KNIPEX Tools 74 21 200, 8-Inch High Leverage Angled Diagonal Cutters

Let me cut to the chase: the KNIPEX Diagonal Cutters are a game-changer. It's Knipex, need I say more? The brand's reputation for quality precedes itself, and these cutters certainly live up to the hype.First off, the build quality is impeccable. These cutters feel sturdy and durable in hand, a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into every Knipex tool. The high leverage design makes cutting effortless, even through tougher materials, saving both time and effort.I was lucky enough to snag these at a great sale price, and I couldn't resist picking up a second pair for my father-in-law. That's how confident I am in their performance. They're exactly what I needed to round out my tool collection, and I have no doubt they'll serve me well for years to come.In short, if you're in the market for a reliable pair of diagonal cutters, look no further than the KNIPEX. With Knipex, you know you're getting quality, and these cutters are no exception. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

*UPDATE*So I got myself a new set of these to replace my old ones...twice. First set wouldn't open/close easily, blades didn't look completely finished, and the markings on the handles were already worn off. Returned, figuring I got a lemon. Got my second set, they open and close just fine, markings are all there, only problem is the blades don't line up, so they cut like crap. Trying to cut tape it just bends the tape instead of cutting it. Seems like they must be cutting corners to keep up with demand, and the quality just isn't there any more. Go get yourself a set of blue handle Kleins and call it a day, these just aren't worth it any more.*ORIGINAL REVIEW*Been using these for about a year and a half now, as a professional commercial/industrial electrician. These 8" cutters are probably some of the best you can buy in my opinion. They're small, light, cut most anything without taking significant damage to the blades, fit perfectly in the hand, and hold up over time.I recently blew my pair up cutting a wire I thought was dead, and most likely I'll probably get another pair of the same. They really are just that good. I've cut #2 copper, jack chain, 12/2 MC, 12/2 NM, countless screws, nails, staples and just about everything else I've come across with these, and they've held up great.Don't believe all the hype though, these dull over time just like anything else. Recently had to demo out a bunch of 12/4 BX (steel armor) cable, and these had an awful tough time getting through it. First kind of cable I've come across where I've had to cut half at a time with these cutters. Even with 12/3 MC they'd make it through in one shot, but not with this stuff. The steel armor definitely dulled the blades a significant amount as well - there are a few spots I can see daylight in the blades now.I also have a set of the 10" cutters, which perform just as well, though it's hard to describe how much bigger the 10" cutters are. The handles are thicker, the whole thing is significantly heavier, the handle throw is longer to get around the same size wire as the 8" version, and they're just overall more awkward to use. By "handle throw", I mean with the 8" cutters, you may have to open the handles 4 inches to get around a 12/2 MC and cut it, but with the 10" cutters, you're looking at a 5-6" throw to get around the same cable. With my hand size, it makes the 10" cutters almost impractical to use. If you're on the fence about getting the 8" vs the 10", I'd recommend the 8" version by far. You don't gain *that* much extra leverage with the 10" version, and if you're cutting stuff big enough to need the extra leverage, you should probably be using your linesman pliers instead anyway.I've tried the Klein red handle cutters, the Klein "heavy duty" blue handle cutters, the Klein J2000 "Journeyman" series cutters, the Irwin cutters made by NWS, and these Knipex cutters, and these are still my favorites. They take all the abuse I can give them, hold up long enough to make them worth the price, fit in tight spaces and cut like a dream. If you're on the fence between these and pretty much anything else on the market, I'd recommend these by a mile.

Love these pliers. I originally bought a large set of different pliers to gift to someone starting out in the HVAC trade. As these Knipex tools started arriving, I checked them out. I was really impressed with the feel and quality of the tools. I had bought all new Irwin pliers for myself earlier the same year. So I ended up keeping the Knipex tools and gifting the nearly new Irwin tools. I couldn't be happier (and so is my son in law.).Admittedly, the first few tools that arrived were smaller than I expected. The Knipex 8" diagonal cutters, for example, were considerably smaller than the 8" Irwin brand. But, I have smaller hands so it worked out great for me. Everything about these pliers is great. The feel great. They're balanced very nicely. They operate very smoothly and the ones that adjust work very nicely. The jaws on the gripping pliers are fantastic. I tend to use the smaller "channel locks" for almost everything. They do a great job.

It's an outstanding wire cutter It has never failed and you can tell it's top quality by the feel and craftsmanship

Best wire cutters I’ve ever used hands down !! Knipex never disappoints !!

Knipex. German quality. You get what you pay for. Great Tools. Recently swapped out all my pliers, nail puller and side cutter to Knipex.

Cuts like butter cheaper than the 1000v

Their isnt much these cutters cant handle ( obviously within reason) . They are wicked sharp and using them is effortless. The handles dont dig into your palm like most other side cutters. they do feel deceptively light but dont be fooled. they are by no means a light duty tool. The hinge does come a little stiff from the factory but working them back and forth for 30 seconds usually does the trick.