VamPLIERS VT-001 Screw Pliers
The folks Vamplier asked us to look at their new pliers. They arrived in the mail a short time later and when I looked them over I thought, nice idea!
As I read over the information that came with the packaging I couldn’t help but notice how aggressive the pliers jaws were. The pliers come with a VamPLIERS test block, allowing me to test them right away (and not take my desk drawer apart to test them like I was going to!)
Features:
- Handle Return Spring
- RoHS Compliant
- Wire Cutters (56 HRC Hardened)
- Ergonomic Elastomer Handles
- Comfort Grip
- Red Cap Protector
Specifications:
- Material =S58C (Carbon Steel from Kobe Japan)
- Hardness = HRC 56 +/- 2
- Size 160mm, 6.3 in
- Gripping Capacity M2-M1.6 – M5 (Round/Pan Head) M4 (Truss Head)
- Cutting Capacity 0.05 in.
- Weight 4.6 oz
Using the Pliers:
The bite that the VamPLIERS have to lock on a screw was impressive and they did not slip off when I was using them. I wanted to see how they would work on backing out a Tapcon Hex screw that has been in concrete for a while. The VamPLIERS backed the screw out with no trouble at all. I also used them on backing out a hinge screw and had no issues there as well. The pliers felt sturdy in my hand while using them and did not twist or bend.
The bright red grip on these pliers will ensure that you will find them in your tool bag. They were also was comfortable in my hand. The spring action was smooth and did not open past the length of my finger tips which also kept them comfortable.
As for the wire cutter feature, they were just ok. They worked well on changing out some electrical devices at home with 12/2 Romex wire. I also found them useful for twisting the wires before I screwed on wire nuts.
Room for Improvement:
The wire cutter is the only thing I would like to see improved. My reason for this is that they did not cut that well though a variety of materials including a large binder clip I had on my desk. I met resistance while cutting through it. I found that after I cut though the large binder clip the two edges of the wire cutters had indentations in them. I also tried cutting though a 16 penny finish nail and was unsuccessful.
Overall Impression:
The VamPLIERS did work well for most of the tasks I used them for. I can see this set of pliers being very useful in many trades from Electrical, auto mechanics and HVAC for example. I’m glad I was able to review them for the fact that I never knew they existed! That being said, now that I reviewed them I can inform fellow colleagues that these pliers are available. This is definitely another tool for the tool box!
They can be purchase through the company’s website www.vampiretools.com or the company’s store front at www.Amazon.com for $ 34.97. The company also offers custom engraving on your pliers to make it a Unique Tool = Unique Gift.
About the Author:
Michael Hopp is a registered contractor in the State of Rhode Island. He has been registered for the last 10 years specializing in interior and exterior remodeling, doors and windows.
Mike began practicing his trade 19 years ago at William M. Davies Career and Technical High School in carpentry shop. This gave him the opportunity to become an apprentice at Brodeur Window Distributors. Mike continued working at the company for 10 years. During this time he was in charge of the specialty door shop and assisted on service calls.
For the last 10 years, Mike has been practicing as a general contractor in Rhode Island with his company MJH Construction. He obtained his LLC status 2 years ago. Even though his background is in doors and windows, his passion is for remodel work.
Mike is also a Fire/Medic on Lincoln Rescue, Town of Lincoln Rhode Island where he holds the rank of Lieutenant.
Mike resides in North Providence, Rhode Island with his wife Jennifer and daughter Olivia.