Knipex Cobra Pliers set for Locksmiths | Mr. Locksmith:

Hello fellow locksmiths,Terry here from Mr. Locksmith. Today I want to talk about one of the most trusted and frequently used tools in my everyday locksmith kit — the Knipex Cobra Pliers.

If you’ve been following my tool reviews, you already know I’m a big believer in investing in quality tools that last. Over the years, I’ve been slowly replacing many of my older pliers and gripping tools with Knipex, and honestly, I wish I had done it sooner.

Why Knipex Cobra Pliers Stand Out for Locksmiths

As locksmiths, we work in tight spaces, awkward angles, and unpredictable situations. A tool that slips, flexes, or rounds off hardware can cost you time — or worse, damage a customer’s property. That’s where Knipex Cobra pliers really shine.

These pliers offer:

• Exceptional gripping power without excessive hand pressure

• Fast push-button adjustment for one-handed operation

• Slim head design for tight lock and door hardware spaces

• Hardened teeth that bite and hold without slipping

Whether I’m adjusting door hardware, gripping tailpieces, manipulating lock components, or applying controlled force during a lockout, these pliers perform flawlessly.

Two-Piece and Three-Piece Sets: Best Value

Even though I already owned a set, I couldn’t pass up grabbing another when I saw them on sale. Knipex sets — especially the 2-piece and 3-piece Cobra plier sets — are excellent value for locksmiths.

You’ll often find great pricing:

• At big-box hardware stores

• Through specialty tool retailers

• During Christmas sales and spring promotions

Pro tip: Don’t rush to buy online from unknown sellers. Stick to reputable retailers to avoid counterfeits.

•  The KNIPEX Cobra® Water Pump Pliers are the perfect gripping pliers for every application. The Cobra Pliers will grip any shaped object – round, square, hex or flat with a bite like no other pliers. This very popular two-piece set will grip up to 2″
•  Adjustment at the touch of a button directly on the workpiece
•  Fine adjustment for optimum adaptation to different size workpieces and a comfortable gripping position
•  Self-locking on pipes and nuts: no slipping off the workpiece and low handforce required
•  Gripping surfaces with special hardened teeth, teeth hardness (approx. 61 HRC): low wear and reliable gripping
•  Box-joint design: high stability because of double guide
•  Pinch guard prevents operators’ fingers being pinched
•  Reliable catching of the hinge bolt: no unintentional shifting

Daily Use in the Field

These pliers are not “occasional use” tools — they’re daily drivers. Mine live in my EDC pouch and larger service kits. I reach for them constantly when:

• Adjusting or removing stubborn lock hardware

• Holding components during re-keying

• Applying controlled leverage without marring surfaces

• Supporting non-destructive entry techniques

Once you start using Knipex Cobras regularly, it’s hard to go back to standard pliers.

Final Thoughts

Quality tools matter in this trade. The Knipex Cobra Pliers set has earned a permanent spot in my locksmith toolkit, and I recommend them to apprentices and seasoned locksmiths alike.

If you’re building or upgrading your locksmith tool kit, this is one investment you won’t regret.

 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mr. Locksmith YouTube channel and visit my website for:

• Beginner, intermediate, and advanced locksmith training

• Covert and non-destructive entry methods

• Real-world tool reviews from the field

Until next time — stay sharp, work smart, and happy locksmithing.