OK... here's my review. First, though, I'd like to make some general tool observations.
I don't think any of us has "a set" of tools. We have several. My primary 'sets' are a) the little pouch in my back pocket; b) the main 'electricians" pouch; and c) all the other stuff I have tucked away on the truck.
I also tend to set my tools up for the task at hand. That is, I'll bring in different tools if I'm bending pipe that day, than if I'm pulling wire or setting devices.
Which leads to one problem with these multi-pliers; their functions cross over into entirely different tasks. If you're running Romex, you won't be reaming pipe.
I put three tools through their paces: the Klein, the Milwaukee, and the Southwire. The Rack-A-Tiers model got a more casual look.
Klein: Overall, it's a decent tool- a good replacement for the linesmans' AND the strippers I have in that rear pocket pouch. Of the three, it has the best assortment of wire stripping holes. It's a lot better at cutting screws than the Ideal T-Strippers. It's pretty good at taking the burrs out of 1/2" and 3/4" pipe; cleaning 1" is a fantasy. They'll remove pipe cutter burrs, something your screwdriver attachments won't do. The pliers are plenty heavy, and twist-resistant, for removing KO's from boxes. While middle in weight of the three, this pair felt the lightest and had the best handles.
I can also see this as a reasonable replacement for both the needle-nose and conduit reaming pliers in your pouch.
Milwaukee: When this tool came out, the web was filled with praise from guys who bought it. Sort of make me wonder what tools they were using for comparison. Even though it's the smallest of the bunch, it's also the heaviest. the heaviest of the bunch, and you feel it. The handles are not particularly comfortable, and the latch that holds them closed is inadequate. Despite Milwaukee's claims, you can forget about reaming 1" pipe with these.
Southwire: I'd say "close, but no cigar." First off, they have a simple lap joint hinge, little better than the lightest pair of strippers. This makes me question the utility of the crimper- but how often do you use a crimper, anyways? The handles are uncomfortable, suitable for a smaller plier, but not this one. It's the only one that will clean burrs from 1", but the jaws are too fat for use on 1/2" pipe. It's the only one of the bunch that will cut "round" Romex cables.
Finally, the Rack-A-Tiers model: With construction even lighter than the Southwire model, you can forget about using these to remove KO's. The crimpers are likewise questionable. I'd rather see a stripping die for #12 Romex, than the #14 they have. Oddly enough, the strangely shaped handles are surprisingly comfortable in use.
Final verdict? I think I'll put the Kleins in my pocket pouch. Now that pouch will have these pliers, a 9-N-1 screwdriver, a flashlight, a Sharpie, a ticker, and a knife. They'll be replacing the lineman's and the strippers- who will retire to the main tool pouch.
