CHAPTER 12 ■ SOLDERLESS PROTOTYPING
Look for smooth movement, clean edges, and grips that feel comfortable in your hands. Hold the pliers
up to a light with the jaws closed. The light that seeps through the cracks between the jaws indicates places
that aren’t coming together completely. Check the tip for horizontal alignment.
Needle-nose pliers should be long and skinny. That’s how they get their name.
Obtaining Smooth-Jaw Needle-Nose Pliers
Obtain a pair of smooth (non-serrated/no teeth) jaws for breadboarding, wire bending, and delicate work
(see Table 12-6). Because non-serrated jaws are smooth (see Figure 12-24), they don’t rip or cut into wire
insulation and they can slide under components without damaging them.
Figure 12-24. Smooth jaws
Figure 12-23. A pair of needle-nose pliers
Table 12-6. Smooth-Jaw Needle-Nose Pliers
Supplier Part Number Price Description
Electronix Express 0602NNP1 $1.95 6-inch mini needle nose pliers
Micro-Mark 82847 $8.45 6-inch long needle nose pliers