For any DIYer, tradesman, or mechanic, having a good set of pliers in your toolbox is a must. One of the most versatile types of pliers you can own are tongue and groove pliers, also known as channel lock pliers. These adjustable pliers allow you to get a firm grip on pipes, nuts, bolts, and other odd-shaped items that other pliers just can’t grasp securely.
When searching for the best tongue and groove pliers, you want to look for certain key features. The jaws should have a wide gripping surface with grooves and teeth to really latch onto materials. The joint where the two handles pivot should be sturdy and built to last through frequent adjustments. Good tongue and groove pliers will also have ergonomic, non-slip handles that feel comfortable in your hand even during prolonged use.
High-carbon steel construction ensures durability and strength. And look for models with a fastener system that eliminates loose nuts and bolts over time. The best pliers stand up to frequent use without joint wobble or loosening. Finally, rust-resistant coatings help your pliers last longer and maintain smooth operation.
With the right pair of heavy-duty tongue and groove pliers in your toolbox, you’ll be equipped to handle a wide variety of jobs requiring a secure grip on odd shapes and sizes. Investing in a good quality pair made by a reputable brand is worth it for the versatility and durability these unique pliers provide.
Our Top Picks For 2025
Channellock 430 Tongue & Groove Pliers
The Channellock 430 tongue and groove pliers are a 10-inch straight jaw plier made in the USA from durable forged steel. Channellock is known for making high-quality, reliable tools.
The Channellock 430 is a classic American-made tongue and groove plier built to last. Channellock uses top-quality forged steel construction and comfortable grip handles. This versatile 10-inch straight jaw plier is perfect for plumbers, electricians, DIYers, and anyone needing a sturdy, dependable gripping tool.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Made in the USA from durable forged steel
- Comfortable grip handles reduce hand fatigue
- Undercut tongue and groove design prevents slipping
- Laser heat-treated teeth grip better and last longer
- Adjustable nut-and-bolt design eliminates failure
- Reinforced stress point for durability
- Versatile 10-inch size for most applications
The Channellock 430 tongue and groove pliers deliver exceptional performance you can rely on. Their sturdy steel construction and ergonomic design make these American-made pliers built to last.
CRAFTSMAN Pliers, 8 & 10-Inch, 2-Piece Groove Joint Set
The CRAFTSMAN 2-piece groove joint plier set includes 8-inch and 10-inch sizes with comfortable grips and precision machined jaws for strength and durability.
This 2-piece CRAFTSMAN plier set is made in America from drop-forged steel for maximum toughness. The groove joint design provides a secure grip, while the precision machined jaws hold firmly without slipping. Dual material grips give comfort and control during use.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Made in USA from durable drop-forged steel
- Groove joint design for non-slip grip
- Precision machined jaws grip securely
- 8-inch and 10-inch sizes for versatility
- Comfortable dual material grips
The CRAFTSMAN 2-piece groove joint plier set delivers the strength, durability and versatility that professionals rely on. Built in America from sturdy steel, these pliers are designed for comfort and control during demanding tasks.
GEARWRENCH Pitbull Auto-Bite Tongue & Groove Pliers
The GEARWRENCH Pitbull auto-bite pliers feature an exclusive auto-bite lever for quick, one-handed jaw adjustment. The aggressive K9 jaws provide superior grip, while the dual material handles give comfort and control.
Engineered for pros, the GEARWRENCH Pitbull pliers take grip and adjustment to the next level. The auto-bite lever enables quick, one-handed jaw adjustment to automatically grip as handles are squeezed. Hardened K9 jaws aggressively grip surfaces while the dual material handles provide comfort and reduce hand fatigue.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Auto-bite lever enables one-handed jaw adjustment
- K9 jaws aggressively grip surfaces
- More jaw positions for increased flexibility
- Dual material handles for comfort and control
- Forged alloy steel construction for strength
The GEARWRENCH Pitbull pliers feature innovative design for advanced grip and effortless adjustment during demanding tasks. Their unmatched performance makes these auto-bite pliers the choice of professionals.
IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Groove Joint Pliers
The IRWIN VISE-GRIP 6-inch curved jaw groove joint pliers feature an induction hardened cutting edge and machined jaws for superior gripping strength. The curved jaws are ideal for accessing tight spaces.
The IRWIN VISE-GRIP curved jaw groove joint pliers provide strength and versatility in a compact 6-inch size. Constructed from durable nickel chromium steel with an induction hardened cutting edge, these pliers are built to last. The curved jaws allow access to confined areas.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Induction hardened cutting edges stay sharp longer
- Machined jaws maximize gripping strength
- Curved jaws for tight spaces and rounded work
- Anti-pinch ProTouch grips for comfort and control
- Right angle teeth grip in all directions
With hardened teeth that grip without slipping and a curved jaw design ideal for tight spots, the IRWIN VISE-GRIP 6-inch groove joint pliers deliver heavy-duty performance in a convenient compact size.
TOPLINE 4-piece Groove Joint Pliers Set
The Topline 4-piece tongue and groove pliers set includes 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch sizes with bi-material handles for comfort and control. The heat treated steel jaws grip securely.
This 4-piece groove joint pliers set from Topline provides a range of sizes for versatility. The slip-resistant tongue and groove design grips firmly without slipping. Dual material handles reduce hand strain for comfort. Precision machined jaws hold fasteners and pipes securely.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Bi-material handles for comfort
- Heat treated steel jaws for durability
- Slip-resistant tongue and groove grips
- 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch sizes
- Ideal for plumbing repairs and home maintenance
The Topline 4-piece tongue and groove pliers set delivers a complete range of sizes and grip strength for demanding home repair tasks. Built to last, these pliers provide a secure grip you can rely on.
Channellock 9-1/2 In Tongue and Groove Pliers
The Channellock 9-1/2 inch tongue and groove pliers are a versatile straight jaw plier made in the USA from sturdy forged steel. Channellock is known for quality tools built to last.
This 9-1/2 inch Channellock tongue and groove plier is proudly American-made with durable steel construction. The slip joint design adjusts for different sizes and provides a tight, non-slip grip on flat or rounded surfaces. The precision machined jaws grip firmly without damaging material. Channellock pliers are trusted by professionals for their strength and reliability.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Made in the USA from sturdy forged steel
- Slip joint design adjusts for secure gripping
- Machined jaws prevent material damage
- Comfortable grip handles
- Durable construction for long-term use
The Channellock 9-1/2 inch tongue and groove pliers deliver the exceptional performance that tradesmen have relied on for over 85 years. Built strong and designed to last, these versatile pliers provide a stable, non-slip grip for tough tasks.
IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Tools GrooveLock Pliers
The IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP 6-inch groove lock pliers feature a V-jaw design with a push button adjustment system for quick, secure gripping.
The IRWIN Tools GrooveLock pliers provide strength and versatility with their V-jaw design and innovative adjustment mechanism. The compact 6-inch size fits easily into tool belts and tight spaces, while the groove lock system allows for custom grip positioning.
Key Features and Benefits:
- V-jaw design grips round surfaces
- Push button adjustment for fast jaw positioning
- Multi-groove system with 12 settings
- ProTouch grips for comfort and control
- Forged steel construction for durability
With their innovative groove lock design and forged steel build, the IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP pliers deliver an adjustable, customizable grip perfect for professionals, DIYers, and home use.
Mr. Pen Tongue and Groove Pliers
The Mr. Pen 6.5-inch tongue and groove pliers are small, adjustable pliers perfect for tight spaces. The slip joint design provides a secure grip on pipes, nuts, bolts, and more.
Mr. Pen’s 6.5-inch tongue and groove pliers are ideal for homeowners, hobbyists, and professionals working in tight areas. The compact size fits into small spaces, while the sturdy steel construction grips firmly without slipping. The ergonomic handles provide comfort even during extended use.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Compact 6.5-inch size for tight spaces
- Slip joint design prevents slipping
- Sturdy nickel-plated steel construction
- Ergonomic padded handles for comfort
- Serrated jaws grip round objects
- Great for plumbing, auto repairs, DIY projects
When you need adjustable pliers that can fit and grip in tight spots, trust the durable Mr. Pen tongue and groove pliers to get the job done.
GEARWRENCH 8" Pitbull Auto-Bite Tongue & Groove Dual Material Pliers
The GEARWRENCH 8-inch Pitbull pliers feature an auto-bite lever for easy one-handed jaw adjustment along with aggressive teeth for extra grip strength. The dual material handles provide comfort while the multiple jaw positions allow flexibility.
The GEARWRENCH 8-inch Pitbull pliers are designed for convenience and versatility. The auto-bite lever enables quick, one-handed jaw adjustment to securely grip objects. The tool’s angled, serrated teeth grip tightly while the grip zone handles ensure comfort during prolonged use. With multiple jaw positions, these durable alloy steel pliers can handle a wide range of gripping and turning tasks.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Auto-bite lever for easy one-handed jaw adjustment
- Aggressive angled teeth for superior grip
- Grip zone handles for comfort
- Multiple jaw positions for flexibility
- Durable forged alloy steel construction
The GEARWRENCH 8-inch Pitbull pliers combine strength, comfort and convenience in a versatile gripping tool suitable for professional use. The innovative auto-bite design enables quick adjustment to tackle any job with ease.
Channellock 440 Tongue and Groove Pliers
The Channellock 440 is a 12-inch straight jaw tongue and groove plier made in the USA from high carbon steel. Channellock uses premium materials and manufacturing for maximum durability.
This 12-inch Channellock 440 tongue and groove plier is proudly American-made with Channellock’s signature high carbon steel construction. The slip-resistant groove joint design provides a strong, secure grip on any job. Laser heat-treated teeth ensure excellent longevity and grip.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Made in the USA from durable forged steel
- Undercut grooves prevent slipping
- Laser heat-treated teeth for superior grip
- Reinforced stress point for durability
- 12-inch size handles most applications
- Comfortable Channellock Blue grips
With its sturdy steel build and comfortable grip, the Channellock 440 tongue and groove plier tackles tough tasks without quitting. It’s built to provide years of use, like all Channellock’s American-made tools.
