How to Use Pliers

By an eHow Contributor

Pliers are a handy tool to have around. Use them correctly for your safety and comfort.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:

1
Choose the right tool for the job. Using your pliers as a hammer may not only damage the tool but could cause you injury.
2
Use good quality tools and inspect them for defects before using them. Replace worn or defective tools.
3
Maintain your tools. Oil your pliers and wire cutters with a drop of oil on the hinge. Be sure that the jaws are clean and the teeth are sharp. Worn or greasy jaws are more likely to slip.
4
Never stick your fingers between the grips and always keep your wrist straight when using pliers.
5
Protect your tools from extreme heat, which can expand the metal and cause dangerous structural problems