Lineman’s pliers from Klein Tools exhibit some of the highest quality in the industry. Made with high-end US tool steel and sporting induction-hardened cutting edges along with special features such as a handle design that reduces vibration and a unique handle tempering that mitigates the “snap” when cutting wire, they are some of the best lineman’s pliers for the money, bar none.

They’re also manufactured to a level of quality that will last a lifetime, assuming they are properly cared for. This short guide should help on that end. 

Daily Inspection

First things first, a tool that lasts starts with using it for its intended purpose only. Klein Tools may be tough but they should still be reserved for what they’re designed for. 

While Klein lineman’s pliers are built to a high standard of quality and are relatively simple in design, they can still be damaged by improper use. Inspect them daily to make sure there is no play in the joint and that the handle covering is in good shape. Replace any tools that have damaged jaws or handles or which are loose sooner rather than later.

Routine Cleaning

Daily inspection will help you catch issues before they become larger than they need to be, but routine cleaning will also help keep your Klein Tools in good shape, not just your lineman’s pliers.

Over time, dirt and debris will accumulate in your lineman’s plier, such as in and around the jaws or in the riveted joint. If you don’t remove it, it will accelerate abrasion of the tool or trap moisture that can cause corrosion. 

Light dirt accumulation may be removed with a damp rag. Thicker accumulations of grease or dirt will require a little more attention. Grease-cutting soaps and other detergents can be used to remove deposits of dirt or grime. 

Light rust can be removed with fine steel wool. If there are larger accumulations of rust, they can be removed with a wire brush wheel. This should be able to bring the pliers back up to speed. 

Chemical assists can also help remove rust in some situations, as can some household remedies, such as baking soda and lemon juice. Just mix together a 1:1 ration, apply it to the tool, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it off. It should take an appreciable amount of rust with it. 

Smart Storage 

High humidity will eventually cause rust on any tool, even if they are made with corrosion-resistant alloys. 

Therefore, it is critical to store your lineman’s pliers (and other Klein Tools) in a cool, dry area with low humidity. Keep your tools stored in a climate-controlled location if possible. When traveling, carry your tools in a box or bag rather than loose in the bed of a truck. 

Lastly, you should periodically oil your lineman’s pliers to keep them working properly and to protect against corrosion. A light coat of machine oil or WD-40 on the jaws and in the joint should do the trick.

Need a New Pair of Lineman’s Pliers from Klein Tools

If you landed here looking for Klein Tools like a replacement pair of lineman’s pliers, visit TMT Toolbox. Though they specialize in machine tools and accessories, they also carry a wide range of other tools; check out their catalog and get in touch with them for more information.

For more information About End Mills and Turning Inserts please visit: TMT Toolbox.