAGE | OUR RATING | PRICE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BikeMaster Safety Wire Pliers with Wire |  |
9.5 / 10 | $39.44 | Check Best Price |
| OTC 4795 Safety Wire Twist Pliers |  |
9.5 / 10 | $42.14 | Check Best Price |
| Imperial Tool Milbar 41W Reversible Wire Twister Plier with... |  |
9.0 / 10 | $109.99 | Check Best Price |
| Race-Driven Safety Wire Pliers 6 in Twist Twisting Plier Locking... |  |
9.0 / 10 | $47.93 | Check Best Price |
| 2 piece SET 9 and 6 AIRCRAFT/RACING SAFETY WIRE TWIST PLIERS... |  |
8.5 / 10 | $26.95 | Check Best Price |
| P1TOOLS 6 inch Safety Wire Twisting Twister Side Cutting Lockwire... |  |
8.5 / 10 | Price not available | Check Best Price |
| Stanley Proto J192 Proto 10-3/8" Safety Wire Twister Pliers |  |
8.0 / 10 | $137.77 | Check Best Price |
Now let’s have a look at the detailed reviews of each of the safety wire pliers covered in this article.
BikeMaster Safety Wire Pliers with Wire
- Forged steel pliers, shot peened and ground clamping surfaces, quick twist helix
- Forged steel pliers, shot peened and ground clamping surfaces
- Spring loaded return, ball bearing puller for easier operation
With an average rating of 4.75/5, this is one of the best-ranked safety wire twisters or pliers you can find online. Made from forged-steel material, this explains why it is sturdier than many of its rivals. It is peened and also comes with a ground-clamping surface.
There is a heavy-duty spring attached to the plier to ensure that it returns to position quickly after application. The retainer slide of this tool comes with chrome finishing and that gives it a beautiful aesthetic appeal. The chrome finishing also ensures that the tool is resistant to adverse storage conditions.
These pliers are designed to prevent any wire from slipping through its clamp. There is a one-time setup for the tool; hence you can start using it a few minutes after purchase. It weighs just 4.8 ounces even at shipping, and also comes with a Lifetime manufacturer warranty.
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OTC 4795 Safety Wire Twist Pliers
- Versatile 8 inch long pliers will reliably twist safety wire rapidly and consistently
- Right hand twist mechanism features an automatic spring return
- Features tapered jaws for confined areas and mated cutters to cut safety wire
This is a versatile 8” safety wire pliers around and should be categorized as one of the best. It is known for its rapid and consistent twisting of safety wires for different purposes. This is another right-hand twist mechanism tool that features an automatic spring return for maximum efficiency and safety.
The jaws of the twister, are tapered, for the confined areas, alongside mated cutters that cut safety wire easily. With the forged alloy steel construction material, this tool is durable with high water and rust-resistance. It offers great value for money, especially with its lifetime manufacturer warranty.
As a versatile wire twister, the device can be used in a number of ways. It can be used for safety wire applications found on vehicles, aircraft, and industrial pieces of machinery. Weighs just 1.6 ounces, and ergonomically designed to be handled in diverse angles.
| PROs | CONs |
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Imperial Tool Milbar 41W Reversible Wire Twister Plier with...
- Reversible action for left and right twists
- Automatic spring return
- Faster with better control
What makes this plier unique is that it is a left and right-hand option hence it can be operated from both left and right mechanisms. In addition to its right and left operational mode, the tool is reversible. It comes with an auto-return feature for added safety and easier operation.
It cuts perfectly and the jaws hold the safety wires very well. The reversing barrel and pool handle are made up of plastic materials, which could be one of the few downsides to this device.
The standard throat design of this tool makes it ergonomically convenient. Though it is quite pricy, it offers great value for its price in the long run. The build and finishing of this tool is amazing
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Race-Driven Safety Wire Pliers 6 in Twist Twisting Plier Locking...
- Race-Driven Safety Wire Plier
- 6" twisting pliers for installing safety wire
- Steel construction with locking jaws and spring return
These 6-inch safety wire pliers can be used to install safety wires for different applications. It is one of the short-length pliers around, but it is effective for light and industrial jobs. As a multiple application plier, this tool is as versatile as most of its main rivals.
Made up of durable steel construction for added functionality and longevity. The sturdy plier also comes with locking jaws and spring return features. It weighs just 9.6 ounces hence it is quite light for easy handling. It has a very unique wave jaw that cuts and nicks into wire easily.
The total length of this tool is 8 ¼” while the tapered nose alongside the polished locking jaws makes it premium and appealing. It can be used in diverse ways, including securing nuts and bolts.
| PROs | CONs |
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2 piece SET 9 and 6 AIRCRAFT/RACING SAFETY WIRE TWIST PLIERS...
- These safety wire pliers are really three tools in one: wire cutter, wire twister and a...
- You can grip, twist and snip faster and easier.
- To operate, just grasp wire, pull handle and it puts any number of twists needed.
If you want to save money off safety wire twist pliers, then you should go for a pair. This is a set of pliers of 6” and 9”, hence you can use either for different operations. They can be regarded as 3-in-1 tools because they can work as wire cutters, wire twisters, and as a pair of pliers for cramping.
To operate any of these pliers, just grasp the wire, pull the handle and the plier will put any number of twists you need. There is a spring-loaded return and it is designed for industrial applications such as aircraft, and industrial processes.
With a mere 1.7 pounds of weight, this is perhaps one of the lightest twisting set of pliers you will find in the market.
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P1TOOLS 6 inch Safety Wire Twisting Twister Side Cutting Lockwire...
- Self-lock design ensures serrated jaw firmly grip wire while twisting
- Heavy duty construction with a spring return and heavy duty locking jaws
- Precision machined serrated jaws for optimum power and durability
This is a safety wire twister that relies on the right-hand mechanism. Just like any good safety wire twister, It also features an automatic spring return for safety and efficiency. This is one of the wire twisters that can be delivered worldwide; hence you can make your orders from any country.
This tool is rated above 4/5 by numerous users; hence it remains one of the best around. It comes with a heavy-duty construction design for durability and functionality. It works with a spring return alongside heavy-duty locking jaws for added security and safety. It comes with a spool that works for stainless steel wires of up to 0.32” thickness.
The inclusion of a Quick twist Helix structure makes it more secured for twisting wires. The tool is completed with high-grade carbon steel plus a polished jaw. To a large extent, this twister can withstand corrosion.
| PROs | CONs |
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Stanley Proto J192 Proto 10-3/8" Safety Wire Twister Pliers
- Safety wire is often used in aviation and other applications where vibration may cause...
- Heat-treated cutting edges for cutting tough stainless steel safety wire
- Flat top diamond serrations on jaws hold wire securely and resist nicking
This is one of its kind twister pliers used for cutting tough stainless steel that is unique in every way. It comes with heat-treated cutting edges that make it easier to cut through the toughest stainless steel safety wires. Not all safety wire twister pliers have a heat-treated mouth; hence you are lucky to have this tool.
The top is designed as a flat, alongside the diamond serrations on the jaws, to hold the safety wires securely. The diagonal nose is so designed to allow access of the tool to the tightest working areas. The spring returns to its normal position automatically and that maintains normal speed operation which in turn reduces fatigue.
It weighs roughly 13.6 ounces, hence it is not your average light wire pliers
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What You Should Know About Safety Wire Pliers
When it comes to choosing a safety wire plier, there are some basic factors you may want to consider. The size, Configuration, and Reversible action are the main features you should consider.
Size
There are basically 3 types of safety wire pliers today, these are then 6”, 9” and 12” reversible pliers. The general belief is that the longer the plier, the more safety wires you can handle. The 6” size is very short and can handle the smallest safety wires. You will need the 9” and 12” more often if you perform lots of industrial-grade safety wire operations. The 6” is most suitable for personal and less frequent use.
Configuration
The nose configuration of safety wire pliers is also important and they come in three options. The Diagonal, Tapered, and Squared are the three nose configuration options. Each of the different configurations is for specific operations and user preferences.
Reversible Action
All safety wire pliers are designed to produce different twists. The typical wire plier may produce the Right-hand twist, which is the clockwise action, or the left-hand twist, which is the anti-clockwise action, or both. Unless otherwise stated, most safety wire pliers do feature Right-hand twist and diagonal nose construction.
Design
The best safety wire pliers do come with some added features that make them more convenient for daily usage. Some safety wire twisters or pliers come with cushion throat to catch the clipped wired ends. The addition of a cushioned throat prevents damages from foreign objects, thus making the tool to last longer.
Some pliers are also fortified with a spring return. The spring return will automatically retract the twist rod to ease and speed up the work.
Choosing The Ideal Safety Wire Pliers
When it comes to choosing the right safety wire pliers for yourself, you need to consider your needs first. Perhaps you should consider having multiple pliers at once and you have to work with each of them under different circumstances to get used to them.
Aside from factors such as the price, functionality, and size of the safety wire pliers, you may want to consider some added features, when choosing the right tools for yourself. These factors include the following;
The surface protection
Though, the ideal safety wire pliers should be made of durable steel to improve the composition and strength. There are some other added features you may want to consider for added durability. For instance, some models of safety wire twisters and pliers come with chrome surface protection.
With the chrome surface protection, the tool will have some aesthetic, premium feel. The chrome protection will further protect the tool from drastic rust and corrosion. Though chrome finishing may add to the price of the tool but having that extra chrome finishing is great for the lifespan of the tool.
Ergonomic design
The ergonomic design of the safety wire pliers is very important when considering the ideal tool to go for. Make sure you choose a tool that is designed for easier handling. The gripping handle must be convenient, preferably the one that comes with a cushion.
The use of advanced technological methods in the design of safety wire pliers and the use of top-quality materials has led to the development of tools with a longer lifespan. There are added safety design options to ensure customized solutions.
Great ergonomic designs also guarantee that repair jobs are handled without damages. The great ergonomic design also produces good-looking pliers and makes jobs a lot easier.
Study body
It is important to choose sturdy pliers ahead of lighter pliers. The reason for this is that a well-taught-out sturdy design with precise manufacturing will prevent damage to objects being worked on. When you choose a lighter plier, for instance, the pliers may break and becomes damaged under the application of pressure.
Craftsmen and workshop staff who want a quality grip on safety wires will prefer the use of pliers that are made of the steel body. Sturdy safety wire pliers also enjoy a much more stable and long service life.
Clamping Force
A good safety wire plier is recognized by its superior clamping force. With a great clamping force, the user will be able to have a stronger grip on the safety wire, which means the work in hand can be performed with more precision. Safety wire pliers with weaker clamping forces can make certain work more difficult. Weaker clamping force means you will have to apply more pressure and work will take a longer time.
Choose a Set Instead of Individual Tool
Perhaps the best possible way to save money and avoid buying multiple sizes of safety wire pliers is to buy the product in the set. Aside from saving money by purchasing a set instead of individual pliers, you will be able to save time. Since the set comprises of different types and lengths of pliers, you can choose the one you need for the specific job at any time.
Added features
It is important to pay attention to some extra features on safety wire pliers when buying one. Always go for the pliers with return springs attached, they are safer and make the tool more reliable and secured. Though a chrome finishing may not be important it adds some premium feel to the tool, making it more sophisticated. Chrome finishing may also protect the tool from weather conditions, corrosion, and rust.
Other Things To Consider When Choosing Safety Wire Pliers
There are a number of other things you may want to consider when choosing safety wire pliers. These include the following;
The thickness of wire to be handles
It is important to have an idea of the thickness of the wire you want to handle because not all safety wire pliers are designed to cut through all wires. For instance, some pliers are designed to cut through smaller wires such as those measuring between 0.021 and 0.0035 inches thick, while some can cut wires that are thicker than this. Choosing a plier that wouldn’t cut thinner wires may mean you have to apply more force and most times, that wouldn’t be enough to handle such wires. Having a set of pliers can help you in this regard.
The Handle
Many safety wire pliers come with different handle materials. While plastic handles are lighter in hand and support easier handling and transportation, stainless steel and chrome handle last longer. If you have to choose a plier with a plastic handle, then you need to ensure that it comes with a hard plastic that can withstand mechanical shocks and pressure. If possible, choose stainless steel handles only especially one that is padded, for that extra comfort.
Jaw Type
When it comes to the jaw type of safety wire pliers, you will likely have serrated or non-serrated jaw types. The benefit of the serrated jaw is that it creates a better grip on the safety wires. For this reason, serrated jaws are fat better under different applications. The serrated jaws are sharper, hence they cut faster. Though it can be more difficult to sharpen serrated jaws, these jaws don’t require constant sharpening and they can be used for many years on safety wires.
Other Considerations
Multiple applications, spring returns, left and right-hand switching modes are some other desirable features that can make your safety wire pliers more functional. Instead of choosing a left or right handle plier, choose one that allows for both so that you can apply the tool in different ways. Spring returns are also important because it allows the tool to automatically return to the position during usage for speedier work.
Here’s a video on how safety pliers work that might help you:
Conclusion
Safety wire is used in a number of industrial applications including the aviation sector, where vibration can cause fasteners to back out. For this reason, you need to find a suitable plier that can handle multiple applications or get a set of pliers.
Some of the best safety wire pliers you may want to consider aside from those on the list here are; HORUSDY Wire Stripping Tool, Wire Cutter, 8-Inch Wire Stripper, Professional crimping tool, Race-Driven Safety Wire Pliers 6 in Twist Twisting Plier Locking Jaw Nuts Bolts, and Aircraft Tool Supply Milbar Wire Twister, 6″ Right Hand Twist.
It is important to take proper care of your safety wire pliers to extend their lifespan and to ensure that they remain as effective as they are. Improper care can lead to speedy deterioration of their parts, most especially the jaws that hold the wire in place. Make sure you follow proper instructions as regards the storage of the pliers.
You must always keep them right inside their packages after use, even if they are made of stainless steel and are water-resistant. Polished pliers usually come at higher prices, especially those with chrome finishing but they are more aesthetically appealing.
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