Fence Stretcher Splicer - Dutton-Lainson 400 All-Purpose Tool

Our review of the Dutton-Lainson 400 All-Purpose Fence Stretcher/Splicer finds it best suited for farmers, ranchers, and serious DIYers who need a durable, US-made tool to repair and tension fencing. The bottom line: this is a heavy-duty, straightforward tool that makes stretching and splicing high tensile, barbed, or smooth wire far easier than wrestling with hand tools alone. It earns its place on the utility belt because it clamps securely to posts or trees and combines stretching and splicing functions in a single, rugged device.

Key Features

• All-purpose stretcher: Works on high tensile, barbed, and smooth wire so one tool covers common fencing needs.
• Secure clamping: Can be clamped to the smallest post or a large tree to hold the tool in place while tensioning wire.
• Splicing function: Clamps one end of a broken wire while the traveling hook draws the other end for a clean splice.
• Raises and lowers wire: Useful for adjusting line height when repairing or re-tensioning fences.
• U.S. made build: Built as the original stretcher-splicer used by farmers and ranchers, emphasizing durability and simple mechanics.

Who It's For

The Dutton-Lainson 400 is aimed at agricultural users and property owners who perform regular fence maintenance: ranchers, small farmers, and land managers who need a dependable tool to stretch and splice wire on long runs of fencing. Its robust build and multi-function design save time when repairing or tightening high tensile and barbed wire.

People who only need occasional light garden repairs or who prefer powered, mechanized equipment may want a different solution; the 400 is a manual, heavy-duty tool best appreciated by those who work with fencing regularly and value proven, simple mechanics.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Heavy-duty construction and American manufacture provide a durable, long-lasting tool.
• Combines stretching and splicing functions, reducing the number of tools needed on the job.
• Clamps securely to posts or trees, allowing hands-free tensioning for stapling or fastening.

Cons

• Some users report mixed performance from the wire grip and occasional slipping with certain wire sizes or conditions.
• Paint quality is inconsistent across units, which is cosmetic but notable for those expecting a pristine finish.

Specifications

Product	Dutton-Lainson 400 All-Purpose Fence Stretcher/Splicer
Primary use	Stretching and splicing wire
Wire types	High tensile, barbed wire, smooth wire
Mounting	Clamps to posts, trees, or wire
Made in	U.S.
Functionality	Stretching, splicing, raising and lowering wire

Our Verdict

The Dutton-Lainson 400 is a practical, value-minded choice for anyone who regularly works on agricultural fencing. Its combination of stretching and splicing, plus secure clamping and solid construction, make it a time-saver and a durable addition to a farm toolbox. Buyers should accept minor cosmetic flaws and be mindful of proper jaw seating with different wire types to avoid slippage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this tool handle high tensile wire?
Yes, the 400 is designed to tighten high tensile wire as well as barbed and smooth wire.

Will it clamp to a tree or post?
Yes, the tool can be securely clamped to the smallest post or a large tree until released.

Does it splice broken wire?
Yes, it clamps one wire while the traveling hook draws the other end to form a splice for repairs.