What long nose pliers are
Long nose pliers are hand tools with long, tapered jaws that are designed for gripping, holding and bending small items, particularly in tight or hard-to-reach spaces. They are also called needle-nose pliers, and in some places snipe-nose or chain-nose pliers. The names are often used interchangeably, although some catalogs use them for slightly different jaw shapes.
If you are wondering what a needle nose plier looks like, picture a pair of pliers whose jaws narrow to a fine point, usually with fine ridges on the inside faces for grip.
Anatomy of long nose pliers
- Jaws: long and tapered, either flat or slightly rounded on the outside. The inner faces typically have serrations.
- Pivot or joint: where the two halves meet.
- Cutting edges: many designs include a small side cutter near the base of the jaws.
- Handles: often covered in plastic or rubber for grip. Some models have a spring to open the jaws.
What they are used for
The main purpose of pliers in general is to grip, hold, bend or cut items that are hard to handle by hand. Long nose pliers are specifically suited to:
- holding small parts, such as screws or washers, in tight spaces;
- bending and forming thin wire, for example when making loops;
- placing or retrieving small items from tight spots, such as inside an electrical box or an engine bay;
- craft and jewelry work with fine wire.
They are not designed for heavy turning or gripping large items.
Can long nose pliers cut wire?
Many long nose pliers have a small cutting section near the pivot. This is usually suited to thin, soft wire. For thicker or harder wire, a dedicated pair of diagonal cutters is generally a better and safer choice, and forcing a cutter beyond its limits can damage the edges. Check the manufacturer’s information on what your model can cut.
Jaw styles
- Straight jaws are the most common and easy to use.
- Bent jaws (for example 45 or 90 degrees) help reach around obstacles or see the work.
- Smooth jaws can reduce marking on soft materials, while serrated jaws provide a firmer grip.
- Short or mini versions suit fine electronics and jewelry work.
Other common pliers
Combination pliers
Combination pliers have a flat gripping area, a rounded section for gripping pipe or round items, and a cutting edge. They are a useful general-purpose pair for a toolbox.
Slip-joint pliers
Slip-joint pliers have an adjustable pivot to give two jaw-opening positions. They are basic and handle many general tasks.
Tongue-and-groove pliers
These have several positions along the pivot and long handles for leverage. They are often used for gripping larger round objects, and are useful in plumbing tasks.
Locking pliers
Locking pliers clamp onto an item and hold it by themselves. They are useful for holding work in place or gripping damaged fasteners. Because they can mark the surface, use them with care.
Diagonal cutters
Diagonal cutters, also called side cutters, are designed to snip wire and small pins. The angled jaws let you cut close to a surface.
Linesman pliers
Linesman pliers are a heavy-duty version of combination pliers with a flat gripping face and a cutter, often used in electrical work.
Choosing pliers
- Think about the task. Fine, tight work calls for long nose pliers, and general gripping suits combination pliers.
- Check the fit of the jaws. They should meet evenly at the tips.
- Consider the handles. Comfort matters if you will use them for a long time.
- Look at the build. Hardened steel and a smooth pivot are good signs.
Safe use and care
- Do not use ordinary pliers on live electrical circuits. Insulated handles on a pair of pliers are not a guarantee of safety unless they are specifically rated for electrical work. Switch off and isolate power before working.
- Do not use pliers as a hammer or an extension lever.
- Wear eye protection when cutting wire, because the cut ends can fly off.
- Keep the pivot clean and lightly oiled, and store them dry.
Frequently asked questions
What is the proper use of long nose pliers?
They are for holding, bending and positioning small items in tight spaces. Use light pressure and avoid heavy twisting.
What does a needle nose plier look like?
It has long, narrow jaws that taper to a point, with serrations inside and a pivot and two handles.
What is the main purpose of pliers?
Pliers grip, hold, bend and sometimes cut materials that are difficult to handle by hand.
Can long nose pliers cut wires?
Many can cut thin wire with a built-in cutter, but for thicker wire a separate cutter is better.
For other hand tools you may use together with pliers, see our guides to screwdriver tip types and different types of hammers.