The KNIPEX Tools 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper (8-inch) represents premium German craftsmanship in the electrical tools market. Priced significantly higher than competitors, these wire strippers deliver exceptional precision, versatility, and durability that justify the investment for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. Their unique design combines stripping, cutting, and gripping capabilities in a single high-quality tool that outperforms most alternatives on the market.
Introduction
In the realm of electrical tools, few brands command respect like KNIPEX. The German manufacturer has established itself as a premium toolmaker, and their 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper exemplifies why professionals often choose quality over price. This 8-inch multifunctional tool aims to streamline an electrician’s workflow by combining multiple functions in a single implement. But does the performance justify its premium price point? This comprehensive review examines every aspect of this specialized tool based on extensive real-world feedback from professionals and DIY users alike.
Build Quality and Design
Materials and Construction
The KNIPEX 13 72 8 features forged construction, immediately distinguishing it from stamped competitors. The tool is manufactured in Germany, adhering to rigorous quality standards that have made German tools legendary in the industry. The metal components display excellent machining with precise tolerances and a clean finish that indicates superior craftsmanship.
The cutting edges are notably sharp straight out of the package. Multiple users report that the blades cut through insulation and wires with minimal effort, suggesting a high-quality heat treatment process that ensures long-term edge retention. The overall construction feels robust and substantial—a tool clearly designed for daily professional use rather than occasional household tasks.
Ergonomics
Comfort during extended use is critical for professional tools, and the KNIPEX excels in this department. The two-component handles feature comfortable grips that provide excellent leverage while reducing hand fatigue. Users with varying hand sizes report positive experiences with the handle design, indicating thoughtful ergonomic considerations.
The tool’s weight distribution balances functionality with comfort—heavy enough to provide stability during precise work but not so heavy as to cause fatigue during full-day use. This balance particularly benefits professionals who carry these strippers in their tool belt throughout workdays.
Locking Mechanism
The KNIPEX incorporates a locking mechanism that has received mixed reviews. Most users appreciate the intuitive thumb-operated design that allows for single-handed operation regardless of which hand is used or how the tool is picked up. This represents a significant improvement over competitors that require specific hand positioning to operate the lock effectively.
However, a minority of users note that the mechanism has some play when locked, meaning the jaws don’t close 100% flush. While this doesn’t affect functionality for most applications, it’s worth noting for precision work. The locking feature effectively secures the tool in the closed position for safe storage in a tool pouch or belt.
Key Features and Functionality
Wire Stripping Capability
The primary function of any wire stripper is, naturally, stripping wire insulation cleanly and efficiently. The KNIPEX excels with its precision-ground stripping notches that accommodate wire gauges from 10 to 20 AWG. The unique ridged design of the stripping section makes it intuitive to select the correct size without needing to read gauge markings each time—a small but significant efficiency improvement for professionals.
Users consistently praise the stripping performance across both solid and stranded wire. The sharp edges make clean cuts through insulation without damaging the conductor beneath—a common issue with lower-quality strippers that can nick or damage strands. Multiple reviewers specifically mention the tool’s exceptional performance with flexible, silicone-jacketed wire, where it removes insulation “like it was never attached” without damaging delicate strands.
One limitation mentioned by some users is that the tool doesn’t accommodate wire gauges smaller than 20 AWG, which might be restrictive for electronics work or fine detailed electrical projects.
Cutting Performance
The cutting capability of these wire strippers significantly exceeds what’s typically found in standard strippers. The design incorporates what several reviewers describe as a “lopper” style cutter, providing substantial mechanical advantage when cutting heavier gauge wires and cables.
The cutting section receives particular praise for its ability to handle MC (metal-clad) cable, Romex, and other substantial electrical cables with a single-handed operation. One aircraft mechanic notes it “cuts through wire so smoothly,” while an electrician mentions that it “cuts MC like butter.” This capability often eliminates the need to carry separate cable cutters, streamlining an electrician’s tool load.
Multiple users caution that while the cutters are exceptional for electrical applications, they should not be used on hardened steel, nails, or piano wire, as this exceeds the design specifications and risks damaging the cutting edges.
Screw Cutting Feature
One standout feature frequently highlighted is the screw cutting capability. Unlike many competing tools that require threading screws into designated holes before cutting, the KNIPEX allows users to simply place screws in the appropriate holes and cut. This seemingly small design improvement significantly increases efficiency when trimming screws to length—a common task during electrical installations.
Users report clean cuts through various screw materials, including medium-hardness steel, which sometimes challenges other cutting tools. This feature proves particularly valuable when making mechanical alterations during installation work or when dealing with incorrectly sized fasteners.
Additional Functionality
The needle-nose design provides gripping capabilities similar to standard pliers, making the tool useful for handling connectors, screws, and other small components. The flat head is well-suited for gripping flat romex bundles, while some users report using the tip as a conduit reamer.
The knurled head section facilitates twisting wires together—another common electrical task—though some users note it doesn’t provide the same grip strength as dedicated lineman’s pliers for larger gauge wires.
Professional Applications
Electrical Work
Electricians constitute the primary user base for these strippers, and their feedback consistently highlights the tool’s value in professional settings. The combination of stripping, cutting, and gripping functions reduces the need to switch between tools during standard electrical work like outlet replacements, switch installations, and wiring terminations.
The tool’s ability to cut MC/BX cable is particularly valuable for commercial electricians who frequently work with this material. The screw-cutting feature streamlines installations in unusual spaces where standard-length screws don’t fit properly.
Some professional users note that while these strippers excel at their core functions, they don’t completely replace lineman’s pliers or diagonal cutters (dikes) for certain tasks. Many electricians still carry these additional tools for specific functions like pulling staples or for extra leverage when splicing larger gauge wires.
Other Trades
Beyond electricians, several other professionals report excellent results with these strippers. Aircraft mechanics praise the precision and cutting strength, while test fixture assembly technicians value the combined functionality for their specialized work. HVAC technicians mention the tool works perfectly for thermostat wiring and hose clamps.
DIY users appreciate the tool’s versatility for occasional household electrical projects, though some question whether the professional-grade quality justifies the cost for infrequent use.
Comparative Analysis
KNIPEX vs. Klein
Klein Tools represents the traditional standard for American electricians, and comparisons between KNIPEX and Klein appear frequently in user feedback. Several professional electricians report switching from Klein to KNIPEX after experiencing quality issues with newer Klein products.
Specific Klein models mentioned in comparisons include the 1010, 1019 “Kurve,” 2005N, and K12035. Users generally find the KNIPEX offers superior cutting ability and more precise stripping compared to these Klein alternatives. The KNIPEX cutting edges reportedly stay sharper longer than equivalent Klein tools.
However, some longtime Klein users note they still prefer certain aspects of Klein tools, particularly for heavy-duty applications where the familiar heft of Klein lineman’s pliers provides advantages. The KNIPEX’s lighter weight, while beneficial for reducing fatigue, means it lacks the mass needed for hammer-like applications that some electricians employ with their side cutters.
KNIPEX vs. Milwaukee
Milwaukee emerges as another frequent comparison point, with their 9-inch 7-in-1 Combination Wire Strippers Pliers specifically mentioned as a competitor in the multi-function category. Several users suggest the Milwaukee offers comparable functionality at a significantly lower price point, making it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
The primary difference noted is in build quality and precision, where the KNIPEX generally maintains an edge despite the price difference. However, multiple reviewers suggest the Milwaukee represents better value, particularly for non-professionals or those who don’t require the absolute premium quality the KNIPEX offers.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Superior Build Quality: German-made with forged construction and precision engineering
- Exceptional Cutting Performance: Easily handles wires, cables, and MC/BX
- Precise Wire Stripping: Clean cuts without damaging conductors
- Innovative Screw Cutting: No threading required for quick, clean screw trimming
- Comfortable Ergonomics: Two-component handles reduce fatigue
- Intuitive Locking Mechanism: Can be operated with either hand in any orientation
- Versatility: Combines multiple functions in a single tool
- Long-Term Durability: Premium materials suggest extended service life
Limitations
- Premium Price: Significantly more expensive than competing brands
- Limited Wire Range: Doesn’t accommodate wire gauges smaller than 20 AWG
- Electrical Safety Concerns: Half-metal design presents risks with live wires
- Pivot Mechanism Issues: Some users report squeaking or clicking during operation
- Cutter Positioning: Requires wide opening to insert wires due to blade location
- Rust Susceptibility: Several users report rusting despite oiling and proper maintenance
- Quality Control Inconsistencies: Some purchasers received tools with alignment issues
- Not a Complete Replacement: Still need separate tools for certain electrical tasks
Value Proposition
The KNIPEX 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper commands a premium price—typically ranging from $48 to $80 depending on the retailer and timing. This positions it significantly higher than competing products from Klein, Milwaukee, Gardner Bender, and other manufacturers.
For professional electricians who use these tools daily, the investment often proves worthwhile. The combination of precision, comfort, and durability translates to increased efficiency and reduced strain over thousands of repetitions. As one professional user notes, “You buy once, cry once.” The expected longevity—with many users suggesting these will last a lifetime with proper care—further strengthens the value proposition for professionals.
For DIY enthusiasts or those with occasional electrical needs, the value calculation becomes more complex. While the quality is undeniable, the premium price may be difficult to justify for infrequent use. In these cases, midrange alternatives like the Milwaukee 7-in-1 might represent a more balanced choice between quality and cost.
Maintenance and Care
Several users highlight maintenance considerations for these premium tools. The non-coated metal parts show some susceptibility to rust in humid environments, with multiple users reporting oxidation after exposure to moisture. Regular application of light oil helps prevent this issue while maintaining smooth operation.
The pivot mechanism occasionally requires attention, with some users reporting squeaking after heavy use or exposure to moisture. Again, proper lubrication resolves this issue for most users. KNIPEX tools generally respond well to standard tool maintenance practices, suggesting good long-term serviceability.
Final Verdict
The KNIPEX Tools 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper represents premium German engineering applied to a specialized electrical tool. It excels in its core functions—stripping, cutting, and gripping—while providing additional utility through innovative features like effortless screw cutting.
For professional electricians and serious enthusiasts who value precision, comfort, and long-term reliability, these strippers justify their premium price through superior performance and durability. They’re particularly well-suited to commercial electrical work where their versatility and cutting strength prove invaluable.
For casual DIYers or those on strict budgets, the value proposition becomes harder to justify. While undeniably superior to budget options, the significant price premium might direct these users toward midrange alternatives that offer acceptable performance at lower cost.
Ultimately, the KNIPEX 13 72 8 exemplifies the old adage that quality remains long after price is forgotten. Those who invest in these premium strippers will likely enjoy years of reliable service from a tool that makes daily electrical work noticeably more efficient and comfortable.
Recommendation
For Professional Electricians: Highly recommended. The efficiency gains and comfort during daily use justify the investment, particularly for commercial work involving MC cable and various wire gauges.
For Serious DIY Enthusiasts: Recommended for those who prioritize quality and plan significant electrical projects. The tool will likely provide a lifetime of service for periodic home electrical work.
For Casual Users: Consider alternatives unless budget is not a concern. While exceptional, the premium price exceeds what’s necessary for occasional light electrical tasks.
In the crowded market of electrical hand tools, the KNIPEX 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper stands out not by reinventing the concept of wire strippers, but by executing every aspect with exceptional precision, thoughtful design, and premium materials. For those who can justify the investment, they represent the pinnacle of what wire strippers can be.
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