Earlier this year, Bosch expanded its plumbing tool lineup with the very first set of professional plumbing pliers, which includes the water pump pliers and the pliers wrench.
In the previous article, I shared my firsthand experience with the new Bosch water pump pliers. Now, let’s take a closer look at the Bosch Professional Pliers Wrench. This tool is designed to give you strength, precision, and versatility, and most importantly, replace your crescents.
Key Features
- Durable chrome-vanadium steel construction.
- Smooth jaws for scratch-free gripping.
- Multi-component rubber handles for all-day comfort.
- Easy-to-use push-button adjustment.
- Capacity: nuts up to 48mm
My First Impression
When I first picked up the Bosch Pliers Wrench, I was immediately struck by how solid it felt. It’s made from chrome-vanadium steel, so you know it’s built to last.
The handles, wrapped in a 2K rubberized grip, feel comfortable in your hands, even if you’re working for hours or wearing gloves. That grip alone makes it worth considering if you’ve ever had your hands ache after a long job.
Smooth Jaws for Delicate Work
What stood out to me was the smooth jaws. If you’ve ever scratched a faucet or marred a client’s chrome finish with regular pliers, you’ll appreciate how these jaws grip without damaging the surface.
I tested them on some polished hex fittings, and they worked perfectly—no scratches, no slipping. It is more like what you get from most professional pliers wrenches such as the Knipex, Gedore, or Lenox
Whether you’re unscrewing a faucet or tightening a fitting, these pliers hold firmly while treating delicate surfaces with care. Honestly, that feature alone could save you a lot of headaches if you’re working on high-end or sensitive materials.
How They Perform
Adjusting the jaw size is super easy, thanks to the push-button mechanism. It’s smooth and precise, which makes switching between tasks a breeze. You can also adjust the jaws without pressing the button when you open the handles all the way.
One thing I loved is how versatile it is—you can use it as a replacement for a socket wrench in most cases. Just set the size you need, and it grips tight. The wide gripping surface ensures a firm, safe hold without slipping or damaging the material.
For plumbing, general repairs, or even DIY projects, this wrench is a real workhorse. It grips securely, handles tough jobs effortlessly, and feels reliable every time you pick it up.
Comparison: Bosch vs Knipex Pliers Wrench
When someone mentions pliers wrench, Knipex is likely the first name that comes to mind. So, you might be wondering—how does the Bosch Pliers Wrench measure up? Here’s how they stack up:
- Price: Currently, the Bosch pliers wrench costs around $88, which is more than the Knipex comfort grip version at $72.
- Size Options: Bosch only offers this wrench in the 250mm size right now, while Knipex gives you a full range of sizes, so you have more options depending on your needs.
- Manufacturing: Bosch makes their tools in China, whereas Knipex tools are made in Germany, which might influence how you view the quality.
That price difference is something to consider. If you’re on a budget or need multiple sizes, Knipex might be a better fit.
A Few Drawbacks
To be fair, no tool is perfect, and the Bosch Pliers Wrench has its limitations.
- The price is higher than its main competitor, which might make you pause.
- The 250mm size is the only option right now, so if you need smaller or larger wrenches, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
- It’s a bit heavy, which could be tiring if you’re using it all day.
So, Should You Buy It?
Here’s the bottom line: the Bosch Professional Pliers Wrench is an excellent tool if you value precision and durability. The smooth jaws are a game-changer for anyone who works with delicate or polished materials, and the grip is one of the most comfortable I’ve used.
That said, the higher price and lack of size options could be deal-breakers, especially when the Knipex version is cheaper and comes in more sizes. But if you’re looking for a single, reliable wrench for everyday tasks, this Bosch model is worth considering. And if you’re curious about how it compares to Bosch’s other plumbing pliers, check out my review of their water pump pliers—these two tools work perfectly together.
