Whether the user needs a basic or professional-grade wire stripper, there is an array from which to choose. Ahead, learn what to consider when shopping for the best wire stripper and find out how the following tools earned a spot in this lineup based on our hands-on tests.

Self-Adjusting Wire Strippers: Similar to automatic wire strippers, self-adjusting wire strippers also adjust to the wire size automatically. However, they also feature a mechanism that allows them to strip wires of different gauges without manual adjustment. These are versatile and can handle a wide range of wire sizes. We made sure to select tools with AWG ranges of 10 to 18 gauge or 10 to 24 gauge to accommodate a variety of wire sizes. Plus, we added a couple of cable strippers to the mix.Rotate and pull: While maintaining pressure on the wire, rotate the wire strippers around the wire in a circular motion. This will help score the insulation and make it easier to remove. Although there are no tests or certifications for precision and accuracy, purchasing a tool from a recognized manufacturer that sells quality tools will help ensure that strippers will do their job accurately. A stripper that’s used properly can last a lifetime, and a drop of oil every now and then can help maintain smooth opening and closing. Features There also are double-layered grips that add even more cushioning. These strippers have an inner rubber layer around the handle for grip on the tool and a softer outer layer for comfort. Safety

Automatic or self-adjusting wire strippers are the fastest type of wire stripper, but also generally the most expensive. These tools “sense” the gauge of wire being stripped, thanks to small spring-loaded teeth in the blade, and automatically adjust to the correct size. That means you don't have to have a separate wire stripper for a range of wire gauges, nor do you need to spend time adjusting the tool to your wire size. Automatic vs. manual: This is a major distinction between wire strippers. Automatic strippers are designed to cut the insulation and pull it away in a single step. Manual strippers take more time and effort because you’ll need to yank it off the wire with your other hand. The downside of automatic strippers is that they often break smaller gauge wires, so manual strippers are better for delicate wiring work.Professionals and DIYers can easily use the Irwin Vise-Grip, even with just one hand. Simply slide the wire through the jaws, squeeze the handle, and produce a perfectly stripped wire. Plus, this model cuts wire. If you’re working with very small wires, such as those found in electronics, a wire wrapping tool or a precision wire cutter may be a suitable alternative. These tools are specifically designed for delicate wires and can strip off the insulation without causing damage. However, they may not be as versatile or easy to use as wire strippers. Spring-loaded: A spring-loaded handle is another feature that makes it more comfortable to use wire strippers for lengthy work sessions. This is especially useful if you want to be able to use the tool with just one hand. LaceLok® LaceLok® Cable Lacing Fasteners are used as secondary support for cable and wire bundling. Developed to replace cable ties and hand tied lacing tape, LaceLok® provides an ergonomic solution for consistent bundling with unrivaled strength and superior performance.

Adjustable wire strippers have just one notch, but allow you to adjust the tool to the specific gauge of wire you’ll be stripping. This is convenient if you work with a range of wire sizes, but if you forget to readjust the setting before switching wires, you might end up damaging or cutting the wire instead of merely stripping it.Store them properly: When you are not using your wire strippers, it is important to store them in a dry and clean place. Avoid leaving them exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures, as this can cause rust or damage. Consider using a tool organizer or a dedicated toolbox to keep them organized and protected. Manual strippers require you to pull the wire out after the insulation is cut, which can get tiresome if you need to prepare a large number of wires for a project. Klein Tools’ 11055 Wire Cutter and Stripper strips solid 10 to 18 AWG wires and 12 to 20 AWG stranded wires. It’s designed with larger gauge wire handling in mind, featuring a large flat surface you can use to twist up to three wires at a time for terminal posts or splicing.