Knipex 87 01 250 Cobra Water Pump Pliers (250mm)

Knipex 87 01 250 Cobra Water Pump Pliers (250mm)

By Knipex · Model: 87 01 250 · Tools

German-engineered 250mm water pump pliers with push-button adjustment and self-locking jaw that grips harder under load.

  • One-hand push-button adjustment for instant jaw width setting
  • Self-locking jaw grips harder the more force is applied
  • Box-type joint provides extreme stability and long service life
  • Works as pipe wrench, nut wrench and adjustable pliers in one
  • Non-slip plastic coating handles for secure grip
  • Chrome vanadium electric steel, oil-hardened for durability
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Overview

The Knipex Cobra 250mm is arguably the best-known hand tool in the professional UK trades market. Its self-locking jaw mechanism is demonstrably superior to traditional adjustable pliers, and the price point puts it firmly in easy-purchase territory for any tradesperson.

In-Depth Look

The Knipex Cobra is one of those tools that sells itself through word of mouth. Ask any plumber, electrician or mechanic in the UK what their most-used hand tool is, and the Cobra 250mm comes up with remarkable frequency.

Self-Locking Jaw

The defining feature of the Cobra is its self-locking jaw mechanism. Unlike traditional water pump pliers that can slip under heavy torque, the Cobra grips harder the more force you apply. This means less risk of rounding fasteners and a much more confident grip on pipework and fittings.

Push-Button Adjustment

The one-hand push-button adjustment is a genuine time saver on site. Instead of wrestling with a traditional slip-joint mechanism, you press the button, slide the jaw to the width you need, and start working. It is fast, precise, and works reliably even after years of daily use.

Verdict

At around £28, the Knipex Cobra 250mm is one of the best-value tool investments any tradesperson can make. It replaces multiple tools, lasts for decades, and performs its job with a precision that cheaper alternatives simply cannot match. Buyers often come back for the 180mm and 300mm sizes to complete the set.

Specifications
Overall Length250mm (10")
Jaw Capacity (nuts)Up to 46mm
Jaw Capacity (pipes)Up to 50mm
Weight390g
MaterialChrome vanadium electric steel, oil-hardened
Joint TypeBox joint with push-button adjustment
OriginSolingen, Germany

Who It's For

  • Plumbers and HVAC engineers working with pipework and fittings
  • Electricians needing an adjustable gripping tool for conduit and cable glands
  • General builders and mechanics needing one versatile plier

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Push-button adjustment is faster and more precise than slip-joint designs
  • Self-locking under load means rounded fasteners are far less common
  • Exceptional build quality with a lifetime of service life
  • Accessible price point makes it an easy purchase decision

Cons

  • 250mm size may be too large for some electrical cabinet work
  • Non-slip coating can wear over time with heavy use
  • Not ideal for very fine precision work on delicate fittings
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