Love your show. I was the Hawaii Klein rep, went to the Skokie plyer factory. D228-8 which you demo is made for soft copper and aluminum wire. 2000-28 or D2000-28 dipped handles are made to cut harden steel wires screws and nails,fyi
I hate that so many people overlook the d2000-28 and go for the red handled ones. I have a feeling it’s bc people gravitate towards red handles and being cheaper…
@@unclejoe6811Project Farm does a great job but there are factors that he can’t account for. Sometimes, one just might like one more than the other. Also, I love seeing his strength testing but let’s not overlook that most people aren’t going break them under normal use (cheater bars notwithstanding)
Cool Klein story. The Klein wire cutters/crimpers I use are probably 40 yrs old. Smooth like new, and I've used them hard for many years cutting lots of large guage wires. Great tool series.
And finally my darling Klein is mentioned. Any electrician hand tools you can’t go wrong with Klein. Knipex has some very nice cutters as well. Chanel lock are a very solid pick for bit cheaper option and made in USA as well
I have loved every second of this video series. My father is a mechanic and he has used nothing but snap on since I can remember. I am a first year carpenter so I don’t really have the money to pay for that sort of quality with every single tool I buy. Most of my money goes back into my tools I use for work (saws, nailers, etc.) so my “professional homeowner” tools are a little neglected. But you taking the time and the money to put this list together is very much appreciated. I can’t speak for all viewers but I can feel sincere attention on this topic. Thank you for all that you do. Gob bless
I still have my Kleins from when I worked for our local utility. Still work as new and a pleasure to use. When a manufacturer takes pride in doing a great job, it makes a huge difference.
One of my great treasures is a pair of Klein lineman's pliers that were my great grandfather's. Based on some marks I believe them to be from 1919. They still work like new.
I'm 70. Retired. The side cutters in my tool box are my Dad's Klein's. They'll be going to my son one day. We immigrated to Canada from Israel in '65 and Dad bought his tools soon after.
Cody I just want to thank you personally for taking your time and money in making these videos on these tools. Reminds me of when my grandpa used to talk to me about tools when I was younger. He was a craftsman tool person back when they were good. And I used to spend hours with him talking about all the different tools. This video just brings back the memories of all of that. As well as your giving the chance for someone else to be able todo this for there kids or grandchildren in the future. Definitely a good way to make memories.
my father is a profesionnal home owner and used this klein side cutter all my life when I was working with him. He always told me these are the best sidecutters ever and best tool to have. This is in fact the first tool I bought just after buying my first house to build my tool collection, which was an awesome moment, imagine building your tool collection from scratch right now ! The snap on seems really good also !
My favorite series by far. I wish you would’ve made this series about 6 years ago when I first started to get serious a putting a good set together but it’s okay I learned that the saying buy once cry once is a real thing. Thanks for the great content.
I worked as a licensed electrician for over 10 years and I'm a diehard klein fan. Well worth the premium you pay for them! And yes, Klein makes many tools but the lineman's are the only one know better as a pair of Klein's than their actual name
I've been in the trades for many years I've never heard anyone call linesman's anything other than that. but knipex is a whole step above anything Kleins or Snapon. I'm not saying Klein makes junk they are quality but man for the marginal cost difference to Knipex id just get them.
I think Kleins are definitely like Kleenex. But…the Velcro vs hook and loop of the tool world is 100% channel locks. I didn’t even know they had a different name.
Good choice Cody. I’ve been using Klein tools since 1966 when I went into the Air Force and was trained as a electrician. Spent 4 years in AF, and pretty much the rest of my working career I worked as a electrician/electrical contractor. Interesting, but I have never broken a Klein tool, I have burned up several cutting hot wires, and then before thee end of the day I would dump them in the trash, and if it was a big industrial site I would throw them as far as I could. Interesting about Klein diagonal, we frequently stuck 18” of 1/2” EMT on the handles to cut larger wire, and still never broke a pair. Nothing says quality like Klein.
As a father helping my son get together his apprentice tool kit this series has been great . One thing my son commented on was that in the UK the fashion for Fat Max big handle tools was hard on the hands when using them all day .
Klein tools definitely bring the . I’ve got a lot invested in Klein tools and use them daily. You can’t go wrong with any of their products. The angled head version is the way to go.
With 38 years in the commercial/industrial electrical trade, Klein tools have been a go-to. I still use Klein side cutters, linesman pliers, screw drivers and strippers that I was using 25 years ago. Sometimes I see the Klein tools in Home Depot and want to buy some new shiny tools, but never do.
I’ve used this same model of Klein cutters on a nearly daily basis at work for right at 5yrs. I do not abuse them but they’ve cut a mile or two and are holding up well. I recently bought a set of the new 7-8” channellock cutters for my helper and I have been impressed, razor sharp, narrow head, and the handles are very comfortable. The handles remind me of the higher priced Klein lineman pliers.
I run the channel locks CODE BLUE - no issues they are AWESOME- I’ve cut things that should NOT have been cut and they still truckin. I need to sharpen up the blades but they get it done.
Totally agree with you comments at video end. A homeowner or business makes a snap judgment as soon as they see you drive up. A junker truck with tools all over the place vs a maintained vehicle with organized equipment says it all. Personal appearance is important too.
My dad has a pair of knipex insulated side cutters, they are almost 10 years old i guess. He used it quite a lot, but not daily. And it still cuts paper.
I agree completely. I, like most men, have a hodgepodge of tools. Some USA, love them, some german, love them, and some from Taiwan because I can't afford Snap-on. A quality tool in your hand is like an artist's brush in the hands of an artist. It is a tool. It is only as good as the individual that uses it.
You are absolutely right about the tools a man chooses and the quality of his work! Love the series and prayers for you and your family. Thank You for all you do!!
Just as a point of info Cody. Klein side and diagonal cutters come in different hardnesses. Blue being the hardest tool steel. Red is middle of the road. Yellow is softest I believe. But you’re absolutely right. As a licensed electrician. Klein is the gold standard.
I realize that Channellock is not the crème de la crème of USA made tools, but I still love them. They’re far more accessible than any other USA made brand and I just like to support them. Not to mention that their tongue and groove pliers are an absolute daily necessity in working on cars, and at a way better price than Knipex.
Most of my pliers and strippers are Klein. That's all I buy. I bought my first Klein lineman pliers in 1977. I gave 28.00 for them and that was a lot of money back then. Those pliers are still in my tool belt. I use them all the time. The best are always worth the extra you pay for them.
I have followed your channel on an off for probably a year or so now. After having almost all the tools I owned stolen, this has to be one of the best video series I have seen. Definitely giving me options to look into. God bless.
Funny quick story. When I was a younger I suppose teenager I went to my dads tool box looking for a pair of side cutters for what ever a teenager might need to cut. I remember grabbing the red handled cutters just like that Klein in your video and was about to use them when my dad caught me and told those are not for me to use and put them back in his box. He grabbed another pair and said you use these. Well fast forward 30 years and I just went out to said tool box to have a look and sure enough those red handled cutters I now have that were once dad's are in fact Kleins. For years I've favored those cutters because they just work. When others just aren't as nice. I never knew who made them just that they worked.
Glad to learn the history of Klein Tools! When I was a heavy construction project manager, all of my ironworkers placing rebar used Klein Tools side-cutting pliers. They never broke. And if the cutting edge got seriously nicked, the factory replaced them "no questions asked."
#1 buy the Kleins #2 buy the blue handle Kleins they’re rated for stainless tie wire. I still have and use daily my Klein linesman pliers that were given to me in Votech in 1996. You can’t go wrong with Kleins for electrical work.
I just went out and looked at my 2 pair of snips. You and my dad must've had the same taste in cutters. I'm still using his old Klein snips. I also have his old channel lock set, but they never get used and have become very stiff. I'm sure a good cleaning, sharpening, and some oil would have them great again, but I just use the Kleins. I pulled the handle off the Kleins and mine say 1965. That would put them in his hand when he was 22 and starting out as a tow truck operator in Kansas City. Before the cancer got him when I was 15, he left me a list of all his jobs, cars, and life lessons in a briefcase, so I'm able to roughly date his tools that way.
My dad worked as a mechanic in a cotton mill here in South Carolina. I have a couple Klein cutters that he used in the mill that he passed down to me. 50 years old and still working great
As a diesel mechanic I’ve used all types of wire cutters and surprisingly I’ve loved my channellock wire cutters, my snap on and Klein are at the house and In my truck and my channellocks are in my tool box
I still have, and use my grandfather's Craftsman 1/2 inch socket set. Never once had a problem. I went out 15 or 20 years ago and bought a new set, because a needed a metric set. They are not the same quality.
As an electrician, 20 plus years, I use mostly Klein tools. Esp their screwdrivers and flat jawed sidecutters, or linesman pliers, (known as Kleins in the industry) the only tools that are not Klein, (2 of them for couplings), are my tongue and groove wrenches, or known as channel locks.
100% agree with you on the condition of someone’s car. I had a boss once; who is still my best friend, fwiw; that made a point to watch everyone go to their car after a job interview. In my experience, he never made a bad hire.
I feel there’s a reason people refer to certain tools as the “Crescent wrench” for adjustable wrenches, “Vise Grips” (Irwin) for locking pliers, and the “Channel Locks” for slip joint pliers. Each made their reputation in the specific tool!
As an apprentice professional home owner I have to say that when I stepped up from chinese tools to my channellock 9 inch lineman pliers and 7 inch side cutters, I was blown away. Maybe not quite klein quality, but still very, very good. Channellock might not rate Snap On quality, but for the price, the value can't be beat. That said, a pair of 8 inch klein angled head side cutters and a pair of klein 8 inch needle nose are on my Amazon wish list.
Agreed on the last part. I think that tools are an investment. And what a man invests in himself, reflects in his tools and his tools and his work is the ROI.
Yes there is absolutely something about a good quality tool period! Hands down. I’m a Snap On fan as well, but have only ever owned a few cause while I did go to school for diesel mechanics when I finished I decided I really didn’t want to work in a shop all day every day doing nothing but turning wrenches. I did repair heavy equipment & trucks in the field occasionally for years as 1st a Foreman then General Foreman for a Well known, Major, World-wide line clearance tree company.
My dad, who’s now passed, gave me two pocket knives. They’re both Klein Tools and were made in Japan. They’re absolutely amazing and awesome. Both are at least 30 years old and still look like new. I can be brand loyal, but I’m more loyal to whoever makes the best tool.
I started my IBEW apprenticeship in 1965. Back then the goto tools were Vaco screwdriver, Kline Linemans plyers, Channelock slip joint plyers and a Luklin 6 foot inside read ruler.
those kleins will last a guy along time! I have 2 or 3 pair I've acquired over the years and they are the only ones that will cut 1/8" stainless tig wire the other ones you gotta use both hands . and I gotta a pretty good grip alot of it because of cutting that wire 😆.
I like having the “average” quality tools as spares to keep in places where they may get lost.. tractor toolbox, truck emergency tool box. But for the purpose of this video and for a guy trying to start a tool kit the Klein’s are the perfect option.
I've owned many side cutters over the years growing up, and now that I own a Snap-On, I realized what a difference quality makes. Cuts like butter, compared to the same size cutters from off brands.
Thank you Cody for doing this series. I have two pairs of Knipex side cutters. I bought them off a tool truck almost 22 years ago. To this day they work great and will easily cut off small bolts and nails. I know they aren't USA made, but excellent nonetheless. God bless you and your family Cody. Keep up the great work.
I modified the tips of my 337 channelocks by dressing the back of the tips to make the tip into a flush cutter. The 337s also take up less room in my carry around tool boxes.
I use Klein's exclusively for any electrical work. their screwdrivers, nut drivers, side cutters, wire strippers and crimping pliers are second to none... Recommending Klein's is like recommending water, its a no brainer.
I've got a pair of Klein I got from a yard sale for $5 in a bucket of other good tools and they are my go to at home. Sharp and flawless. At work I have a pair of Irwin powerslots made by NWS Germany. Both are high quality tools. I agree wire cutters need to be high quality.
I agree that the Klein cutters are the ones to purchase, legendary in the eyes of techs in the US. One thing to consider in the make up of $1000 tool assortment is some used tools from makers long gone from the marketplace. Bonney, New Britian and Easco come to mind. The New Britian and especially the Bonney tools have long outlasted their maker's existence and some of the Bonney tools can match the fit and finish of the SO tools of the same period and in many cases can be bought at bargain prices.
As a cable guy I have used a pair of Klein "side cutters" for 15 years and short of needing some wd40 after a long day in the rain they work just like new.
As an industrial electrician I’ve actually been looking for a smaller pair so the 5 in. is dope and even as just a homeowner always buy the angled diagonal cutters
It's nice you keep these videos spread out enough. I can swallow upgrading a video worth per paycheck. Upgrade away from the Chinaftsman tools I currently have.
I still have my original side cutters from when I started in the electrical trade in 1977. They were pretty old when I received them, I would say they are pushing 60 years old. Still work great. One other thing, I have always kept my work vehicles organized and clean. I could tell someone where exactly to look and find them. That included parts also. Kept my work area clean and free of debris. I hate working in clutter.
As an electrician, I love Klein. Absolutely love klein, but for my side cutters I use Knipex 10”. Have had them for 4 years I use mine every single day. Not just copper but I’ve cut screws. Still cuts GREAT. If you go the Klein route, I would recommend the BLUE handle. Not the red. Costs a little bit more for the blue but (in short terms) the blue 2000 series are stronger. Also I recommend getting the angled head model. Gets better leverage to pull out staples, nails etc
Good choice, although I think Klien's angled head version is one step above. I always found it easier to remove a nail or staple with leverage versus cutting.
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t proud of my tools. I understand where you are coming from. Quality tools are a pleasure to own and use. I grew up poor boyin it so now owning quality tools I truly know the difference. I know your sticking to American tools for this series. However I own a set of knipex side cutters and they are excellent. I would also assume you will make one exception to the USA made and throw a set of Cobras in the kit.
I love Kline tools I have been using Kline side cutters and lineman's pliers for as long as i can remember. Kline makes excellent screwdrivers as well.
I used to make nylon bullwhips out of paracord and needed to cut the paracord at an angle many times and side cutters were the best way to do that. I used to use the channel locks and they worked good until they were left outside and rusted. I always use the test of putting them up in front of a light and looking to see if I can spot any light through the blades. Pretty much just another way of doing the paper test without paper
Enjoying the videos. Made in Pennsylvania ChannelLocks are my goto, but I here a lot of good things about the Klein's. I think I'll buy a pair just to try them out. God Bless!
My wife bought a hand tool box at a yard sale. It had an old pair of kliens diagonals it had a broke jaw. I took them to lowes and they replaced them at no cost.
Klein, I worked on HVAC inspections and service calls there. Phenomenal tools. Never established the tight relationship a fellow Fitter had he got tools gratis.
Love your show. I was the Hawaii Klein rep, went to the Skokie plyer factory. D228-8 which you demo is made for soft copper and aluminum wire. 2000-28 or D2000-28 dipped handles are made to cut harden steel wires screws and nails,fyi
And the angle headed D2000-48 OR J2000-48 are infinitely better than the 28s
Wrangler is a fanboy if you want a real review go to project farm
I hate that so many people overlook the d2000-28 and go for the red handled ones. I have a feeling it’s bc people gravitate towards red handles and being cheaper…
@@unclejoe6811 If I recall PF's review of the diagonal cutters, he also used the D228. When he should have been testing the D2000 model.
@@unclejoe6811Project Farm does a great job but there are factors that he can’t account for. Sometimes, one just might like one more than the other. Also, I love seeing his strength testing but let’s not overlook that most people aren’t going break them under normal use (cheater bars notwithstanding)
Cool Klein story. The Klein wire cutters/crimpers I use are probably 40 yrs old. Smooth like new, and I've used them hard for many years cutting lots of large guage wires. Great tool series.
I believe you, my best tools are Kleins.
Liking the series! You need to check out the Klein 2000 series cutters, they are a whole different animal and only about $10 more.
And finally my darling Klein is mentioned. Any electrician hand tools you can’t go wrong with Klein. Knipex has some very nice cutters as well. Chanel lock are a very solid pick for bit cheaper option and made in USA as well
I have loved every second of this video series. My father is a mechanic and he has used nothing but snap on since I can remember. I am a first year carpenter so I don’t really have the money to pay for that sort of quality with every single tool I buy. Most of my money goes back into my tools I use for work (saws, nailers, etc.) so my “professional homeowner” tools are a little neglected. But you taking the time and the money to put this list together is very much appreciated. I can’t speak for all viewers but I can feel sincere attention on this topic. Thank you for all that you do. Gob bless
Stick with milwaukee u wont regret it just spend the extra for the fuel stuff
I still have my Kleins from when I worked for our local utility. Still work as new and a pleasure to use. When a manufacturer takes pride in doing a great job, it makes a huge difference.
One of my great treasures is a pair of Klein lineman's pliers that were my great grandfather's. Based on some marks I believe them to be from 1919. They still work like new.
I'm 70. Retired. The side cutters in my tool box are my Dad's Klein's. They'll be going to my son one day. We immigrated to Canada from Israel in '65 and Dad bought his tools soon after.
Cody I just want to thank you personally for taking your time and money in making these videos on these tools. Reminds me of when my grandpa used to talk to me about tools when I was younger. He was a craftsman tool person back when they were good. And I used to spend hours with him talking about all the different tools. This video just brings back the memories of all of that. As well as your giving the chance for someone else to be able todo this for there kids or grandchildren in the future. Definitely a good way to make memories.
Thanks Cody for taking the time to put together this series! Too many of us grew up using poor quality tools. It's better to learn late than never.
my father is a profesionnal home owner and used this klein side cutter all my life when I was working with him. He always told me these are the best sidecutters ever and best tool to have. This is in fact the first tool I bought just after buying my first house to build my tool collection, which was an awesome moment, imagine building your tool collection from scratch right now ! The snap on seems really good also !
I love my Kleins. So true what you said about your equipment and how you keep it being a reflection of your character.
My favorite series by far. I wish you would’ve made this series about 6 years ago when I first started to get serious a putting a good set together but it’s okay I learned that the saying buy once cry once is a real thing. Thanks for the great content.
I worked as a licensed electrician for over 10 years and I'm a diehard klein fan. Well worth the premium you pay for them! And yes, Klein makes many tools but the lineman's are the only one know better as a pair of Klein's than their actual name
And it really isn’t that expensive when you think about it.
I've been in the trades for many years I've never heard anyone call linesman's anything other than that. but knipex is a whole step above anything Kleins or Snapon. I'm not saying Klein makes junk they are quality but man for the marginal cost difference to Knipex id just get them.
I think Kleins are definitely like Kleenex. But…the Velcro vs hook and loop of the tool world is 100% channel locks. I didn’t even know they had a different name.
Good choice Cody. I’ve been using Klein tools since 1966 when I went into the Air Force and was trained as a electrician. Spent 4 years in AF, and pretty much the rest of my working career I worked as a electrician/electrical contractor. Interesting, but I have never broken a Klein tool, I have burned up several cutting hot wires, and then before thee end of the day I would dump them in the trash, and if it was a big industrial site I would throw them as far as I could. Interesting about Klein diagonal, we frequently stuck 18” of 1/2” EMT on the handles to cut larger wire, and still never broke a pair. Nothing says quality like Klein.
As a father helping my son get together his apprentice tool kit this series has been great . One thing my son commented on was that in the UK the fashion for Fat Max big handle tools was hard on the hands when using them all day .
Klein tools definitely bring the . I’ve got a lot invested in Klein tools and use them daily. You can’t go wrong with any of their products. The angled head version is the way to go.
I have been using the angled heads for years. Much better than the red handles.
With 38 years in the commercial/industrial electrical trade, Klein tools have been a go-to. I still use Klein side cutters, linesman pliers, screw drivers and strippers that I was using 25 years ago. Sometimes I see the Klein tools in Home Depot and want to buy some new shiny tools, but never do.
I wish i could have my grandfathers tools, carrying the pride and heritage into a job makes me take extra care of what I’m doing.
I have some Kleins from the 50s and they're still going strong. They truly are great tools
I’ve used this same model of Klein cutters on a nearly daily basis at work for right at 5yrs. I do not abuse them but they’ve cut a mile or two and are holding up well. I recently bought a set of the new 7-8” channellock cutters for my helper and I have been impressed, razor sharp, narrow head, and the handles are very comfortable. The handles remind me of the higher priced Klein lineman pliers.
Sorry, not channellock. Crescent
I run the channel locks CODE BLUE - no issues they are AWESOME- I’ve cut things that should NOT have been cut and they still truckin. I need to sharpen up the blades but they get it done.
Ordered mine. Learned from your ratchet video that this will sell out and then restock at almost 2x the price.
Totally agree with you comments at video end. A homeowner or business makes a snap judgment as soon as they see you drive up. A junker truck with tools all over the place vs a maintained vehicle with organized equipment says it all. Personal appearance is important too.
My dad has a pair of knipex insulated side cutters, they are almost 10 years old i guess. He used it quite a lot, but not daily. And it still cuts paper.
I agree completely. I, like most men, have a hodgepodge of tools. Some USA, love them, some german, love them, and some from Taiwan because I can't afford Snap-on. A quality tool in your hand is like an artist's brush in the hands of an artist. It is a tool. It is only as good as the individual that uses it.
You are absolutely right about the tools a man chooses and the quality of his work! Love the series and prayers for you and your family. Thank You for all you do!!
Just as a point of info Cody. Klein side and diagonal cutters come in different hardnesses. Blue being the hardest tool steel. Red is middle of the road. Yellow is softest I believe. But you’re absolutely right. As a licensed electrician. Klein is the gold standard.
I realize that Channellock is not the crème de la crème of USA made tools, but I still love them. They’re far more accessible than any other USA made brand and I just like to support them. Not to mention that their tongue and groove pliers are an absolute daily necessity in working on cars, and at a way better price than Knipex.
Most of my pliers and strippers are Klein. That's all I buy. I bought my first Klein lineman pliers in 1977. I gave 28.00 for them and that was a lot of money back then. Those pliers are still in my tool belt. I use them all the time. The best are always worth the extra you pay for them.
I have followed your channel on an off for probably a year or so now. After having almost all the tools I owned stolen, this has to be one of the best video series I have seen. Definitely giving me options to look into. God bless.
Funny quick story. When I was a younger I suppose teenager I went to my dads tool box looking for a pair of side cutters for what ever a teenager might need to cut. I remember grabbing the red handled cutters just like that Klein in your video and was about to use them when my dad caught me and told those are not for me to use and put them back in his box. He grabbed another pair and said you use these. Well fast forward 30 years and I just went out to said tool box to have a look and sure enough those red handled cutters I now have that were once dad's are in fact Kleins. For years I've favored those cutters because they just work. When others just aren't as nice. I never knew who made them just that they worked.
Glad to learn the history of Klein Tools! When I was a heavy construction project manager, all of my ironworkers placing rebar used Klein Tools side-cutting pliers. They never broke. And if the cutting edge got seriously nicked, the factory replaced them "no questions asked."
#1 buy the Kleins #2 buy the blue handle Kleins they’re rated for stainless tie wire. I still have and use daily my Klein linesman pliers that were given to me in Votech in 1996. You can’t go wrong with Kleins for electrical work.
My Klein side cutters are pushing 20 years old. Came in my original apprentice tool kit. Still going strong.
I just went out and looked at my 2 pair of snips. You and my dad must've had the same taste in cutters. I'm still using his old Klein snips. I also have his old channel lock set, but they never get used and have become very stiff. I'm sure a good cleaning, sharpening, and some oil would have them great again, but I just use the Kleins.
I pulled the handle off the Kleins and mine say 1965. That would put them in his hand when he was 22 and starting out as a tow truck operator in Kansas City. Before the cancer got him when I was 15, he left me a list of all his jobs, cars, and life lessons in a briefcase, so I'm able to roughly date his tools that way.
Thanks for the effort putting this together. A good quality tool definitely gives you the
Cody i could absolutely listen to you talk for hours, you are without a doubt my favourite content creator. god bless you and yours
My dad worked as a mechanic in a cotton mill here in South Carolina. I have a couple Klein cutters that he used in the mill that he passed down to me. 50 years old and still working great
I really like this series, and gleaning information from another guy's experience and knowledge.
Good choice with Klein. I love there screwdrivers too.
I have 2 different sizes of Snap on and Klien diagonal cutters, both brands over 20 yrs old! love them!!
As a diesel mechanic I’ve used all types of wire cutters and surprisingly I’ve loved my channellock wire cutters, my snap on and Klein are at the house and In my truck and my channellocks are in my tool box
All my hand tools for the garage are premium garage sale pawn shop tools that I hand pick but it takes time to collect.
I work in the telecom industry and I have a pair of Klein side cutters that I still use today that are 25yrs old.
I still have, and use my grandfather's Craftsman 1/2 inch socket set. Never once had a problem. I went out 15 or 20 years ago and bought a new set, because a needed a metric set. They are not the same quality.
Knipex also makes an awesome pair of side cutters!
As an electrician, 20 plus years, I use mostly Klein tools. Esp their screwdrivers and flat jawed sidecutters, or linesman pliers, (known as Kleins in the industry) the only tools that are not Klein, (2 of them for couplings), are my tongue and groove wrenches, or known as channel locks.
100% agree with you on the condition of someone’s car. I had a boss once; who is still my best friend, fwiw; that made a point to watch everyone go to their car after a job interview. In my experience, he never made a bad hire.
I feel there’s a reason people refer to certain tools as the “Crescent wrench” for adjustable wrenches, “Vise Grips” (Irwin) for locking pliers, and the “Channel Locks” for slip joint pliers. Each made their reputation in the specific tool!
My electrical bucket only has Klein tools in it. 👍👍
As an apprentice professional home owner I have to say that when I stepped up from chinese tools to my channellock 9 inch lineman pliers and 7 inch side cutters, I was blown away. Maybe not quite klein quality, but still very, very good. Channellock might not rate Snap On quality, but for the price, the value can't be beat. That said, a pair of 8 inch klein angled head side cutters and a pair of klein 8 inch needle nose are on my Amazon wish list.
Agreed on the last part.
I think that tools are an investment. And what a man invests in himself, reflects in his tools and his tools and his work is the ROI.
Yes there is absolutely something about a good quality tool period! Hands down. I’m a Snap On fan as well, but have only ever owned a few cause while I did go to school for diesel mechanics when I finished I decided I really didn’t want to work in a shop all day every day doing nothing but turning wrenches.
I did repair heavy equipment & trucks in the field occasionally for years as 1st a Foreman then General Foreman for a Well known, Major, World-wide line clearance tree company.
My dad, who’s now passed, gave me two pocket knives. They’re both Klein Tools and were made in Japan. They’re absolutely amazing and awesome. Both are at least 30 years old and still look like new. I can be brand loyal, but I’m more loyal to whoever makes the best tool.
I started my IBEW apprenticeship in 1965. Back then the goto tools were Vaco screwdriver, Kline Linemans plyers, Channelock slip joint plyers and a Luklin 6 foot inside read ruler.
I love Kleins I still have my first set of linesman and side cutters from my electrical apprenticeship 23 years ago and they still work great
Cody I say you must have amazing character, cause you are a wonderful person to listen to.
I have several Kleins and they're all amazing tools. The quality of the tools and the cost are unbeatable.
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those kleins will last a guy along time! I have 2 or 3 pair I've acquired over the years and they are the only ones that will cut 1/8" stainless tig wire the other ones you gotta use both hands . and I gotta a pretty good grip alot of it because of cutting that wire 😆.
Brand new channel locks will cut a nail no problem. I use cutters literally all day. Channel lock is king
Love my Craftsman Diagonal Cutters purchased in 99 still work great.
I like having the “average” quality tools as spares to keep in places where they may get lost.. tractor toolbox, truck emergency tool box. But for the purpose of this video and for a guy trying to start a tool kit the Klein’s are the perfect option.
I love pliers of all kinds. My favorite brands are channellock, knipex, klein, and engineer from Japan.
Klein and channellock is my go to for hand tools. I've actually see and been to the channellock facility in PA.
I've owned many side cutters over the years growing up, and now that I own a Snap-On, I realized what a difference quality makes. Cuts like butter, compared to the same size cutters from off brands.
I have had my Klein for 15 years working in car stereo. Super high quality and give me the fizz.
Thank you Cody for doing this series. I have two pairs of Knipex side cutters. I bought them off a tool truck almost 22 years ago. To this day they work great and will easily cut off small bolts and nails. I know they aren't USA made, but excellent nonetheless. God bless you and your family Cody. Keep up the great work.
I modified the tips of my 337 channelocks by dressing the back of the tips to make the tip into a flush cutter. The 337s also take up less room in my carry around tool boxes.
As a young guy getting into a trade these videos are INVALUABLE!! Thanks for this series 👍🏼
I use Klein's exclusively for any electrical work. their screwdrivers, nut drivers, side cutters, wire strippers and crimping pliers are second to none... Recommending Klein's is like recommending water, its a no brainer.
I've got a pair of Klein I got from a yard sale for $5 in a bucket of other good tools and they are my go to at home. Sharp and flawless.
At work I have a pair of Irwin powerslots made by NWS Germany. Both are high quality tools. I agree wire cutters need to be high quality.
I agree that the Klein cutters are the ones to purchase, legendary in the eyes of techs in the US.
One thing to consider in the make up of $1000 tool assortment is some used tools from makers long gone from the marketplace. Bonney, New Britian and Easco come to mind. The New Britian and especially the Bonney tools have long outlasted their maker's existence and some of the Bonney tools can match the fit and finish of the SO tools of the same period and in many cases can be bought at bargain prices.
Really informative on the back story of Klein tool company. Keep up the great work Cody.
Love this series it is the best on the internet.
As a cable guy I have used a pair of Klein "side cutters" for 15 years and short of needing some wd40 after a long day in the rain they work just like new.
As an industrial electrician I’ve actually been looking for a smaller pair so the 5 in. is dope and even as just a homeowner always buy the angled diagonal cutters
It's nice you keep these videos spread out enough. I can swallow upgrading a video worth per paycheck. Upgrade away from the Chinaftsman tools I currently have.
Gosh I use these almost every day. Great video as always. Hope the comment helps the tuber metrics.
I still have my original side cutters from when I started in the electrical trade in 1977. They were pretty old when I received them, I would say they are pushing 60 years old. Still work great. One other thing, I have always kept my work vehicles organized and clean. I could tell someone where exactly to look and find them. That included parts also. Kept my work area clean and free of debris. I hate working in clutter.
It's funny because I can still cut a piece of paper with my 10-year-old Klines and you can't with your 1-month-old snap-on LOL just a huge Klein fan
As an electrician, I love Klein. Absolutely love klein, but for my side cutters I use Knipex 10”. Have had them for 4 years I use mine every single day. Not just copper but I’ve cut screws. Still cuts GREAT. If you go the Klein route, I would recommend the BLUE handle. Not the red. Costs a little bit more for the blue but (in short terms) the blue 2000 series are stronger. Also I recommend getting the angled head model. Gets better leverage to pull out staples, nails etc
Thank you for all the effort. Gent below me I agree with. Klein makes a solid product. Thanks Cody.
Good choice, although I think Klien's angled head version is one step above. I always found it easier to remove a nail or staple with leverage versus cutting.
So glad you are doing this. I have had great experience with Klein tools and slowly replacing some of my crappy tools with them.
I’m up to an alternator, woot woot here I come! Great video, I’m a Klein on the side cutters too!
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t proud of my tools. I understand where you are coming from. Quality tools are a pleasure to own and use. I grew up poor boyin it so now owning quality tools I truly know the difference. I know your sticking to American tools for this series. However I own a set of knipex side cutters and they are excellent. I would also assume you will make one exception to the USA made and throw a set of Cobras in the kit.
I’ve been trying to do something like this myself. Good series here
I love Kline tools I have been using Kline side cutters and lineman's pliers for as long as i can remember. Kline makes excellent screwdrivers as well.
I used channel lock diagonals for years. Might try the Kleins now.
I'm so glad someone is saying what I feel...it's important to buy USA made tools
Great job Cody ? Thanks for the time you spend on our behalf.
Been using Klein tools for years and they are good no doubt.
I used to make nylon bullwhips out of paracord and needed to cut the paracord at an angle many times and side cutters were the best way to do that. I used to use the channel locks and they worked good until they were left outside and rusted. I always use the test of putting them up in front of a light and looking to see if I can spot any light through the blades. Pretty much just another way of doing the paper test without paper
Enjoying the videos. Made in Pennsylvania ChannelLocks are my goto, but I here a lot of good things about the Klein's. I think I'll buy a pair just to try them out. God Bless!
My wife bought a hand tool box at a yard sale. It had an old pair of kliens diagonals it had a broke jaw. I took them to lowes and they replaced them at no cost.
A place for every tool and every tool in its place.
Klein, I worked on HVAC inspections and service calls there. Phenomenal tools. Never established the tight relationship a fellow Fitter had he got tools gratis.
I have Klein high voltage side cutters with the orange handles which are great
I have the same pair of Snap-On side cutters and they don’t cut paper. Even from new wouldn’t. Still a high quality tool