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A toolkit is your best friend, no matter if you are an electrician, mechanic, or just a homeowner who loves DIY. While the exact tools in this kit will vary from job to job, one apparatus thats a must is a wire crimper. This tool is essential for working with any type of electrical wiring since it helps you bind two pieces of wires together and create a bond.
Not having a wire crimper in your arsenal can lead to delayed work at best and botched jobs at worst. Regardless, frustration will be your companion in both cases. Because every crimper is different, finding the right one can be difficult. This detailed guide reviews the best wire crimping tools in 2022. It will help you choose the right tool for your electrical projects.
A Guide For Buying A Wire Crimping Device
Anyone involved in wiring projects needs a wire crimper. This tool makes the job easier and provides safe and secure results. Sadly, the market for this apparatus is saturated. We will walk you through the essentials of a wire crimping device.
What To Look For When Buying Wire Crimping Tool
Quality is key
A strong and sturdy build is crucial for a wire crimper; after all, nobody wants to keep replacing flimsy crimpers that break after a single job. So, look for one with a durable construction quality that can withstand excessive wear and tear.
Supported wire sizes
You should also consider the size of the wire youll be working with. The gauge determines the wire’s size. A larger number will mean a smaller diameter. To find the right one for you, check the sizes of the supported wires on the crimper.
Number of crimping cavities
If you want to crimp differently sized wires, you should look for a crimping tool with multiple cavities. Such tools have different cavities in the head that allow you to crimp various wire sizes. The most common is a tool with three cavities.
What Else Should You Know About Wire Crimping Tools?
Etched markings
Crimping tools can also have metrics embedded onto their jaws. This allows you to see everything while you work, which ultimately saves time and improves productivity.
Handles that are ergonomic
Types Of Crimp Tools
Handheld
The handheld crimping tool looks like a regular pair of pliers but has a die on the inside jaws which is used to crimp the wire into the connector. These dies come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the size and type of connector used.
Bench-mounted
Bench-mounted wire crimpers are used for larger, heavier gauge wires. They have a much more robust mechanism than handheld crimpers and can apply more pressure to the wire and connector. The dies for these crimpers are also much larger and more heavy-duty.
Hydraulic
Crimping tools make it possible to use very large connectors and wires by using hydraulic pressure. These crimpers are commonly used for industrial applications and require hydraulic fluid to function.
Hammer
This kind of manual crimper uses a hammer to compress the connector onto the wire. Although it is not as popular as the other types, this type can be used for specific purposes. While these crimping tools can handle much thicker wires than all other types, theyre not portable enough to bring to a job site.
Benefits Of Wire Crimping Tools
Makes the job easier
Crimping tools have the obvious benefit of making it easier to connect two wires. This is especially true when the cables are different sizes or gauges.
Prevents electrical shorts
Crimpers can help prevent short circuits by providing secure connections between wires. Crimping tools make it possible to create reliable and secure wire connections.
Insulation
A wire crimping device can be used to ensure that the wires are well insulated and protected against damage. This ensures a secure and solid connection that will not be damaged.
Comparing Our Favorite Wire Crimping Tools Of 2022
Wirefy Wire Crimping Tool Set has a simple design and a clever ratcheting mechanism. It has an efficient mechanism that enhances crimping efficiency and ensures you get a solid crimp within a single try. This crimper can be used with heat shrink and nylon insulated connectors.
The well-built ratcheting system allows this crimper to create uniform, consistent crimps. You can even adjust the crimp force with its dial. The jaw jamming issue can be solved by the quick-release lever located between the handles. Meanwhile, the non-slip grips prevent hand fatigue even after long hours of working. This product is a top pick because of its attention to detail.
Pros
- Snap-ins are easy to crimp
- Connector locks securely
- Provides strong, uniform crimps
The TICONN Wire Crimping Tool is a powerful crimper that offers many features. It is a professional-grade crimper with a precise ratcheting system to provide uniform crimps. Even more, it includes crimping dies to create single and double crimps between the terminal and the wire.
Depending on the project, you can also adjust the height of the crimps with its star wheel to apply the right force. This crimper also features a quick-release lever that opens its jaws. Best of all, the non-slip handles provide an ergonomic grip that doesnt put stress on your hand.
Pros
- Works well with heat-shrink connector terminals
- You can make precise crimps with the adjustable crimping force
- Non-slippery handles for a firm grip
Cons
- Heavy to hold for long durations
The Haisstronica Wire Crimping Tool is an all-rounder when it comes to crimping wires. The crimper has three crimping cavities, which are simple to use and adjustable to meet your needs. Due to these crimping cavities, this product allows you to crimp multiple wire sizes.
This crimping tool also has a solid construction, making it durable but heavyweight at the same time. It is not lightweight, but it has a non-slip nylon handle that allows for an ergonomic grip. This ensures quick and easy operation. The built-in ratcheting mechanism adjusts automatically to ensure uniform crimps.
Pros
- A sturdy build ensures durability
- Suitable for multiple wire sizes
- Easy to use crimping cavities
Cons
- Slightly on the heavier side
The Qibaok Wire Crimping Tool has an excellent design for getting precise crimps without applying excessive pressure. The adjustable crimping force can reduce hand pressure by 50% and still accomplish the task. You can also release the tool quickly from any stuck position by using the quick-release lever.
This tool is made from high-quality alloy steel, which ensures its durability. And for added utility, its ergonomically designed, non-slip handle provides a more comfortable grip and makes it easier to hold onto the crimper while doing heavy-duty work.
Pros
- Features color-coded wire size markings
- Safety is assured by the quick-release lever
- For heavy-duty crimping, a secure and comfortable grip is required
Cons
- It does not include a double crimper.
The Klein Tools Wire Crimping Tools is an ideal tool for heavy-duty tasks. It comes with three crimping cavities with color-coded markings, making it a user-friendly tool. The ratcheting system is integrated, ensuring consistent results and full-cycle crimping.
Besides the multiple cavities, this tool has an adjustable design that boosts crimping power. This feature is ideal for those working long hours as it allows them to use less pressure and prevents hand fatigue. This crimper also features a dial that allows you to adjust the pressure to the crimp.
Pros
- Three crimping cavities in one die head
- Compatible with different wires sizes
- Sturdy construction and ergonomic grip
Cons
- It is not the most portable option
People Also Asked Questions
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in a wire crimping tool?
A: While there are many aspects to consider when wire crimping tools are purchased, the most important factor to remember is your needs. The right crimper should be able to handle the size of wires you need to crimp and the type of terminal you need to attach with it.
Q: Can you crimp cables with anything other than wire crimping tools?
A: Some tools are not specifically designed for crimping, but you may be able do a temporary or shoddy job with them. If you want uniform, solid crimps, a wire crimping tool will be your only choice.
Q: Why is a wire crimping tool important?
A: Wire crimping tools are essential for electrical operations. They help secure the wire within the terminal. A joint that is not sufficiently compressed will not hold the wire securely. The wire will then fall out leaving an open circuit.
