Angie Whitaker
14 min readApr 12, 2024

Welcome to our in-depth product review of the Knipex Cobra. If you’re in the market for a versatile and durable multitool, this might just be the one you’ve been searching for. In this roundup, we’ll take a closer look at the Knipex Cobra, sharing its top features, functionality, and overall user experience.

The Top 10 Best Knipex Cobras

  1. Knipex Cobra Quickset 10" Water Pump Pliers — Polished Head, Non-Slip Plastic Coated Handles — The Knipex 8721250 10" Cobra Quickset Water Pump Pliers boasts a polished head, non-slip handles, and 25 adjustment positions, making it an incredibly versatile and user-friendly choice for water pump repairs in tight spaces.
  2. Knipex Cobra 10-inch Water Pump Pliers — Discover the ultimate grip: Knipex Cobra water pump pliers provide superior adjustability, comfort, and durability for all your water pumping needs.
  3. Knipex 25 Adjustment Positions Cobra Quickset Pump Pliers MultiGrip — Knipex 10" Cobra Quickset Water Pump Pliers — MultiGrip: The ultimate DIY plier for tight spaces, featuring 25 adjustment positions, seamless pin-joint rotation, and a durable chrome-vanadium steel construction.
  4. Knipex 7–1/4-Inch Cobra Pliers — Knipex 8701180 7–1/4-Inch Cobra Pliers: Fast adjustment, secure grip, and stability for efficient pump plier work.
  5. Knipex Cobra 180mm Water Pump Pliers with Self-Locking and Chrome Vanadium Steel Construction — Knipex 87 02 180 Cobra Water Pump Pliers: Adjustable, self-locking, and high-force grip perfect for working with pipes and nuts, backed by a 4.9-star rating.
  6. Knipex Cobra 3-Piece Plier Set — Cobra water pump pliers by KNIPEX — Safety, efficiency, and durability all in one, thanks to unique jaw configuration, self-locking adjustment, and chrome vanadium electric steel construction.
  7. Knipex Cobra 10" Water Pump Pliers for Electrical Work — Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers — The Ultimate Tradesman’s Precision Tool for Effortless Grip and Exceptional Durability on Demand.
  8. Precision-Grade Knipex Cobra XS Water Pump Pliers (4"): Top-Quality Tool for Tradesmen — Experience precision, durability, and ultimate convenience with the KNIPEX 87 00 100 4" Cobra XS Water Pump Pliers, the ideal choice for tradespeople worldwide.
  9. Knipex Cobra High-Tech Water Pump Pliers 1000V Insulated-Tethered Attachment — The Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers offer reliable electrical performance and enhanced safety for professionals working in electrical systems.
  10. Knipex Cobra Pliers for Precision Handling — Experience world-class precision and performance with the Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers, the top choice of tradesmen worldwide for industrial-quality durability and comfort.

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Reviews

Knipex Cobra Quickset 10" Water Pump Pliers — Polished Head, Non-Slip Plastic Coated Handles

Knipex Cobra Quickset 10

The Knipex Cobra Quickset pliers offer a range of features that make them ideal for water pump maintenance tasks. Their robust design, incorporating chrome-vanadium steel, ensures durability and longevity even under heavy use. With an opening size of 2 inches, these pliers are capable of clamping pipes with diameters of up to 50 mm, while also accommodating nuts with a 46 mm capacity for the straight sides of the jaw.

One of the highlights of these pliers is the 25 gray adjustment positions that provide flexibility in handling different-sized pipes and nuts. The polished head adds a touch of refinement while the non-slip, plastic-coated handles provide a comfortable grip, even with wet or greasy hands. The handles themselves can be adjusted by simply pressing a button, making it easy to fine-tune the pliers for optimal accessibility in tight spaces.

In addition to its versatility and practicality, the Knipex Cobra Quickset boasts a user-friendly design, allowing you to easily close and open the pliers with one hand. The additional quick-adjust feature, accessible through a button on the handle, enhances functionality by providing a reliable method of workpiece setting. The pliers also feature an innovative scroll function, which facilitates easy adjustment to the workpiece by simply pressing the button and fully opening the pliers.

With a net weight of 335 grams, these pliers are compact and convenient to carry along while working on-site. The overall length of 250 mm ensures a comfortable grip and control when clamping larger pipes, making it an indispensable tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professional plumbers.

The numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers attest to the quality, practicality, and reliability of the Knipex Cobra Quickset. Users appreciate the comfortable grip, ease of use, and the wide range of adjustment positions, which allow for quick and efficient clamping of pipes and nuts. Despite a few minor drawbacks, overall, these pliers are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality tool for water pump maintenance tasks.

Knipex Cobra 10-inch Water Pump Pliers

Knipex Cobra 10-inch Water Pump Pliers | Image

Imagine being handed a pair of Knipex Cobra water pump pliers for the first time. The 10-inch tool is as long and sturdy as it appears in the marketing materials, but what truly impressed me was the built-in safety features.

This innovative plier comes with a patented push button adjustment system that offers 30% more gripping capacity. It’s so user-friendly, you can position the upper jaw, push the button, adjust the opening, and close the lower jaw all with one hand. And it’s perfect for those tight, hard-to-reach spaces.

But let’s talk about the safety aspect. Knipex Tools has designed these pliers with you, the user, in mind. The pinch guard prevents you from getting blood blisters on your hands when you’re working with the pliers for long periods. And with the unique self-locking mechanism, once it’s set, it stays, requiring no more adjusting.

The Knipex Cobra water pump pliers are well-constructed, made from chrome vanadium electric steel, a high alloy, oil-tempered steel intended for longevity. Their thin head design is perfect for working in tight spaces, saving you the hassle of needing to change tools.

While the 2-inch maximum opening capacity might seem limiting for larger pipes and nuts, it doesn’t take away from the overall effectiveness and user-friendliness of this product. The Cobra pliers are a reliable and efficient tool for any pipe or nut-related job, all wrapped up in a sleek, sturdy red package.

Knipex 25 Adjustment Positions Cobra Quickset Pump Pliers MultiGrip

Knipex 25 Adjustment Positions Cobra Quickset Pump Pliers MultiGrip | Image

The Knipex 10" Cobra Quickset Water Pump Pliers have proven to be a reliable and versatile tool in my daily life. What stood out most to me was its ability to fully open up, adjust to multiple positions, and grab onto various pipes and nuts with ease.

I was particularly impressed with the slim multi-component grip handles and the polished head. The tool’s weight was perfect for maneuverability, and the slim handles made it easier to get into tight spaces. The product’s build quality was second to none, featuring chrome-vanadium steel that felt durable and well-crafted.

While the pliers were an absolute game-changer for me when dealing with water pipes and tricky tight spaces, I found it to be a bit bulky for some specific nuts and bolts. Overall, the Knipex Cobra Quickset Water Pump Pliers were an excellent addition to my toolbox, and I highly recommend them for anyone looking for a high-quality, multipurpose plier.

Knipex 7–1/4-Inch Cobra Pliers

Knipex 7-1/4-Inch Cobra Pliers | Image

The Knipex 7–1/4-inch Cobra Pliers are an impressive tool for those needing swift, precise adjustments. Unlike some pliers, this model locks securely on pipes and nuts, preventing slipping and reducing the force needed. The box-joint design provides excellent stability, while the guard keeps fingers away from danger.

I particularly appreciate the non-slip plastic coating on the handles, making them more comfortable and secure to hold. Despite having only one locking position, the device offers a tight grip, thanks to the special hardened teeth on the gripping surfaces. The chrome vanadium electric steel construction ensures durability and the option of locking when needed. Overall, this tool is a reliable option for those requiring quick adjustments but is not magnet-proof.

Knipex Cobra 180mm Water Pump Pliers with Self-Locking and Chrome Vanadium Steel Construction

Knipex Cobra 180mm Water Pump Pliers with Self-Locking and Chrome Vanadium Steel Construction | Image

In my daily life, the Knipex 87 02 180 Water Pump Pliers Cobra 7,09" with Soft Handle has proven to be a valuable tool. Its adjustment feature at the touch of a button directly on the workpiece makes it quick and easy to use for different tasks. The self-locking feature on pipes and nuts is another game-changer, as it prevents any slipping against the workpiece and requires minimal hand force.

One of the standout features in my experience is the gripping surface with serrated hardened teeth, which are resistant to wear and tear. The chrome vanadium electric steel construction provides durability and stability, while the box-joint design adds to the pliers’ solid construction. The pinch guard is a thoughtful addition, ensuring safe use even when working in tight spaces.

However, some users have mentioned that the product is a bit pricey compared to other similar models. Additionally, a small number of reviewers have noted that the pliers are slightly smaller than expected, but this does not significantly impact their usability. Overall, the Knipex 87 02 180 Water Pump Pliers Cobra 7,09" with Soft Handle is a high-quality, reliable, and functional tool that I’ve grown to appreciate in my daily life.

Knipex Cobra 3-Piece Plier Set

Knipex Cobra 3-Piece Plier Set | Image

I recently gave the Knipex 3-Piece Cobra Plier Set a try, and I must say, I was quite impressed by this set of pliers. The comfort of the cushioned grips and the chrome vanadium electric steel construction make these pliers perfect for a variety of tasks. The integrated pinch guard prevents any accidental pinches, which is a game-changer when compared to other gripping pliers.

One of my favorite features is the self-locking adjustment and sharp gripping teeth that ensure a perfect fit every time. No need to waste energy trying to squeeze the pliers or worry about them slipping. The compact yet strong jaws can handle any shape, and the thin head design makes it easy to get into tight spaces.

While I love the features of this set, there is one con I must mention: the packaging. The plastic packaging for the 12-inch pliers is a bit disappointing and doesn’t fit well. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance and quality of the pliers themselves.

Despite this minor letdown, I highly recommend the Knipex 3-Piece Cobra Plier Set for anyone in need of a reliable and durable set of pliers. The comfort, strength, and precision make them a worthwhile investment for any toolbox.

Knipex Cobra 10" Water Pump Pliers for Electrical Work

Knipex Cobra 10

Experience the precision and durability of Knipex’s 10-inch Cobra water pump pliers. These pliers are a top choice for tradesmen worldwide, offering both comfort and quality assurance. Their self-locking design and push-button adjustment provide easy use, while the pinch guard and toothed grip optimize grip and protect fingers.

With 30 different jaw positions and a maximum opening size of 2–3/4 inches, these pliers are versatile and capable. Made of chrome vanadium steel, they provide the robustness needed for real-world use and conditions. Embrace the Knipex Cobra as your go-to plier for all your water pumping needs.

Precision-Grade Knipex Cobra XS Water Pump Pliers (4"): Top-Quality Tool for Tradesmen

Precision-Grade Knipex Cobra XS Water Pump Pliers (4

The Knipex Cobra XS is a compact water pump plier designed to provide full functionality in tight spaces. Its slim head and pinch guard ensure user comfort, while its self-locking feature securely grips pipes and nuts.

This tough, durable tool features serrated gripping surfaces and is made from atramentized steel. Trusted and preferred by tradesmen worldwide, it promises reliable and precise performance.

Knipex Cobra High-Tech Water Pump Pliers 1000V Insulated-Tethered Attachment

Knipex Cobra High-Tech Water Pump Pliers 1000V Insulated-Tethered Attachment | Image

The Knipex Cobra High-Tech Water Pump Pliers-1000V Insulated-Tethered Attachment is designed to make work a breeze for professionals handling electrical systems. Crafted from high-quality materials, it boasts effortless adjustment and superior gripping power, ensuring peak performance and safety. Its 24-position jaw capacity and 2-inch maximum jaw opening provide versatility and reliability.

The pliers feature a limited lifetime warranty, and their sleek chrome-plated and red/yellow design make them a must-have tool in any electrician’s arsenal. However, for optimal safety, always follow the manufacturer’s usage guidelines.

Knipex Cobra Pliers for Precision Handling

Knipex Cobra Pliers for Precision Handling | Image

I recently had the chance to use the Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers, and let me tell you, my experience was nothing short of impressive. Right off the bat, these pliers were incredibly comfortable to use, thanks to their well-designed handle. The tether attachment is a fantastic feature that kept the tool right by my side, even when I accidentally dropped it from a height.

The Knipex Cobra impressed me with its precision performance, leaving no doubt that it’s a top choice for tradesmen worldwide. It’s also commendable that these tools are made using only the highest quality materials, ensuring durability and function even in the most challenging of conditions. As a bonus, the bright red and blue color combo is quite eye-catching, perfect for standing out in a toolbox when you need it most. While the handle isn’t insulated, it still feels secure and gives me confidence that I’m using a top-notch tool.

All in all, the Knipex Cobra Water Pump Pliers have become my go-to choice for any plumbing job that comes my way. It may seem a little pricey, but once you feel the precision and comfort these pliers provide, you’ll understand why they’re worth the investment.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the right pliers for your project, there are several factors you need to consider. In this guide, we’re going to walk you through the important features, considerations, and general advice for Knipex Cobra pliers.

Design and Comfort

One of the key considerations when purchasing a pair of Knipex Cobra pliers is their design and comfort. Look for pliers with ergonomic handles that provide a comfortable, non-slip grip. This will help prevent hand fatigue and ensure that you can work with the pliers for extended periods of time without discomfort.

Performance

The performance of the Knipex Cobra pliers is crucial. A good pair of pliers should be able to handle a wide range of tasks, from gripping and twisting to cutting and squeezing. Pay attention to the jaw width and design, as well as the materials used in the construction of the pliers. High-quality materials will provide durability and resistance to wear and tear.

Durability

Durability is another important consideration when purchasing Knipex Cobra pliers. Look for pliers that are built to last, with robust materials and construction. A pair of pliers that can stand up to daily use and wear and tear will save you money in the long run and provide a high level of functionality.

Versatility

Finally, consider the versatility of the Knipex Cobra pliers. A good pair of pliers should be able to handle a wide range of tasks, from small and intricate to large and tough. Look for pliers with adjustable jaws and interchangeable tips, which will allow you to customize the pliers to your specific needs.

FAQ

What are the key features of the Knipex Cobra?

The Knipex Cobra is a plier wrench that features an innovative 2-in-1 design, combining the strengths of both pliers and wrenches. It has a patented quick-change mechanism that allows users to switch between the two functions seamlessly, making it a versatile and efficient tool for various applications. The Cobra also boasts a compact and ergonomic design, ensuring maximum comfort and control during use.

Additionally, the Knipex Cobra is constructed from high-quality materials, including a durable, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant alloy body and a robust, hardened steel wire. This ensures long-lasting performance and reliability even in demanding environments. Its jaws are also designed to provide a strong grip on bolts and nuts, minimizing the risk of slippage and damage.

Is the Knipex Cobra suitable for professionals or only for DIY enthusiasts?

The Knipex Cobra is designed to meet the demands of professional users and DIY enthusiasts alike. Its robust, high-quality construction and innovative 2-in-1 design make it a versatile and efficient tool for a wide range of applications, including professional work in industries like automotive, construction, and HVAC. The Cobra’s compact and ergonomic design also ensures that it is easy to handle and maneuver for both professional and DIY tasks.

Moreover, the Knipex Cobra’s quick-change mechanism allows users to switch between pliers and wrench functions quickly, further enhancing its versatility and appeal to professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its ability to handle bolts and nuts with ease also makes it an excellent choice for those who require a reliable and efficient tool for their projects.

Are there different versions of the Knipex Cobra available?

There are indeed various versions of the Knipex Cobra available, catering to different needs and preferences. Some common variations include the Cobra 12, Cobra 17, Cobra 20, and Cobra 27, with the numbers indicating the tools’ size and weight. There are also different versions with various grip lengths and jaw widths to accommodate different hand sizes and to be used with different types of bolts and nuts. Additionally, some Cobra models may have specific features or designs tailored for specific applications or industries.

It’s essential to choose the right Knipex Cobra model for your needs to ensure optimal performance and satisfaction with the tool. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek advice from experienced professionals before making a purchase to help you find the best fit for your requirements and applications.

What are the advantages of using a Knipex Cobra plier wrench compared to traditional pliers or wrenches?

Using a Knipex Cobra plier wrench offers several advantages compared to traditional pliers or wrenches. One of the most significant benefits is its innovative 2-in-1 design, which allows users to switch seamlessly between pliers and wrench functions without the need for additional tools or equipment. This flexibility makes it an incredibly versatile and efficient tool for various applications, simplifying the work process and reducing the number of tools required.

Another advantage is the Cobra’s compact and ergonomic design, which ensures maximum comfort and control during use. Its durable, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant alloy body and hardened steel wire make it a robust and reliable tool, even in demanding environments. The Cobra’s strong grip on bolts and nuts also minimizes the risk of slippage and damage, further enhancing its performance and appeal.

Can the Knipex Cobra be used with different types of bolts and nuts?

Yes, the Knipex Cobra can be used with different types of bolts and nuts, thanks to its adjustable jaw design and robust construction. The tool’s jaws are designed to provide a strong grip on various bolts and nuts, including slotted, hexagonal, and Phillips head types. The Cobra’s adjustability also enables users to customize the jaw width and grip according to the specific bolt or nut they are working with, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

It’s essential to choose the right Knipex Cobra model for your needs to ensure that it can accommodate the different types and sizes of bolts and nuts you will be working with. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek advice from experienced professionals before making a purchase to help you find the best fit for your requirements.

What is the warranty period for the Knipex Cobra?

The warranty period for the Knipex Cobra varies depending on the specific model and region. However, in general, Knipex Tools offers a 10-year warranty on their products, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damages caused by misuse or improper handling of the tool.

It’s essential to review the warranty terms and conditions for your specific Knipex Cobra model and region to understand the coverage and what is expected of you as the user to maintain the warranty’s validity. If you have any concerns or questions about the warranty, it’s always a good idea to contact Knipex Tools customer support for assistance.

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