Favorite wire stripping tool?

I'm interested in recommendations for wire insulation stripping tools that don't nick the wire. I have one of the Ideal Stripmaster tools, and find it to be very inconsistent.

 

Depends on the gauge. For electrical/instrumentation wiring, we use Klein 11055 strippers at work, but our wiring is typically #18 to #10 AWG.

Looks like Klein 11057 would be for smaller gauge... I never liked those spring loaded strippers because they mark up the wires, and they freeze in the winter. You could try Kleins version of the spring loaded ones, or Weidmuller also makes some too. The Weidmuller tool definitely marks up the wiring... Do not like it at all, but it's awesome for doing ferrule connections on wiring.

It's also all in the wrist when you strip wires. If you can support the wire in your left hand with your thumb and forefinger, you should be able to get a clean cut every time.

If the insulation is "baked on" then I just strip in smaller portions. Typical wire manufacturers won't bake it on... If we get a reel like that, we just return it to the wholesaler and they understand.

 

Thanks, I'll try the Klein. I was thinking of a thermal stripper until I saw the prices. Geez. If Harbor Freight had one, it'd probably cost 30 bucks.

 

I use the Klein 11063.

http://www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-1...&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00

If I need fine work, I use a Xuron:

http://www.amazon.com/Xuron-170-II-...&ie=UTF8&qid=1463175743&sr=1-2&keywords=xuron

 

I realize this is an old thread, but Ideal T-Strippers are what I use. These work great on all wire, including teflon.

https://www.amazon.com/Ideal-Indust...rd_wg=ve9NW&psc=1&refRID=8676QZGWEH4EGWXW9RCJ

 

I use this type



It's cheap and adjustable. For some reason I've only seen them in Europe. What I really like is that you pull away parallel to the wire instead of perpendicular.

 

One additional aspect most miss is that the common Ideal and Klein type of strippers (I use these as well) are rated for solid not stranded wire.
Stranded wire usually has a greater OD for the same gauge, thus the proclivity for nicking the conductors.
Most of the time, if you start with a larger rated gauge in the jaws you won't nick the conductor, but you may have to fuss a bit more to remove the insulation.

ps. Those Ideal stripmasters always gave gave me poor results.

JJ