If you look real close those $185.00 Ideal linemans pliers are made by Channellock.What makes them expensive is that they are insulated. The covering on the handles is actually voltage rated.
And to what particular standard are they rated?
Any tool manufacturer can claim 1000V insulation rating, but it needs to be tested and rated by an international testing authority, like VDE in Germany.
Just because a pair of pliers has "insulated" handles, means not a great deal.
IMHO, even though I use insulated tools, when working live, I always use insulated gloves and leather outers.
Insulated tools are only "Primary protection", you need Secondary protection too.
