Channel-Lock 4.5" Ignition Pliers are #1 in versatility.
Written: Dec 24 '03 (Updated Dec 24 '03)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Compact, easy to adjust jaws, sharp teeth grip strongly on hard metal surfaces.
Cons: At $13 they are on the expensive side, can be hard to find at hardware-stores.
The Bottom Line: A big help to any man or woman looking for light-duty do-it-all pocket pliers. With a lifetime-warranty and Channel-Lock's reputation for quality, the Model-424 wins hands down.
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| openroad's Full Review: Channel-Lock Ignition Pliers 424 |
----- Introduction -----
When someone mentions Channel-Lock pliers, most people think of the large 12” or 14” models. Channel-Lock has been making tools since 1964, and their signature blue comfort grips signal a quality tool is in your hand. You'll often find Channel-Lock tools on the tool-trucks that cater to automotive garages, and if it's trusted by mechanics it's good enough for me. Channel-Lock makes quite a few different tools including their well-known pliers, nail nippers, wire cutters, lineman’s tools, and many more. In my opinions the most overlooked tool of their whole product line has to be the Model 424 4.5” angle-tooth pliers. These little wonders are handy in so many situations it’s almost the perfect pocket tool. They do run a little on the expensive side at $13, but they last quite a while.
----- Why Do I Like Them? -----
I like these little pliers because you have a 5-piece wrench set in your pocket at all times. The model 424 has an effective working range of 1 /2” fully open down to totally closed for very small jobs. Three easily adjustable settings allow you to size the jaw for the job at hand. They work great for coaxing out a partially stripped bolt or screw, holding one side of a bolt while you use a wrench on the other end, and I’ve even used them to lift hot objects such as charcoal grill screens. If you leave a pair in your boat, car, or truck, you’ll soon find many uses for them. Pulling a blown fuse, removing an old wiper blade, tightening loose bolts, and even small jobs you run into when away from home. I always carry a pair of these whether I’m working or off duty, and I’ve used them quite often while at friends houses.
The first time my Dad pulled them out in front of his friend he was asked; “What are those good-for-nothing pliers for?” After using them he bought a pair for himself and gave me a nickname for mine. Since then my Dad and I have always referred to them as “good-for-nuthin’s” as an inside joke.
The only fault I’ve found the model 424 is their weakness in side-to-side torque load situations. If you’re clamping on an object and twist the handle sideways, there is a chance you’ll snap the jaw at the pivot point. I’ve done this to at least 5 or 6 pairs, and my local hardware store has always replaced them under warranty. Channel-Lock tools are covered by a lifetime warranty by the manufacturer. I must admit, I do put an excessive strain on these little pliers, and when they have broken it is mostly due to misuse. Under normal situations a 424 should last a long time, and the only thing you’ll notice are the teeth wearing down as you use them.
I wholeheartedly recommend these pliers for their versatility and compact size. They do run a bit to the expensive side at $13 a pair, but it will be easy to justify the cost after you’ve used them a few times. A pair of 424 pliers would make an excellent gift for the mechanically inclined relative, or a child going off to school… just remember to keep a pair at home for yourself!
Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!
Openroad
Related Links:
(Channel Lock Model 440 12" tongue & groove pliers. )
(Channel Lock Grip-Lock Model GL-12 12" utility pliers. )
Recommended:
Yes
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