Cutting Pliers are an Important Hand Tool

Some types of pliers are also cutting tools. One such item available from your local tool supply outlet are called lineman's pliers. These pliers have a grip on the front part of the tool for bending wire, turning bolts, or other uses; there is also a cutting tool to the rear of the jaws meant to cut wire, cable, anything that will fit between the blades that is soft enough for this tool to cut. This hand tool is often used to strip the insulation away from speaker wires, nip off the ends of cable used to install track lighting, and sometimes, when clearly marked as such and made of non-conductive material, live wires! Most ordinary home improvement chores won't require the expense of an industrial grade pair, and it's bad for an amateur to get in the habit of working with tools around live current. If you are an occasional handyman or home repair enthusiast, respect the power of electricity and always unplug speaker wires, track lighting, and other sources of current before doing your work.