Trust me – I’m well aware of the fact that most people don’t get particularly excited over wire cutters. The average wire stripper isn’t the most thrilling tool but is nonetheless indispensable when you need one. In which case, I’d recommend reaching for something from Irwin Tools – a brand with a proven pedigree. IRWIN VISE-GRIP 2078309 Multi-Pliers, a combined wire stripper, wire crimper, and wire cutter, this is a compact and convenient multitool that does it all.
If you’ve ever experienced a low-grade generic wire cutter/stripper, you’ll know how frustrating they can be to use. This Irwin wire is sitting at the exact opposite end of the spectrum, which is sharp, precise, comfortable to hold, and consistently capable.
If all this wasn’t enough, it’s also up for grabs at a rock-bottom price and ships with an extensive warranty from the manufacturer. It’s not the most exciting tool on the planet but is nonetheless leagues ahead of its closest competitors. If you’re on the market for a quality wire stripper, you can count on, check out my in-depth Irwin Vise-Grip 2078309 review below, and you’ll know what to do next!
Features of IRWIN VISE-GRIP 2078309
As far as special features and functionalities go, this wire stripping tool is what it is and no more. There’s nothing particularly ground-breaking about its overall design, but it’s by far one of the most versatile and capable wire cutters and strippers in its class. Primary selling-points (as highlighted by the manufacturer) include the following:
Comfortable, textured handles reduce hand fatigue
This wire stripping tool has been designed to remain as comfortable as possible to hold in all conditions, reducing hand fatigue and aches were more demanding applications are concerned.
Induction-hardened cutting edges
Advanced materials combine with cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to create exceptionally sharp blades that slice through challenging materials with ease.
Special features for specific applications
Designed to tackle an extensive range of cutting and stripping applications, the Irwin Vise-Grip Wire 2078309 has the potential to replace multiple similar tools to save space, time and effort.
Meets or exceeds all ANSI standards
In terms of quality, performance, and safety, this tool meets or exceeds all required national and international standards.
My Experience with Irwin Vise-Grip 2078309
I initially bought this cutter to replace several separate tools in my box, which over time, had become dull and somewhat difficult to use. I hadn’t expected miracles from this IRWIN VISE-GRIP 8-Inch Wire Stripping Tool / Wire Cutter, but as a brand I’ve come to trust, I expected it to get the job done.
What I hadn’t expected was the extent to which this thing simplifies more intensive wire cutting jobs. Ideal for light to medium use, the way these things slice through wires and cables is outstanding. I’ve been using mine for several months now, and they seem every bit as sharp as they were the day I bought them.
The overall design is well balanced and comfortable to hold, while the hinge is as tight and robust as it gets. Though it’s not strictly recommended by the manufacturer, I’ve even used to these to deal with a whole bunch of screws that were sticking out of a table I was refurbishing. Which again, they sliced through in an instant and with little to no effort required on my part.
I can’t speak on behalf of more experienced contractors and electricians, but I can say without hesitation that this Irwin Vise-Grip 8 inch Wire Cutter was (and is) a very welcome addition to my toolbox.
Pros
- Comfortable to hold and easy to use
- Compatible with a wide variety of applications
- Capable of dealing with surprisingly tough materials
- Exceptional long-term cutting performance
- Excellent overall value for money
- Perfect for any DIY project
Cons
- Not strong enough for heavier-duty applications
Final Thoughts
There’s not a great deal I can say about this wire cutter that I haven’t already covered. Nor is it the kind of tool that’s bursting with dozens of special features and unique functionalities. Instead, it’s a relatively simple piece of kit that’s designed to do a few simple jobs and to do them well. And that’s what it does – it performs consistently and without drama, irrespective of what you throw at it.
I’ve come across a few disgruntled reviews highlighting the fact that this modest-sized Irwin 2078309 Wire Stripping Tool isn’t capable of dealing with heavy wires, padlocks, and so on. But then again, it wasn’t designed to.
As far as light to medium cutting and stripping applications go, this is the only tool you’ll need in your collection. It’s also an absolute steal at its current price, having been reduced several times since being launched by Irwin.
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