Wire strippers are crucial tools for anyone handling electrical wiring or electronics. The right wire stripper can improve your efficiency and accuracy, ensuring you strip wires without harming the conductors. Whether you’re a professional electrician or a DIY enthusiast, choosing the right wire stripper is essential. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best wire strippers available.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Adjustability And Versatility: A good wire stripper should handle various wire sizes. Look for models that adjust to different gauges, usually from 10 AWG to 22 AWG. This flexibility means you won’t need to switch tools often.
- Material And Construction: Wire strippers made from high-carbon steel or reinforced fiberglass are durable and stay sharp longer. This ensures clean cuts and long-lasting performance.
- Ergonomics And Size: Choose wire strippers with cushioned, non-slip handles for comfort and control, reducing fatigue during long tasks. Opt for compact 7-inch or 8-inch models, which fit easily in your toolkit and offer added features like crimpers and cutters for versatility.
Additionally, we have provided a detailed “Buying Guide” and key FAQs. This will help you choose the best Wire Strippers by the end of this guide.
Best Wire Strippers: Table
| Best Wire Strippers | Supported AWG | Size | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRWIN Wire Stripper | 10-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| WGGE WG-015 Wire Stripper | 10-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| DOWELL 10-22 AWG Wire Stripper | 10-22 AWG | 7 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Klein Tools 11063W Wire Cutter | 10-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| KAIWEETS Wire Stripper | 10-20 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| MulWark Wire Stripping Tool | 8-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| KNIPEX Wire Stripper | 10-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Capri Tools 20010 Wire Stripper | 8-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Mr. Pen- Wire Stripper | 8-22 AWG | 8 inches | Check On Amazon |
| Southwire Wire Stripper | 12-20 AWG | 7 inches | Check On Kaiweets |
Best Wire Strippers Reviews
1. IRWIN Wire Stripper
The IRWIN Wire Stripper is known for its ergonomic grip and multi-tool capabilities. It works with wire gauges from 10 to 22 AWG, making it highly adaptable. The pliers-style nose allows for efficient wire stripping, pulling, and looping, adding to its versatility. The bolt cutter feature precisely cuts bolts to size and leaves a perfect thread, making it great for precision tasks.
The tool has an induction-hardened cutting edge that stays sharp longer, which is valuable for long projects. The ergonomic handles with ProTouch grips reduce hand fatigue during extended use. A key feature is the built-in crimper that works with insulated and non-insulated terminals, providing a dependable one-tool solution for various electrical tasks.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-22 AWG
- Length: 10.1 inches
- Weight: 3.04 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic ProTouch
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, crimping, bolt cutting
Pros:
- Multifunctional with built-in crimper and bolt cutter
- Versatile wire gauge compatibility
- Great value and works well
Cons:
- Doesn’t include any spring mechanism
2. WGGE WG-015 Wire Stripper
The WGGE WG-015 Wire Stripper is an all-in-one tool designed for efficiency, combining stripping, cutting, and crimping. Made from high carbon alloy steel, it precisely handles 10-22 AWG solid and aluminum cables. The serrated nose bends, shapes, and pulls wire, showcasing its utility for detailed electrical work.
Its ergonomically curved handle with a non-slip rubber grip enhances comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. This design ensures a steady grip even in challenging situations, promoting safety and efficiency. It also crimps both insulated and non-insulated terminals.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-22 AWG
- Length: 8.2 inches
- Weight: 7.8 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic non-slip rubber
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, crimping
Pros:
- Strong, durable high carbon alloy steel construction
- Precise and easy to use with a serrated nose for wire manipulation
- Anti-slip technology
Cons:
- The handle is a bit stiff
3. DOWELL 10-22 AWG Wire Stripper
The DOWELL Wire Stripper features a built-in lock for protection. Ideal for those who prioritize a safe workspace, it strips wires from 10-22 AWG, making it versatile for various electronic and repair tasks.
A key feature is its ability to cut both copper and fine iron wires easily, showcasing its versatility and precision. The ergonomic design includes a thermoplastic elastomer grip, enhancing comfort and control while reducing hand strain during repetitive tasks. The wire stripper offers great value with its affordable price and high-quality construction, making it a top choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-22 AWG
- Length: 7 inches
- Weight: 5 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic Thermoplastic Elastomer
- Functions: Stripping, cutting
Pros:
- Perfect for small wire
- Versatile with the ability to cut various types of wire
- The handle is made of PP+TPR material
Cons:
- Not the best choice for heavy-duty industrial use
4. Klein Tools 11063W Wire Cutter
The Klein Tools 11063W is ideal for its single-action squeeze, gripping, and stripping wire in one motion. This feature makes stripping easier. It handles both 8-20 AWG solid and 10-22 AWG stranded wire, making it versatile and efficient.
Its precision-machined stripping holes remove insulation without damaging the wire. This is key for maintaining electrical integrity. The compound action mechanism gives more leverage, reducing effort, even with tougher insulations. This is especially useful during long work sessions. Built with a cast alloy chassis and a heavy-duty E-coat finish, this wire stripper is durable and resistant to corrosion. The tension-loaded wire grip gently holds the wire in place, keeping its shape for precise cuts and strips.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 8-22 AWG
- Length: 6.63 inches
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic
- Functions: Stripping, cutting
Pros:
- Convenient and easy to use
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Durable construction with corrosion-resistant finish
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
5. KAIWEETS Wire Stripper
The KAIWEETS Wire Stripper features a self-adjusting mechanism for automatic wire size adaptation. This tool handles wires from 10 to 24 AWG, ensuring precise and clean stripping without manual adjustments, significantly reducing preparation time.
This 3-in-1 tool can strip, crimp (both insulated and non-insulated terminals), and cut wires, making it useful for various electrical tasks. The thermoplastic rubber handle is designed for comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. With sharp cutting blades and a robust build, the KAIWEETS Wire Stripper is practical for both professional electricians and hobbyists. It offers precision and reliability, making it essential for any electrical toolkit.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-24 AWG
- Length: 8.07 inches
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic Thermoplastic Rubber
- Functions: Stripping, crimping, cutting
Pros:
- Self-adjusting mechanism for ease of use
- Multifunctional with crimping and cutting capabilities
- Great quality
Cons:
- Does not strip AWG 14.
6. MulWark Wire Stripping Tool
The MulWark Wire Stripper is a compact tool that strips wires from 24 to 10 AWG, both solid and stranded. It’s essential for many projects. The sharp, heat-treated blades ensure clean cuts on thick wires, improving efficiency and accuracy.
This tool also functions as a screw and bolt cutter. It cuts popular gauge copper screws cleanly, adding utility for residential and commercial use. The ergonomic, cushion-grip handles provide comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during long tasks. The MulWark Wire Stripper is durable, and made from heat-treated high-carbon steel with a baked black enamel finish to resist corrosion and wear. Its lightweight design and lifetime warranty make it a valuable investment for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 24-10 AWG
- Length: 8 inches
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic Rubber
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, crimping, bolt cutting
Pros:
- The wide stripping range accommodates various wire types.
- Built-in bolt cutter adds tool versatility.
- Lightweight design.
Cons:
- Not as effective on very thin or specialty wires.
7. KNIPEX Wire Stripper
The KNIPEX Wire Stripper is a powerful tool with high cutting capability. It efficiently manages both solid and stranded wire from 10 to 20 AWG. Designed for precision, its ridges ensure quick identification of the correct stripping holes.
One unique feature is its screw-cutting function. It can cut 6-32 and 8-32 screws without threading from the front or back. This makes it easier to handle various fastening tasks. The forged design and shear cutting blades provide 50% more cutting capacity than other brands. This efficiency saves time. The ergonomic grip is comfortable and reduces fatigue during long use. Made from high-quality materials, this wire stripper is durable and long-lasting. It’s a valuable investment for professionals.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-20 AWG
- Length: 8 inches
- Weight: 10.6 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic Comfort Grip
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, screw cutting
Pros:
- Superior cutting capacity with shear blades.
- Precision locating ridges aid in wire size identification.
- Robust construction ensures durability.
Cons:
- The locking mechanism can be tricky to handle one-handed.
8. Capri Tools 20010 Wire Stripper
The Capri Tools 20010 Wire Stripper offers precise and damage-free stripping, crucial for delicate wiring. Its fast compound wire stripping action utilizes your grip strength efficiently. It features machined stripping holes for wires from 8 to 22 AWG and has a durable, long-lasting cast alloy chassis.
The tension-loaded wire grip adjusts automatically, holding the wire securely during stripping. This feature ensures consistent results. The recoiling spring design resets the tool between uses, increasing speed and reducing hand strain. This wire stripper can handle a wide range of wire sizes precisely, thanks to its precision-machined holes. The ergonomic handle design makes it comfortable to use for long periods.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 8-22 AWG
- Length: 7.5 inches
- Weight: 14.4 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic
- Functions: Stripping
Pros:
- Durable construction with a cast alloy chassis.
- An automatic wire grip enhances safety and consistency.
- Recoiling spring design reduces the workload on hands.
Cons:
- The design might be too complex for users who prefer simpler tools.
9. Mr. Pen- Wire Stripper
The Mr. Pen Wire Stripper is an affordable, multi-functional tool. It strips 10-22 AWG wires efficiently and includes a built-in cutter and wire loop bending holes for added utility without added complexity.
This tool is made from lightweight aluminum and high-carbon steel, making it durable and easy to handle. The ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue, which is helpful for long tasks. It also features a color-coded guide for quick wire size identification, making it ideal for DIY projects and professional jobs. Additionally, the wire stripper has threaded screw shears, a rare feature in this price range. This allows for easy screw adjustment and cutting without extra tools.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-22 AWG
- Length: 8 inches
- Weight: 0.67 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic Aluminum and High Carbon Steel
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, screw cutting
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- The color-coded guide facilitates quick wire size identification.
- Sharp and sturdy
Cons:
- The grip could be improved for better comfort.
10. Southwire Wire Stripper
The Southwire Wire Stripper is known for its heavy-duty capabilities and durable stainless steel build. It handles 10-18 AWG solid and 12-20 AWG stranded wires with ease. Its compact design is perfect for tight spaces, making it a favorite among residential and light commercial electricians.
This tool’s precision-ground cutting blades allow for fast and clean wire stripping without damaging the wire. This is crucial for maintaining reliable electrical connections. The serrated nose grips and bends wires effectively, adding to its versatility. The handles are ergonomically designed and spring-loaded for self-opening action. This reduces user fatigue and boosts efficiency during repetitive tasks. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and maneuver in cramped areas.
Specifications:
- Stripping Capacity: 10-18 AWG solid, 12-20 AWG stranded
- Length: 7 inches
- Weight: 4.8 ounces
- Grip Type: Ergonomic
- Functions: Stripping, cutting, looping
Pros:
- High-quality stainless steel blades ensure precise stripping.
- The spring-loaded mechanism for ease of use.
- A serrated nose provides strong gripping, twisting, and pulling capabilities.
Cons:
- Not suitable for very heavy-duty industrial applications.
Buying Guide For Best Wire Stripper
Selecting the right wire strippers is crucial for any electrical or wiring project. This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when buying wire strippers, ensuring you make a choice that improves your efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
1. Size Of The Wire Stripper
In the market, there are all sorts of wire stripper tools available, in variable sizes. However, both the smaller ones and larger ones are not viable options to pick. While the smaller ones are difficult to use, the larger ones are usually difficult to carry. With that said, you should look for a right-sized tool such as 7 inches or 8 inches. That is why we have only picked up the options from the market which have a 7-8 inches size as they are comfortable to hold, and can easily fit in anyone’s pocket or toolkit.
2. Supported AWG
When buying a new wire stripper, don’t forget to check its compatibility. The thickness of wires is usually measured in terms of AWG, which stands for American Wire Gauge. As the AWG number increases, the thickness of the wire decreases. That being said, 8-10 AWG wires are usually thicker, and 20-22 AWG wires are relatively thinner. So, you should pick a wire stripper that is designed to work and cut wires of all sizes and thicknesses. If you look at the options mentioned in the list above, most of the tools are highly versatile and support 10-22 AWG wires. In fact, there are a few good options that even work with 8 and 24 AWG wires as well.
3. Wire Cutter
While most wire strippers are mainly used to take off the insulation from the wire, there can be times when you might need to cut the wire and remove the damaged part. With that said, having a wire cutter in the tool is quite convenient. Although if you carry a complete tool kit, you might have other tools that can help you with the cutting part. But, having a wire cutter in-built in the wire stripper is always more convenient as you can directly strip/cut wires without changing the tools.
4. Screw/Bolt Cutter
Just like the wire cutter is a good extension to have on a wire stripper, having a screw/bolt cutter is yet another good add-on. However, you have to be a little picky with this feature as not all wire strippers come with a screw cutter. Hence, if you are looking for a multi-functional tool, having a screw/bolt cutter is a must!
5. Wire Crimper
In case your work schedule includes joining or replacing the wire terminals, you don’t actually have to buy a wire crimping tool separately. We have already included a bunch of good wire stripper tools in the list that have a wire crimping tool built-in. Meanwhile, make sure to confirm that the crimping tool is compatible with both insulated and non-insulated terminals.
6. Build Quality
One of the most important factors to consider while buying a new tool is its build quality to ensure longevity. For that, you can check the materials of which the tool is made. In the case of wire stripping tools, usually, the ones made of alloy steel have a strong and durable build quality. Moreover, you can also consider checking the quality of the tool’s handle. Hence, make sure the handle has an ergonomic design and is made of comfortable and grippy material such as rubber.
7. Ergonomics And Comfort
- Handle Design: Consider wire strippers with ergonomically designed handles to reduce hand fatigue, especially important for projects that require prolonged use.
- Material: Handles made from rubber or specially designed composites can provide better grip and comfort.
8. Additional Features
- Built-In Cutters: Some wire strippers come with integrated cutters, which can be a convenient feature for multitasking without switching tools.
- Crimping Ability: Models that also offer crimping capabilities provide added functionality, allowing you to crimp connectors onto wires with the same tool.
- Stripping Holes: These are pre-defined holes that match specific AWG sizes for stripping. They can provide greater precision for repetitive tasks.
FAQs:
If we compare the manual wire strippers with the self-adjusting ones, surely the self-adjusting ones are much better and do a much cleaner cutting job. But, at the same time, they are usually more expensive and are only ideal for professionals who need to strip wires frequently. If you are buying a wire stripper for casual use, we would still recommend you a regular one as they are simple to use, and are affordable as well.
Yes, wire strippers can also be used to strip flat wires such as Romex cables. But, doing that with a regular-design wire stripper isn’t possible. To deal with such wires, you will have to purchase a self-adjusting wire stripper specifically.
That depends on the wire stripper tool you have! If your wire stripper tool has a crimping tool built-in, then it’s completely possible to use it for crimping terminals on wires. However, if you don’t have a wire crimping tool, it would be a risky task to crimp the wire with the stripping edges.
Conclusion
Finding the best wire strippers is key for efficient and safe wiring tasks. Whether you’re handling simple home projects or complex ones, the right tool can make all the difference. Look for wire strippers that offer durability, ease of use, and precise stripping capabilities to ensure your electrical work is both effective and reliable. Investing wisely in these tools not only enhances your workflow but also ensures safety with every strip.
Here are the top three recommendations for the best wire stripper.
- If you’re looking for a multifunctional tool for casual use, consider the IRWIN Vise-Grip Wire Stripping Tool (2078309). It works with 10-22 AWG wires and has a built-in screw cutter and crimping tool. The build quality is excellent, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
- For a budget-friendly option without sacrificing build quality, choose the WGGE WG-015 Professional Crimping Tool/Multi-Tool. This 8-inch wire stripper and cutter also handles 10-22 AWG wires and includes a screw cutter and crimping tool. It’s highly affordable and comes with a lifetime warranty.
