Compare Standard HF vs Craftsman Snap-Ring Pliers

[goodfellow]

Sears had this US made set on closeout for $53, so I used a gift card to get my BIL his B-day present. He rebuilds small engines and is always borrowing my well used HF set. I believe this set is made by Wilde Tool Co., and it sells for over $240 on the Wilde website

http://wildetool.com/catid.cfm?id=146&cat=1&subcat=114

The HF set was purchased three years ago for less than $20 on a 25% discount coupon. A pretty good deal!! Here are the two sets side by side.



HF doesn't include as many pliers but includes two picks for loosening snap rings, while the C-man set includes four sets of three each (straight, 90 degree, and 45 degree) pliers.
A general overview doesn't offer much difference. Both sets have cushioned handles and are manufactured from about the same thickness of steel plate.

LOL -- HF says it's an 11pc set, but that includes the storage case. There are only 10 tools inside the case -- two picks, and eight pliers.







That said, the Wilde design makes it easier to switch and align the tongs since it has a unique clamping system





The points on the tools are the same -- there is not much difference between tip grinding and design.
First the Wilde then the HF -- note the HF tip is a bit off on my tools since I use this particular set a lot and it may have distorted a bit





Now for a smaller set -- HF is first and Wilde second





All the other sets are pretty much in line with each other -- i.e., no large noticeable differences.

Here is the largest jaw comparison -- Wilde on right and HF on left



Bottom Line: I really see no BIG difference in design or quality that would make me purchase the set from Wilde for $244, but at a $53 closeout price it's definitely worth the money. Is it better than HF? Yes, in one respect -- the locking and alignment mechanism is better than the plain HF screw system, but the strength and tip grinds of the tools are even. I'd buy the HF set again -

[Muddy]

You still have Sears?!

Great grab. I have a smaller set of Matco made by Wilde. The quarter turn lock system is handy.