When you open the package, you can see the reason the pliers are stiff--notice the black carbon dust that is on the tool. That is because the iron particles become charged during the grinding process and attaches itself to the pliers from static. This grinding dust is also inside the rivet between the halves of the pliers.
Firstly, you want to wipe it all off or blow it with air.
Then, get some Break Free CLP and apply a liberal amount (dripping is ok) to the following points: both sides of the rivet head, top hinge below the cutters, bottom hinge opposite of that, and to the left and right sides.
When it is thoroughly saturated, work the handles open and closed for a good minute in all angles to let gravity bring the CLP oil into the inner workings of the hinge. Then without wiping it, let it sit for a few hours. When you get back to it, work it a few more times and wipe dry. You should have a fully broken in plier where the handles fall free on its own.
As far as the pliers go, it's the best plier I own and I like it even more than my Knipex. It is not too big or heavy and I'm a 5'6" 125 lbs size small gloved stick-nerd. An 8" might be more comfortable but then you lose the leverage and length to use as a hammer. Concerning that, it's pretty much only meant for hammering small nails such as NM/Romex staples which it does beautifully and as well as an actual hammer. It has two milled flats on the plier jaws for this specific purpose.
The gap on the head is spaced perfectly with cross-hatched teeth on the jaws for grabbing parallel and perpendicularly. The gap on linemans pliers have several purposes--it is so that the cutters still cut flush as it is worn down and sharpened multiple times. Additionally, it is to allow the ability to twist soft copper wires together without too much damage to the wires. Lastly, many electricians use the linemans to strip wire as well, scoring the insulation with soft pressure on the cutters and then pulling the jacket with the plier head.
All in all, Kleins are a must have and it's the essence of high quality at an affordable price.
| Manufacturer | Klein Tools |
|---|---|
| Part Number | D2139NE |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 4 x 0.75 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Item model number | D2139NE |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | 9-Inch |
| Color | Dark Blue |
| Style | Standard |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Pattern | Pliers |
| Power Source | Hand Powered |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Number Of Pieces | 1 |
| Handle Material | Plastic |
| Measurement System | inch |
| Usage | Cutters,Gripping |
| Included Components | High Leverage Side Cutters New England |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| National Stock Number | 5120-01-473-9651 |