Channellock 442 Tongue and Groove Pliers, 12 In, Black, Blue, Silver

This is a solid pair of pliers for everyday use in gripping and twisting roundish objects. A classic, original tool for irrigation and plumbing work. I prefer the rounded shaped jaws for this stuff, and the rounded fit and gripping fit well with pipe-related tasks.The 10 inch size is ideal for me. Fits over 1 inch PVC pipe and fittings very well. I also have the 12 inch size, and the super-giant ones with flatter jaws. I also own several more sizes of Knipex Cobra Pliers for comparison, which often comes up with Channel Lock discussions.The Channel Locks are generally more robust, thick and heavy. Tolerances on the Channel locks are more loose, and the overall fit and finish is not as precise and refined on the Knipex Cobras. The action is a little more clunky in comparison, and not as smooth on the Channel Locks vs the Knipex. There are more burrs and action catches on the Channel Locks.Overall, the two function similarly for every day tasks. The Knipex Cobras probably grip a little better and are infinitely more adjustable, but for most regular tasks, you wouldn't notice much. The teeth on the Knipex are unidirectional, while the channel locks have more neutral teeth. The Knipex Cobra is more of a unidirectional plier, tightening as you push down on the top arm, and loosening as you pull up, much like a classic pipe wrench. The Channel Locks don't work like this, and rely on your grip pulling the handles together, to achieve the friction, which also means they function well in reverse, but for super tight pipes and fittings, they won't grip as well.Overall, the Channel Locks are still a very solid tool. Whether you want to pay significantly more for a more refined and smooth tool with the Knipex, is up to you. I have both for various tasks and they both work well. Both have their place under various circumstances. The Channel Locks feels like a robust, brute-force type of tool, though still handling slightly less load than the Cobras would. These are my first choice for the dirtiest, grimiest beating-sessions in the irrigation ditch.They stack up pretty well, for a reasonable price, you can grab the Channel Locks worry free. They also make models with the cobra heads now. .

Channellock may cost a little more than other brands, but I feel they're worth it. I believe purchasers will find these pliers will last a lifetime and discover the wisdom of their investment, avoiding the replacement cost that can occur when choosing a lower cost item of lesser quality.

Excellent tool, very handy, good value.

The original is always the best. Bought for both work and home. They grip awesome with the angled jaws. Will buy the larger set now.

If your a firefighter these make for a great pair of TTL pliers that also work on all the other places slip-joint pliers work. Riveted not bolted connection so they won't fall apart. Do it yourself and get the bragging rights when you pull them out to force a commercial door.

This small size channel locks is a great tool. Small but ever so functional. Great in your tool.

This is the one I use most. And other brands do not match the quality.

This tool is very important to my job very good for plumbers delivery was fast & accurate will do business again