Buyer's Guide
Channel locks are used by carpenters, mechanics and other tradesmen to secure items such as doors, cabinets and drawers. They come in various sizes and shapes, but they all have two things in common: they use a locking mechanism and they have grooves cut into their handles.
Channel Lock Pliers are a type of plier made for working with metal. They feature two jaws that fit together like a key into a lock. The jaws are shaped to work with each other, allowing you to bend metal without damaging it. Channel Lock Pliers are useful for bending sheet metal, cutting wire, and many other tasks involving metal. You can find these tools at hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers.
You will need to know how to operate the pliers before using them. To open the pliers, grip the handles firmly and pull down towards yourself until the handles separate. This action opens the jaws of the pliers. Next, grasp the handle ends between your thumb and forefinger and squeeze the handles together. This action locks the jaws closed. Now you can begin shaping metal.
Channel locks are useful tools for any tool user. Whether you use them for locking pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, or other hand tools, they're a must-have item. But did you know that channel locks aren't just for professionals? Anyone can use them to protect their possessions.
The best thing about channel locks is that they're inexpensive. Channel locks are made of plastic and metal, which makes them durable and affordable. They're also easy to clean and store. Plus, they're lightweight, so you won't notice them while using your tools.
But channel locks aren't just for protecting your belongings. They can also be used to secure items such as bicycles, luggage, and backpacks. They're also handy for securing loose objects around the house. For instance, you could use one to hold down a piece of paper while writing a letter. Or you could use one to attach a picture frame to a wall.
There are two types of channel locks. One type has a spring loaded mechanism that automatically closes once the object being locked is removed. The other type requires manual operation to close.
Both types of channel locks are designed to fit over most standard sized fasteners. However, they do require a bit of practice before you can master how to use them properly. Once you learn how to operate them correctly, though, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them.
To start learning how to use channel locks, check out our video tutorial below. Then, read through this guide to learn more about these versatile tools.
Channel locks are used to secure items such as keys, wallets, cell phones, etc. They are very useful tools that come in handy every now and then. When buying a set of channel lock pliers, it's important to purchase a quality pair. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your decision:
Look for quality materials. Quality pliers are made of metal, plastic, wood, or rubber. Metal pliers have been known to wear down quickly if they aren't cared for properly. Plastic pliers tend to break easily. Wood pliers may warp after years of use. Rubber pliers do not hold up well under heavy loads. Make sure that you buy quality pliers so that you'll enjoy their service life.
Look for durability. Durability refers to how long a tool will last. You want to find a pair of pliers that will withstand heavy duty tasks. For example, you wouldn't want to use a pair of pliers to open a safe. Instead, you would want to use a pair of locking pliers to open a safe. Look for durable pliers that won't let you down.
Look for versatility. Versatility means that a tool will perform multiple functions. A versatile pair of pliers should be able to open a variety of different types of objects. For example, you might need a pair of pliers to open a combination padlock, but you'd probably never need them to open a regular padlock. Look for a pair of pliers that performs many different jobs.
Look for ease of operation. Ease of operation refers to how easy it is to operate a tool. Tools that are difficult to operate are frustrating to use. Look for a pair of pliers that makes opening objects quick and simple. This will save you time and frustration.
Look for safety features. Safety features refer to any protective measures taken by manufacturers to ensure that users' hands remain protected. For instance, most pairs of pliers include a guard to protect against injury. Look for a pair of pliers that includes safety features like guards.
Versatile tools. Channel lock pliers are versatile tools that work well for many tasks. They allow you to easily cut through metal, wood, plastic, leather, rubber and more. Plus, they feature a comfortable grip design that makes them easier to hold than other types of pliers.
Easy to clean. Because these pliers are made of stainless steel, they're easy to clean. Simply wipe down the handles with soap and warm water and let dry completely before using again.
Strong construction. These pliers are built strong enough to withstand heavy duty applications. That means you can safely handle materials such as nails, screws, bolts, wire, etc., without worrying about breaking them.
Comfortable grip. The ergonomic shape of these pliers provides a comfortable grip that allows you to comfortably hold onto the tool while working. This makes it easier to control the material being worked on.
Lightweight. With their lightweight design, these pliers weigh less than most other types of pliers. That means you can carry them around with ease.
Durability. Made from durable materials, these pliers are built to stand up to everyday wear and tear. And since they're made of stainless steel, they're corrosion resistant and won't rust over time.
Versatility. Whether you're cutting wires, bending pipes or opening boxes, these pliers are great for just about anything.
Quality. At Harbor Freight Tools®, we only sell quality tools. That's why we've been trusted by generations of do-it-yourselfers for nearly 100 years!
To open or close a box, simply insert the tip into the top seam of the box and gently pull upward until the lid pops off. Then remove the lid and set aside.
To bend pipe, place the jaws against the end of the pipe and apply even pressure.
Channel Lock Pliers are a versatile tool that can be used for many purposes. Channel Lock Pliers are commonly known as Channel Locks. They are primarily used for locking two pieces of metal together. They are also useful for opening boxes, cutting wire, removing screws, and many other tasks. Below we will discuss some of the best options available on the market today.
Tongue Groove Channellock Pliers. Tongue Groove Channellock Pliers are a classic style of plier. They consist of two jaws that fit together like a key and a lock. When closed, the jaws grip the item between them. To open the jaws, simply pull apart. Tongue Groove Channellock Pliers are inexpensive and widely available. Channel Lock Pliers are well suited for basic applications.
Groove Pliers. Groove Pliers are a newer design that was created by adding a third jaw to the traditional tongued grooved pliers. Channel Lock Pliers are slightly larger than standard tongued grooved pliers. They are also more comfortable to hold. Channel Lock Pliers are especially good for working with small items. Channel Lock Pliers are also less likely to slip off of objects.
Channellock Pliers. Channellock Pliers are a modern version of the classic tongued grooved pliers. They feature three jaws instead of two. Channel Lock Pliers are also called "Locking Pliers" due to their ability to lock two parts of an object together. Channel Lock Pliers are particularly useful for holding down wires and cables.
Channellock® Pliers. Channellock® Pliers are a brand name version of the classic tongued grooved pliers. These are manufactured under license by Stanley Black & Decker. They are also referred to as "Lockring Pliers". These are a little pricier than regular tongued grooved pliers but they are worth every penny.
FAQs
Channel lock pliers are designed to open and close car doors without damaging the door itself. They have two sets of jaws that grip opposite sides of the door's locking mechanism. When the pliers squeeze together, they force the jaws into the grooves of the locking mechanism. As soon as the pliers release, the jaws spring back out of the grooves, unlocking the door.
They were invented in the early 1900s by a man named John C. Channellock. He was working at a locksmith shop when he noticed that his customers often damaged their cars' door locks trying to unlock them. To avoid this problem, he created a pair of pliers that could quickly and easily open and close car doors without causing damage.
When you use channel lock pliers, you simply press the handles together to grab the locking mechanism between the jaws. Then, you pull the handles apart until the jaws snap into the grooves of the locking mechanism. Once the pliers let go, the jaws spring back out of the grooves, releasing the door.
No, sometimes the locking mechanisms on your car doors won't respond to channel lock pliers. If this happens, try another brand of pliers. Or, if possible, take the car to a professional mechanic.
But, if you want quality tools that will last longer than cheap ones, then you'll probably want to invest a little bit more.
If you're buying a set of channel lock pliers, you should definitely get new ones. Refurbished pliers aren't as good as new ones. And, even though they cost less, they're likely to break sooner than new ones.
Smaller pliers are better suited for smaller objects like keys and coins. Larger pliers are better suited for larger objects like car doors.
Channellock has been making high-quality pliers since the 1920s. Their products are well known among mechanics and auto enthusiasts around the world.
To keep your pliers looking nice, wash them regularly with soap and water. Don't forget about the inside!
