Parallel Action Pliers

Shop parallel action pliers for jewellery making and wire work. Unlike ordinary pliers, the jaws stay parallel as they close, so they grip evenly along their whole length without slipping or marking your metal. Choose smooth steel, nylon or brass jaws, singles or sets. Free UK delivery.

Buying guides: Smooth, Nylon or Brass Jaws? Choosing Parallel Action Pliers · How to Open and Close Jump Rings

Parallel action pliers: FAQs

Do I need parallel pliers, or will ordinary pliers do?

Ordinary pliers close in a V, so they grip hardest at the tip. Parallel pliers grip along the whole jaw, so thick wire and flat stock are less likely to slip or pick up marks. For fine beading, ordinary pliers are usually enough; for sheet, square wire and forming, parallel pliers make the job easier.

Smooth steel, nylon or brass jaws?

Steel grips strongest and suits general work. Nylon won't scratch plated or polished wire but wears over time. Brass sits in between – kinder to precious metal than steel, firmer than nylon.

140 mm or 160 mm?

140 mm is easier to control on small, detailed work. 160 mm gives more leverage and a wider jaw for heavier wire and sheet.

What does the adjustable screw or stop do?

It sets how far the jaws close, so you can hold work firmly without crushing it, or squeeze several parts to the same thickness.

Is a set better value?

Yes. Our parallel plier sets, from 2-piece kits to the complete 27-piece set, cost less than buying each plier separately.

How quickly will my order arrive?

UK delivery is free and orders are dispatched within 1 working day. Trade and wholesale orders are welcome.

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Why choose parallel action pliers?

Ordinary pliers pivot like scissors, so they grip hardest at the back of the jaw and only lightly at the tip. Parallel action pliers use a compound joint so the jaws stay parallel, giving an even grip along the full length. That means less slipping, fewer marks and better control when you straighten, bend or hold wire and sheet.

Choose your jaw type

  • Smooth steel jaws – firm, even grip for bending and holding wire and sheet.
  • Nylon jaws – non-marring jaws for straightening wire and working on polished or plated pieces.
  • Brass jaws – softer than steel, so they protect your work while still giving a firm grip.
  • Specialist shapes – round, half round, looping, ring bending and cutting versions for particular jobs.

Choose your size

  • 120 mm – fine, close-up work and small hands.
  • 140 mm – the everyday size for most jewellery and wire work.
  • 160 mm and duckbill – more reach and leverage for thicker wire, sheet and larger pieces.

Browse by type: flat nose, round, chain nose & looping, forming & ring bending, specialist pliers & cutters and plier sets.

Who uses them?

Parallel pliers are popular with jewellers, silversmiths, watchmakers, opticians and model makers. Read our guide Smooth, Nylon or Brass Jaws? to help you choose.

FAQ

Which parallel pliers should I buy first?
A 140 mm flat nose pair with smooth jaws covers most jobs. Add a nylon-jaw pair for finished or plated pieces.

Are parallel pliers worth it for beginners?
Yes – the even grip makes straight bends and clean wire work easier, and they mark metal far less than standard pliers.

Do you supply trade and colleges?
Yes – wholesale and bulk orders for workshops, jewellery schools and retailers are welcome. Email ukcraftandhealth@gmail.com.

Why buy from Tools Master UK

  • Free UK delivery, dispatched within 1 working day
  • Rated 99.9% positive by our eBay buyers
  • 30-day returns
  • UK company – questions answered by phone or email