IRWIN VISE-GRIP Convertible 6-in Snap Ring Pliers & 72-Tooth 1/2-in Drive Quick-release Flexible Head Standard Ratchet

Ignore all reviews above 1 star

These snap ring pliers are worse than useless. Snap rings pop off of them well before you can get them installed. These are by far the absolute worst tool, and I use the word tool very loosely, that I have ever had the displeasure of using. Irwin and Lowes should both be embarrassed to have anything to do with selling junk like these. My set will be going back to Lowes for a refund. Save yourself the trouble, spend the extra money, and buy a quality brand like Knipex, Wiha, or Wera. Better...

Good value, versatile tool

Used this to remove snap rings from a plumbing valve. It is a versatile tool, as it can adapt to most any ring configuration. The jaws fit somewhat loosly, so it isn't as easy to use as a single purpose tool, but it did the job. Overall good value. I wish the tool was packaged in a reusable case rather than a blister pack.It would take at least 5x more money to get a better tool.

Garbage

These snap ring pliers are way too flimsy to be effective. I needed a set to remove a two inch c ring, but due to the poor design, I couldn't apply enough pressure to remove the ring. The pliers kept slipping off and one of the heads on the pliers (it came with 4) broke. Irwin has been around a while, so I'm surprised that put their name on them. I guess try Harbor Freight?

The right tool for the right job.

Have had a chance to use them yet but seem to be well made. I’m sure it will be easier to use than prying rings off with a screwdriver. Lol

Great idea… terrible product

Bought these thinking wow what a great set… I was mistaken.. they are so loose and vague feeling I couldn’t get a large c-clip off with them.. they just keep slipping off. And don’t get me started on the center pivot button to change the plier heads.. this product could’ve been much better if the manufacturing side of those adhered to tighter tolerances.. waste of money wish I never bought them.

Suitable for lightweight usage

Lowes review 7/2/2022 for the Irwin Vise-Grip Convertible 6-in Snap Ring Pliers This tool is one of several available from Lowes. It's the least expensive option, but it is also not for heavy duty usage. For heavy or frequent usage, I would recommend one of the other choices from Lowes. However, for someone who just needs for infrequent usage for lightweight tasks, this tool is acceptable. Wear eye protection always when manipulating snap rings.

Great pair of pliers

I orginally bought these because i was trying to remove a small screw that was stripped. Sorry to say the screw was still too small for these but I knew I would use these for other things. Ive used them several times and they work great. I like that I can change the size to fit what I need. Even though they didnt work for what I initially bought them for, they are still a great tool!

Okay for small snap rings

I bought these hoping they would work but these aren't meant for larger heavier gauge snap rings like you would find on some ball joints. the tips are very small and the pliers don't open the snap ring up nearly enough. Other than that they seem like a decent pair of pliers and I would recommend them for use on lighter snap rings.

Terrible design

Since i only needed circlip pliers for a single job and then probably never again, i went with the cheaper ones. What a nightmare. As others have said, you can't apply any downward force whatsoever. I spent more time fighting with this tool than i would have spent driving an uber to earn enough for a better set of pliers. TL;DR; -- Terrible

Not suitable for some clips

While the concept is good, the execution does allow for clips that have much force. The jaws will twist under a bigger load which will either not compress the spring or will cause the spring to easily slip. In the latter case make sure you have a guard in place and of course safety glasses on because when they twist your spring is likely to go places you don’t want.