I’ve been using Klein’s 10-in. plier wrench (model D530-10) for a couple months, and it’s been surprisingly useful. This large-jaw plier tool is a combination of an adjustable wrench and large-capacity pliers and its jaws open to 2 in., with 20 sizes (with detents) in between. The lever and button that allow you to adjust how far the jaws open took a little getting used to, but can be managed even in tight spaces. But the big news with these pliers is that the jaws can be switched from a smooth to a toothed grip in seconds—this added utility is what sold me on the tool.

The toothed V-jaw can grab on to electric conduit or rigid gas pipe with plenty of leverage. Flip the jaw around to tackle hex nuts and other tasks where a flat, parallel jaw is the better option (anywhere you’d use a traditional adjustable wrench). I even successfully used the pliers to tighten some highly visible chrome-finished plumbing connections. You won’t hesitate to switch jaws as it just takes a few seconds. Push the release lever, pull out the bottom jaw, flip it around, and re-install. That versatility has earned these pliers a permanent spot in my tool bag. The pliers are made in the U.S. with U.S-made steel and retail for about $50.

—Josh Risberg, a carpenter in Rosemount, Minn.

Photo: courtesy of the manufacturer. From Fine Homebuilding #314

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