3 Important Properties Every Crimping Tool Should Feature

If you’re an electrician or someone who has to deal with networks and computers on a regular basis, you probably know how important having the right crimping tool for the job is. So if you’re looking to buy your first crimping tools, or add another one to your collection, you’ll come across a wide range of choices, all of which differ in one way or another, which makes picking the right one not as easy as you’d want it to be. With that said, there are a couple of important factors to consider when shopping for crimping tools.

First and foremost, look to buy a crimping tool from a reputable tool brand. While this won’t guarantee quality, you have a better chance of getting a crimping tool that will serve you for a long time. Apollo, Klein, SharkBite and Weidmuller tools for crimping are all made to serve the hard working man for a long period of time. Apollo, Klein, SharkBite and Weidmuller tools for crimping are all professional-grade tools that offer more versatility than what you’d find at Home Depot or any other hardware store. Here are three of the most important properties that every decent crimper comes with.

Crimp Size Range

Most crimping tools feature several slot sizes which enables you to perform a range of tasks. Most crimping position service sizes are 4, 6, 8 and 10 position modular connectors, whereas some of the more common crimpers that cover larger sizes include RJ45, RJ12, and RJ11. Most wire gauges go up to 50, which is a tiny wire size, and the lower that number gets, the bigger the wires are. Purchasing a crimping tool that works on a range gives you more versatility than purchasing a single-sized crimper.

Ratchet Mechanism

A full cycle ratchet mechanism prevents you from releasing the connector before a complete compression occurs. In other words, this feature makes sure your wires never slip or end up partially crimped. This feature is typically accompanied by a safety release to keep the handles locked in place until you release the safety. This feature is not that important when dealing with smaller wires, but it becomes more valuable as wire sizes get bigger.

Ergonomic Design

As is the case with most handheld tools, a handheld crimper should feature an ergonomic design. The handle should be comfortable enough so that you can grip the tool without your hands tiring after a while. Further, you should be able to maintain a firm grip without adding extra stress to your hand.