Hand Tools

The Best Vise Grips & Locking Pliers

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Locking pliers, often called Vise-Grips after the popular brand, are indispensable tools for any DIYer or professional. They provide a powerful, secure grip that frees up your hands for other tasks. Selecting the right type and size ensures you have the necessary leverage and control for a wide range of applications, from automotive repair to woodworking.

No. 1
IRWIN Vise-Grip Original Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter Set, 2 Piece, 36
  • Ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting, and turning
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Classic trigger release designed to provide maximum locking force
  • Hardened teeth are designed to grip from any angle
  • Set includes 7" curved jaw locking pliers with wire cutter and 6" long nose locking pliers with wire cutter
No. 2
WORKPRO 5-Piece Locking Pliers Set, Pliers Tool Set, Vice Grips with Chrome-vanadium Steel, 5/7/10 inch Curved...
  • Chrome-vanadium steel jawfor maximum durability
  • Quick, easy locking andrelease action
  • Versatile curved jaw design also features integral wire cutter
  • Includes: 5" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, 7" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers
  • 10" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, 6-1/2" Long Nose Locking Pliers, 9" Long Nose Locking Pliers
SaleNo. 3
Vise Grip7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Cutter (VGP7WR)
  • Curved jaw with hardened teeth designed to grip a variety of shapes from any angle
  • Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force
  • Includes wire cutter for more versatility
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Hex key adjusting screw tightens to adjust pressure and draw materials together for a controlled release
SaleNo. 4
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers, Straight Jaw, 10-inch (102L3) - 1774901
  • Ideal for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning; Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability
  • Adjust pressure and work fit with turn screw that stays adjusted for repetitive use
  • Hex key adjusting screw
SaleNo. 5
IRWIN Pliers, Curved Jaw, Locking, 10-Inch (4935576)
  • Turn screw to adjust pressure and fit work. Stays adjusted for repetitive use
  • Package Weight : 1.05 pounds
  • Included components: Locking Jaw Pliers
  • Package Dimensions: 27.686 L x 1.778H x7.62W(centimeters)
SaleNo. 6
WORKPRO 10-inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, Chromium-Vanadium Steel Vice Grips With Wire Cutter, Adjustable...
  • Unmatched Strength & Durability: Crafted from industry-leading chrome vanadium steel, our multi-functional locking pliers are heat-treated for ultimate strength, promising to serve you efficiently and stay in an impeccable condition even with rigorous...
  • User-friendly Adjustable Screw Design: Boasting a flexible screw design that suits different jaw widths, our vice grips plier provide optimal clamping pressure for diverse tasks, simplifying your work and elevating efficiency.
  • One-Handed Release Trigger: Designed for maximum locking strength, the easy-to-use trigger mechanism enables single-handed operation of the pliers, offering you more convenience and time efficiency.
  • Anti-slip Handle for Comfortable Grip: With its unique diamond-pattern handle design, our vise grip pliers don't just offer anti-slip benefits, but they also guarantee a comfortable grip, making it effortless for you to maneuver and rotate the tool.
  • What’s in the box: An 7-inch curved jaw locking plier, meeting your different demand when you need for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning. Widely used in industrial job sites or home improvement projects, repair jobs, and more.
SaleNo. 7
Locking Pliers Set,5"/7"/10" Curved Jaw Vise Grip,6-1/2"and 9-1/2" Needle Nose Vice Grips, 6" C-Clamp for...
  • Heat-Treated Carbon Steel: Evertools 6-piece vice grips pliers set is built from high-quality carbon steel with heat-treated jaws, providing wear resistance and maintaining strength over time. Perfect for tough materials without bending or deforming
  • Adjustable Clamping Screw for Precise Control: Customize the jaw opening and clamping force to suit different sizes and materials. The adjustable screw ensures locking pliers set holds firmly every time, giving you consistent, reliable results
  • Quick Release Lever for Smooth One-Handed Use: The built-in quick release lever allows you to open needle nose vise grips, jaw locking pliers and c clamp easily with just one hand. This feature makes repetitive clamping tasks faster and more efficient...
  • Ergonomic TPR Handles for Comfort and Grip: Soft, anti-slip handles provide a firm grip and reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Work confidently with Evertools vise grips & locking pliers set for long periods without discomfort
  • Versatile Set for Multiple Tasks: This 6-piece set is designed for a wide range of tasks, including welding, metal bending, woodworking, and general clamping or gripping jobs. This vice grips pliers set provides flexibility to handle different materials...
SaleNo. 8
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Wire Cutter, 4-Inch (10)
  • Curved jaw with hardened teeth are designed to grip a variety of shapes from any angle
  • Classic trigger release provides maximum locking force
  • Includes wire cutter for more versatility.Jaw Capacity:1 Inch
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for durability
  • Hex key adjusting screw tightens to adjust pressure and draw materials together for a controlled release
SaleNo. 9
WORKPRO Locking Pliers, 7-inch Curved Jaw Vice Grips pliers, Chromium-Vanadium Steel Locking Pliers with Wire...
  • Unmatched Strength & Durability: Crafted from industry-leading chrome vanadium steel, our multi-functional locking pliers are heat-treated for ultimate strength, promising to serve you efficiently and stay in an impeccable condition even with rigorous...
  • User-friendly Adjustable Screw Design: Boasting a flexible screw design that suits different jaw widths, our vice grips plier provide optimal clamping pressure for diverse tasks, simplifying your work and elevating efficiency.
  • One-Handed Release Trigger: Designed for maximum locking strength, the easy-to-use trigger mechanism enables single-handed operation of the pliers, offering you more convenience and time efficiency.
  • Anti-slip Handle for Comfortable Grip: With its unique diamond-pattern handle design, our vise grip pliers don't just offer anti-slip benefits, but they also guarantee a comfortable grip, making it effortless for you to maneuver and rotate the tool.
  • What’s in the box: An 7-inch curved jaw locking plier, meeting your different demand when you need for tightening, clamping, twisting and turning. Widely used in industrial job sites or home improvement projects, repair jobs, and more.
No. 10
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Original Locking Pliers Set, 5 Piece Set, 68
  • Constructed of high-grade heat-treated alloy steel for maximum toughness and durability
  • Hardened teeth are designed to grip from any angle
  • Classic trigger release designed to provide maximum locking force
  • Turn screw stays adjusted for repeated use
  • Set includes 10" straight jaw, 10" curved jaw, 7" curved jaw with wire cutter, 6" long nose pliers, and 5" curved jaw locking pliers

Last update on 2026-07-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Vise Grips & Locking Pliers

Types of Locking Pliers

  • Standard Locking Pliers: These are the most common, featuring curved jaws that can lock onto various shapes and sizes. They are versatile for gripping, clamping, and turning.
  • Long Nose Locking Pliers: With extended, thin jaws, these are ideal for reaching into tight spaces, holding small objects, or bending wire.
  • C-Clamp Locking Pliers: These offer a strong, rigid clamp, perfect for holding larger pieces of material together securely during gluing or assembly.
  • Wire Cutting Locking Pliers: Some models include a built-in wire cutter near the pivot, adding functionality for cutting soft wires.

Key Features to Consider

  • Jaw Capacity: Ensure the maximum opening of the jaws is sufficient for the materials you'll be working with.
  • Jaw Design: Serrated jaws provide a superior grip on smooth surfaces, while specialized jaw shapes are better for specific tasks.
  • Material and Durability: Look for pliers made from hardened steel alloys for strength and longevity. Nickel plating or other finishes can offer corrosion resistance.
  • Release Mechanism: A quick-release lever is crucial for easy and safe operation, allowing you to disengage the grip swiftly.
  • Ergonomics: Padded or contoured handles can improve comfort and reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Choosing the Right Size

The size of locking pliers is typically measured by their overall length and jaw opening. For general-purpose use, a medium-sized pair (around 7-10 inches) is often a good starting point. Larger sizes offer more leverage and jaw capacity for demanding tasks, while smaller ones excel in precision work and confined areas. Consider the typical size of fasteners or materials you'll be gripping when making your selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Vise-Grips and locking pliers?
Vise-Grips is a brand name that has become synonymous with locking pliers. While the brand is very popular, other manufacturers also produce locking pliers with similar functionality.
How do I properly use locking pliers?
Adjust the screw at the end of the handle to set the initial jaw opening. Then, squeeze the handles together to lock the jaws onto the object. To release, squeeze the handles together again and flip the release lever.
Can locking pliers be used as wrenches?
Yes, in a pinch, locking pliers can be used to turn nuts and bolts, especially if they are rounded or difficult to grip with a standard wrench. However, they are not a direct replacement for a dedicated wrench and can sometimes damage fastener heads if used improperly.
How do I maintain my locking pliers?
Keep the pivot point clean and lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Wipe down the jaws after use to remove debris and prevent rust. Store them in a dry place when not in use.
What are the best locking pliers for automotive work?
For automotive tasks, standard and long-nose locking pliers are often most useful. Consider models with good jaw strength and corrosion resistance due to potential exposure to grease and fluids.