Side Cutter Linemans Pliers 9-in - High Leverage Cutting & Crimping

In this review of the Side Cutter Lineman's Pliers 9-in, the bottom line is simple: these pliers are built for tradespeople who need a durable, high-leverage tool that handles cutting, crimping and tape pulling without compromise. The reviewer found the combination of a rivet placed closer to the cutting edge and induction-hardened knives delivers noticeably greater cutting power on hardened wire and ACSR, while the built-in crimper and fish tape channel add real utility on electrical and telecom jobs.

Key Features

• High-leverage design: The rivet location gives roughly 46 percent greater cutting and gripping power, making heavy cuts feel easier and more controlled.
• Induction-hardened cutting knives: Hardened edges stay sharp longer and resist wear when cutting screws, nails and most hardened wire.
• Built-in crimper: The integrated crimp channel handles non-insulated connectors, lugs and terminals so you can finish splices without switching tools.
• Fish tape channel: A dedicated channel pulls steel fish tape cleanly without damaging the tape, which is useful on pulling and routing tasks.
• Hot-riveted joint and US tool steel: The hot-riveted joint ensures smooth action with no handle wobble and the Custom US-made tool steel increases longevity.
• Knurled jaws and Journeyman handles: Cross-hatched jaws improve grip on hardware while dual-material handles provide a secure, comfortable hold and shock absorption when cutting.

Who It's For

These pliers are aimed at electricians, linemen, telecom technicians and serious DIYers who regularly cut copper, aluminum and hardened wire or who need an all-in-one lineman's tool that can crimp, cut and pull tape. The durable construction and hardened cutting edges suit daily jobsite use and long-term ownership.

Those who should look elsewhere include casual users who rarely cut heavy wire and prioritize a lighter, multi-tool alternative, or anyone who needs insulated pliers rated for live electrical work; this model does not claim insulated live-voltage protection.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional cutting power from the rivet placement and high-leverage design makes tough cuts feel smoother.
• Induction-hardened knives and hot-riveted joint deliver long life and steady, wobble-free action.
• Built-in crimper and fish tape channel reduce the need to carry multiple tools on the job.
• Comfortable Journeyman handles improve grip and reduce hand shock during repeated cutting.

Cons

• Not insulated for live electrical work, so it is not a substitute for voltage-rated pliers.
• At 9 in, the tool is bulkier than compact multi-tools, which may be overkill for occasional household tasks.

Specifications

Product	Side Cutter Lineman's Pliers, 9-in
Cutting capability	ACSR, screws, nails and most hardened wire
Crimper	Built-in for non-insulated connectors, lugs and terminals
Fish tape feature	Built-in channel pulls steel fish tape without damage
Construction	Custom US-made tool steel with induction-hardened cutting knives
Joint	Hot-riveted for smooth action and no handle wobble
Handle	Dual-material Journeyman handles with cross-hatched knurled jaws

Our Verdict

For professionals and serious hobbyists who need a durable lineman's plier that cuts hardened wire, crimps connectors and handles fish tape without damage, this 9-in model is good value for the money. Its high-leverage geometry and hardened knives make heavy cutting tasks easier while the built-in crimper and tape channel reduce tool changes on the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these pliers insulated for live circuits?
No, these pliers are not insulated or rated for live electrical work; they are designed for cutting, crimping and cable handling.

Can they cut ACSR and thicker cable?
Yes, the induction-hardened knives and rivet placement are specified to cut ACSR and most hardened wire with improved leverage.

Is the fish tape channel safe for steel tape?
Yes, the built-in channel is designed to pull steel fish tape without damaging the tape.