Pincers

Pincers are hand tools consisting of two arms joined at a pivot to form a pair of jaws. They are designed to pinch, grasp, bend, or cut small objects and are used in many trades, including jewelry making, electronics, and general maintenance. Pincers are part of a broad family that also includes pliers, nippers, and forceps, all relying on lever action to amplify a user’s grip.

The most common forms include needle-nose pincers, which have long, slender jaws for precision work; flat-nose and broad-nose pincers, which provide a wider gripping surface for broader objects. Some pincers are built with cutting edges for wire, nails, or small fasteners. Materials typically consist of hardened steel, with variants offering stainless steel or insulated handles for electrical tasks. Spring-loaded designs help the jaws reopen automatically after squeezing.

In biology, the term pincers refers to pincer-like appendages used by various animals to grab, manipulate, or subdue prey. In crustaceans such as crabs, lobsters, and some shrimp, the paired claws called chelae resemble pincers and serve for defense, feeding, and competition. Similar pincer-like structures appear in other invertebrates, where they perform analogous grabbing or piercing functions.

Safety and usage considerations include applying steady, controlled pressure to avoid slippage, keeping fingers away from the jaws, and using eye protection for tasks that generate chips. Electrical work often requires insulated tools to reduce the risk of shock.

See also: forceps, pliers, nippers, chelae.