Best Locking-jaw Pliers of 2025

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 1 Feb 2025

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Locking-jaw pliers are a versatile tool used for gripping, holding, and tightening objects of various shapes and sizes. They feature an adjustable jaw that can be locked into place to provide a secure grip on the object. Locking-jaw pliers come in various sizes and designs, including curved, straight, and needle-nose, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are commonly used in construction, automotive repair, and DIY projects, and are a must-have tool for any handyman or DIY enthusiast.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Stanley Fatmax 250mm Locking Mole Pliers Cover #TOP 1
Stanley Fatmax 250mm Locking Mole Pliers
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SATA 7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers Cover #TOP 2
SATA 7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shall 6-Piece Locking Pliers Set with Pouch Cover #TOP 3
Shall 6-Piece Locking Pliers Set with Pouch
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Locking-jaw Pliers

Stanley Fatmax 250mm Locking Mole Pliers

FMHT13127-0
Black
Stanley Fatmax 250mm Locking Mole Pliers Cover
Stanley FMHT0-74886 Fatmax Locking Mole Grip 250mm Curve Jaw Pliers, Alloy Steel, Black, Pack of 1

The Stanley Fatmax Pliers feature optimised jaws that provide a secure grip, ensuring you can tackle various tasks with confidence. Made from induction hardened steel, these pliers offer a longer lifespan, making them a reliable choice for frequent use. The patented trulock mechanism enhances locking strength, giving you peace of mind that your work will be secure. Additionally, the re-engineered eye bolt improves usability, allowing you to easily adjust the grip to suit your needs.

What We Like
Optimised jaws for secure grip
Long-lasting induction hardened steel
Strong patented trulock mechanism
Improved usability with eye bolt
#TOP 2

SATA 7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

ST71102ST
Green
SATA 7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers Cover
SATA ST71102ST 7-Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers with Induction-Hardened Angled Teeth for Increased Gripping Power

The SATA Locking Pliers are designed for versatility and convenience. With a curved jaw and built-in wire cutter, these pliers allow you to tackle various tasks effectively. The angled teeth provide a better grip, ensuring that you can hold onto objects securely without slippage. Made from Chrome Molybdenum Alloy Steel, they offer superior strength and durability, making them a reliable choice for any job. Their nickel-plated finish helps resist rust and corrosion, allowing for longevity and consistent performance.

What We Like
Versatile curved jaw
Built-in wire cutter
Rust and corrosion resistant
Superior strength and durability
Narrow profile for confined spaces
#TOP 3

Shall 6-Piece Locking Pliers Set with Pouch

Numéro du modèle
Blue
Shall 6-Piece Locking Pliers Set with Pouch Cover
Shall 6-Piece Locking Pliers, Vice Grips Pliers Set, 5",7" & 10" Curved Jaw Locking Pliers, 6-1/2" & 9-1/2 Long Nose Locking Pliers, 6" Locking C-Clamp, Two-Color TPR Handle, Roll Up Pouch Included

The Shall Locking Pliers Set offers a comprehensive selection for various tasks. It includes curved jaw and long nose locking pliers, providing the right tool for loosening stubborn nuts and bolts. The adjustable tightening screw allows you to customise the jaw openings, ensuring optimal clamping pressure for your projects. With a quick release lever, you can store the pliers easily and efficiently. The ergonomic two-colour TPR handle enhances comfort and reduces hand fatigue, making your work smoother and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Complete set for various tasks
Customisable jaw openings
Ergonomic and comfortable handle
Quick release for easy storage
Portable roll-up storage pouch
#TOP 4

Milwaukee 250mm Torque Lock Locking Pliers

4932471725
Silver
Milwaukee 250mm Torque Lock Locking Pliers Cover
Milwaukee Torque Lock Curved Jaw Locking Pliers 250mm (10in)

The Milwaukee Torque Lock Pliers are designed for reliability and high performance, making them ideal for both home users and tradesmen. Weighing just 0.8 Kg, their lightweight construction allows for easy handling, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The proven Milwaukee technology ensures that these pliers can tackle tough jobs with ease, providing you with the confidence to take on various tasks. Whether you are tightening, gripping, or holding, these pliers offer the versatility you need in your toolkit.

What We Like
Lightweight design
High performance
Proven reliability
Versatile for various tasks

WORKPRO 3-Piece Locking Pliers Set

W001310A
Ve411ydsh156
WORKPRO 3-Piece Locking Pliers Set Cover
WORKPRO Locking Pliers Set, CR-V Steel Mole Grips, Quick-Release & Self-Locking with Soft Grip, 10-Inch & 7-Inch Curved Jaw, 6-1/2 Inch Straight Jaw, 3-Piece

The WORKPRO Locking Pliers are crafted from high-quality chrome-vanadium steel, ensuring maximum durability for your tasks. With a quick-release and self-locking design, you can easily adjust and secure your grip, enhancing your efficiency. The rotating screw allows you to adjust holding pressure, which helps save effort during use. Additionally, the non-slip ergonomic soft grip handle provides comfort, making it ideal for gripping, twisting, and holding small components with ease.

What We Like
Durable chrome-vanadium steel
Easy quick-release function
Adjustable holding pressure
Comfortable soft grip handle
Versatile for small components
#TOP 6

Irwin 10WRC Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

10WRC
Silver
250mm
Irwin 10WRC Curved Jaw Locking Pliers Cover
Irwin 10WRC Visegrip 0502EL4 Curved Jaw Self Grip Locking Plier, 250mm Length

The Irwin 10WRC Locking Pliers are designed for all-purpose use, making them a versatile addition to your toolkit. With a curved jaw design, these pliers offer a maximum locking force, ensuring a firm grip on various materials. Their integrated wire cutter adds convenience, allowing you to cut wires effortlessly while working. Plus, these pliers boast a two times longer life compared to standard options, providing you with durability and reliability for all your tasks.

What We Like
Versatile all-purpose use
Strong maximum locking force
Integrated wire cutter
Two times longer life

Tolsen 10" Heavy Duty Locking Pliers

10048
Nickel
250mm (10")
Tolsen 10" Heavy Duty Locking Pliers Cover
Tolsen Straight Jaw Locking Pliers 10" (250mm) - Heavy Duty Mole Grip Vice Plier

The Tolsen Locking Pliers are crafted from robust carbon steel, ensuring exceptional strength and durability for your tasks. With adjustable jaws and serrated grooves, these pliers provide a superior grip, allowing you to secure items firmly for repetitive tasks with enhanced accuracy. Measuring 250mm in length and featuring a maximum jaw opening of 50mm, they are versatile enough for various applications. Additionally, the chrome-plated body helps to reduce corrosion, significantly extending the lifespan of the tool.

What We Like
Strong carbon steel construction
Adjustable jaws for better grip
Chrome plated to resist corrosion
Quick-release self-locking design
Ideal for repetitive use
#TOP 8

Gunpla 10 Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

220mm
Yellow
Gunpla 10 Inch Curved Jaw Locking Pliers Cover
Gunpla Curved Jaw Locking Pliers 10 Inch/250mm, Carbon Steel Heavy Duty Vise Grips with Comfortable Handles Plier – Mole Grip Tool for Clamping, Holding, Pulling, Cutting, Driving Screws

The Gunpla Locking Pliers are designed for durability and versatility, making them ideal for both professional and hobbyist tasks. Constructed from high carbon steel, they resist rust and wear, ensuring long-lasting use. Their heat-treated jaws provide excellent toughness and torque, allowing you to grip or clamp objects securely. The ultimate locking mechanism offers enhanced grip, giving you the confidence to tackle tough jobs. With a convenient quick-release system, these pliers are easy to operate and adjust for various tasks.

What We Like
Durable carbon steel construction
High torque and toughness
Secure locking mechanism
Quick release for convenience
Comfortable ergonomic handles

WORKPRO 3-Piece Locking Pliers Set

W001322
WORKPRO 3-Piece Locking Pliers Set Cover
WORKPRO Locking Pliers Set 3PCs, Mole Grips Adjustable Wrench Pliers Set, 125mm, 180mm, 250mm Vice Grips Pliers Curved Jaw Locking Pliers

The WORKPRO Locking Pliers offer a secure grip thanks to their serrated, curved jaws with a locking mechanism, ensuring precise control for various tasks. You'll appreciate the enhanced comfort design, which reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use, making your work more efficient. With high hardness and torque capacity, these pliers provide an adjustable jaw opening, allowing for versatile applications. The fast, self-locking feature enables quick, one-handed release, significantly improving your workflow and productivity.

What We Like
Secure grip with locking mechanism
Comfortable for extended use
High hardness and torque capacity
Quick, one-handed release
#TOP 10

Irwin Visegrip Curved Jaw Locking Plier Set

10508020
Grey
5.0 mm
Irwin Visegrip Curved Jaw Locking Plier Set Cover
Irwin Visegrip 10508020 Curved Jaw Locking Plier Set, Grey

The Irwin Visegrip Locking Pliers offer a reliable gripping solution for various tasks. The patented curved jaw design ensures a secure grip on multiple surface shapes, such as round pipes and bolts, making your work easier and more efficient. With certified TUV/GS quality, you can trust these pliers to perform well. The self-energising low jaw enhances grip strength, providing you with confidence in your hold. Additionally, the hex key adjusting screw allows for easy adjustments, ensuring optimal performance for your specific needs.

What We Like
Certified by TUV/GS
Secure grip on various shapes
Self-energising low jaw
Easy adjustments with hex key
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are locking jaw pliers?

Locking pliers (also called Vise-Grips, a vice grip, or a Mole wrench) are pliers that can be locked into position, using an "over-center" cam action. Locking pliers are available with many different jaw styles, such as needle-nose pliers, wrenches, clamps and various shapes to fix metal parts for welding.

2. What are locking pliers mostly used for?

Typically, locking pliers are used where more torque is needed to pry or remove objects or where added grip is needed for holding objects in place. Most uses includes loosening tight connection points such as pipe-joints, seized nuts and washers and removing broken nails.

3. What are curved jaw locking pliers used for?

Curved-jaw locking pliers are best for loosening frozen nuts and bolts and for all kinds of demolition. Long-nose locking pliers let you clamp on to small items such as staples, nails, pins and broken screws to pull them out from wherever they're stuck.

4. Are Mole grips still made?

Vast quantities of the tool were also shipped to England for use in the aircraft industry. Petersen's company opened more manufacturing plants in the U.S. and the one in their home town of De Witt continued to make the tools until its closure in 2008.

Editor's Notes

During our locking-jaw pliers research, we found 306 locking-jaw pliers products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,477 customer reviews through our big data system to write the locking-jaw pliers list. We found that most customers choose locking-jaw pliers with an average price of £17.55.

The locking-jaw pliers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of locking-jaw pliers, including Stanley, SATA, Shall, Milwaukee, WORKPRO.

Written by
Jennifer Fraser Avatar

Jennifer Fraser is a licensed contractor specializing in sales, maintenance, and kitchen, bathroom, and home appliances, tools, and utilities. She owns a store in Leeds where you can get any home and tool appliance. Jenny has a degree in literature, but she combines her knowledge and experience with her degree to publish DIY articles on solving home appliances issues to keep up the family enterprise.