locking plier testing

[Toolmaker51]

Malco is the sheet metal, siding, HVAC etc tool company. They do a good job, with hardly [if any] general advertising, concentrating on the trades. Right there is a signal, going after bang for the buck. Despite searching, no-one else manufactures a blind notcher, used this erecting 28' of vinyl fencing.

Probably should post that too; serious work mounting to concrete slab, yet designed for sunken posts. Aye Carumba!

Pre Irwin ViseGrip has a huge following; used tools going for close to or more cost than newly made competitors.
My current go-to happens to be Milwaukee [yes, power tool Milwaukee]. Taiwan made, which I find satisfactory, and very good at certain tasks. 1st purchase, this long nosed pair at 7".

Had dozens of carpet staples to extract from hardwood [Lakewood, CA 1941] oak floor. These clearly are finish ground while closed and locked; nipping right onto the staple diameter, despite no space to floor surface. Some broke, but still could grab tiny single protrusions.
The clamp isn't a knurled screw, which turn out now OK for younger hands. These accept a cross bar, not needed so far.
I was so impressed, went back for 2 more pair. Clamping, in my book, requires 3 units; 2 for secure orientation, a 3rd for moving one that might be in the way.

Otherwise, while Knipex is the epitome, my loyalties are divided by not only price, but performance, and availability.