tænger

Tänger is the Swedish term for pliers, a family of hand tools used for gripping, bending, twisting, and cutting small objects. They consist of two metal jaws joined by a pivot, with handles that provide leverage to increase gripping force. Pliers are typically made from hardened steel and may feature heat-treated jaws; many models also have insulated handles for electrical work.

Common types of tänger include combination pliers, needle-nose pliers, diagonal cutting pliers, groove-joint (adjustable) pliers, locking pliers, and end-cutting pliers. Each type is optimized for specific tasks: gripping and turning, reaching into tight spaces, cutting wire, adjusting the width of the jaws, securing onto an object, or cutting close to a surface. The selection depends on jaw shape, cutting capability, and the required reach or leverage.

Use and maintenance guidelines emphasize selecting the appropriate type for the task, ensuring proper alignment of jaws, and avoiding the use of pliers as chisels or hammers. Regular inspection for wear, chips, or cracks in the cutting edges, and keeping the tool clean and dry help extend its life. Pliers are widely used in metalworking, electrical work, construction, automotive repair, and various crafts, reflecting their versatility across trades and applications.

In summary, tänger denote a versatile group of hand tools designed for manipulating small objects through leverage, with a range of varieties tailored to gripping, bending, and cutting tasks. The English equivalents are generally “pliers” or, in some contexts, “tongs.”