Irwin VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers (GV)

When it comes to gripping and holding tasks most of us tend to reach for the ubiquitous pliers. There are numerous designs on the market, but all share the same basic design, consisting of a head with some kind of gripping jaws, a pivoting mechanism that serves as a fulcrum, and a pair of pivoting handles. The best pliers are those that provide the maximum functionality. I always prefer a single tool that can replace two or more tools; its saves space in my tool box (or on my tool belt) and increases my productivity.

The Irwin VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers (GV#) offer a number of interesting features that will appeal to tradespeople and avid DIYers alike.

The pliers comes in three jaw configurations: v-Jaw (all-purpose), straight jaw and smooth jaw. Straight jaws have teeth, while smooth jaws are straight jaws without teeth. They come in 6", 8", 10", 12" and 20" lengths. The 10" model that I tested has a 2-1/4" depth of jaw.

Of the three configurations, I find the v-jaws to be the most generally useful. You can grab just about any shape, and they hold like nobody's business. The straight jaws are ideal for clamping items with parallel edges, while the smooth jaws are indispensible for grabbing onto delicate surfaces you don't want to mar - brass, aluminum, plastic and the like. According to Irwin the jaw teeth are milled at right angles for maximum bite.

Irwin uses a metal injection molding process (read more here) that results in an end product with properties comparable, or better than those of wrought steel. The exposed portion of the tool is treated for rust resistance, while the handles are covered with a durable, rubber overmold. The handles are comfortable to hold and use, are well-balanced, and are designed so that when using them at any jaw width they won't pinch your fingers. I found that even when wet the handles don't slip in your hands.

Press-n-slide makes for quick jaw adjustment

Multi-groove ratcheting design provides for precise jaw positioning

The 'groovelock' feature is what really sets these pliers apart from other models on the market. With the press of a button the jaws effortlessly slide open to the desired position, and lock in place when you release the button. The 18 groove positions on the ratcheting system gives a wide range of openings, enabling you to reposition the jaws in about 1/8" increments for an absolutely precise tool-to-work-piece fit.

You don't need to press the button to move the jaws from a larger to narrower jaw depth, or to the closed position; just slide the lower jaw upwards. I found this 'press-n-slide' design to be intuitive and very quick acting.

Big mouth - 2-1/4" jaw travel on the 10" model

One tool replaces a range of wrenches

These are well designed and manufactured tools that you won't regret buying, and with a lifetime guarantee you won't have to worry about replacing.

Reviewed September 2010