’Vice Grips’ : What about ’em?

‘Vise Grips’ are the Swiss Army ‘knife’ of hand tools. Every tool box/kit should have at least one. There are several sizes and configurations for different applications.

I only recommend the ‘Vice Grip’ brand. You can pay half price for a knock-off that won’t last half the time and could cause injury if over stressed. Don’t ask me how I know…

Remember tools are designed to accomplish a specific task. If you follow any of my suggestions, you could damage the tool which may cause injury. So be cautious and use common sense!

Here are some of the capabilities that I’ve utilized:

Pliers – “Duh, we know that.”

Clamp – “We know that too! Get on with it…”

Needle nose – If you have this configuration, note that the jaws are not as sturdy as standard jaws. Great for cotter pins and some circlips.

Wrench – Be sure to adjust properly to avoid damaging the bolt head flats.

Screw driver – For non-flush screw heads, follow the above caution. Maximum pressure area is applied in line with screw, not at 90 degrees.

Wire cutter – Did you know the base of the standard jaws has a wire cutter? You may want to LIGHTLY dress the cutters. Do not over do it!

Small hammer – With jaws locked, use top of top edge of handle above rivet. Be careful!

Nail puller – Lock on nail near the bottom and use a pivot under pliers. Pliers should be 90 degrees to nail. Do not pull straight (in line with nail) out to avoid injury.

Small pry bar – Gingerly use the bottom handle unlocked. Be careful!