If you only buy one set of pliers this year, make ‘em Knipex. Every aspect of the design is thoughtful, comfortable, and capable. The jaws are sharp and mesh precisely, I’m not sure if I could remove splinters with them, but that’s the first example that comes to mind when trying to describe the mechanical superiority. The metal is surprisingly springy, which feels odd at first but it makes it easier for your hand to judge pressure, and I’ve noticed that I don’t get fatigued as easily when using these. The joint adjustment mechanism definitely takes some getting used to, but after a few hours you’ll wonder why they’re not all done like that.

Knipex pliers are in my personal tool hall of fame, right alongside my Swisstech micro-plus. If better tools in either category exist, I don’t know them.