Best Side-cutting Pliers of 2025

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 1 Feb 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Side-cutting pliers are a handy tool for cutting wires, cables and other materials in a precise and efficient manner. They are commonly used in electrical, automotive and DIY projects. The pliers feature sharp, angled blades that allow for easy access to tight spaces and provide a clean, flush cut. Additionally, many models come with ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable grip and reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, side-cutting pliers are a great addition to any tool kit.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Knipex 160 mm Insulated Diagonal Cutter Cover #TOP 1
Knipex 160 mm Insulated Diagonal Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
S&R 160mm Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter Cover #TOP 2
S&R 160mm Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bahco Ergo Side Cutting Pliers 160mm Cover #TOP 3
Bahco Ergo Side Cutting Pliers 160mm
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Side-cutting Pliers

Knipex 160 mm Insulated Diagonal Cutter

7006160
160 mm
Knipex 160 mm Insulated Diagonal Cutter Cover
Knipex Diagonal Cutter chrome-plated, insulated with multi-component grips, VDE-tested 160 mm 70 06 160

The Knipex Diagonal Cutter is an essential tool for a variety of cutting tasks. It features high-quality materials and precise workmanship, ensuring a long service life that you can rely on. The precision cutting edges allow you to easily cut both soft and hard wire, making your work more efficient. With the ability to cleanly cut thin copper wires, even at the tips, this cutter provides the convenience you need for detailed tasks. Additionally, the induction-hardened cutting edges offer impressive hardness, ensuring durability and performance in every use.

What We Like
Long-lasting quality materials
Precise cutting for various wires
Clean cuts at cutting edge tips
Induction-hardened for durability
#TOP 2

S&R 160mm Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter

S&R
161.513.xxx
Red - Yellow
160mm
S&R 160mm Insulated Diagonal Side Cutter Cover
S&R Insulated VDE Diagonal Side Cutter/Electrical Wire Cutters 160mm 1000V VDE-Tested (German Electrical Engineering Association Serie) Wire Cutting Pliers

The S&R Insulated Diagonal Cutter is a versatile tool designed for electrical installation work. With a length of 160 mm and a cutting capacity for medium hard wire up to 2.3 mm, you can effortlessly handle various wiring tasks. The ergonomic grip ensures comfort during use, allowing you to work for longer periods without strain. Made from durable chrome-vanadium steel, this cutter is built to last, making it an excellent addition to your toolkit.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Cuts medium hard wires effectively
Ergonomic grip for comfort
Durable chrome-vanadium steel
#TOP 3

Bahco Ergo Side Cutting Pliers 160mm

2101G-160
Multi
160 mm
Bahco Ergo Side Cutting Pliers 160mm Cover
Bahco BAH2101G-160 Ergo Side Cutting Pliers

The Bahco Side Cutting Pliers are designed with user convenience in mind. Their 160mm size is perfect for reaching tight spaces, allowing you to work efficiently in confined areas. The induction hardened cutting edges ensure durability, providing you with long-lasting performance. With a black anti-corrosion finish, these pliers resist wear and tear, giving you peace of mind during use. The round-shaped jaws enhance accessibility, making it easier for you to manoeuvre and cut in challenging positions.

What We Like
Durable induction hardened edges
Anti-corrosion black finish
Improved accessibility in tight spaces
Convenient 160mm size

Draper Redline 160mm Diagonal Side Cutter with Soft Grip

67988
160mm
200mm
Draper Redline 160mm Diagonal Side Cutter with Soft Grip Cover
Draper Redline 160mm Diagonal Side Cutter | Soft Grip Handles | Cutting Pliers | Wire Cutters | Cable Snips | Carbon Steel Hand Tool | 67988

The Draper Redline Side Cutter is designed for durability and comfort. Made from hardened carbon steel, these pliers are built to last, ensuring you can tackle various tasks without worry. The soft grip handles provide a comfortable hold, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. This allows you to work with confidence and precision. Additionally, the jaws and cutting edges are induction hardened, offering superior strength and reliability for all your cutting needs.

What We Like
Durable carbon steel construction
Comfortable soft grip handles
Induction hardened for strength
Reliable performance for various tasks
#TOP 5

Rolson 21023 Heavy Duty Side Cutting Pliers

21023
Yellow
150 mm
Rolson 21023 Heavy Duty Side Cutting Pliers Cover
Rolson 21023 150 mm Side Cutting Pliers

The Rolson 21023 Pliers feature a heavy-duty design that ensures durability, making them suitable for various cutting tasks. Their fully polished micro plating finish not only enhances the tool's appearance but also offers resistance against corrosion, ensuring longevity. With drop-forged, high-quality precision-made cutters, you can expect clean and efficient cuts every time. Plus, the comfortable soft grip provides added comfort during extended use, reducing hand fatigue and improving control. These features make the Rolson 21023 Pliers a reliable choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What We Like
Durable heavy-duty design
Corrosion-resistant finish
Precision-made cutters
Comfortable soft grip
#TOP 6

Stanley VDE Side Cut Plier 160MM

0-84-009
Red/Yellow
Stanley VDE Side Cut Plier 160MM Cover
Stanley VDE Side Cut Plier 160MM 0 84 009

The Stanley VDE Plier is designed to meet strict European standards, ensuring high quality and safety for users. It has been individually tested to withstand up to 10,000 volts, making it safe for use around live circuits up to 1,000 volts. The bi-material handles provide improved control and grip, so you can work confidently. Additionally, the slip guard shoulders enhance safety, reducing the risk of accidents while you work.

What We Like
High voltage testing
Safe for live circuits
Improved grip and control
Enhanced safety features
#TOP 7

Knipex Electronic Super Knips® ESD Precision Pliers

78 61 125 ESD
125 mm
Knipex Electronic Super Knips® ESD Precision Pliers Cover
Knipex Electronic Super Knips® ESD burnished, with multi-component grips 125 mm 78 61 125 ESD

The Knipex ESD Super Knips are precision pliers designed for ultra-fine cutting tasks, particularly beneficial for those working in electronics and fine mechanics. Their electrically discharging handles ensure safety by dissipating static electricity, which is vital when handling sensitive components. With ground, sharp cutting edges, they provide a clean cut without bevels, making them ideal for intricate jobs. Additionally, the shear cut design allows for controlled micro cutting edge misalignment, ensuring you achieve the most precise cuts even on the thinnest wires.

What We Like
Precision cutting for fine tasks
Electrically discharging handles
Very sharp cutting edges
Long service life

Knipex High Leverage Diagonal Cutter 200 mm

74 21 250
Multicoloured
One Size
Knipex High Leverage Diagonal Cutter 200 mm Cover
Knipex High Leverage Diagonal Cutter black atramentized, plastic coated 200 mm 74 21 200

The Knipex Diagonal Cutter is designed for very tough, continuous use, ensuring that you can tackle demanding tasks with ease. Its high cutting performance requires minimal effort thanks to the optimal coordination of the cutting edge angle and transmission ratio. This means you can cut through various types of wire, including piano wire, without straining yourself. Additionally, the precision cutting edges are induction-hardened, providing durability and longevity for all your cutting needs.

What We Like
High cutting performance
Minimal effort required
Durable and long-lasting
Effective on various wires
#TOP 9

IRWIN Vise-Grip 8" Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Standard Diagonal with Spring
One Size
IRWIN Vise-Grip 8" Diagonal Cutting Pliers Cover
IRWIN Vise-Grip Diagonal Cutting Pliers, 8", 2078308, nichel Chromium Steel

The IRWIN Diagonal Cutting Pliers are made from durable nickel chromium steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear. The ProTouch grips offer extra comfort, allowing you to work for extended periods without experiencing hand fatigue. Additionally, the induction hardened cutting edge remains sharper for a longer time, enhancing efficiency in your tasks. With these pliers, you can trust that they meet or exceed ANSI specifications, giving you confidence in their quality and performance.

What We Like
Durable construction
Comfortable grips
Long-lasting sharpness
Meets ANSI specifications

KNIPEX Electronic Super Knips Diagonal Cutter

78 61 125 ESD
125 mm
KNIPEX Electronic Super Knips Diagonal Cutter Cover
KNIPEX Electronic Super Knips Electronics Diagonal Cutter, 125mm, Soft Wire(Copper) to 1.6 mm, Medium Hard Wire to 1.2mm, 78 61 125

The KNIPEX Super Knips is designed for precision cutting, particularly in electronics and fine mechanics. Its very sharp cutting edges allow you to tackle ultra-fine wires, cutting as close to surfaces as possible. With its precisely shaped tips, you can easily cut wires as thin as 0.2 mm, making it convenient for intricate tasks. The shear cut feature ensures minimal misalignment, which enhances cutting accuracy and prolongs the tool's lifespan, providing you with reliable performance for delicate jobs.

What We Like
Ultra-fine cutting capability
Sharp cutting edges
Precise wire cutting
Long service life
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are side cutting pliers used for?

Proper use of side cutting (lineman's) pliers: Many applications including electrical, communications and construction work. Use to grip, splice or cut wires, and strip insulation.

2. What is another name for side cutting pliers?

Diagonal pliers (or wire cutters or diagonal cutting pliers or diagonal cutters or side cutters) are pliers intended for the cutting of wire (they are generally not used to grab or turn anything).

3. Does a side cutter cut wire?

A range of side cutters, also known as diagonal cutters availble for cutting wire. They cut the wire by creating an indentation and then the tool wedges the wire apart, they should not be used in a shearing action. ...

4. What are end cutting pliers?

End cutting pliers (often called end nippers or end cutters) are a set of pliers with a cutting edge designed to help cut through material with a flush finish.

Editor's Notes

During our side-cutting pliers research, we found 280 side-cutting pliers products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 129,033 customer reviews through our big data system to write the side-cutting pliers list. We found that most customers choose side-cutting pliers with an average price of £19.30.

The side-cutting pliers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of side-cutting pliers, including KNIPEX, S&R, Bahco, Draper, Rolson.

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.