Slip joint pliers

Narrow position.

Wide position.

Slip joint pliers are a type of pliers characterized by an adjustable pivot point or fulcrum. This mechanism allows the user to alter the jaw opening range, increasing their versatility. Pliers in general have been essential tools since the Bronze Age, particularly for handling hot objects, and the name "pliers" derives from the French word "pincers," meaning 'to pinch', reflecting their basic operational principle. ^[1]

Typically, slip joint pliers incorporate a mechanism that enables the pivot point to be repositioned into one of several pre-set locations. This adjustment is usually achieved by sliding the pivot when the pliers are fully opened. Jaw configurations can vary, including thick, thin, and regular designs. Some slip joint pliers offer multiple pivot positions, further enhancing their adaptability.

Jaws can be thick, thin, regular and multiple. Multiple ones are those slip joint pliers that provide 2 or more pivoting positions.

Varieties

There are many different varieties of slip joint pliers, including straight slip joint pliers, tongue-and-groove pliers.

Straight slip joint pliers

Straight slip joint pliers are configured similarly to common or lineman's pliers in that their jaws are in line with their handles. One side of the pliers usually has two holes that are connected by a slot for the pivot. The pivot is fastened to the other side and shaped such that it can slide through the slot when the pliers are fully opened.

Tongue-and-groove pliers

Main article: Tongue-and-groove pliers

Tongue-and-groove pliers have their jaws offset from their handles and have several positions at which the lower jaw can be positioned.

References

1. Ali, Azlan (2025-02-22). "Slip-Joint Pliers: Guide to History, Types, Uses, & Features". Tool Tested. Retrieved 2025-02-22.