Angela & Lester Ogawa
2025-08-19 21:52:12
I just received the newer 8.5†Kastking pliers and I like them even more than the 7†ones I relied on for a season of AK guiding. It has much better reach and the same solid, yet smooth movement that worked without constant oiling. I like the extra tools—especially the lure tuning, the snap ring tool, as well as the crimper for making wire leader. I rotated the carbide cutter through 40lb braid, 35lb nickel titanium wire, and 84 lb stainless steel wire, then went back and cut 40lb braid again just fine. I was concerned that the snap ring tool would be less effective due to the added length; but the precision is there, so there are no issues. On that note, the tip profile is noticeably narrower than many of the more recently available pliers (some at premium prices). This is probably due to not using aluminum, as well as the T-beam tip design. This means you get the reach you need for salt, but maintain the precision you need for smaller freshwater hooks. I read a review that said the pliers fit into the holster only one way, but have found that they actually do fit both ways—and to the same depth. The main difference is that it fits the “correct†way smoothly, but the “incorrect†way more positively without binding. A tighter hold could be useful while doing any number of guide preparation activities for clients. The plier’s handle grips are extremely positive when dry, and even maintains a positive feel when wet. But, it is softer than my old one so durability may not be as good. Also regarding the handles, I can confirm problems with the handles pulling off—one of mine did right out of the box. I think they didn’t use enough glue given the texture of the roughly forged handle (probably because they weren’t visible). Simple fix is to just glue it—I did, and it’s fine. I’m keeping these and moving my trusty 7†pliers to tackle box duty.
Eddie A
2025-07-22 20:30:34
Pliers seem nice and sturdy and well made. Cutters work well. The pliers don’t twist with hard pressure as my others did. Nice that you can do a few things with these, like straightening eyes and holding hooks while tightening knots, eliminating the need for some other small tools.
Brian F.
2025-06-27 10:06:25
Used 3 times, not a very good review unless I've used it for a year but I want to give an opinion. I am a guide and fish alot. I use these all day and have used most of the competition products. These are long enough to get deep hooks out and the cutter cuts braid like butter. We will see how long this is the case. The cutters look like they can be replaced but I don't know where you would get replacements. The soft grip is great. I am usually covered in fish slime and blood and still can keep a good grip on these. These work as well or better than most I've had. (So far)Anything can work ok out of the box, it's after a year that matters. They lock into the holder very well and the belt clip works better than all the others I've used.Usually rust takes out the cutters then after a while rust takes out the pliers.If I see any reason to update this after a year, I will.
Christopher E Rogers
2025-05-17 10:34:07
As a kayak fisherman, developing a system that is simple and easy to manage while out on the water is essential. This will often mean you need a tool that has multiple functions to meet varying needs. That's where these pliers shine.These are not only a quality set of pliers, but these come with a split ring nose notch to assist with changing out split rings on lures or other tackle. They have a great integrated line cutter which is now my primary tool for cutting line when out on the water. They also have notches milled into the base of the jaws that can be used as assists for cinching down knots.In addition to the functional benefits, the handles are comfortable and look great. I prefer these to the foamy or sometimes super rigid handles that are on other sets of pliers. Also, it comes with a carrying sheath with a 360 degree rotating ABS plastic clip. It's super sturdy and can be hooked onto a belt or onto a PFD for quick access, and is also fitted with a carabiner attachment so you don't lose them. Literally always by your side.I'm very pleased with these and would recommend for any angler.
S. Hochstetler
2025-05-14 20:26:54
Great pliers, that have just about any extra features you could ask for. I opted for the longer 8.5" for those tough times you need to go through the gills, the 7.5" version just didn't seem long enough so I returned them. The grip is a bit thick, so the usable length of the pliers is really only the upper metal. The added length of the 8.5 ensures you can get those deep hooks out of big fish. Everything about the pliers are quality except the carabiner that attaches to the holster. Kept detaching and the pliers would hit the ground when I would let them loose. Unfortunate for this price point, so I deducted a star. Otherwise, a very capable pair of pliers.
Jeff Wood
2025-05-05 15:33:22
At first I thought these seemed a little pricey but decided to give them a shot. WOW, I’m so glad I did! These are not only durable and well designed pliers but they are very comfortable in your hand! They do a bunch of different things also. Let’s just say, these are all you’ll need in your vest while out fishing! After clipping them on my vest with the D-ring bungee, I never have to worry about losing them. The belt case is also very well made. The split ring jaw tip works great for swapping hooks on a blade and I love the fact that these cut right through braided line. If your a braided line user you know it’s hard to cut! And after landing a fish and your hands are wet or slimy, these pliers stay where you put them in your hand also, they don’t slide around! I highly recommended these pliers if you are looking for a full function awesome pair of fishing pliers! You won’t be disappointed! Arrived on time and undamaged!
Marino
2025-04-10 12:53:01
So many pliers to choose from, I landed on these after I was tired of looking and WOW, great quality , better than I was expecting. Received today so I’m not sure how long they will last but they seem to be built very well! Feels great in the hand
Janne - Melbourne
2025-03-21 14:27:48
THIS IS NOT STAINLESS STEELIT IS RUSTING WITH IN DAY'S HIGH CARBON CONTENT
ferchiñas
2025-01-19 15:39:54
Excelente