Team dipped handles here. Two reasons: 1. Because I work 100% in the field (waterworks utility) I have a chronic tendency to stuff tools in my pockets.. the random bulbs and knobs on the comfort grip stuff snag horribly. 2. Everything in the waterworks industry is big, cold, greasy, sharp, etc so I do basically everything with some form of gloves on.. bulky comfort grip + bulkier work gloves = dancing with two left feet. All in all I just find the comfort grip stuff adds needless bulk, generally speaking. Also, I usually use the pain factor as a barometer.. if I'm trying to charge a fire hydrant with channel locks and my hands are sore.. that means it's time to get a proper wrench.
Mechanic with 15 years of experience here. If working with tool hurts your hands then(besides having medical condition) maybe tool itself is not suitable for task and you are overworking it. Having bigger and softer grips is not solution. Are wrenches(for example) covered in soft grips? Just use tools with more leverage ! Maybe switch to power tools ? Instead of Cobra 180 use Cobra 250-300 etc .
Definitely agree! That’s a perfect sign that the tool is being pushed beyond its limit. However, sometimes all you have is the one wrench/plier as a service plumber, HVAC or whatever. For me it’s mostly a matter of being too lazy to go back to the toolbox to get the exact correct tool.
Id be shocked if this isn't one of their considerations when designing these tools. The human factor of tool design is just as important as the mechanical design.
I prefer comfort grip handles but not for the comfort aspect. I simply find that they are more durable than dipped handles, which seem to get torn easily. Comfort grip handles also seem less prone to slip and rotate if oil wicks into the gap between the grip and the handle. I know dipped handles can be re-dipped, but it's a pain to do, and surprisingly expensive.
Respect for mentioning the condition of your hands when selecting grips, almost no one does. Like you, I very much prefer the slim nature of the dipped grips. I work with my hands every day, with gloves on, so there really is no downside unless I had to use MAJOR pressure. Even then, not an issue if using the right tool IMHO. Some people suggest them for some cutting tools, like diagonal cutters, because to the shock when you make the cut. It might make sense if you are cutting hard material all day. Such a niche situation though and maybe not the right tool for the job.
Comfort grips on any tool is purely personal preference, nothing else. Some people have softer hands, some have old injuries, and some have hands tough as steel, so what works for one, isn't necessarily the way to go for everyone. I just bought my first Knipex tools, a set of three pliers wrenches. I got the dipped handles because you don't have to bear down all that much on them, and after I got them, my original thoughts were right. I just ordered a set of water pump pliers, and I got the comfort grip for them because you sometimes bear down pretty hard on pliers. I am a DIY'er and as such, carrying them around is not really an issue for size or snagging in pockets. The difference in price is not an issue when you are spending that much on a tool LOL. I like your videos, I have seen a few doing Knipex research. Perhaps a softer surface to use for your videos would be a good idea when you keep picking them up and setting them down, just a thought.
Very well said and great point about old injuries being a factor. At the end of the day it comes down to the user and their application but I guess that leaves the door open for interpretation 😅! Realistically everyone will learn over time what works for them and that’s what it’s all about
I wish there was no pain involved with me using the non comfort grip handles. Sadly that's just not the case for me.. I find it very much, well worth the extra cost for the extra cushion on the handle.. on top of that they're much easier to identify this way as well.
I have some Knipex tools, all comfort grips, 02 ones. I got nearly all of them at sale prices, quite often less expensive than 01 grips for the same type. Speaking about 01 handles, "feeling pain" - sounds too dramatic, saying they are "uncomfortable" - no, they are fine, it is not that much about it. All I can say is that comfort grips are just a bit more comfortable to me than 01 ones, also I'm not moving them around in a bag, so I think it is the perfect choice for me. I can totally understand people buying 01 type for the sake of saving space in their bags or toolboxes. Regarding 01 handles, there are two types of them, textured and slick. From what I heard, some minor problems about them is that the slick ones become slippery when the oil involved, and the textured ones may be a bit harder to get clean after some dirty jobs. Also heard about pain from people having to work with them all day long, like what you mentioned.
Would be cool one day to make some collection of small, sub 140 mm. Knipex tools, all with dip handles, for delicate tasks. Did not mention that all my recent Knipex tools are actually in very "comfortable" sizes, only 160-180 mm. ones. I'm a fan of a brand 🙂
It might depend on the size of your hands. I have large hands and buy Knipex in comfort grip whenever I can. Not so much about warding off "pain" but just more comfortable to hold and manipulate.
I received all comfort grips in the Klein series in my apprenticeship, absolutely hate the bulk, working in boxes and twisting wires the comfort grips are so bulky and I hated them, dipped are the way to go.
You're absolut right. The cobras don't need the comfort grip. I have 4 of them. For sidecutters I would say yes. And here in Germany the comfort grips only cost 3€ more 😁
Definitely advantages to being that near the best plier manufacturer! anything with poor leverage or just really tough cutting is where the comfort grip shines
I like them even more than the VDE- grips(red/yellow). They are too bulky. Yes, we have good companys in Germany and Knipex still manufacture in Germany.
@@EngineersPerspective701 on the really long tools, for high torque on say a vehicle for maintenance, it might make more sense, but for low force applications for smaller tools, i dont see it really helping much, except maybe the designs that have nubs at the front to keep your hand in the right spot, but thats more about shape than the actual material and how comfortable it is.
The dipped definitely hurt my hands the pressure being on such a small rounded surface area digs straight into my palms whereas the comfort grip is much more spread out and not painful at all
With repeated hard use it definitely can get painful. Although a general rule of thumb for me is if the handles hurt then I’m using too small of a plier for the job. Sometimes that’s the expectation like with a Leatherman for example or if I only carry a single pair of cobras to do everything I encounter. Or if a plier design is inherently low leverage like the Knipex forged wire strippers. Those are the scenarios when I want comfort grip.
@@justinmclean5778 Yeah, but electricians use almost exclusively non-rated grips, even when working on live circuits. The pliers rated for live circuits just have designs that keep your hand from slipping forward and, in some cases, indicate very clearly when there is a nick in the surface of the grip.
It is true that dipped handles are more likely to develop holes at the bottom. It really depends on how good the dipped handles are and how you treat your pliers,. Soft handles last no time. On my lineman's pliers, I used to get the thick grips from Klien, before they had comfort grip type handles. I usually get the Journeyman series now, with the comfort grips.
Very good heads up. You see that more with some brands over others? I believe Klein has a double dipped version that is still thinner than their Journeyman but longer lasting than typical.
@@EngineersPerspective701likewise the 250mm pliers wrench on Amazon U.K….standard and comfort grip goes well over £50 while Ived seen and got one of the VDE version for less than £40 only😅
@@EngineersPerspective701 Generally the price difference is under $10 MSRP and I find that very reasonable and likely not a dealbreaker for anyone looking at Knipex. I tend to avoid Amazon for quality reasons and odd pricing due to its various sellers and shop KC Tools to support a smaller specialty business.
I leave them in the elements, I'm not kind to my tools or my hands so calluses are normal. Depending on the company some of their standard grips are better for tight areas.
For me, no. I find the regular grip handles more comfortable and I am 6'4" with extra large hands. The ability to curl my fingers around the handle gives me the ability to apply more pressure without discomfort.
If you want thicker handles on the dipped ones, just scuff em up and re-dip-em. If you have doughy cubicle-dweller hands, wear a nice set of work gloves. If you're happy and you know it... (fill the blank)... :-)
“Double dipping” sounds like a good idea. The only work gloves I’ve had last are the thick leather ones. Don’t have any dexterity so I end up taking them off. I really like the Kinco goatskin gloves
Truthfully I haven’t had enough abuse on my few models to tell you. The wire strippers and cobra have gotten the most use and they are in great condition. I’d expect them to last longer than dipped but I can’t confirm
Team dipped handles here. Two reasons: 1. Because I work 100% in the field (waterworks utility) I have a chronic tendency to stuff tools in my pockets.. the random bulbs and knobs on the comfort grip stuff snag horribly. 2. Everything in the waterworks industry is big, cold, greasy, sharp, etc so I do basically everything with some form of gloves on.. bulky comfort grip + bulkier work gloves = dancing with two left feet. All in all I just find the comfort grip stuff adds needless bulk, generally speaking.
Also, I usually use the pain factor as a barometer.. if I'm trying to charge a fire hydrant with channel locks and my hands are sore.. that means it's time to get a proper wrench.
Solid points! Especially the last one. Pain is a great indicator that a different or bigger tool is needed.
Mechanic with 15 years of experience here. If working with tool hurts your hands then(besides having medical condition) maybe tool itself is not suitable for task and you are overworking it. Having bigger and softer grips is not solution. Are wrenches(for example) covered in soft grips? Just use tools with more leverage ! Maybe switch to power tools ? Instead of Cobra 180 use Cobra 250-300 etc .
Definitely agree! That’s a perfect sign that the tool is being pushed beyond its limit. However, sometimes all you have is the one wrench/plier as a service plumber, HVAC or whatever.
For me it’s mostly a matter of being too lazy to go back to the toolbox to get the exact correct tool.
Id be shocked if this isn't one of their considerations when designing these tools. The human factor of tool design is just as important as the mechanical design.
I like the regular grips mainly because they don't take up as much space or get hung up on each other in a toolbox and are easier to clean.
100%
I prefer comfort grip handles but not for the comfort aspect.
I simply find that they are more durable than dipped handles, which seem to get torn easily.
Comfort grip handles also seem less prone to slip and rotate if oil wicks into the gap between the grip and the handle.
I know dipped handles can be re-dipped, but it's a pain to do, and surprisingly expensive.
Very good points!
Respect for mentioning the condition of your hands when selecting grips, almost no one does. Like you, I very much prefer the slim nature of the dipped grips. I work with my hands every day, with gloves on, so there really is no downside unless I had to use MAJOR pressure. Even then, not an issue if using the right tool IMHO. Some people suggest them for some cutting tools, like diagonal cutters, because to the shock when you make the cut. It might make sense if you are cutting hard material all day. Such a niche situation though and maybe not the right tool for the job.
Thanks! Agree 100% that it takes a LOT of force to hurt my hands with dip handles. Never thought about the cutters but make sense to me
Comfort grips on any tool is purely personal preference, nothing else. Some people have softer hands, some have old injuries, and some have hands tough as steel, so what works for one, isn't necessarily the way to go for everyone. I just bought my first Knipex tools, a set of three pliers wrenches. I got the dipped handles because you don't have to bear down all that much on them, and after I got them, my original thoughts were right. I just ordered a set of water pump pliers, and I got the comfort grip for them because you sometimes bear down pretty hard on pliers. I am a DIY'er and as such, carrying them around is not really an issue for size or snagging in pockets. The difference in price is not an issue when you are spending that much on a tool LOL. I like your videos, I have seen a few doing Knipex research. Perhaps a softer surface to use for your videos would be a good idea when you keep picking them up and setting them down, just a thought.
Very well said and great point about old injuries being a factor. At the end of the day it comes down to the user and their application but I guess that leaves the door open for interpretation 😅! Realistically everyone will learn over time what works for them and that’s what it’s all about
I wish there was no pain involved with me using the non comfort grip handles. Sadly that's just not the case for me.. I find it very much, well worth the extra cost for the extra cushion on the handle.. on top of that they're much easier to identify this way as well.
Dog you have to toughen up those hands! JK, that's exactly what they make em for
I have some Knipex tools, all comfort grips, 02 ones. I got nearly all of them at sale prices, quite often less expensive than 01 grips for the same type. Speaking about 01 handles, "feeling pain" - sounds too dramatic, saying they are "uncomfortable" - no, they are fine, it is not that much about it. All I can say is that comfort grips are just a bit more comfortable to me than 01 ones, also I'm not moving them around in a bag, so I think it is the perfect choice for me. I can totally understand people buying 01 type for the sake of saving space in their bags or toolboxes. Regarding 01 handles, there are two types of them, textured and slick. From what I heard, some minor problems about them is that the slick ones become slippery when the oil involved, and the textured ones may be a bit harder to get clean after some dirty jobs. Also heard about pain from people having to work with them all day long, like what you mentioned.
Agreed
Would be cool one day to make some collection of small, sub 140 mm. Knipex tools, all with dip handles, for delicate tasks. Did not mention that all my recent Knipex tools are actually in very "comfortable" sizes, only 160-180 mm. ones. I'm a fan of a brand 🙂
Refreshing honesty and insights - without an agenda !
Appreciate it!
It might depend on the size of your hands. I have large hands and buy Knipex in comfort grip whenever I can. Not so much about warding off "pain" but just more comfortable to hold and manipulate.
Very good point. I usually wear an XL glove so you must have some big mitts!
Am I the only one that ended up with comfort grips because the dipped counterparts were more expensive?
Seen that a handful of times for sure
I received all comfort grips in the Klein series in my apprenticeship, absolutely hate the bulk, working in boxes and twisting wires the comfort grips are so bulky and I hated them, dipped are the way to go.
They seem like a nice idea and so have a place but probably best not as the default. You got some super nice tools right off the bat though!
You're absolut right. The cobras don't need the comfort grip. I have 4 of them.
For sidecutters I would say yes.
And here in Germany the comfort grips only cost 3€ more 😁
Definitely advantages to being that near the best plier manufacturer! anything with poor leverage or just really tough cutting is where the comfort grip shines
I like them even more than the VDE- grips(red/yellow). They are too bulky.
Yes, we have good companys in Germany and Knipex still manufacture in Germany.
Bulk is usually why i avoid comfort grips, and they also tend to have more snag points when pulling them out of a bag or pocket.
For me, the bulk isn’t worth it 90% of the time honestly.
@@EngineersPerspective701 on the really long tools, for high torque on say a vehicle for maintenance, it might make more sense, but for low force applications for smaller tools, i dont see it really helping much, except maybe the designs that have nubs at the front to keep your hand in the right spot, but thats more about shape than the actual material and how comfortable it is.
The dipped definitely hurt my hands the pressure being on such a small rounded surface area digs straight into my palms whereas the comfort grip is much more spread out and not painful at all
With repeated hard use it definitely can get painful. Although a general rule of thumb for me is if the handles hurt then I’m using too small of a plier for the job.
Sometimes that’s the expectation like with a Leatherman for example or if I only carry a single pair of cobras to do everything I encounter. Or if a plier design is inherently low leverage like the Knipex forged wire strippers. Those are the scenarios when I want comfort grip.
The lineman pliers I got comfort grip. Its good for live electrical work, the dipped handles the bottom usually tear off leaving exposed metal.
Be careful with the comfort grip as they are NOT electrically rated grips
@@justinmclean5778 Yeah, but electricians use almost exclusively non-rated grips, even when working on live circuits. The pliers rated for live circuits just have designs that keep your hand from slipping forward and, in some cases, indicate very clearly when there is a nick in the surface of the grip.
It is true that dipped handles are more likely to develop holes at the bottom. It really depends on how good the dipped handles are and how you treat your pliers,. Soft handles last no time. On my lineman's pliers, I used to get the thick grips from Klien, before they had comfort grip type handles. I usually get the Journeyman series now, with the comfort grips.
@@justinkase1360 your 100% correct, I like the comment.👍
Very good heads up. You see that more with some brands over others? I believe Klein has a double dipped version that is still thinner than their Journeyman but longer lasting than typical.
for me, the comfort grip were $35 vs regular $60 on amazon so clearly thats what I bought
Easy choice
@@EngineersPerspective701likewise the 250mm pliers wrench on Amazon U.K….standard and comfort grip goes well over £50 while Ived seen and got one of the VDE version for less than £40 only😅
@@EngineersPerspective701 Generally the price difference is under $10 MSRP and I find that very reasonable and likely not a dealbreaker for anyone looking at Knipex. I tend to avoid Amazon for quality reasons and odd pricing due to its various sellers and shop KC Tools to support a smaller specialty business.
I leave them in the elements, I'm not kind to my tools or my hands so calluses are normal. Depending on the company some of their standard grips are better for tight areas.
My soft office hands are a sad sight. Even then if I could only own 1 style of handle I would go for the dip across the board.
You could put some clear heat-shrink tubing over the textured grip to make it less rough without increasing the bulk as much as the comfort grip.
Good idea, does it become a little slick then?
@@EngineersPerspective701 not any slicker than the typical dipped handles. If you don’t like it, you can always carefully peel the heat shrink off.
Sage advice. Many thanks!
Glad you found it useful!
Dipped grips are smaller and thus I can fit more in my tool belt.
A big reason to prefer them for sure!
For me, no. I find the regular grip handles more comfortable and I am 6'4" with extra large hands. The ability to curl my fingers around the handle gives me the ability to apply more pressure without discomfort.
Interesting note! If I could only have one I’d choose dipped
thanks! you just saved me a few bucks.. I'm going for the regular grips.
The dipped handles are great, you won’t regret it!
Is Comfort Grip worth it? It is to me... Y'all don't like it, then don't buy it; ain't nobody pointing a gun at your head and forcing you to.
I think it’s more for those that haven’t experienced it yet and don’t want to drop that much cash on a Knipex just to regret it.
All my Knipex are comfort grip. Just the way I like them.
Pros and cons to it all!
@@EngineersPerspective701 oh I agree. Biggest con is they take up a lot of space in the toolbag
@@americafirst6016 100%
Thanks for another great video
Appreciate it man! I know it’s not what most of my subscribers come for but it’s what I’m enjoying right now.
@@EngineersPerspective701 I really liked it, I also wanted to know if they worth the overpricing
If you want thicker handles on the dipped ones, just scuff em up and re-dip-em.
If you have doughy cubicle-dweller hands, wear a nice set of work gloves.
If you're happy and you know it... (fill the blank)... :-)
“Double dipping” sounds like a good idea. The only work gloves I’ve had last are the thick leather ones. Don’t have any dexterity so I end up taking them off. I really like the Kinco goatskin gloves
@Engineer’s Perspective probably time to do a "work gloves" vid, eh?
Very helpful
Appreciate the comment!
I've ended up cutting it off on some tools
I’m tempted on those Channellock dikes and then dip them but idk if it’s worth the headache. I just leave them in the toolbox now for when I need them
I have after a few broke, split, slid off, or became nasty looking. Just buy some tool dip once in a while. Solved.
Does durability of comfort grip last longer then the dipped?
Truthfully I haven’t had enough abuse on my few models to tell you. The wire strippers and cobra have gotten the most use and they are in great condition. I’d expect them to last longer than dipped but I can’t confirm
Arthritis has left the chat
😂 does it actually help a bit?
The best answer is buy both versions
Of course!
Channellock Code Blue
Thank you
the dipped grips seem to be more expensive on amazon, home depot, supply house, and basically everywhere else I've checked. Odd.
That is super odd. Maybe the comfort grip is discounted? Might be right time to buy if that’s what you’re looking for!