How to Buy a Wire Stripper
Introduction
Wire Strippers for DIYers Table
| Benefits of Wire Strippers for Home DIYers |
|---|
| Quick and easy to use |
| Prevents messy cuts |
| Adjustable size settings |
| Economical |
| Essential tool |
Defining the Wire Stripper
A wire stripper is a tool used for removing insulation around electrical wires.
It usually consists of a pair of handles with adjustable jaws, and a blade or blades in between.
The adjustable jaws help to ensure the wire stripper fits around the wire of various sizes.
The blade or blades are responsible for cutting off the insulation.
Wire strippers typically have a handle that can be used to protect the user’s hand during the stripping process.
Wire strippers are often used by electricians or when working with home wiring applications, and can help the user to save time and work more efficiently.
Our Goal
Our goal is to show you how to pick the right wire stripper for your needs.
We’ll break down the different types of wire strippers and how they can each be of use in different home DIY projects.
We’ll also offer some tips on how to use them safely so your home projects can be successful.
With the right wire stripper in hand, you can take on all kinds of projects, from simple to complex.
Making sure you have the right tool to get the job done will not only save you time but also materials - not to mention your sanity! Let us show you how and why to buy a wire stripper.
It can make a world of difference in your home projects!
What Sets Wire Strippers Apart
Advantages
Wire strippers come with a multitude of advantages.
They allow you to quickly and easily strip insulation from most types of wire without damaging the wire, perfect for safely and successfully completing an electrical job.
Some come with multiple sizes of stripping holes so you can get the perfect fit for whatever kind of wire you are working with.
The handles are usually ergonomically designed for comfortable use and provide good grip so you can get the job done.
And they are often small and lightweight enough to fit into a toolbox or tool belt for quick portability and easy storage.
In short, wire strippers offer convenience, control and easy maneuverability, making them an invaluable tool for any electrician.
How Wire Strippers Work
Wire strippers make it easy to remove electrical wires’ insulation.
They work by cutting the insulation without cutting through the metal wire underneath.
To use a wire stripper, slide it over the wire and press down with enough force to cut through the insulation.
You’ll need to rotate the wire stripper so that the cutting edge stays flush with the insulation.
After the insulation has been removed, keep rotating the wire stripper while pulling it away from the wire.
This will remove more of the insulation and make the end of the wire clean and neat.
When picking out a wire stripper, look for one that fits comfortably in one hand and has different sized openings for stripping different sized wires.
Features to Look For
When buying a wire stripper, there are a few features to keep in mind.
Look for wire strippers with adjustable jaws and cushioned grips, which make it easier to use on different kinds of wire.
Check to see if the wire stripper has a built-in cutter and if it has measurements marked on it for easier sizing.
Automatic shut-off is another great feature to look for, which will prevent the wire stripper from accidentally cutting too deep and damaging the wire.
Make sure the stripper you buy is comfortable and fits well in your hand.
Finally, high-quality wire strippers often come with a longer warranty, so try to find one where you can get an extended warranty if needed.
When to Use a Wire Stripper
Common Applications
Wire strippers are a handy tool in any tradesperson’s arsenal.
They come in handy for a wide variety of tasks, and can be used in many different applications.
Strippers are commonly used for stripping the ends of wires, such as when connecting an appliance to a power source.
You can also use them for stripping the insulation from a wire’s core, making it easier to connect as part of a circuit.
In the automotive industry, wire strippers are often used to remove the shielding from cables to attach exposed wires to a car’s electrical system.
For DIY projects or hobbies, such as model-making, wire strippers are excellent for creating electrical paths between parts, and can even be used to strip insulation from speaker wiring.
Wire Strippers In Your Workshop
Wire strippers are essential items for anyone who spends time in their workshop.
By having a wire stripper at hand, you can reduce the need for other tools that may not be as user-friendly.
Wire strippers are great for quickly removing insulation from wires, and can even be used in place of a utility knife to cut fibers or thin electric cords without damaging them.
Wire strippers are perfect for electrical repairs or projects that require precision and control.
They are also great for DIY projects, as they can be used to cut wire mesh, strips of sheet metal, or scrap pieces of wire.
A wire stripper is an important tool to have in any workshop, as it can quickly substitute for more difficult to use tools.
Techniques and Tips
When using a wire stripper, it is important to consider the size of the wire.
Use the wire stripper jaws to grip the wire firmly, and use just enough pressure to get the job done.
Make sure the wire is completely inside the jaws before trimming.
Move the cutting tool back and forth in a sawing motion and take caution as to not cut too far down the wire.
It is also helpful to keep your wire off a hard surface for extra support.
Finally, when making the final cut, do not pull the wire through the cutting slot - slice it off instead.
Doing this will allow for you to have complete control over the cut.
What To Look For In A Wire Stripper
Wire Stripper Options
Getting the right tool for the job is key when it comes to wire stripping.
The type of wire stripper you purchase will depend on the type of job you need done.
For light-duty wire stripping, a basic single-hole wire stripper is the best option.
This stripper is easy to use with minimal effort, and its single blade quickly removes insulation from all types of wires.
If you’re tackling tougher projects, consider investing in a multi-hole wire stripper with carbide blades.
This tool can strip heavy-duty wires including aluminum and copper with little effort.
Lastly, look for a wire stripper with adjustable settings to make sure your wire stripping project goes smoothly.
By adjusting the depth and size of the blades, you can make sure you’re stripping your wires perfectly.
Choosing the Right Wire Stripper
When it comes to buying a wire stripper, there are a few important things to consider.
First, decide how much wire you’ll be working with.
Wire strippers come in different blade sizes, so make sure you choose one that can handle the size and type of wire you’ll be cutting.
Second, consider the materials and construction.
Quality wire strippers will be crafted out of durable steel that won’t easily break.
Lastly, look for ease of use.
Get a wire stripper with ergonomic handles and spring-loaded features to reduce fatigue and help you work more comfortably.
Taking the time to weigh your options now will save you time, and maybe even money, down the line.
Brand Reliability
When it comes to choosing a wire stripper, most experts recommend buying from a trusted brand with proven results.
Many opt for Klein Tools.
Their tools are built with quality and durability in mind, and the company offers a wide array of choices.
In addition, Klein Tools has excellent customer service.
Another noteworthy choice is Irwin, known for providing tools performance on tough jobs.
On top of that, they have a reputation for great quality and reliability.
Moving away from name brands, we also have Wright Tool.
Wright has a large selection of strippers that are designed for both professionals and DIYers.
They are renowned for their quality craftsmanship and precision-cut guaranteed performance.
Finally, Strong Hand Tools have a collection of products that are reliable, ergonomic, and cost-effective.
So, when all is said and done, it’s best to go with one of these proven and reliable brands for your wire stripper needs.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Troubleshooting
Wire strippers can cause problems when they don’t strip the wire correctly.
Bad stripping can be caused by mismatched blades, or when the blades are bent or dull.
If your wire stripper isn’t working, first check that the blades match the size of your wire.
Then look to see if they are bent or dull and replace them with sharper ones if needed.
Another common problem is when the handles get stuck in the squeezing action.
To fix this, separate the handles and make sure they are in the correct position.
Finally, make sure you’re using the right amount of pressure when stripping.
Too much pressure might accidentally cut the wire insulation.
Maintenance and Upkeep
One of the most important aspects of owning a wire stripper is regular maintenance and upkeep.
It’s important to make sure your wire stripper is clean and free from dirt or debris.
Make sure to use a lubricant indicated for wire strippers to keep it running and functioning properly.
Also, inspect the blades frequently and, if needed, use a stone or sandpaper to sharpen them.
If the blades are hard to operate or become worn, replace them immediately to avoid any issues with your wire stripper.
Be sure to inspect all nuts, screws, and pins and regularly tighten them to ensure that the wire stripper stays safe and secure when in use.
Finally, never store your wire stripper until you’ve wiped it dry and applied a light coating of rust preventative.
Staying Safe
Whenever using a wire stripper, it’s important to keep safety in mind.
Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes while you work.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges of a wire.
Make sure your work area is well lit and free of any clutter to reduce the chance of getting cut.
Don’t strip a wire while it is plugged in or powered up, as this can lead to an electric shock.
If the wire exceeds the recommended current, leave it to a professional.
After use, store the wire stripper in an area that is safe and where it won’t fall into the wrong hands.
Lastly, never use a wire stripper if it’s damaged.
Conclusion
Buying Your Wire Stripper
A wire stripper is a great tool for do-it-yourselfers.
When buying one, there are few things to keep in mind.
Price should be considered.
Wire strippers come in a variety of prices, ranging from a few dollars for a basic model to tens of dollars for a more complicated model.
Size and type matter too.
If you’re planning to use the stripper in tight spaces, make sure to buy a model with a narrow end.
Durability is also key – no one wants to buy a tool that will break after only a few uses! Finally, read user reviews if you can, so you know what to expect.
With these factors in mind, you can find the right wire stripper for the job.
