PSA: My Klein crimper gave out halfway through a big apartment job in Tacoma

I was up on a ladder in a new build, finishing a run for a whole floor of units. Went to crimp a connector and the handle just snapped clean off. Not a bend, a full break. The plastic housing split right where the metal hinge pin sits. Had to climb down, dig through my truck for the backup, and lost about 40 minutes. This tool was maybe 18 months old, used almost every day. I've put way more pressure on older ones without a problem. Makes me wonder if the plastic formula changed or I just got a bad one. What's your go-to crimper brand that can take a real beating?

3 comments

3 Comments

wendy2051mo ago

Knipex has never let me down (even the old ones).

-1

white.grant1d ago

My dad's old Knipex pliers are the same way. The grips are worn smooth but they still lock up tight. It's crazy how a tool can last through two generations of projects without a hiccup. They just don't make stuff like that anymore.

ellis.casey1mo ago

Got a pair from my dad's old toolbox. Still work like new.