Every professional electrician and networking Eng. must have a good pair of wire strippers in their toolkit. Having the best wire stripping tool makes your work easier and also helps you save a lot of time.
Many people assume that this device is only used for cutting and removing the rubbing coating encasing the wire. But some of these devices can even cut screws, crimp terminals, and slick thick cables.
Using a wire stripper can boost productivity for both professionals and DIYers. With the help of this amazing device, you can repair a lot of things in your house and car. This tool comes in handy when you are wiring an entire house.
If you are looking for the best wire strippers, you are in luck. We have handpicked some of the most reliable and top-rated wire strippers for you. So without wasting any time, let’s get started with the reviews.
Best Wire Stripper Reviews
Here is a curated list of the Best wire strippers for you to choose from. Go through the reviews and choose the one that is most suitable for you.
#1. IRWIN Vise-Grip Wire Stripper: Our Top Pick
- Wire cutter with induction hardened cutting edge stays sharp longer
- Strips and cuts 10-22 AWG
- Pliers style nose allows wire stripper to pull and loop in wire
For fast and easy stripping, you can rely on the IRWIN Vise-Grip Wire Stripping Tool. It comes with soft-grip handles for comfortable use.
Why is it Unique?
This tool is designed with textured-grip handles and has AWG selection dials. Other features include built-in crimpers, spring-assisted jaw openings, and quick-release locks.
The dual-metal construction makes the tool durable and unstoppable. You can use this device to get all types of electrical and wire-based work done with ease.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers claim this to be the ultimate wire-stripping tool. It combines the benefit of multiple tools into one. For instance, it can be used as a wire cutter, wire stripper, plier, and wire crimper.
This is one of the most versatile tools you will find in the market. You can use this tool to work on different sizes of wires, ranging from 10 to 22 AWG.
PROS
- It is a versatile tool.
- It combines the benefits of four tools into one.
- It comes with soft-grip handles.
- It has induction-hardened cutting edges.
CONS
- It cannot be used with one hand.
Best Fit For
This stripping tool is best suited for people with large hands. You can use it to cut, strip, grab, and crimp wires.
#2. GGE WG-015 Professional 8-inch Wire Stripper: Best Multifunctional
- ✅ 8 inch Professional Wire Stripper: Cuts, strips wire and loops 10-22 AWG Solid copper wire or...
- ✅ Easy To Use: Strong-gripping serrated nose for easy bending, shaping, and pulling of wire
- ✅ Designed Grip Handle:Cutting action combined with ergonomic curved handle, designed non-slip...
If you want a high-quality, multifunctional tool, then the WGGE WG-015 Professional Stripper tool could be the best option for you.
Why is it Unique?
With the help of this tool, you can easily cut and strip solid aluminum and copper wires, ranging from 10 to 22 AWG. Not just that, but you can also use it to grip, shape, bend, and pull wires.
It has a strong-gripping serrated nose for easy operation. The ergonomically curved handle helps reduce hand fatigue, so you can work comfortably.
Buyer’s Experience
According to buyers, they find this tool very easy to use. The rubber-made handle provides a solid grip and prevents the tool from slipping.
This tool can be used for crimping both insulated and non-insulated wires. Plus, it is provided with a lifetime warranty.
PROS
- It has ergonomic handles.
- It is easy to use.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It is best suited for copper and aluminum wires.
CONS
- It is not very durable.
Best Fit For
This tool is a must-have for every professional electrician. It can be used to cut, crimp, and strip wires with ease. It is best suited for copper and aluminum wires.
#3. Klein Tools 11063W Wire Stripper: Best Performance
- Wire Stripper and Cutter cuts and strips 8-20 AWG solid and 10-22 AWG stranded wire with ease
- Compound action stripping: grip and strip via single-action squeezing motion
- Precision machined stripping holes easily remove insulation without damaging the wire
Klein wire strippers are the best when it comes to performance. With the Klein Tools 11063W Wire Stripper, you can get the job done with ease.
Why it is Unique?
This is an efficient tool that can cut and strip wires up to 8-20 AWG. For stranded wires, the range is 10-22 AWG.
It is meant for compound action stripping via single-action squeezing motion. This tool is designed for precision machined stripping. Unlike many other strippers, this one can be used to remove insulation without damaging the wire.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers have highly rated this tool because of its efficiency. It can cut and strip wires with ease, without damaging the terminals.
With this tool, there’s no need for you to manually pull the wire to expose the conductor inside.
PROS
- It allows for compound-action stripping for single-handed tasks.
- Can strip wire insulation up to an inch.
- It gives precise and accurate wire fitting.
- It comes with tension-loaded grips.
CONS
- It provides poor customer support service.
Best Fit For
This tool is ideal for stripping a lot of wires. It has a great build quality that makes it easier to use.
#4. IRWIN VISE-GRIP Wire Stripper: Best Automatic
- SELF-ADJUSTING: Strip wire from 10 to 24 AWG with our self-adjusting mechanism. Jaw Width: 2 inches
- ADJUSTABLE STOPPER: Control the length of the core strip with the built-in adjustable stopper
- CRIMPING: Crimp 10-22 AWG insulated, 10-22 AWG non-insulated, and 7-9mm ignition terminals
Having an automatic wire stripper can help you save a lot of time. In this case, you can settle for the IRWIN VISE-GRIP Self-Adjusting Wire Stripper.
Why is it Unique?
This self-adjusting wire stripper comes with a lifetime guarantee, which ensures that it won’t break easily. With the help of this tool, you can easily strip wire from 10 to 24 AWG.
It includes an adjustable stopper that helps you to control the core strip. You can use this tool for insulated, non-insulated, and ignition terminals.
Buyer’s Experience
Many buyers find the micro-adjustment stopper to be a convenient feature. It allows them to fine-tune its cut for smaller gauges.
This tool also has an excellent self-adjusting mechanism. It eliminates the need for manually checking the gauge of each wire while working.
PROS
- It is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
- It is a sturdy and durable tool.
- It can strip wires from 10 to 24 AWG.
- It has an adjustment knob for smaller wires.
CONS
- It lacks an in-built wire cutter.
Best Fit For
You can use this tool to save time and simplify your workflow. It is a highly efficient tool that can easily strip wires while reducing hand fatigue.
#5. Knoweasy Automatic Wire Stripper: Best Durable
- ✅【Notice】: Avoid using the tool to cut steel material!
- ✅【Stripping Size Range】: Designed for 7-32 AWG (0.03mm²-10mm²) single-conductor stranded or...
- ✅【Product Feature】: Constructed from steel strips and glass fiber nylon, this tool is suitable...
A high-quality wire stripper can last for a lifetime. In this case, you can opt for the Knoweasy Automatic Wire Stripper Cutter. The specialty of this tool is that it can work with many different gauges simultaneously.
Why is it Unique?
With this tool, you can work with single-conductor 7 to 32 AWG, including both stranded and solid wire.
This device is made of steel strips and glass fiber nylon, which makes it suitable for cutting and stripping copper and aluminum wires.
Buyer’s Experience
This tool has self-adjusting jaws to strip wire. Many buyers prefer this device because it doesn’t require a lot of manual effort to readjust the stripping pliers.
You can use this tool for thick single, PVC, multi-stranded conductors, and other insulation types.
PROS
- It is a lightweight tool.
- It has a durable body.
- It can work with various wire gauges simultaneously.
- It can automatically adjust the stripping diameter.
CONS
- It can be difficult to handle if the user isn’t used to it.
Best Fit For
This wire stripper is great for stripping speaker wire and fixing strip length according to requirements. It has the potential to work with different wire gauges simultaneously.
#6. MulWark 8″ Multi-Purpose Wire Stripping Tool: Best For Heavy-Duty
- ???????????????????????? & ???????????????? ????????????????????; MulWark wire cutter quickly strips...
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- ????????????-????????-???????????? ???????????????? ????????????????????????????; This wire...
If you are looking for a good heavy-duty wire stripper, then the MulWark 8″ Multi-Purpose Electrical Wire Stripping Tool could be the best option for you.
Why is it Unique?
This is a multi-functional tool that cuts strips, cuts, and even crimps wires. Not just that, but it allows you to cut screws as well.
With the help of this tool, you can cut and strip wires from 10 to 22 AWG stranded, which can be extended up to 12 to 24 for solid-core cables. It comes with heat-treated blades that can cut through thick wires easily.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers love this tool because of the high performance it delivers. It has high-frequency heat-treated blades for making clean cuts.
This tool can be used for both insulated and non-insulated terminals. Plus, it has cushion-grip handles for comfortable use.
PROS
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It is meant for heavy-duty purposes.
- It has cushioned-grip handles.
- It can crimp both insulated and non-insulated terminals.
CONS
- The numbers are not clear.
Best Fit For
This is a robust device that is good enough to cut bolts and screws. You can use it for various heavy-duty projects, without worrying about tool breaking. You can use it for installing electronics as well.
#7. Knoweasy Automatic Wire Stripper: Best Design
- ✅【Efficient Stripping Range】: Excellently strips wires from 14 to 24 AWG (0.25mm²-6mm²),...
- ✅【Durable and High-Quality Materials】: Constructed with steel strips and glass fiber nylon,...
- ✅【Smart Automatic Adjustment】: Features an automatic design where the stripping pliers adjust...
If you are tired of using a boring wire stripper, you should get the Knoweasy Automatic Wire Stripper and Cutter. It has a great design and is also capable of precision cuts.
Why is it Unique?
This is one of the best automatic wire stripping tools you will find on the market. It is easy to use and features an exciting color scheme.
With this tool, you can strip wires from 14 to 24 AWG. It is best suited for stripping speaker wires.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers have given high ratings to this tool because of its durable construction. It is made of glass fiber nylon and steel strips.
Compared to other strippers, this tool is lighter and more durable. It automatically adjusts according to the size of the wire stripping diameter.
PROS
- It comes with a 12-month warranty.
- It is easy to use.
- It has a unique color scheme.
- It has a built-in cutter
CONS
- Sometimes the wire slips during stripping.
Best Fit For
This wire tool is best suited for electrical repairs and machine repairs. You can also use it for gardening purposes.
#8. Capri Tools 20010 Wire Stripper: Best Precision
- Use the precise setting you wish to strip from 22-8 AWG wires with ease
- Made with cast alloy chassis
- Convenient recoiling spring design and tension loaded wire grip
If you want a stripping tool that can work without damaging the cable core, you need the Capri Tools 20010 Wire Stripper.
Why it is Unique?
This tool is designed for accuracy and precision. It allows you to strip wires ranging from 8 to 22 AWG with no damage risk.
It is made of cast alloy chassis, which makes the device durable and long-lasting. It features a recoiling spring design and provides a tension-loaded wire grip for better performance.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers find this device convenient to use because of the tension-loaded grip. It makes their work easier.
Besides that, it also allows for fast, compound action for stripping wires. Compared to other strippers, it has more strength.
PROS
- It is built for precision.
- It reduces the risk of damage to the wires.
- It has more strength.
- It is backed by a 10-year warranty.
CONS
- It feels a bit unbalanced.
Best Fit For
This is a reliable tool that can be used to strip wires without damage. You can use this device for all sorts of electrical work.
#9. Klein Tools-11055KLE 11055 Wire Stripper: Best For Professionals
- VERSATILE WIRE STRIPPER/CUTTER: Cuts, strips, and loops 10-18 AWG Solid and 12-20 AWG Stranded wire,...
- PRECISION STRIPPING: Precision ground stripping holes for accurate and clean cuts
- STRONG-GRIPPING NOSE: Serrated nose grips wire for easy bending, shaping, and pulling
If you need a wire stripper for professional use, there’s nothing better than the Klein Tools – 11055KLE 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper.
Why is it Unique?
This tool is designed for heavy-duty professional stripping. With the help of this tool you can strip, cut, and even loop wires with ease.
It is suitable for solid wires ranging from 10 to 18 AWG. However, the range can be extended to 12 to 20 AWG when working with stranded cables.
Buyer’s Experience
This is a strong and durable device that can be used for screws as well. It is because of this reason that many buyers, especially professionals prefer using it.
It also comes with a strong-gripping serrated nose for easy shaping, bending, and pulling wires. Unlike other tools, it can easily reach tight and small areas.
PROS
- It is a durable and sturdy tool.
- It can reach tight and small spaces.
- It is strong enough to cut screws.
- It has double-dipped grips that help reduce hand stress.
CONS
- It is packed poorly in a bubble envelope.
Best Fit For
This tool is useful for installing outlets. You can also use it for small electrical boxes. Due to its construction, it makes it easier to reach cramped spaces.
#10. Eclipse CP-301G Pro’sKit Wire Stripper: Best Budget
- Light weight for easy operation
- Particularly made for electronic and precision field
- Processed by CNC lathe for accurate size of notches
Lastly, we have the Eclipse Tools CP-301G Kit Precision Wire Stripper. This device makes the best choice for people on a tight budget.
Why is it Unique?
Despite the low price tag, it delivers a great performance. This tool is best suited for network cable and electronic installations.
Due to its lightweight construction, users find it easy to use. It is also processed by a CNC lathe for the accurate size of notches. It has a safety lock design for convenient storage.
Buyer’s Experience
If you want a tool for high accuracy and precision, this device will be best suited for you. Most buyers find this stripper easy to handle.
This tool is not just meant for professionals, but it can also be used by DIYers. Unlike other tools, this one can be used for light and thin wires.
PROS
- It has a lightweight design.
- It is good for working with thin and delicate wires.
- It delivers a high level of precision.
- It comes with a safety lock for easy storage.
CONS
- It is extra sharp and can cause you to accidentally cut wires.
Best Fit For
You can use this tool while working with network cables and electronics. This tool is also suitable for delicate and thin wires.
Buying Guide For The Best Wire Strippers
When it comes to buying the best wire strippers, you want a reliable and easy-to-use tool. The wire stripping device you choose should be functional and have certain useful features. To give you an idea, we have laid down the features that a good wire stripper tool should possess.
Things you need to look for:
1. Grip
A wire stripper tool is easy to use, once you get the hang of it. To work comfortably you need a wire stripper with a good grip. It should have a quality handle, so you can strip the wire’s insulation with ease and without causing any damage to the wire. You should look for wire strippers with rubber grips. This type of handle provides the best grip while working.
2. Safety
Safety should be of utmost priority when working with electrical wires. This is why you need high-quality wire strippers, so you don’t have to worry about your safety. Buy wire strippers from a reputable brand. Go for the ones that have more positive reviews. The tool you pick should provide maximum control and stability while in use. The most important thing is to feel confident when working with the tool you have chosen. Also, don’t forget to go through the instructions before starting your work.
3. Precision
You need wire strippers that are accurate and precise so that you don’t have to deal with mistakes. The problem with poor-quality strippers is that they tend to break down easily. This can cause you to cut into the wire while stripping. Not only that, but you may also struggle to get through the jacket. This is why you should buy a wire stripper from a recognized manufacturer. A reputable brand ensures quality tools that will do their job efficiently. A high-quality wire stripper that is used properly can last a lifetime. You can keep it smoothen with just a little amount of oil.
4. Ease of Use
Next comes ease of use. You need a wire stripper that makes your task easier. In this case, you can choose between a manual and an automatic wire stripper. Most professionals go for automatic wire strippers as they are easy and more convenient to use. On the other hand, manual tools require more effort. But these strippers can provide more precision when working with smaller wires.
5. Material
When buying wire strippers even the materials matter. You must check the materials of the handles and jaws before buying the tool. The quality of the material used determines the longevity and performance of the device. Wires are mostly made of copper, which is easy to cut through. But when you are using a wire stripper to cut screws to length, you need a durable and sturdy material. In this case, steel is a good option.
As far as grip coatings are concerned, a quality silicone or rubber grip is the best and most comfortable to work with.
6. Multi-Functionality
Many professionals use a wire stripper to cut wires as well. If you often cut wires with your wire stripping device, then you should get a multi-functional device. This way you can use it for both stripping and cutting wires.
Types of Wire Strippers Pliers
Before you set out to buy the best wire stripper tool, you need to know the different types available. Different types of strippers are needed for different situations.
- Adjustable
If you want a one-size-fits-all-style tool, then you should consider opting for an adjustable stripper. This type of stripper comes with plier-style handles that help adjust the opening of the jaws. You can adjust it to the size you need and then start working.
- Automatic
Automatic wire strippers are also known as self-adjusting tools. They have a pistol grip handle. The advantage of using an automatic stripper is that it doesn’t require much involvement from the user. All you need to do is squeeze the handles together and the spring-loaded teeth will automatically sense the wire’s size and cut it down into the jacket. But these tools are bulky as well as expensive.
- Gauged
Gauged wire strippers feature a range of individual teeth which are meant for specific wire sizes. When using a gauged-style tool, you need to consider the wire size. You can use these tools to cut the jacket without slicing it into the wire. These types of tools are great for beginners, as they are easy to use.
- Gauged Automatic
This type of wire stripper is a combination of an automatic and a gauged stripper. Squeezing the handle allows you to cut through the wire’s jacket and separate it from the wire. This type of stripper is easy to use and also saves a lot of time.
Popular Brands?
You will come across many brands selling the Best wire strippers. But not all of them are up to the mark. Speaking of popular brands, Irwin and Klein Tools are the two brands that are preferred by most buyers.
- IRWIN
The IRWIN VISE-GRIP is a legendary brand. It was founded in 1924 and since then it has delivered reliable and durable products to users. IRWIN hand tools are trusted by most professionals as they are designed for high performance.
- Klein Tools
Klein Tools is an American manufacturer of hand tools. They have been in this field for more than 160 years. The company is known to manufacture premium-quality, professional-grade tools.
(Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What are wire strippers used for?
Ans: A wire stripper is a hand-held tool that is used to remove the insulation from wires. These devices are very popular among professional electricians, networking, and DIYers. They use it for repairing or replacing electric wires.
Q2. Why do we need to strip electric wires?
Ans: With accurate wire stripping, we can make durable and safe electrical connections. You need to remove the outer plastic layer without slicing the wire’s insulation underneath, or else your connection might break and it could lead to a short circuit.
Q3. What are the important features of a wire stripper?
Ans: A good wire stripper should be sturdy and durable. It should provide you with a solid and comfortable grip. Some wire strippers are also multifunctional and can be used to cut wires as well.
Q4. How many types of wire strippers are there?
Ans: In terms of operation, there are two main types of wire strippers: manual and automatic. The good thing about automatic wire strippers is that they require less effort than manual ones.
Q5. How to maintain a wire stripper?
Ans: A quality wire stripper tool can last you a lifetime. To keep it in good condition, you must oil it from time to time. This will allow for a smooth opening of the jaws.
Final Words
Having the best wire strippers not only boosts productivity but also makes your work easier. Whether you are a professional electrician or just a DIYer, you must have a quality stripping machine in your toolkit. You can choose any of these mentioned devices to meet your requirements. These tools are preferred by most buyers and have received many positive reviews.
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