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I know what you're thinking… "Why do I need this? Can't I just use a pair of pliers?" Snap rings are used for connecting parts together but they can be a real pain to install. You need some real muscle and the right snap ring pliers or it is going to drive you insane, literally.

snap ring pliers

Snap ring pliers are essential tools in many industries but choosing which one is right for you can be challenging. There are so many poorly made or just not up to the job, and we recognize that we tested 5 of the best currently available.

In this review, you will learn about interchangeable or fixed tips, individual pliers or sets, and the pros and cons of each. Not only have we written a detailed review for each product, as well as a buyers guide , but we have also selected our Best Overall  and Best Value  picks, so you can be confident to purchase the right snap ring plier for you.

Here's a flavor of what we provide in this best snap ring pliers review article:

  • First, we compare each model side-by-side in a comparison table
  • Next, we'll share the main features and benefits that you'll find handy
  • Then, we'll let you know about the weaknesses you might need to know about
  • And finally, we've written a detailed buying guide so you can get a better insight into the products

How's that sounding?  Great, let's move on to the main event!

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Snap Ring Pliers Comparison Table:

CLICK on any image below to see Ratings and Reviews on Amazon

Also, see our article on the Best Needle Nose Pliers – Reviews & Buyers Guide

5 Best Snap Ring Pliers | Reviews

1. KNIPEX Tools Circlip Snap-Ring Pliers 8-Piece Set (Best Overall)

Best Overall

  • If you are looking for a complete set of snap ring pliers then this set has everything you need. A big issue with interchangeable straight tips assortment is they are often made from pressed steel, and these snap or bend when pressure is applied.
  • The Knipex set is manufactured from heavy duty solid chrome vanadium steel and they can last 10 times longer than other pliers.
  • Each tip is grooved to add security to the grip, which is another common complaint for other pliers.
  • This set comes with 4 internal and 4 external snap rings and has both straight and 90° angle tips. For use with installation of larger snap rings on shafts and an internal snap ring on bore holes.
  • Because this is a set it comes with its own sturdy packaging where the pliers can be stored and transported easily.
  • This set comes with a lifetime limited warranty so as long as you haven't altered, misused, or deliberately damaged them you are covered. Simply return them to your nearest Knipex dealer, but you will need to show proof of purchase.
  • Yes, these are more money than a lot of other sets but they are built to not only last but to actually do the application they are made to do. We can't say the same about a lot of others!
  • If you work in the automotive trade these are a must-have. The initial financial outlay will be paid back 5 or 6 times over the course of their life.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Complete set
  • Durable handles
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Sturdy storage and carry case

2. Lang Tools 12-Piece Fixed Tip Combination (Best Value)

Best Value

  • Next, we have the Lang Tools 12-piece option. Each plier has a center screw and spring washer for internal rings and external retaining rings and each of the 4 sizes comes with a straight, 45 degree, and 90-degree option.
  • The heavy-duty, fixed tip design allows a better grip than an interchangeable tip and is also less prone to bending and snapping.
  • Storage of the 12-pliers is made easy as it comes in a plastic blow-molded case.
  • An issue we found was the switching between internal and external ring can be tricky. If it fails the only option is to remove the screw and re-assemble which is time-consuming. This will be a pain if your job relies on these tools.
  • Although the initial cost is higher they actually work out much better value than buying an individual snap ring plier. The build quality is also far superior.
  • If you can't quite stretch to our Best Overall pick then this set comes a close second. Langs are expert toolmakers and have been in the business since 1932.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Less prone to bending
  • Storage case
  • 12-piece set

Cons

  • Switching tips is tricky

3. IRWIN VISE-GRIPConvertible Snap Pliers

  • These pliers are for external and internal retaining rings use and, therefore, save you money as you don't need two sets.
  • They are versatile and come with 4 interchangeable tips which makes your life easier when you need them for separate removal and assembly jobs. It has an ergonomically designed handle which reduces hand fatigue over prolonged use.
  • The Jaw length is 6.5 inches. Jaw width is 1-7/20 inches. Jaw thickness is 1 inch. The pliers weigh 8 ounces.
  • You are backed by the Irwin lifetime guarantee so as long as you don't damage it through misuse or alteration, the warranty will cover repair or replacement.
  • An issue we found was there was some play in the jaws with the interchangeable heads. There's nowhere to store the heads either.
  • If you need to do heavy-duty work these won't cut it as the head won't open wide enough. Likewise, for small and intricate work the head won't close narrow enough.
  • Overall, a good set of snap ring pliers for the money, with an excellent guarantee, and reputable brand.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Reduced hand fatigue
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Some play in the jaws
  • Unsuitable for heavy-duty work

4. CRAFTSMAN Snap Ring Pliers

  • The Craftsman snap ring pliers do some things well but, there is room for improvement.
  • As with the Irwin, these come with 4 interchangeable heads, the specification difference here is they allow you to work at different angles.
  • You get 2 straight heads, 1 x 45° angle, and 1 x 90° angle. These are really useful for automotive work.
  • It weighs 7 ounces and measures 9.96 x 4.25 x 1.1 inches.
  • You will get a full lifetime warranty so if the product fails for any reason you will be covered. Simply return it to any store that stocks them and receive a replacement. You DO NOT need proof of purchase.
  • These are likely to be best suited to DIY jobs or hobbyists as they can easily bend with too much pressure or continued use.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Can work at different angles
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Easily bend with prolonged use

5. Channellock 927 8-Inch Circlip Snap Ring Plier

  • The Channellock Circlip retaining ring pliers has a great design with its heavy-duty return spring and ability to convert from internal to external use by a flick of a switch.
  • Made in the USA this 8-inch retaining ring plier is heat-treated for extra durability, comes with a lifetime warranty against flaws and defects, and has a comfort grip handle to prevent hand fatigue.
  • With a capacity of ¼ inch to 2 inches external and 3 /8 inch to 2 inches internal it comes with 5 interchangeable color-coded tips.
  • The overall length is 8 inches, Jaw length 1.60 inches, Jaw thickness 0.97 inches and handle width 4.85 inches. These weigh 9 ounces.
  • They are pretty bulky though, and this makes working in confined spaces difficult.
  • They are superbly engineered and will last a long time so if you are using them in non-recessed areas then you simply can't go wrong with them.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Easy change between internal and external
  • Durable spring
  • Quick-change tips
  • Built to last

Video: Everything you Need to Know About Snap Ring Pliers

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Further reading: 9 Different Types of Pliers – Which One is Right For You?

Snap Ring Pliers Buyers Guide

We have reviewed two different designs – a fixed tip and an interchangeable tip. Both have their pros and cons. As with any tools purchase, durability, ease of use, and price are the main factors to consider.

Durability

There is no doubt that a fixed tip plier is a better design. Not only will it last longer, but it is way less prone to bending, snapping, or losing grip. If your occupation means you are frequently using a snap ring plier, please ensure you buy a fixed tip set . It WILL save you a ton of time, grief, and cash in the long run.

In our testing, the interchangeable tips just don't cut it and easily bend and break. They are also pretty useless at automotive work! The Channellock 927 8-Inch Snap Ring Plier  is the best interchangeable option on the market today, but it is too bulky to do automotive work and jobs in confined spaces.

For a toolset that will last the distance, you can't go wrong with the KNIPEX Tools Snap-Ring Pliers 8-Piece Set . Buying a tool made from corrosion-resistant material and has a lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind. Rust is the enemy of any hand tool, especially pliers!

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Ease of use

Think about the type of work you will be doing and the frequency of it. Hand fatigue can slow you down, so buying a snap ring plier with an ergonomically designed handle. Ensure the tool can do what you want it to do. Will it close or open enough to install or remove the snap rings? Will it fit into tight spaces? This is essential for automotive work.

Price

There are a couple of options here. You can pay around $15 for one plier with interchangeable tips or buy a set with fixed tips. If you buy the set, your initial outlay will be higher, but in our opinion, that is the best option. Investing in quality tools will pay you back throughout your life.

The two sets we reviewed are made from high-quality materials, and their design is far better than the alternatives. Considering the likelihood of a tip bending and breaking with the $15 one, the set becomes much more appealing. We strongly advise investing in a set if you need to frequently use a snap ring plier or work in the automotive industry.

Snap Ring Pliers Conclusion

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

The KNIPEX Tools Snap-Ring Pliers 8-Piece Set  is made from super durable steel and is made to last up to 10 x longer. The lifetime warranty, versatility, and design mean this is our Best Overall  pick. A close second is the Lang Tools 12-Piece Fixed Tip Combination . We awarded this the Best Value  prize.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Best of the Rest

The best of the others is the Channellock 927 8-Inch Snap Ring Plier  with its easy switching from internal to external, heavy-duty spring, and padded grip handle.

These tools are essential for so many people. Sadly there is a lot of cheap junk out there on the market. We hope our honest review and buyer's guide have helped you to decide which snap ring plier is best for you, and you can find the right one for the jobs you have.

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Walter Snyder