As a Steam pipe fitter 36 yrs I use a 14” ridgid aluminum standard Pipe wrench with an Offset 14” Ridgid aluminum Pipe wrench and they are by far the best combo on the 🌎 . The length 14” is perfect and the dimension of a fatter handle pipe wrench gives you more torque. Thanks Ben 🙏🏼
That was my thinking....what's the objection to using pipe wrenches that are designed for this? Is this a 'cost' thing so that you get into these far cheaper than pipe wrenches? I don't think so.........
Pipe wrenches are a multitude easier to use on pipe than any plier will ever be. I am also a Ridgid or nothing for pipe wrenches. I have sets of 2 ranging from 16" to 36". I only use pump pliers on water piping and fittings... gas is always with a pipe wrench. You can literally tighten a pipe until the fitting breaks with a pipe wrench. They can be abused, cheater bars, thrown around and smashed. Pliers are good to keep in your bag as they are light and compact but if you are doing any real gas work you need to bring out the right tools. I use my channellocks mostly for holding copper while soldering or brazing so I dont burn my hands.
Heard that Rigid has joined scum bag nogoodnic Milwaukee in making more & more tools in lying, cheating, lack of quality control communist china. Only own 1 Chinese tool, a warranty replacement for a 45 year old Craftsman breaker bar. Sitting in one of my tool chest collecting dust.
Knipex also makes 2 tiny versions of those you showed here (Cobra etc.), very useful when the space is small or when you need to carry them with you. Love those tools.
I'm the quality manager at a machine shop that makes a lot of pipe threads. Black Iron Pipe has NPT threads (National Pipe, Tapered). Pipe threads, by design, are intended to deform the crest of the thread. NPT is a looser standard of pipe thread than an NPTF (National Pipe, Tapered, Fuel). Black pipe is not made to NPTF standards. It is not acceptable to re-use an NPTF Thread. It is not recommended to re-use an NPT Thread. NPT threads are intended to be assembled with pipe dope. NPTF threads, when made to spec, do not require pipe dope. They are produced / gaged to a tighter spec than NPT is. I already know that many people re-use these threads. They apply dope, tape, and / or over-tighten the threads and, as long as it works, they then believe you can re-use them. Just thought you should know depending on how you intend to re-use these pipes. Please be careful, apply dope, and find a way to test for leaks (pressurize and watch for pressure decay over 24 hours might be a thought).
Knipex has a really clever patent, I like them. I own the Knipex Cobra and the Alligator, but there’s something really special about my Channellocks. The handles have a solid feel and it seems like more old school American steel is helping when you put them to work. Great video demonstration.
As a plumber and pipefitter for over thirty years, I will tell you that the right tool for the job is much more important than the brand. I have always used Channellock brand plies and they make many different styles and types for different jobs. The work you are doing is much more calling for a pipe wrench than a different brand of pliers. As for pipe wrenches, I will never own anything not made by Ridgid while others do make excellent pipe wrenches, I KNOW how badly I can abuse and miss use a Ridgid and it will not fail. They are also not cost prohibitive as are Knipex tools.It's always best to use the CORRECT tool, but if you rarely do any pipe work and are only going to carry the one adjusting plier in your set, maybe the cost of Knipex is justified. Remember tools cannot make up for lack of skill! Cheers!
I have used a backhoe on a 48" Ridgid Aluminum handle pipe wrench to get out a riser from a underground fuel tank. A couple of nicks but no bending of the handle. .... Used backhoe because 3 of us and a 15 foot cheater pipe wasn't enough
Not being petty here, but you started by saying the right type of tool is way more important than the brand. But then the bulk of your post is about how you will never switch from the brands you’ve been using for your whole career. I’ve used a lot of Rigid pipe wrenches in my time, aluminum, steel, offset, straight, etc. and none have let me down. However, neither has any other brand (excluding some early Chinese made ones) same story with Channellock style pliers. As far as Channellock having several styles, that’s partly because they have to integrate changes to compete with the innovations from other tool designers. One area I think we’d agree, is that quality tools are always a smart investment. It’s just that quality is coming from more and more places now.
thanks for the great comparison. Well done! I haven’t worked with pipe much. But working on cars for 40 plus years and learned to slightly “tighten” a rusted nut to break the “set”. Once there’s any movement it’s so much easier remove nut/bolt. Sockets and wrench last much longer too.
Really good tip! I learned the hard way as a youngster when I used a long cheater pipe and bent my pipe wrench without budging the pipe union! I did some research, came back and tightened it a bit then it came undone without the cheater pipe! I'm glad I found the tip before I got a torch or something! Why the tip isn't in every plumbing article or book I don't know but you're doing your part!
Great video. While it might be obvious to others, it is important to properly position the tool in the correct orientation when using these pliers just as you have done. It may seem strange that the pliers are in opposite directions of each other, but is necessary to get the correct “bite” on the pipe because of the tooth ridge configuration of the tool. Thanks for pointing out the flat jaw versus the curved jaw especially when working with pipe!
When it comes to pipes ridgid wrenches and the cobra pliers are one of the best options. I also use the knipex pliers wrench on hex fittings. Another alternative to the Klein pliers are the Irega adjustable wrenches with reversible jaws to work on pipes, and they are very good.
Been pipe fitting for 30 years...never used an adjustable plier for such that required an actual pipe wrench, whether Stillson or Ridgid, but I've most certainly used adjustable pliers for other instances that required them...
Use a pipe wrench for pipe. Use a vice if you can to hold pipe. Clamp that T in a vice. Any one who has ever worked with iron using the right tools is premier. Dad taught us work smart, not hard.
Ben save your knuckles and purchase a couple good Rigid pipe wrenches. When I see people trying to use channel locks on plumbing, it makes my blood run cold! Unless you're arms are like Arnold you can't put enough squeezing power on any pipe over three eighths of an inch . I have been using Rigid standard 10, 14 inch and 8 inch backhand HD for over 50 years. ,(the HD backhand wrench is great for close to the wall or in tight spaces) Trying to use Channel locks while under a sink or laying on your back is virtually impossible. I have at times used a 6 ft pipe and my 200 lb of weight on the end of my 14 inch rigid without problem. I use my largest Channel lock for removing stuck oil filters on my vehicles works great.
You need to try the Channellock 410 and the 414 they are designed for pipe and I think they bite as hard or harder than a pipe wrench plus you don't have to squeeze the hell out of them, they are directional but the harder you push or pull the harder they grip.
In yhe old days channel lock like pliers were often referred as water pump pliers because they were comonly used to tighten the water pump packing nuts on model A Fords.
I am a new gas fitter that does residential. Everyone I know uses the classic pipe wrench. I find though, its such a pain in the toosh adjusting a pipe wrenches to fit the black iron. Sometimes, multiple adjustments are needed. Which is why I am now researching alternatives to the pipe wrench. A lot of people in the industry who have been at it, would say, only use a pipe wrench. But I for one have an open mind, that innovation means possibly making the job easier with a new design. So here i am watching your video. knipex are very intriguing to me given that you don't have to fart around with adjustments like the pipe wrench. I am looking for options so that I can put the pipe wrenches in my tool box and leave them there. These might be it...
I have been a plumber for 27 years for smaller pipes like in this video, I use Pipe Vise pipe wrenches. The jaws are spring loaded and self adjust. I have used cheater bars on these and they have never failed. Easier to use and carry around than typical pipe wrenches. Pipe Vise brand is by far better than any other I have tried of this type. If I go 1-1/4 or larger I'll use a pipe wrench. The largest pipe wrench I've used is 36" on ammonia lines in a refrigeration facility. I'm prepping for working on 6" threaded and flanged fittings after new years. Someone said in the comments you need the right tool for the job, which I agree with. Having a variety of sizes and offsets can be the difference in getting the job done or not, and possibly getting hurt. I don't like struggling with undersized tools or using wrenches that are too big to get both jaws in a tight space.
@@toddzero You remind me of the guy that will braze refrigerant lines only because, well they should be brazed and not press fitted because if you can't braze, then you should find a new profession(In your world it seems). Its called innovation Todd. If you want to get snippy about my comment, then so shall I be back at you. Tools like a pipe wrench don't take a rocket scientist to use. Knipex seems innovative to me and an alternative to the traditional pipe wrench. A helluva a lot faster to adjust then your precious pipe wrench. I don't see why you would think that is a bad thing.
Great video. Thanks for putting it up. the Klein pliers are not designed for heavy water or gas pipes but only for conduit pipes that does not require much force to tighten or undo the fittings. I bought one too and was disappointed that it's not as powerful to assemble fittings together. But for the price it's a great tool. Almost ½ price of knipex. I found chanel lock to be a bit awkward to adjust the jaw. But it's cheaper than knipex.
The knipex cobras or alligators are just better engineered bits of kit. Theyre lighter and thinner and they grip better. Of course they are twice the price.
Not over here in Germany, where a 300 mm Cobra is less than 30 €. Recently I purchased a set of 300 mm and a 400 mm pliers wrenches for 80 € - shipping included.
I own just about ever size Knipex Cobra and Pliers Wrench you can own - awesome tools, but I am a huge fan of the USA made Channellock Griplock GL12’s. They are just do-everything work horses that are inexpensive and have a lifetime warranty.
Good comparison video, but I'd have liked to also see the new Channellock 442X, V-Jaw speedgrip pliers and Klein's new D505, USA-made alligator style pliers. The new speedgrip pliers seem like a more direct competitor with the Knipex cobras, and I've had great results with them so far.
Even a cheap pair of pipe wrenches would work better than any pliers! And I bought my Ridgid pipe wrenches used, one nice thing about that brand it that both jaws can be replaced as needed, and I have also "touched up" the jaws with a three corner file.
I have the 10 inch pliers wrench, cobras, and Klein. If I only need one, I grab knipex. If I need two, I grab the Klein and either knipex. The reason being the Klein switch hits as the backup wrench for the knipex. If I need two straight jaw pliers, boom got it. Need two alligator style? I mean I got 1 1/2, but that's never let me down yet! This setup means I don't have to buy and carry/store 4 sets of pliers, only 3.
I do prefer the round stock jaw on the channel lock over the regular flat jaws. The round stock ones work nearly as well as a pipe wrench or even better depending on circumstances when working on black iron.
i have most of those wrenches. if you treat those klein clones of the knipex pliers wrenches as if they were only that, and ignore the goofy flip jaw, they are actually for me anyway... better in many ways than the knipex pliers wrench. i love how easily is free slides and the lower push button is super welcome. just my two cents, both are great tools.
Yes, the push button placement is awesome on those Klein's. I also like the flip jaw for changing between emt and fittings. Been an Electrical contractor for 38 plus years and tools, storage, and equipment, are really advancing quickly. Just my two cents for the day 👍🏼
Might not be the best testing method because each pipe connection is going to be different. The Knipex do look like they are pretty nice. I might have to pick up a set.
then you have to get the Twin Grips, they are absolutley as game changing as the plier-wrench or cobras. i wasnt sold on them until i got them in my hand. before i had them, i never touched slip joint pliers. now i use them all the time.@@dabmanian_devil
The v style jaw is ok for nuts. Around 5:00 was noticing your ergonomics are not totally correct causing you to use more effort. Pipe wrenches for pipe.
These style pliers are great but nothing beats an actual pipe wrench. I prefer the aluminum pipe wrenchs especially on the larger sized wrench. I have a 3ft and a 4ft pipe wrench both made by Ridgid and aluminum makes them a ton lighter compared to cast iron.
@dabmanian_devil I'm from Germany and a Plumber. We use the s-type swedish style wrenches or Cobras for pipes (the grip on round material is amazing). For Chrome or hexagonal fittings the knipex pipe wrench. Common Brands for the Swedish style are Knipex, Gedore, VBW, Stahlwille, NWS. Don't consider buying these from china, there 99,9% junk and not worth the money. Greetings
Those are water-pump pliers. So-called because they are shaped, in use, like an old-fashioned water pump. Others called them arc-joint pliers to differentiate them from slip-joint pliers.
make sure when you hook up your gas grill with hose from the large propane tank that you shut off the valve each time you use it, I have seen squirrels chew through the hose emptying a whole giant tank of propane if valve from black iron pipe is left on to hose. where are the Klein wrenches made? they make some stuff in America and some in China.
I have a couple of pairs of Knipex pliers that have a crazy half moon connection in the slip joint that drives me crazy trying to adjust. I haven’t seen anyone demonstrating this type of pliers but they make me cuss. I usually just grab my Channel Locks.
The use the right tool people, it looks like some of these worked though...and pretty well... Just saying... I will say some older Channel Locks were designed for round things though before this newer 90 degree head style. Buying two of either kind in Channel Lock, is still going to be cheaper than two Cobras or Alligators by Knipex but that said, Knipex is great but expensive. There are limits to what one wants to buy and carry... Until I got a couple of aluminum pipe wrenches I carried them much less and even then pliers have some appeal. Some of the use the right tool people come off as if we have never heard of pipe wrenches and or own none... Just saying...
The whole video I was just thinking "Why is he making it harder?" Every fitting you were trying to remove was with your weak hand. I don't mean left or right. It's MUCH easier to push the tool to turn it than it is to lift it. That second pliers should only be there to stabilize the fitting.
I beleive the "classic" jaws are the flat ones. These adjustable pliers are use to be "water pump" pliers made to ajust the gland on the water pump for old car engine.
Forget all these and get the Irwin Vise Grip Groovelock pliers. Trust me. You'll wonder how you withstood the annoyance of channel locks for so long. And they last, are easy to adjust, and you can make fine adjustments. Every once in a great while clean and lube them to keep them working smoothly. I had a pair for over 10 years and they were still working fine before I misplaced them. They were getting almost daily use for 6 or 7 of those years. I was devastated at losing them, and very pleased that they were still being made with pretty much the exact same design.
Yeah they do work decently well,but there's several variables that can cause issues and plus tbh you can get just as well of purchase w some cobras as the vice grips and don't gotta risk busting knuckles trying to loosen the locks. I've also torqued on a few pairs for the handles to bend in weird ways and causing them to not work as well anymore. They have their place but I still prefer co ras
As someone who owns a set of half a dozen or so Irwin pliers as a beater set, I don't recommend them. They're cheap for a reason. They're homeowner grade at best and don't last, the teeth on my Irwin water pump pliers are all smoothed out. The steel is not comparable quality to any of the German/USA offerings from Knipex, NWS, Channellock, etc
If it’s a pipe use a “pipe” wrench Now if your on an abandoned island and all you have is a water Pump” wrench go for it. It was hilarious watching you do this.
The Channy's are great beater pliers. Work in nud, use em next to a torch, loose em don't carr get em blue and yelloe from glues. Knipex and the clones are great for everyday jobs or for sservice calls mainly brass copper aluminum fittings. Pipe wrenches are for the torque use with iron cast galvanized pipe. Add a cheater for more unph. Those Kliens are EMT HVAC pipe and fittings oriented, not really a plumbing tool. But the greatest all use tool is hand and repetitive mucle memory. Not a brand. Or money.
The straight jaw channel locks absolutely work perfect for pipe. Pipe wrenches also have straight jaws. The curved jaws tend to slip instead of bite into the pipe. The knipex jaws work well for bolt heads but suck for pipe.
Then you're probably using the Knipex in the wrong direction... 😉 If you put a Cobra on a round pipe, you only have to push on the handle for it to grip, so much so, that you can stand on the handle, and it won't slip. I've tried it on 20mm steel pipe, and I could stand on it, and I weigh 80KG
In your first case it looked like you were trying to turn the pipe CW rather than the cap CC. Seems not what you'd want to do and thus the slippage. Also, the cap has a flange which helps. Why put two pliers side by side and lift up! Not very effective use of force it seems.
Probably not professional grade but the Doyle brand at Harbor freight makes a good copy of the Knipex cobras at a better price. ICON at Harbor freight also has copies of most of Knipex products at a little bit better price than knipex. All of these have a lifetime warranty.
why in the heck aren't you using pipe wrenches for you know.. pipes?! You just have to know how to use them with having 3 points of contact then Bob's your Uncle
Good point! Interesting thing is that we almost never use the pipe wrenches unless it's a more extreme situation. I guess I've been spoiled with high quality channellocks that have caused me to not "need" pipewrenches.
@@BenjaminSahlstrom I think it is a function of not knowing what you're missing. the pipe wrench has an automatic teeth biting mechanism, and have very wide teeth and just one handle so there is no squeezing involved. they are nearly effortless and even with your favorite knippex the amount of effort exerted is way higher than a properly used pipe wrench
Dude, that wasn't a very good comparison for those Klein pliers. That's not what they were made for. Klein makes other pliers similar to the Channel Locks and Knipex. Just sayin. But a good test nonetheless 👍🏼👍🏼 Good video.
Granted i due agree w you that out of these options the cobras are certainly my #1 choice. But to not even have a pipe wrench in this comparison is ridiculous.. Yeah sometimes they seem too big n bulky n heavy etc to justify carrying/using them, but they are thee tool for this exact job lol. I would recommend getting a pair or a few def the bigger ones for pipes bigger than this one ur using. I have a pair of the 7" n 10" cobras for sumn the size of the pipe ur using and smaller, maaybe the next size up, but anything passed that rather than trying w a bigger cobra, just go to the pipe wrench. And thats not to say dont skip on a smaller pipe wrench for stuff this size cuz sometimes they are better vs the cobras in some Instances. Lol looong story short im just echoing what others have said that you need to invest in some pipe wrenches. If you deal w piping often why not get the tool that is MADE for these jobs lol. cobras work for this usage more often than not, but theyre made to be able to do this as well as other jobs. Yet the pipe wrench is made solely for... u guessed it,,, wrenching on pipes!!
Just grab 🇺🇸 made channellocks and 🇺🇸 made rigid pipe wrench and that's all you need. I bought the knipex and they pretty much never come out of my toolbox.
Interesting. Being a plumber, we pretty rarely use pipe wrenches. I think it comes down to what type of "channellock" you use. I might make a more in depth video on this topic.
Ive got pipe wrenches older than you. Its all pex and abs now but last month I did some work at the high school. It was 11/2 brass suppling the showers, and the pliers you're selling on amazon would not have cut it. You are not a plumber.@@BenjaminSahlstrom
You're going to have to fight a new "battle". According to the company videos, they pronounce it "Kennipex"! That's odd, as it's a German company, and in German it is in fact pronounced "K-nippex".
I saw the kline ones and id use the pliers wrench in normal mode on the flats of the union but its also probably mostly for Electricians more than plumbers
You were bouncing between not pronouncing the K and pronouncing it. It’s a German company so they do pronounce it. Technically Ka-née-pex is correct, but in US Ka-nip-ex also seems to work.
How do you pronounce “knife”? What about when you tie a “knot”, how do you pronounce that? And lastly when you say “the Black Knight in Monty Python was funny” how do you pronounce “knight”?
Id just like to mention in case anyone is unaware, the second pair of channelocks he uses here w the "updated teeth" , are in fact a blatant stealing of the knipex cobras designs. I would have liked to seen you do the og channelocks first, then the cobras considering they came before and are the tool channelock copied to update there jaw designs. Channelocks have been chasing knipex ever since they released the cobras and alligators and you can see that in all there various newer models, if its not the teeth, its the push button design, or the switch from having each piece of the pliers screwed together to sandwiching on inside the other so theres no side to side flexing or chance of bending. Nothing against channelocks, I support them making what tools they make in America and all that, but its obvious that they realize their tongue and groove design is antiquated and theres been huge advancements in the world of pliers. And if they keep taking all these ideas from the same company, hell from the same tool, why would u go w an imitation and not the real deal? (The only reason i have gotten any was because some were American made and regardless if theyre a copy of another tool or whatevs, i can support that..)
The Channellock 9.5" & 12.5" set is an incredible value. amzn.to/3UdfQKB
Also, this video is NOT SPONSORED.
Another excellent video. Thank you!
As a Steam pipe fitter 36 yrs I use a 14” ridgid aluminum standard Pipe wrench with an Offset 14” Ridgid aluminum Pipe wrench and they are by far the best combo on the 🌎 . The length 14” is perfect and the dimension of a fatter handle pipe wrench gives you more torque. Thanks Ben 🙏🏼
That was my thinking....what's the objection to using pipe wrenches that are designed for this? Is this a 'cost' thing so that you get into these far cheaper than pipe wrenches? I don't think so.........
Just imagine, using the right tool for the job. But this is UA-cam, so it's always silly season.
Pipe wrenches are a multitude easier to use on pipe than any plier will ever be. I am also a Ridgid or nothing for pipe wrenches. I have sets of 2 ranging from 16" to 36". I only use pump pliers on water piping and fittings... gas is always with a pipe wrench. You can literally tighten a pipe until the fitting breaks with a pipe wrench. They can be abused, cheater bars, thrown around and smashed. Pliers are good to keep in your bag as they are light and compact but if you are doing any real gas work you need to bring out the right tools.
I use my channellocks mostly for holding copper while soldering or brazing so I dont burn my hands.
As a guy who barely ever touched a pipe but has a house full of galvanized that might come apart if I look at it sideways, I thank you for this info
Heard that Rigid has joined scum bag nogoodnic Milwaukee in making more & more tools in lying, cheating, lack of quality control communist china. Only own 1 Chinese tool, a warranty replacement for a 45 year old Craftsman breaker bar. Sitting in one of my tool chest collecting dust.
Knipex also makes 2 tiny versions of those you showed here (Cobra etc.), very useful when the space is small or when you need to carry them with you. Love those tools.
I'm the quality manager at a machine shop that makes a lot of pipe threads.
Black Iron Pipe has NPT threads (National Pipe, Tapered). Pipe threads, by design, are intended to deform the crest of the thread. NPT is a looser standard of pipe thread than an NPTF (National Pipe, Tapered, Fuel). Black pipe is not made to NPTF standards.
It is not acceptable to re-use an NPTF Thread.
It is not recommended to re-use an NPT Thread. NPT threads are intended to be assembled with pipe dope. NPTF threads, when made to spec, do not require pipe dope. They are produced / gaged to a tighter spec than NPT is.
I already know that many people re-use these threads. They apply dope, tape, and / or over-tighten the threads and, as long as it works, they then believe you can re-use them.
Just thought you should know depending on how you intend to re-use these pipes. Please be careful, apply dope, and find a way to test for leaks (pressurize and watch for pressure decay over 24 hours might be a thought).
Knipex has a really clever patent, I like them. I own the Knipex Cobra and the Alligator, but there’s something really special about my Channellocks. The handles have a solid feel and it seems like more old school American steel is helping when you put them to work. Great video demonstration.
As a plumber and pipefitter for over thirty years, I will tell you that the right tool for the job is much more important than the brand. I have always used Channellock brand plies and they make many different styles and types for different jobs. The work you are doing is much more calling for a pipe wrench than a different brand of pliers. As for pipe wrenches, I will never own anything not made by Ridgid while others do make excellent pipe wrenches, I KNOW how badly I can abuse and miss use a Ridgid and it will not fail. They are also not cost prohibitive as are Knipex tools.It's always best to use the CORRECT tool, but if you rarely do any pipe work and are only going to carry the one adjusting plier in your set, maybe the cost of Knipex is justified. Remember tools cannot make up for lack of skill! Cheers!
I have used a backhoe on a 48" Ridgid Aluminum handle pipe wrench to get out a riser from a underground fuel tank. A couple of nicks but no bending of the handle. .... Used backhoe because 3 of us and a 15 foot cheater pipe wasn't enough
Not being petty here, but you started by saying the right type of tool is way more important than the brand. But then the bulk of your post is about how you will never switch from the brands you’ve been using for your whole career. I’ve used a lot of Rigid pipe wrenches in my time, aluminum, steel, offset, straight, etc. and none have let me down. However, neither has any other brand (excluding some early Chinese made ones) same story with Channellock style pliers. As far as Channellock having several styles, that’s partly because they have to integrate changes to compete with the innovations from other tool designers. One area I think we’d agree, is that quality tools are always a smart investment. It’s just that quality is coming from more and more places now.
I play with my pipe and night
A Stillson wrench!
@@vicktorpatriot1430did u get it?
thanks for the great comparison. Well done!
I haven’t worked with pipe much. But working on cars for 40 plus years and learned to slightly “tighten” a rusted nut to break the “set”. Once there’s any movement it’s so much easier remove nut/bolt.
Sockets and wrench last much longer too.
Really good tip!
I learned the hard way as a youngster when I used a long cheater pipe and bent my pipe wrench without budging the pipe union!
I did some research, came back and tightened it a bit then it came undone without the cheater pipe!
I'm glad I found the tip before I got a torch or something!
Why the tip isn't in every plumbing article or book I don't know but you're doing your part!
So you mean overtight it slightly, then lose it right?
Great video. While it might be obvious to others, it is important to properly position the tool in the correct orientation when using these pliers just as you have done. It may seem strange that the pliers are in opposite directions of each other, but is necessary to get the correct “bite” on the pipe because of the tooth ridge configuration of the tool. Thanks for pointing out the flat jaw versus the curved jaw especially when working with pipe!
When it comes to pipes ridgid wrenches and the cobra pliers are one of the best options. I also use the knipex pliers wrench on hex fittings. Another alternative to the Klein pliers are the Irega adjustable wrenches with reversible jaws to work on pipes, and they are very good.
Very cool comparison! The Cobras are King.
Knipex hands down!!! I do commercial plumbing and a lot of the time I use my cobras as a hammer and they work just as new
Been pipe fitting for 30 years...never used an adjustable plier for such that required an actual pipe wrench, whether Stillson or Ridgid, but I've most certainly used adjustable pliers for other instances that required them...
Pipe wrenches work the best on pipe that's for sure
When I was a kid all pipe wrenches were referred to as Stilson wrenches. Nice to hear the old name again.
@@brianfraneysr.5326 they are of a different design than the common Ridgid style wrenches of today ..but I still like them to use...
Use a pipe wrench for pipe. Use a vice if you can to hold pipe. Clamp that T in a vice. Any one who has ever worked with iron using the right tools is premier. Dad taught us work smart, not hard.
Ben save your knuckles and purchase a couple good Rigid pipe wrenches. When I see people trying to use channel locks on plumbing, it makes my blood run cold! Unless you're arms are like Arnold you can't put enough squeezing power on any pipe over three eighths of an inch .
I have been using Rigid standard 10, 14 inch and 8 inch backhand HD for over 50 years. ,(the HD backhand wrench is great for close to the wall or in tight spaces) Trying to use Channel locks while under a sink or laying on your back is virtually impossible.
I have at times used a 6 ft pipe and my 200 lb of weight on the end of my 14 inch rigid without problem.
I use my largest Channel lock for removing stuck oil filters on my vehicles works great.
You need to try the Channellock 410 and the 414 they are designed for pipe and I think they bite as hard or harder than a pipe wrench plus you don't have to squeeze the hell out of them, they are directional but the harder you push or pull the harder they grip.
Swedish pipe wrenches are fantastic for this application. I have Channel locks and Knipex Cobras too and they're also excellent.
The best wrench for rusted black iron piping is a nice propane torch. 12:46 perfect choice 13:05 exactly
I like the flip able jaw on the kleins
In yhe old days channel lock like pliers were often referred as water pump pliers because they were comonly used to tighten the water pump packing nuts on model A Fords.
I am a new gas fitter that does residential. Everyone I know uses the classic pipe wrench. I find though, its such a pain in the toosh adjusting a pipe wrenches to fit the black iron. Sometimes, multiple adjustments are needed. Which is why I am now researching alternatives to the pipe wrench. A lot of people in the industry who have been at it, would say, only use a pipe wrench. But I for one have an open mind, that innovation means possibly making the job easier with a new design. So here i am watching your video. knipex are very intriguing to me given that you don't have to fart around with adjustments like the pipe wrench. I am looking for options so that I can put the pipe wrenches in my tool box and leave them there. These might be it...
I have been a plumber for 27 years for smaller pipes like in this video, I use Pipe Vise pipe wrenches. The jaws are spring loaded and self adjust. I have used cheater bars on these and they have never failed. Easier to use and carry around than typical pipe wrenches. Pipe Vise brand is by far better than any other I have tried of this type. If I go 1-1/4 or larger I'll use a pipe wrench. The largest pipe wrench I've used is 36" on ammonia lines in a refrigeration facility. I'm prepping for working on 6" threaded and flanged fittings after new years. Someone said in the comments you need the right tool for the job, which I agree with. Having a variety of sizes and offsets can be the difference in getting the job done or not, and possibly getting hurt. I don't like struggling with undersized tools or using wrenches that are too big to get both jaws in a tight space.
You should find different profession if you can’t run a pipe wrench, seriously!
@@toddzero You remind me of the guy that will braze refrigerant lines only because, well they should be brazed and not press fitted because if you can't braze, then you should find a new profession(In your world it seems). Its called innovation Todd. If you want to get snippy about my comment, then so shall I be back at you. Tools like a pipe wrench don't take a rocket scientist to use. Knipex seems innovative to me and an alternative to the traditional pipe wrench. A helluva a lot faster to adjust then your precious pipe wrench. I don't see why you would think that is a bad thing.
@@Honeyman76 Sorry I hurt your little feelings lil’ guy🤣
Great video. Thanks for putting it up. the Klein pliers are not designed for heavy water or gas pipes but only for conduit pipes that does not require much force to tighten or undo the fittings. I bought one too and was disappointed that it's not as powerful to assemble fittings together. But for the price it's a great tool. Almost ½ price of knipex. I found chanel lock to be a bit awkward to adjust the jaw. But it's cheaper than knipex.
The knipex cobras or alligators are just better engineered bits of kit. Theyre lighter and thinner and they grip better. Of course they are twice the price.
And yet they're worth every penny very easily ha
Not over here in Germany, where a 300 mm Cobra is less than 30 €. Recently I purchased a set of 300 mm and a 400 mm pliers wrenches for 80 € - shipping included.
I own just about ever size Knipex Cobra and Pliers Wrench you can own - awesome tools, but I am a huge fan of the USA made Channellock Griplock GL12’s. They are just do-everything work horses that are inexpensive and have a lifetime warranty.
Good comparison video, but I'd have liked to also see the new Channellock 442X, V-Jaw speedgrip pliers and Klein's new D505, USA-made alligator style pliers. The new speedgrip pliers seem like a more direct competitor with the Knipex cobras, and I've had great results with them so far.
Planning to order some of those.
Wife walked in right as you said squeezing the bottom 😂 That was some explaining to do!
She loved it!!!🎉😊
Lol I was dying when he said holly buckets 😂😂😂😂😂
Pipe wrenches work great on pipes.
Even a cheap pair of pipe wrenches would work better than any pliers! And I bought my Ridgid pipe wrenches used, one nice thing about that brand it that both jaws can be replaced as needed, and I have also "touched up" the jaws with a three corner file.
10 years plumbing, so im still new to plumbing, and I'll tell you knipex has changed the game .
I have the 10 inch pliers wrench, cobras, and Klein. If I only need one, I grab knipex. If I need two, I grab the Klein and either knipex. The reason being the Klein switch hits as the backup wrench for the knipex. If I need two straight jaw pliers, boom got it. Need two alligator style? I mean I got 1 1/2, but that's never let me down yet!
This setup means I don't have to buy and carry/store 4 sets of pliers, only 3.
Another great one Ben!
Wylde tool makes channellock pliers with pipe wrench teeth on a "straight jaw". Very solid tool.
Great video and Comparison
Nice comparison! I might upgrade my pliers with the better teeth design.
I do prefer the round stock jaw on the channel lock over the regular flat jaws. The round stock ones work nearly as well as a pipe wrench or even better depending on circumstances when working on black iron.
Can this replace pipe wrench or you would still need that in your tool box
I almost never use pipe wrenches.
Nothing better than a pipe wrench. Love them so much.
And otherwise they are a poor hammer. Whereas the Knipex are the best walnut cracker you will ever find.
i have most of those wrenches. if you treat those klein clones of the knipex pliers wrenches as if they were only that, and ignore the goofy flip jaw, they are actually for me anyway... better in many ways than the knipex pliers wrench. i love how easily is free slides and the lower push button is super welcome. just my two cents, both are great tools.
The push button is a definite plus. But I tend to graduate towards the comfort handle pliers wrench when the situation calls for it
Yes, the push button placement is awesome on those Klein's. I also like the flip jaw for changing between emt and fittings. Been an Electrical contractor for 38 plus years and tools, storage, and equipment, are really advancing quickly. Just my two cents for the day 👍🏼
The knipex pliers-wrench can have plastic jaw attachments to ensure no marring. I would know, as I have some, lol.
Interesting tests - very realistic - thanks !
Thanks for this one. Great info!
Might not be the best testing method because each pipe connection is going to be different. The Knipex do look like they are pretty nice. I might have to pick up a set.
They're the best, with money.
You'll never buy another plier after you go to the cobras ... lol except maybe when u get the pliers wrench next hahahsa
then you have to get the Twin Grips, they are absolutley as game changing as the plier-wrench or cobras. i wasnt sold on them until i got them in my hand. before i had them, i never touched slip joint pliers. now i use them all the time.@@dabmanian_devil
@@dabmanian_devil which I did exactly. Kinda figured I'd wouldn't use the pliers wrench much as I have a full spanner set ... boy was I wrong.
Knipex are so good I'll probably never buy another channel lock. The channelocks work and holdup fine, but once you try both you will understand
Yep everyone calls Tongue and groove Pliers as channel locks
Can you test how hard the teeth are? I would like to know which will last longer.
The v style jaw is ok for nuts. Around 5:00 was noticing your ergonomics are not totally correct causing you to use more effort. Pipe wrenches for pipe.
Channellock grip locks are amazing.
I will take an old fashion pipe wrench and crescent, as well as a piece of extra pipe to extend handle length for more torque,you are welcome.
A very interesting video! Thanks!
channellock has auto bite feature like knipex?
A couple of 10 to 14 inch pipe wrenches are the tools you seek.
Very helpful. Thanks.
These style pliers are great but nothing beats an actual pipe wrench. I prefer the aluminum pipe wrenchs especially on the larger sized wrench. I have a 3ft and a 4ft pipe wrench both made by Ridgid and aluminum makes them a ton lighter compared to cast iron.
Anyone here try the knipex Swedish pipe wrench??? Now those bad boiiiz look like they mean business! Curious how they compare to pipe wrenches
They're slick. Worked well for me. Harbor Freight makes a halfway decent knock off
@dabmanian_devil I'm from Germany and a Plumber. We use the s-type swedish style wrenches or Cobras for pipes (the grip on round material is amazing). For Chrome or hexagonal fittings the knipex pipe wrench. Common Brands for the Swedish style are Knipex, Gedore, VBW, Stahlwille, NWS. Don't consider buying these from china, there 99,9% junk and not worth the money. Greetings
I'm a Channellock fine, there is still something about made in USA that is really important to me. John
Almost none of their shit is US made, the Taiwanese know what they’re doing
Pipe wrench has left the chat
Those are water-pump pliers. So-called because they are shaped, in use, like an old-fashioned water pump. Others called them arc-joint pliers to differentiate them from slip-joint pliers.
make sure when you hook up your gas grill with hose from the large propane tank that you shut off the valve each time you use it, I have seen squirrels chew through the hose emptying a whole giant tank of propane if valve from black iron pipe is left on to hose.
where are the Klein wrenches made? they make some stuff in America and some in China.
I think it’s china or Taiwan
I have a couple of pairs of Knipex pliers that have a crazy half moon connection in the slip joint that drives me crazy trying to adjust. I haven’t seen anyone demonstrating this type of pliers but they make me cuss. I usually just grab my Channel Locks.
I know exactly what you mean.
You don't have any cobras w the push button?
Aka you bought knipex channel's? lol..
If u have not used the cobras w push button you need to
I prefer the Knipex Alligators over the Cobras, it might be a lefty thing.
@@dabmanian_devil I’m sure that the cobras would be better but I have what I have and don’t use them enough anymore to justify the purchase.
The Klein flipable jaws are neet buT they don't seem to be practical or work
Silly question at the end.... ALL of them! 🤣
Just gonna call you “Project Harm” from now on. Thanks for this interesting video.
Not nearly scientific enough to meet that standard!
The use the right tool people, it looks like some of these worked though...and pretty well...
Just saying...
I will say some older Channel Locks were designed for round things though before this newer 90 degree head style.
Buying two of either kind in Channel Lock, is still going to be cheaper than two Cobras or Alligators by Knipex but that said, Knipex is great but expensive.
There are limits to what one wants to buy and carry...
Until I got a couple of aluminum pipe wrenches I carried them much less and even then pliers have some appeal.
Some of the use the right tool people come off as if we have never heard of pipe wrenches and or own none...
Just saying...
That's why you buy one from each brand lol
The use the right tool people are those of us that actually work with tools for a living, pretty obvious
If allowed by local code, use copper for LP. So much easier.
The job would be much easier using any old PIPE wrench
Knpiex cobra, and it isn't even close. Of course, for pipe wrenches, Ridgid all the way. I do own one 18" proto, and they are pretty close.
The whole video I was just thinking "Why is he making it harder?" Every fitting you were trying to remove was with your weak hand. I don't mean left or right. It's MUCH easier to push the tool to turn it than it is to lift it. That second pliers should only be there to stabilize the fitting.
I beleive the "classic" jaws are the flat ones. These adjustable pliers are use to be "water pump" pliers made to ajust the gland on the water pump for old car engine.
Forget all these and get the Irwin Vise Grip Groovelock pliers. Trust me. You'll wonder how you withstood the annoyance of channel locks for so long. And they last, are easy to adjust, and you can make fine adjustments. Every once in a great while clean and lube them to keep them working smoothly. I had a pair for over 10 years and they were still working fine before I misplaced them. They were getting almost daily use for 6 or 7 of those years. I was devastated at losing them, and very pleased that they were still being made with pretty much the exact same design.
One of my coworkers had those and they did indeed hold up well! I might need to add those to a future comparison video.
Yeah they do work decently well,but there's several variables that can cause issues and plus tbh you can get just as well of purchase w some cobras as the vice grips and don't gotta risk busting knuckles trying to loosen the locks.
I've also torqued on a few pairs for the handles to bend in weird ways and causing them to not work as well anymore.
They have their place but I still prefer co ras
As someone who owns a set of half a dozen or so Irwin pliers as a beater set, I don't recommend them. They're cheap for a reason.
They're homeowner grade at best and don't last, the teeth on my Irwin water pump pliers are all smoothed out. The steel is not comparable quality to any of the German/USA offerings from Knipex, NWS, Channellock, etc
I have pipe wrenches, some for over 40 years...
😂, please! How can I fumble the ones I don't like to push my sponsor that didn't sponsor me cause I bought this with my own money... 😂
If it’s a pipe use a “pipe” wrench Now if your on an abandoned island and all you have is a water Pump” wrench go for it. It was hilarious watching you do this.
Wilde tool started angled head pliers in the 20's
Infinite bro? C'mon Benjamin, lol. Great video!
The Channy's are great beater pliers. Work in nud, use em next to a torch, loose em don't carr get em blue and yelloe from glues. Knipex and the clones are great for everyday jobs or for sservice calls mainly brass copper aluminum fittings. Pipe wrenches are for the torque use with iron cast galvanized pipe. Add a cheater for more unph. Those Kliens are EMT HVAC pipe and fittings oriented, not really a plumbing tool. But the greatest all use tool is hand and repetitive mucle memory. Not a brand. Or money.
As a plumber I prefer flat jaw. Even for pipe
The straight jaw channel locks absolutely work perfect for pipe. Pipe wrenches also have straight jaws. The curved jaws tend to slip instead of bite into the pipe. The knipex jaws work well for bolt heads but suck for pipe.
Then you're probably using the Knipex in the wrong direction... 😉 If you put a Cobra on a round pipe, you only have to push on the handle for it to grip, so much so, that you can stand on the handle, and it won't slip. I've tried it on 20mm steel pipe, and I could stand on it, and I weigh 80KG
@@R2_D3which of pliers are new of knipax? I'm looking for a pipe wrench
In your first case it looked like you were trying to turn the pipe CW rather than the cap CC. Seems not what you'd want to do and thus the slippage. Also, the cap has a flange which helps.
Why put two pliers side by side and lift up! Not very effective use of force it seems.
Great video
Probably not professional grade but the Doyle brand at Harbor freight makes a good copy of the Knipex cobras at a better price. ICON at Harbor freight also has copies of most of Knipex products at a little bit better price than knipex. All of these have a lifetime warranty.
Knipex are my favorite all day long and I'm a Mechanic
why in the heck aren't you using pipe wrenches for you know.. pipes?! You just have to know how to use them with having 3 points of contact then Bob's your Uncle
Good point! Interesting thing is that we almost never use the pipe wrenches unless it's a more extreme situation. I guess I've been spoiled with high quality channellocks that have caused me to not "need" pipewrenches.
@@BenjaminSahlstrom I think it is a function of not knowing what you're missing. the pipe wrench has an automatic teeth biting mechanism, and have very wide teeth and just one handle so there is no squeezing involved. they are nearly effortless and even with your favorite knippex the amount of effort exerted is way higher than a properly used pipe wrench
I have a suggestion. Invest in some PIPE WRENCHES when working with PIPE!
What a novel idea... might have to consider it!
Grandfather suggestion.
Knipex all day long
I have almost every version of knipex water pump pliers....the Klein fails....
There is only two types of Adjustable Pliers.... Knipex Aligator and Cobra!:)
I don't understand why you are using slip joint pliers when you should use pipe wrenches.
This is just a test of the tool, just to show what these models of keys are capable of. In such work, another pipe key is used - Stilson.
Knipex uber alles!
Get rid of all them pliers and get Pipe Vise pipe wrenches.
Knipex have leverstops to save your knuckles.
Dude, that wasn't a very good comparison for those Klein pliers. That's not what they were made for. Klein makes other pliers similar to the Channel Locks and Knipex. Just sayin. But a good test nonetheless 👍🏼👍🏼 Good video.
Granted i due agree w you that out of these options the cobras are certainly my #1 choice. But to not even have a pipe wrench in this comparison is ridiculous..
Yeah sometimes they seem too big n bulky n heavy etc to justify carrying/using them, but they are thee tool for this exact job lol.
I would recommend getting a pair or a few def the bigger ones for pipes bigger than this one ur using. I have a pair of the 7" n 10" cobras for sumn the size of the pipe ur using and smaller, maaybe the next size up, but anything passed that rather than trying w a bigger cobra, just go to the pipe wrench.
And thats not to say dont skip on a smaller pipe wrench for stuff this size cuz sometimes they are better vs the cobras in some Instances.
Lol looong story short im just echoing what others have said that you need to invest in some pipe wrenches. If you deal w piping often why not get the tool that is MADE for these jobs lol. cobras work for this usage more often than not, but theyre made to be able to do this as well as other jobs. Yet the pipe wrench is made solely for... u guessed it,,, wrenching on pipes!!
Just grab 🇺🇸 made channellocks and 🇺🇸 made rigid pipe wrench and that's all you need. I bought the knipex and they pretty much never come out of my toolbox.
I use pipe wrenches. Channelocks are only good for being pliers and chewing things up
Interesting. Being a plumber, we pretty rarely use pipe wrenches. I think it comes down to what type of "channellock" you use. I might make a more in depth video on this topic.
Ive got pipe wrenches older than you. Its all pex and abs now but last month I did some work at the high school. It was 11/2 brass suppling the showers, and the pliers you're selling on amazon would not have cut it. You are not a plumber.@@BenjaminSahlstrom
I would have used a pipe wrench.
You're going to have to fight a new "battle". According to the company videos, they pronounce it "Kennipex"! That's odd, as it's a German company, and in German it is in fact pronounced "K-nippex".
I saw the kline ones and id use the pliers wrench in normal mode on the flats of the union but its also probably mostly for Electricians more than plumbers
You were bouncing between not pronouncing the K and pronouncing it. It’s a German company so they do pronounce it. Technically Ka-née-pex is correct, but in US Ka-nip-ex also seems to work.
How do you pronounce “knife”? What about when you tie a “knot”, how do you pronounce that?
And lastly when you say “the Black Knight in Monty Python was funny” how do you pronounce “knight”?
I have a pair of Ridgid in the pouch
Id just like to mention in case anyone is unaware, the second pair of channelocks he uses here w the "updated teeth" , are in fact a blatant stealing of the knipex cobras designs.
I would have liked to seen you do the og channelocks first, then the cobras considering they came before and are the tool channelock copied to update there jaw designs.
Channelocks have been chasing knipex ever since they released the cobras and alligators and you can see that in all there various newer models, if its not the teeth, its the push button design, or the switch from having each piece of the pliers screwed together to sandwiching on inside the other so theres no side to side flexing or chance of bending.
Nothing against channelocks, I support them making what tools they make in America and all that, but its obvious that they realize their tongue and groove design is antiquated and theres been huge advancements in the world of pliers.
And if they keep taking all these ideas from the same company, hell from the same tool, why would u go w an imitation and not the real deal?
(The only reason i have gotten any was because some were American made and regardless if theyre a copy of another tool or whatevs, i can support that..)