Sykes-Pickavant Ergo-Grip Locking Pliers - tested

21st November 2008

If you need another pair of hands when working under the bonnet, a set of locking pliers really comes into its own.

And unlike traditional tools, Sykes-Pickavant’s all-new Ergo-Grip has its handles at 90 degrees to the jaws. This pistol grip design makes the pliers more comfortable, especially in repeated use, as it reduces the strain on your wrist.

The tool isn’t perfect, though. We found the smooth handles slippery if our hands were wet – a high-grip rubber coating would be welcome. Still, there’s a needle-nose jaw for reaching tricky spots.

The grip was more than enough for our test bolts, and adjusting the locking mechanism was easy. Plus, while some of the edges were a bit rough, it felt like a quality tool, locking with a pleasingly smooth action. A great addition to anyone’s kit.

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