Home flex up to 10 mm²
You want a square ratchet kit with 1.0, 1.5 and 2.5 mm² ferrules for sockets and light flex. The Preciva CP621200 is about £22.99, with 0.25–10 mm² and 1,200 ferrules claimed. Restock the small sizes first.
Ferrule pliers comparison 2026
The best ferrule pliers, compared.
Top pick: Knipex ferrule pliers 97 72 180 – Highest score in the set: nine marked dies to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4, 0.25–16 mm², and 4.8 from 875 reviews, with no ratchet to jam on the first squeeze. Best value: Preciva square ferrule kit CP621200 – About £22.99 for a square 0.25–10 mm² kit with 1,200 ferrules claimed and the largest listing review count at a mid price, after noting the count is unverified. Updated October 2026.
Ferrule pliers crimp a bootlace ferrule onto stranded copper so the strands stay together in a screw or tunnel terminal. Quality shows up as a jaw that matches the ferrule, a ratchet that finishes the stroke or marked nests you pick yourself, and ferrules whose mm² matches the conductor rather than a collar colour from another code. The treats a proper ferrule crimp as suitable for fine strands under BS 7671 regulation 526.9, and it rejects tinning those strands in screw terminals. Range, profile and ratchet behaviour are set out in the [ferrule pliers buying guide](/hub/pliers/ferrule-pliers/sub/ferrule-pliers-buying-guide). UK buyers on amazon.co.uk are mostly fitting flex, control cable, campervan and 12 V wiring, or the occasional heavier tail. A 16 mm² or 25 mm² title still needs a jaw that opens around that ferrule.
Ferrule pliers crimp a bootlace ferrule onto stranded copper so the strands stay together in a screw or tunnel terminal.
44 products checked · 58 hrs invested · +19,200 readers
12 of 12: Best ferrule pliers compared
Swipe for more
1-2 of 12Best overall
Best value
9.8/10
9.6/10
9.6/10
9.4/10
9.4/10
9.2/10
9.2/10
9.0/10
8.8/10
8.4/10
8.0/10
4.2/10
∼ £36
∼ £23
∼ £24
∼ £34
∼ £10
∼ £86
∼ £25
∼ £18
∼ £26
∼ £25
∼ £14
∼ £13
4.8(875)
4.7(28,186)
4.7(139)
4.6(1,115)
4.6(107)
4.5(49)
4.5(44)
4.4(21)
4.3(161)
4.1(9)
3.9(15)
–
Personal buying guide
Which ferrule pliers fit this job?
Question 1 of 2
What cross-section do you crimp most?
The best ferrule pliers in detail
Our view
The Knipex 97 72 180 is 180 mm and 242 g, with nine marked half-round dies for 0.25–16 mm² to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4, and no ratchet stated. On amazon.co.uk it is £35.96 with 4.8 from 875 reviews. Short UK reviews, mostly from 2016 to 2019, recommend it and praise the coverage up to 16 mm². One review says the crimp is from one side, the joint is weak, and the wires pull out, and that a cheap self-adjusting tool was better. There is no case and no ferrule assortment. The listing line “Specification Met: VDE” does not print a voltage, and Knipex notes a separate VDE variant, so this ASIN is not a live-working tool. You pick the marked nest yourself.
Pros
- Nine marked half-round dies from 0.25 to 16 mm²
- Cited to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4
- 4.8 from 875 reviews
- 180 mm and 242 g, lighter than the kit boxes
Cons
- No ferrules and no case
- No ratchet: you choose the nest
- One review reports a one-sided crimp and wires pulling out
- VDE on the listing line has no voltage in the bullets
Best for: You want marked dies up to 16 mm² and you already buy ferrules to the drawing.
Less suitable: You want a kit, a ratchet that finishes the stroke for you, or a tool rated for live work.
Specifications
- Model
- Knipex ferrule pliers 97 72 180
- Brand
- KNIPEX
- Price
- ∼£36
- Customer rating
- 4.8/5(875)
- Profile
- Half-round dies
- Action
- Nine marked nests, no ratchet stated
- Capacity
- 0.25–16 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- Tool only
- Twin ferrules
- No
- Live-work note
- Listing line says VDE; bullets give n…
- Cited mark
- DIN 46228 parts 1 + 4; listing also s…
Common questions
Does the Knipex 97 72 180 have a ratchet?
The bullets do not mention a ratchet. They describe nine marked half-round dies from 0.25 to 16 mm².
Are ferrules included?
No assortment is stated. Included components reads “Components Included”.
What does the listing say about VDE?
A specification line says VDE. The bullets do not give a voltage or BS EN IEC 60900. One review says the crimp is one-sided and wires pull out.
Our view
The Preciva CP621200 is a self-adjusting square ratchet for 0.25–10 mm² at £22.99 and 790 g, with 1,200 ferrules claimed and a listing of 4.7 from 28,186 reviews. UK use in the file includes motorhome wiring and solar-controller wiring, and reviewers call the square crimp comfortable, with a default ratchet pressure that is about right. Smaller ferrule sizes are used up first, so a large piece count does not mean you still have 10 mm² when you need it. One UK review from 2 December 2019 reports a third-party grader marking the reviews poorly; that is the reviewer’s report only, and this comparison does not verify or dismiss the 28,186 count. Twin ferrules are not stated. There is no live-work mark.
Pros
- Square four-jaw ratchet for 0.25–10 mm²
- 1,200 ferrules claimed, with a compartment box
- 4.7 from 28,186 reviews on the listing
- UK notes on motorhome and solar-controller wiring
Cons
- Smaller ferrule sizes run out first
- Twin ferrules are not stated
- One 2019 UK review questions review authenticity; the count is unverified
- Stops at 10 mm²
Best for: You want a square kit for stranded flex up to 10 mm² and you will restock the small sizes.
Less suitable: You need 16 mm², twin ferrules, or a review count this page has verified one by one.
Specifications
- Model
- Preciva square ferrule kit CP621200
- Brand
- Preciva
- Price
- ∼£23
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(28,186)
- Profile
- Square
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.25–10 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- 1200 claimed
- Case
- Compartment box; a review also got a …
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
What crimp shape does this Preciva kit make?
The bullets say a four-sided square crimp. A UK review says the same and notes Preciva also sells a six-jaw tool.
What is the review count on the listing?
4.7 from 28,186. A 2019 UK review says a third-party grader marked the reviews poorly. That is the reviewer’s report, not a replacement count.
Is a guarantee printed?
The listing says a 2 year manufacturer guarantee.
Our view
This Preciva listing is £23.99 and 980 g for a self-adjusting ratchet on 0.25–10 mm², with bullets claiming 1,000 single ferrules and 260 dual ferrules, plus a carry case. The amazon.co.uk line is 4.7 from 139 reviews. Short UK notes call it a useful toolbox tool that works so far, and good value for infrequent DIY, including a reviewer who uses it once or twice a year. One reviewer says it is not suitable for professional constant use, which matches the price rather than a named breakage. The details block does not say square or hex. The pressure adjuster is marked plus for tighter and minus for looser, and the seller says the lock will not release until the cycle ends. No jam appears in the UK reviews read.
Pros
- 260 dual ferrules claimed alongside 1,000 singles
- Pressure adjuster marked tighter and looser
- 4.7 from 139 reviews
- Carry case claimed
Cons
- Jaw profile is not named square or hex
- A reviewer limits it to occasional DIY, not constant professional use
- Range stops at 10 mm²
Best for: You sometimes put two conductors in one clamp and you stay inside 0.25–10 mm².
Less suitable: You need a named square or hex jaw, or a tool for daily panel work.
Specifications
- Model
- Preciva ferrule kit with 260 dual ferrules
- Brand
- Preciva
- Price
- ∼£24
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(139)
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.25–10 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- 1260 claimed
- Twin ferrules
- 260 dual claimed
- Case
- Carry case claimed
- Force adjust
- Yes, + tighter and − looser
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
Does this Preciva kit include twin ferrules?
The bullets claim 260 dual-tube ferrules at 8 mm and 1000 single-tube ferrules.
Is the crimp profile named?
No. The seller bullets do not say square or hex.
What do reviewers say about daily trade use?
One UK review says it is fine for one or two DIY jobs a year and not for constant professional use.
Our view
The DxCRIMP GX25-6-20-2 is a hex ratchet at £33.96 and 780 g with a selector for 0.25–10 mm² and 10–25 mm², and the listing shows 4.6 from 1,115 reviews. The box claims 800 ferrules in 22 sizes, insulated and uninsulated, in an organiser. The only UK review in the early sample had not used the crimps yet and called the selection good for the price. Non-UK reviews on the same amazon.co.uk page call the plier solid and easy to lock. One review says a twin of 2 × 16 mm² is not in the set and will not enter the jaw. The cited mark is DIN, which is not a UK live-work approval. A stripper complaint in a non-UK review refers to a part that is not on this listing’s included-components line.
Pros
- Selector for 0.25–10 mm² and 10–25 mm²
- 800 ferrules in 22 sizes claimed
- 4.6 from 1,115 reviews
- Hex profile and an organiser box
Cons
- The early UK review had not used the crimps yet
- A twin of 2 × 16 mm² will not enter the jaw, in one review
- DIN on the listing is not a live-work rating
Best for: You need a stated path to 25 mm² on single ferrules and you will set the selector to the range you are crimping.
Less suitable: You need 2 × 16 mm² twins, or UK reviews that describe finished crimps.
Specifications
- Model
- DxCRIMP hex ferrule kit 0.25–25 mm²
- Brand
- DXCRIMP
- Price
- ∼£34
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(1,115)
- Profile
- Hex
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet with range sel…
- Capacity
- 0.25–25 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- 800 claimed, 22 sizes
- Twin ferrules
- A review says 2 × 16 mm² does not fit
- Case
- Organiser box
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
- Cited mark
- DIN
Common questions
How does the DxCRIMP range selector work on the listing?
The bullets say a knob switches between 0.25–10 mm² and 10–25 mm².
Are twin 16 mm² ferrules included?
The included-components line lists bare and single insulated ferrules. A review says twin 2 × 16 mm² parts are absent and do not fit.
Is there a UK review of actual use?
The UK review in the sample says the crimps had not been used yet. The 1,115 count is the listing figure.
Our view
The Flintronic listing is a tool-only self-adjusting ratchet at £9.99 and 380 g, with a size line of AWG 23–7 and no mm² figure in the details. Across 107 amazon.co.uk reviews it sits at 4.6, and the short UK notes say it does the job for occasional use and works across several sizes. The profile is not named square or hex, so the listing does not tell you whether the crimp suits a cage clamp or a round tunnel. The specification line says CE, which is not a live-work rating, and the handles are PVC. No jam, rust, or broken pin appears in the reviews read, and those notes do not describe daily professional use. You still buy ferrules separately, and the AWG line does not say whether a 10 mm² sleeve will seat.
Pros
- £9.99, the lowest price in this set
- 4.6 from 107 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Self-adjusting ratchet claimed on the listing
- UK notes describe occasional multi-size use
Cons
- Tool only: no ferrules in the box
- Size line is AWG 23–7, with no mm² figure
- Jaw profile is not named square or hex
Best for: You already own bootlace ferrules and want a cheap self-adjusting ratchet for occasional crimps inside AWG 23–7.
Less suitable: You need a printed mm² range, a named square or hex jaw, or ferrules in the same box.
Specifications
- Model
- Flintronic self-adjusting ferrule pliers
- Brand
- Flintronic
- Price
- ∼£10
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(107)
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- AWG 23–7
- Ferrules supplied
- Tool only
- Twin ferrules
- No
- Live-work note
- CE line only
- Cited mark
- CE
Common questions
Does the Flintronic listing include ferrules?
No. Included components is “1”. The £9.99 price is for the pliers.
What size does the Flintronic size line give?
AWG 23–7. The details block does not print a mm² range.
Is a case listed?
No. The raw file does not name a case.
Our view
The Weicon 10100513 is a hex ratchet for 0.5–16 mm², also given as AWG 20–5, at £85.99 and 586 g, tool only, with an emergency release in the handle and an eyelet for a safety strap. The amazon.co.uk listing shows 4.5 from 49 reviews, and none of the review text in the sample is from the UK. Those German, French, Italian and Spanish notes on the UK page compare the hex crimp with other hex tools, call the plier heavier than a cheap square crimper, and mention use on 6, 10 and 16 mm² flexible cable. Force is adjustable, and one reviewer says it arrives on the hardest setting. The price is called high for occasional hobby use, and the upper limit is 16 mm². The listing cites CSA and UL, not a UK voltage, and the maker’s sheet says not to use the tool on live conductors.
Pros
- Hex ratchet for 0.5–16 mm² with an emergency release
- Eyelet for a safety strap
- 4.5 from 49 reviews
- Overseas notes on the UK page cover 6, 10 and 16 mm² flex
Cons
- £85.99, and tool only
- No UK review text in the sample
- Arrives on the hardest force setting, in one review
- Maker’s sheet: not for live conductors
Best for: You repeat 0.5–16 mm² hex crimps and you want a release and a strap eyelet on a tool-only plier.
Less suitable: You crimp occasionally, you need ferrules in the box, or you want UK review text before you spend £85.99.
Specifications
- Model
- Weicon hex ferrule pliers 10100513
- Brand
- WEICON
- Price
- ∼£86
- Customer rating
- 4.5/5(49)
- Profile
- Hex
- Action
- Ratchet with emergency release
- Capacity
- 0.5–16 mm² (AWG 20–5)
- Ferrules supplied
- Tool only
- Twin ferrules
- No
- Force adjust
- Reviews say force is adjustable
- Live-work note
- CSA, UL on the listing; no UK voltage
- Cited mark
- CSA, UL
Common questions
What capacity does the Weicon listing state?
0.5–16 mm², also written as 20–5 AWG. A review says it is not for diameters above 16 mm².
Are the reviews in the raw file from the UK?
The sample is from Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. The listing rating is 4.5 from 49.
Does the tool include ferrules?
No. Included components is the hex crimping tool only.
Our view
The AivaToba YXQ008-16 is a six-side self-adjusting ratchet at £24.99 and 950 g, titled 0.08–16 mm² and AWG 30–5, with 1,250 connectors claimed and 4.5 from 44 reviews. UK notes, including September 2026, August 2026 and 2025, say it is easy, leaves neater wiring, and helps where a previous tool stopped at 6 mm². Reviewers describe the six-sided crimp as better than square for smaller holes; that is a preference in those reviews, not a lab comparison. Closing the pliers on the first try is called a little tricky, larger ferrules need a two-handed squeeze, and the kit supplies only one collar colour per size. The seller cites HRC55 after quenching, which is a hardness claim without a test in the file.
Pros
- Six-side profile with a title range of 0.08–16 mm²
- 1,250 connectors claimed, including double bushing
- 4.5 from 44 reviews, with UK notes into 2026
- Force adjustable by a roulette
Cons
- First closure described as a little tricky
- Larger ferrules described as a two-handed squeeze
- Only one collar colour per size in the supplied ferrules
- HRC55 is a seller claim, not a test in the file
Best for: You crimp above 10 mm² often enough to want six jaws, and you will try the first closure before a box of tails.
Less suitable: You need several collar colours of the same mm², or a one-handed squeeze on the largest ferrules.
Specifications
- Model
- AivaToba six-side ferrule kit YXQ008-16
- Brand
- AivaToba
- Price
- ∼£25
- Customer rating
- 4.5/5(44)
- Profile
- Hex
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.08–16 mm² / AWG 30–5
- Ferrules supplied
- 1250 claimed
- Twin ferrules
- Double bushing claimed
- Case
- Reviews mention a box; not a separate…
- Force adjust
- Yes, roulette
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
What profile does this AivaToba kit use?
The title says 6-side. A UK review prefers that shape to a square crimp for smaller holes.
What capacity is printed?
0.08–16 mm² and AWG 30–5, on the title and the size line.
What hardness does the seller claim?
HRC55 after quenching, and a phosphate-blackened surface. That is seller text, not a test in the file.
Our view
The AivaToba HSC8-6-4A is a four-jaw square self-adjusting ratchet at £17.99 and 700 g, with 4.4 from 21 reviews. UK notes from September and October 2026, including a campervan 12 V install, say the square crimp and ratchet take the guesswork out and that the tool feels solid. The title says 0.25–10 mm² while the size line says 0.5–10 mm², and the seller claims two types of twin ferrule. Reviewers say thicker cables need more effort, the case is packed full and is the weak point, and there is no obvious lever to keep the tool closed for storage. One reviewer would not rely on it for making a living. The seller’s gas-tight line has no test in the file.
Pros
- Four-jaw square profile named on the listing
- Twin ferrules claimed, two types
- 4.4 from 21 reviews, including a 2026 campervan install
- £17.99 for a kit rather than the pliers alone
Cons
- Title says 0.25–10 mm²; size line says 0.5–10 mm²
- Case called the weak point and packed full
- No storage lock found by a reviewer
- Only 21 reviews
Best for: You want a square kit under £20 for home and 12 V flex, including collars that take two wires.
Less suitable: You crimp for a living, or you need the listing to agree on 0.25 mm² before you buy.
Specifications
- Model
- AivaToba square ferrule kit 1340 pieces
- Brand
- AivaToba
- Price
- ∼£18
- Customer rating
- 4.4/5(21)
- Profile
- Square
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.25–10 mm² title; 0.5–10 mm² size line
- Ferrules supplied
- 1340 claimed
- Twin ferrules
- Yes, two types claimed
- Case
- Yes
- Force adjust
- Reviews say adjustable
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
Does this AivaToba kit include twin ferrules?
The bullets say two types of twin wire ferrules are included. A UK review mentions collars that take two wires.
Which capacity lines are on the listing?
The title says 0.25–10 mm². The size line says 0.5–10 mm².
Do reviewers mention a storage lock?
One UK review says there is no obvious lever to keep the tool closed.
Our view
The AivaToba YXQ008-16-NEW is a hex kit at £25.99 and 630 g, with 4.3 from 161 reviews. The title says 0.08–16 mm² and AWG 30–6, and a bullet says 0.5–16 mm² and AWG 22–5, so the bottom of the range is not one figure. UK reviews in 2026 say it crimps as expected on small cable, including a reviewer who cited 20–24 AWG, and that the quality was better than expected. The same file says the tool does not spring fully open, so 10 mm² and 16 mm² need the jaws opened the other way, and one reviewer could not release a 16 mm² crimp and returned the kit. Other notes mention rust within a few weeks in a van, a stamped-steel ratchet, uneven ferrule counts with about 250 of the smallest and five of the largest, and a box that makes the tool hard to put back.
Pros
- Hex profile, self-adjusting, with 161 reviews
- UK notes say small-cable crimps met expectations
- Seller claims a 12-month warranty
Cons
- Title and bullet disagree: 0.08 mm² versus 0.5 mm²
- Reviews: jaws do not spring open for 10 mm² and 16 mm²
- One return after a 16 mm² crimp would not release
- Uneven ferrule counts and rust in a van noted in reviews
Best for: You crimp small ferrules and you will open the jaws by hand before you trust the 16 mm² title.
Less suitable: You need 10 mm² or 16 mm² to enter and release without a fight.
Specifications
- Model
- AivaToba hex ferrule kit YXQ008-16-NEW
- Brand
- AivaToba
- Price
- ∼£26
- Customer rating
- 4.3/5(161)
- Profile
- Hex
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- Title 0.08–16 mm²; bullet 0.5–16 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- 1200 claimed in bullets
- Case
- Reviews mention a box
- Force adjust
- Yes
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
Do the capacity lines agree?
No. The title says 0.08–16 mm² AWG 30–6. A bullet says 0.5–16 mm² AWG 22–5.
What do reviews say about 16 mm²?
Reviewers say the jaw does not spring open for 10 and 16 mm², and one could not release a 16 mm² crimp and returned the kit.
Is rust mentioned?
One UK review says the tool was rusty within a few weeks in a van, and calls the ratchet stamped steel.
Our view
The Preciva CP47210 is £24.99 and 1.04 kg, with 2,100 ferrules claimed and a two-layer case. The highlight says 0.25–10 mm², while the ferrule bullet lists 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.5, 4.0, 6.0 and 10.0 mm². It has 4.1 from only nine reviews. Praise in that small file covers ferrules that grip, a colour-coded result, and a ratchet that holds until the cycle finishes. One verified UK review says the tool is too small for most of the crimps and not fit for purpose, and the case plastic is called hobby-grade, with a release that is fiddly if a wire is over-inserted. A UK review describes the compression as square; the seller bullets do not print that word. Nine reviews cannot settle whether the jaw is generally too small.
Pros
- 2,100 ferrules claimed, with sizes listed from 0.5 to 10 mm²
- Two-layer case with a removable labelled layer
- Self-adjusting ratchet that holds until the cycle ends
Cons
- Only nine reviews, at 4.1
- One verified UK review says the jaw is too small for most crimps
- Highlight says 0.25 mm²; the ferrule list starts at 0.5 mm²
- Case plastic called hobby-grade
Best for: You want a large labelled stock of 0.5–10 mm² ferrules and you will check the jaw on your largest sleeve before a full job.
Less suitable: You need a review file larger than nine, or a jaw already shown to take most of the supplied ferrules.
Specifications
- Model
- Preciva ferrule kit 2100 pieces
- Brand
- Preciva
- Price
- ∼£25
- Customer rating
- 4.1/5(9)
- Profile
- Square in a UK review
- Action
- Self-adjusting ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.25–10 mm² highlight; ferrules liste…
- Ferrules supplied
- 2100 claimed
- Case
- Two-layer case
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
Which ferrule sizes does the bullet list?
0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.5, 4.0, 6.0, and 10.0 mm². The highlight still says 0.25–10 mm².
What is the main UK complaint?
One verified review says the tool is too small for most of the crimps and not fit for purpose. Other reviews praise the ratchet.
Does it come with a case?
The bullets describe a two-layer case with a removable labelled layer.
Our view
The Riiriou kit is £13.99 for a claimed 0.25–10 mm² adjustable ratchet, and the listing already disagrees with itself: the title and a bullet say 800 terminals plus a mini stripper, while number of items says 1200 and included components says NO. It has 3.9 from 15 amazon.co.uk reviews. UK notes praise the low price, say it feels sturdy before use, and mention several wires into one terminal. The same small sample says it jammed on the first attempt and was returned, that it gets stuck after a while, and that a pin falls out. A bullet says the pliers are electrically conductive, so the handles are not insulation. Square or hex is not named. Fifteen reviews is a thin file, and the jam-and-pin pattern is why this score sits below the other kits.
Pros
- Printed range of 0.25–10 mm² / AWG 23–7
- Adjustable ratchet and a release claimed
- Low shelf price at £13.99
- UK notes mention several wires into one terminal
Cons
- Title says 800 pieces; number of items says 1200
- UK reviews: jam on first use, later sticking, pin falls out
- Seller says the pliers are electrically conductive
- Only 15 reviews, at 3.9
Best for: You want a cheap 0.25–10 mm² kit and you will return it if the ratchet jams on the first squeeze.
Less suitable: You need a crimp you can repeat, a consistent piece count, or insulated handles.
Specifications
- Model
- Riiriou ferrule crimper kit 0.25–10 mm²
- Brand
- Riiriou
- Price
- ∼£14
- Customer rating
- 3.9/5(15)
- Action
- Adjustable ratchet
- Capacity
- 0.25–10 mm²
- Ferrules supplied
- 800 in the title; 1200 in number of i…
- Force adjust
- Yes
- Live-work note
- Seller says the pliers are electrical…
Common questions
How many ferrules does the Riiriou listing claim?
The title and a bullet say 800. Number of items says 1200. Included components says NO.
What do UK reviews report going wrong?
One reviewer returned it after a jam on the first attempt. Others say it gets stuck and that a pin falls out.
Does the seller call it insulated?
No. A bullet says the crimping pliers are electrically conductive.
Our view
The Holy Feather listing is a 175 mm tool-only ratchet at £12.99 and 390 g. The seller claims a swivel handle, chromium-vanadium jaws indented to HSC8 6-4 die sizes, and a pawl that releases only after a full stroke with an audible click. The raw file has no customer-review line and no review text, so there is no star rating and no UK complaint or praise to weigh. Square or hex is not named, and no mm² range is printed. There is no case, no ferrule assortment, and no cited standard. At this price you are buying a seller description, not a record of how the jaw behaves on 1.5 mm² or 6 mm² flex.
Pros
- 175 mm length stated in the title
- Swivel handle claimed by the seller
- Full-stroke release and an audible click claimed
Cons
- No star rating and no review text in the raw file
- No mm² range and no named square or hex profile
- Tool only, with no case and no cited standard
Best for: You can check the jaws against ferrules you already own and return the tool if the nest does not match.
Less suitable: You want a rated listing, a printed capacity, or any UK review before you pay £12.99.
Specifications
- Model
- Holy Feather swivel-handle ferrule pliers 175 mm
- Brand
- Holy Feather
- Price
- ∼£13
- Action
- Ratchet, full-stroke release claimed
- Ferrules supplied
- Tool only
- Twin ferrules
- No
- Live-work note
- None in the listing
Common questions
How long is the Holy Feather plier?
The title says 175 mm. Item weight is 390 g.
Does the listing include a star rating?
No. The raw file has no customer-review line and no review text.
Which terminals does the seller name?
Bootlace ferrules and pin-type terminals. No mm² range is printed.
How we compared
Twelve ferrule pliers on amazon.co.uk were scored on 19 October 2026 from listing facts and review notes, not from a crimp test. Amazon evidence, listing fit, review outcome and value are weighted 30, 35, 20 and 15. Deductions come off for a thin review file, no UK review text, a jam or pin that falls out, a jaw that will not open at 10 mm² or 16 mm², conflicting piece counts, or an AWG-only capacity with no mm² line. Each star line stays the amazon.co.uk figure. The 0–100 score is not the stars times 20.
1
Amazon evidence
30%The amazon.co.uk star average and review count set the starting point, on a 0–30 scale, with a deduction when the count is small, when there is no rating line, or when the sample has no UK review text.
2
Listing fit
35%Up to 35 points for a printed mm² range, a named square, hex or marked-die profile, and an honest note on ferrules and twins. A title that disagrees with the size line, AWG-only capacity, or a VDE line with no voltage loses points.
3
Review outcome
20%Up to 20 points when UK notes say the crimp finished on the stated sizes. A jam, a pull-out, or jaws that will not spring open at 10 mm² or 16 mm² score lower. Overseas notes on the UK page are labelled as such.
4
Value
15%Up to 15 points for shelf price in GBP against a tool you can match to a conductor. A low price does not score here when the ratchet jams or the range is missing.
Independent review
Last updated: October 2026
8 sources checked
Ferrule pliers buying guide
Start with conductor cross-section in mm², then jaw profile, then ratchet or marked nests, then whether you need ferrules in the box. Price comes after those four. The notes below follow that order for these twelve amazon.co.uk listings. None of the scores is a laboratory crimp test.
What are ferrule pliers?
Ferrule pliers crimp a bootlace ferrule onto stranded copper so the strands stay together in a screw or tunnel terminal. UK buyers on amazon.co.uk are mostly fitting flex, control cable, campervan and 12 V wiring, or the occasional heavier tail. These twelve listings cost from about £9.99 to about £85.99 and were not lab-tested. Cross-section comes first. Most kits state 0.25–10 mm². A 16 mm² or 25 mm² title still needs a jaw that opens around that ferrule.
Best for
- Home and socket flex up to 10 mm², with a square ratchet kit and ferrules you will restock
- Campervan and 12 V work when you check the largest ferrule enters and releases before a full install
- Panel work when you buy ferrules to the drawing and want marked dies up to 16 mm²
Not ideal for
- Live conductors, including anyone reading a rubber grip as insulation
- A 16 mm² title without trying the jaw on that sleeve first
- Insulated spade or ring terminals, which belong to a different crimper class
Mistakes to avoid
- 1
Trusting collar colour across kits
1.5 mm² is black in DIN and red in the special sequence UK sellers call German. The mm² on the conductor decides the ferrule.
- 2
Assuming a 16 mm² title opens at 16 mm²
Reviews on the AivaToba YXQ008-16-NEW say the ratchet does not spring fully open for 10 mm² and 16 mm². Trial the largest sleeve before you commit.
- 3
Using the wrong plier class
Combination pliers and insulated-terminal crimpers are not bootlace ferrule tools. A jam on the first squeeze is a return issue under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
What to weigh up
Cross-section and listing honesty
HighThe first check is a printed mm² range that covers your conductor. Preciva CP621200 states 0.25–10 mm². The AivaToba HSC8-6-4A title says 0.25–10 mm² while the size line says 0.5–10 mm². Flintronic prints AWG 23–7 with no mm² in the details. Holy Feather prints no capacity at all. Riiriou claims 800 terminals in the title and 1200 in number of items. If the lines disagree, trial an offcut before a full job.
Profile, ratchet and review outcome
HighSquare kits include Preciva CP621200 and the AivaToba HSC8-6-4A with twins claimed. Hex kits include the AivaToba YXQ008-16 titled to 16 mm² and the DxCRIMP selector to 25 mm². Knipex 97 72 180 uses nine marked nests with no ratchet stated. UK notes on the Riiriou describe jams and a loose pin. Reviews on the AivaToba YXQ008-16-NEW describe jaws that will not spring open at 10 mm² and 16 mm². Read the file for the size you actually crimp.
Which option suits you?
Three typical situations, each with a recommendation from this comparison.
Campervan and 12 V tails
You sometimes need above 10 mm² and you will check the jaw opens before you trust the title. The AivaToba YXQ008-16 hex kit is about £24.99, titled 0.08–16 mm², with 1,250 connectors claimed and 4.5 from 44 reviews.
Marked dies, ferrules separate
You buy ferrules to the drawing and you want marked nests up to 16 mm² without a self-adjusting ratchet. The Knipex 97 72 180 is 180 mm, 242 g, about £35.96, with nine half-round dies and 4.8 from 875 reviews.
Common questions about ferrule pliers
Which ferrule pliers are the top pick in this set?
The top pick is the Knipex 97 72 180 at about £35.96 on amazon.co.uk, 180 mm and 242 g. It has nine marked half-round dies for 0.25–16 mm² to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4, and 4.8 from 875 reviews. There is no ratchet stated and no ferrule assortment. One review reports a one-sided crimp and wires pulling out. The listing line “Specification Met: VDE” does not print a voltage. The score is from listing facts, not a laboratory crimp test.
How much do ferrule pliers cost on amazon.co.uk?
In these twelve listings the prices run from about £9.99 to about £85.99. About £10–£18 covers the Flintronic tool at £9.99, Holy Feather at £12.99, Riiriou at £13.99 and the AivaToba square kit at £17.99. About £22–£26 covers the Preciva kits at £22.99, £23.99 and £24.99 and the AivaToba hex listings at £24.99 and £25.99. About £34–£86 covers the DxCRIMP at £33.96, Knipex at £35.96 and Weicon at £85.99. That is this set, not a market average.
Square or hex ferrule crimp?
Square is four jaws and is common under about £26 in this set. Hex is six jaws and appears on kits that claim 16 mm² or more. Trade discussion treats square as kinder to cage clamps and hex as kinder to round holes, and the terminal still reshapes the ferrule. Knipex 97 72 180 uses nine marked half-round dies, not a self-adjusting ratchet. The cluster links on this page point to a separate square-versus-hex note.
Are comfort grips safe on live conductors?
No. Rubber or two-component handles are not a live-work rating on these listings. Weicon’s maker sheet says not to use the 10100513 on live conductors. Knipex notes a separate VDE variant, and the VDE line on the Knipex 97 72 180 listing does not print a voltage or BS EN IEC 60900. Do not crimp on conductors that might be live. At work, suitable tools sit under PUWER; see PUWER toolbox tools.
Why do reviews say a 16 mm² jaw will not open?
A title range is not proof the ratchet releases on your largest ferrule. UK reviews of the AivaToba YXQ008-16-NEW say the tool does not spring fully open, so 10 mm² and 16 mm² need the jaws opened the other way, and one reviewer returned the kit after a 16 mm² crimp would not release. Always trial the largest sleeve you need before a full job, and use the emergency release if the ratchet jams.
Do ferrule kits include twin ferrules?
Only where the listing says so. The AivaToba HSC8-6-4A claims two types of twin ferrule. The Preciva listing with 260 dual ferrules claims 260 dual-tube parts at 8 mm alongside 1,000 singles. The DxCRIMP set lists bare and single insulated ferrules, and one review says twin 2 × 16 mm² parts are absent and will not enter the jaw. Flintronic, Holy Feather, Knipex and Weicon are tool-only here.
Can you use combination pliers instead?
No. Combination pliers and red, blue or yellow insulated-terminal crimpers are the wrong tool for bootlace ferrules. A ratchet ferrule plier is meant to release only after a full stroke, or you pick a marked nest on the Knipex. If a ratchet jams on the first squeeze, use the release, cut the ferrule off, and do not reuse it. That is a Consumer Rights Act 2015 returns issue as well as a bad crimp.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician or building control for a new circuit, a consumer-unit change, or bathroom or shower work in England and Wales under Part P, and if you cannot identify the conductor or terminal class. A ferrule kit does not make consumer-unit replacement non-notifiable DIY. For insulated terminals rather than bootlace ferrules, see crimping pliers set.
Our verdict
In this set of twelve amazon.co.uk listings, the top pick is the Knipex 97 72 180 ferrule pliers. They are about £35.96 and 242 g, with nine marked half-round dies for 0.25–16 mm² to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4, and 4.8 from 875 reviews. There is no ferrule assortment and no ratchet stated. The best value is the Preciva CP621200 square kit at about £22.99, with 0.25–10 mm², 1,200 ferrules claimed, and 4.7 from 28,186 on the listing. Smaller ferrule sizes run out first, and that review count is reported, not verified. The other ten have no award. None of these scores is a laboratory crimp test.
Best overallView offer
Knipex ferrule pliers 97 72 180
Highest score in the set: nine marked dies to DIN 46228 parts 1 and 4, 0.25–16 mm², and 4.8 from 875 reviews, with no ratchet to jam on the first squeeze.
Best value
View offer
Preciva square ferrule kit CP621200
About £22.99 for a square 0.25–10 mm² kit with 1,200 ferrules claimed and the largest listing review count at a mid price, after noting the count is unverified.
Editorial
Editor
Ferrule pliersHand toolsamazon.co.uk listings
Peter F. is the editor for DIY & tools at productscompared.co.uk. Comparisons in this category are checked against amazon.co.uk listings, review evidence and public UK sources.
Updated: October 2026
8 sources checked
Guides to ferrule pliers
Guides on what to look for, how to use a product, and common mistakes.
Ferrule pliers buying guideRange, profile, ratchet or nests, and kit versus tool onlyBest ferrule pliersWho each shortlist pick is for, without a winner badgeHow to crimp ferrulesStrip, one full ratchet cycle, pull-test, release a jamSquare or hex ferrule pliersWhen four jaws, when six jawsBootlace ferrule sizesmm², twins, and the three colour sequences
Related comparisons
Sources
Public UK sources from the research digest, last checked on 19 October 2026. Shelf prices and star lines are the amazon.co.uk figures in the display file. The price bands are this set, not a market average.
- IET Wiring Matters: terminal blocks and regulation 526.9 (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: building work, replacements and repairs (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- IET: Part P FAQ for England and Wales (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- Knipex 97 72 180 product page (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- Weicon 10100513 data sheet (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- RS Online: crimp tools guide (retrieved 19 October 2026)
- Termnex: bootlace ferrule colour codes (retrieved 19 October 2026)
This page contains affiliate links to amazon.co.uk. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices, stars and review counts are from the UK listings checked on 19 October 2026. We did not lab-test these ferrule pliers.