During the Plumbing Special 2022 update, Knipex Tools launched some innovative professional plumbing tools. And as always, no tool release event at Knipex is complete without a generous mention of Knipex cobra.
This time around though, the big announcement was not about a new model of cobra water pump pliers. Rather, it was about some important new accessories for new-generation Knipex Cobras (2007+ models).
New Plastic Jaws Release
Knipex Tools announced an update of plastic jaw protectors for the new generation Cobra pliers. These protective jaws will prevent your beloved cobra pliers from leaving lasting impressions on delicate workpieces.
As you know, the work site will always confront you with different materials every day. Some materials are quite delicate and require extra care.
As a plumber, it’s obvious that you’ll come across polished chrome fixtures and fittings in your bathroom and kitchen plumbing jobs. And no matter how skillfully you handle the repairs, your client will not be satisfied if your tools leave marks on the polished surfaces.
Therefore, you must make sure that the tools you use do not create more problems when gripping such sensitive materials and surfaces.
Having been in such situations, I know what it means to try different methods to keep the beloved cobra pliers from leaving lasting teeth marks on materials. Sometimes the hacks work and sometimes they don’t. Other times they will work but complicate a simple project.
Thankfully, now Knipex Tools have a solution that works better.
More about the Soft Jaws for Latest Cobra Generation
These new protective jaws are made from plastic. They are molded to fit on the jaws of your new generation cobras. This means you cannot use them on old-style cobras.
The jaw covers are thick and fit so nicely. This gives you the peace of mind you never had when using newer models of cobras to grip sensitive materials.
Unfortunately, the soft jaw protectors are only available for three sizes of cobra pliers: 7-1/2″ (180mm), 10″ (250mm), and 12″ (300mm). But aren’t these the most versatile sizes of cobra water pump pliers?
Personally, I use the 10-inch cobra more than any other size. So, definitely, the soft jaws will offer a hassle-free smooth grip on finished sinks and faucets.
The product numbers for the protective jaw covers are 87 09 180 V01, 87 09 250 V01, and 87 09 300 V01, matching the three sizes of cobras respectively. Currently, they are only available on Knipex Website.
How do you know you have the newest generation of cobra pliers?
Well, as I mentioned, the recently released jaw protectors are designed for the newest generation of cobra pliers. I know you are wondering, what is this new Knipex cobra generation? How does it look? What’s the difference with the old generation? The answer is simple.
The newest generation cobra pliers have a slightly curved fine adjustment space. Comparatively, the space is straight on the earlier generation cobras.
Another way to tell that you have the newer model of cobra pliers is if they were manufactured after 2007. You can tell by the product number because it begins with 87 XX XXX for all newer models. For example, the model number of my favorite new gen 10 inch cobra is 87 01 250.
A majority of people tend to overlook the subtle distinctions between different tool models. But at least now you know that even such minor variations can have a significant impact.
So, the next time you go shopping for Knipex cobras, be very keen on details so that you pick the correct generation. Otherwise, you might just take home another old model of the cobras that will not fit these new handy jaw protectors.
There you have it!
With these new soft jaws, you can now grip delicate pipes and fixtures with confidence using your new generation cobras. Just make sure the protective jaws fit nicely and you will be good to go.
