Snips, Pliers, & Pullers

Pliers

Pliers are a type of tool that can be used for a variety of grabbing and pulling applications. The two handles hinge around a central axis and feature jaws at the top that can be used to grab onto components. Pliers come with a variety of different jaw types, such as needle nose for long reach applications, as well as standard flat jaw pliers. The inside face of the jaws is typically serrated, allowing for a greater purchase on the item being grabbed. There are many speciality pliers for use in electrical and mechanical work, in addition to the standard style of pliers. In general construction, pliers are used for pulling nails and screws, as well as holding on to components. 

Nail pullers

Nail pullers are a useful tool for renovation and second fix works. The tool is very simple in design, with two metal pieces being hinged together around a central axis. The handles are straight and comfortable in the hand. The jaws of the pincers are rounded, forming a flat surface at their top when they are closed. This allows for the jaws to be closed together around the head of a nail in very close proximity to the surface of a workpiece. The inside tips of the jaws also come to a fairly fine edge and allow for the precision to grasp small pieces. The gentle curve of the head of the jaws in combination with the wide head allow for the pullers to be levered off of the face of a piece without damaging or marring the surface. The jaws of quality pullers are capable of snipping the heads off of smaller nails, as well as cables, though this is not their intended purpose. They are most commonly used in construction for pulling small nails and temporary pins during second fix processes. Some traditional varieties of pullers are designed for use with small tacks and feature a small pry bar end at the end of one of the handles.

Tin snips/shears

Tin snips are a type of hardened shear that are intended for cutting thin metals. These shears often feature a long cutting surface that taper to a point to allow for ease of access in tight areas. Traditionally they would hinge in one central location, though modern varieties feature additional fulcrums to increase the leverage exerted. Snips can be purchased in a variety of specific setups, such as straight, as well as left and right-handed cuts styles. Specialist snips can also come in an array of different head shapes. On site, tin snips are commonly used to cut strap banding, hangers, and other metal materials such as flashing kits, cladding trims, and rolls of lead.