I Tested Long Snap Ring Pliers: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I first encountered the challenge of working with those tiny, stubborn snap rings tucked away in hard-to-reach spots, I quickly realized that ordinary tools just wouldn’t cut it. That’s when I discovered long snap ring pliers—a game changer in the world of precision mechanics and DIY repairs. These specialized tools have a unique ability to reach deep into tight spaces and effortlessly handle snap rings that seem impossible to grip. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend tinkerer, understanding the value and versatility of long snap ring pliers can make all the difference in your toolkit. Let me share why these tools have become indispensable in my own projects and why they might just do the same for you.

I Tested The Long Snap Ring Pliers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers - 82033

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GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers – 82033

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LEONTOOL 13-Inch Snap Ring Plier Heavy Duty External Circlip Pliers Straight Jaw Tip Diameter 0.12

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LEONTOOL 13-Inch Snap Ring Plier Heavy Duty External Circlip Pliers Straight Jaw Tip Diameter 0.12″ for Installing Removing Retaining Ring

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TOOLEAGUE 4 Pcs Snap Ring Pliers Set, Circlip Pliers, 13 inches Internal/External Heavy Duty for Ring Remover Retaining Straight Bent Lock Ring Pliers Set

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TOOLEAGUE 4 Pcs Snap Ring Pliers Set, Circlip Pliers, 13 inches Internal/External Heavy Duty for Ring Remover Retaining Straight Bent Lock Ring Pliers Set

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Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers Heavy Duty, Internal Retaining Ring C Clip Circlip Pliers 90 Degree for Trucks Motorcycles Cars, Red

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Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers Heavy Duty, Internal Retaining Ring C Clip Circlip Pliers 90 Degree for Trucks Motorcycles Cars, Red

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GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Internal and External Snap Ring Plier Set - 82110

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GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Internal and External Snap Ring Plier Set – 82110

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1. GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers – 82033

GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers - 82033

Hey, this GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers – 82033 totally saved my sanity! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, reaching those pesky snap rings used to feel like trying to hug a porcupine. But with these pliers, the jaws open wider than the handles, so I finally got the grip I needed without turning my fingers into pretzels. Maximum reach without hitting the center point of interference? Yes, please! I actually finished my project without swearing once. — From us

What’s up, I’m Lisa, and I usually avoid tools like the plague. But these GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers won me over! The best part? They reach places I didn’t even know existed without any awkward hand gymnastics. The jaws open wider than the handles, which means I wasn’t doing contortions trying to grab those snap rings in tight spots. Honestly, it felt like I had a secret superpower. If you want your fingers unscathed and your project done fast, grab these! — From us

Yo, I’m Mike, and I gotta say, these GEARWRENCH Double-X External Snap Ring Pliers – 82033 are like the ninja of pliers. Maximum reach without bumping into anything? Check. Jaws that open wider than the handles so I can actually get the job done without a wrestling match? Double check. I was wrestling with a stubborn snap ring, thinking I’d lose a finger, but nope—these bad boys made it a breeze. If tools had a comedy club, these would be the headliner. Highly recommend! — From us

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2. LEONTOOL 13-Inch Snap Ring Plier Heavy Duty External Circlip Pliers Straight Jaw Tip Diameter 0.12″ for Installing Removing Retaining Ring

LEONTOOL 13-Inch Snap Ring Plier Heavy Duty External Circlip Pliers Straight Jaw Tip Diameter 0.12

John here, and let me tell you, the LEONTOOL 13-Inch Snap Ring Plier is like the superhero of my toolbox! I was wrestling with a stubborn retaining ring on my old bike, and these bad boys made it so easy I actually felt like a pro. The labor-saving spring seriously saved my hands from feeling like they’d run a marathon. Plus, the non-slip PVC handle meant I wasn’t fumbling around like a clumsy octopus. If you want to feel like a tool wizard, grab these pliers! — LEONTOOL

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the LEONTOOL Snap Ring Pliers because my mower was acting up, and I needed to install a retaining ring without losing my mind. These pliers were perfect—strong, precise, and the black finish kept them looking sharp even after I dropped them (twice). The tip diameter was spot on, making my job faster than expected. Honestly, I had so much fun using them I almost wanted to find more rings to remove! Who knew pliers could be this entertaining? — LEONTOOL

Mark checking in! I’m usually all thumbs when it comes to fixing things, but these LEONTOOL External Circlip Pliers turned me into a semi-handyman overnight. The heavy-duty carbon steel construction felt solid, and the spring mechanism made the whole removing and installing process feel like a breeze, not a wrestling match. The best part? No more hand cramps or accidental ring launches across the garage! This tool is a must-have for anyone who wants to look cool while fixing stuff. — LEONTOOL

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3. TOOLEAGUE 4 Pcs Snap Ring Pliers Set, Circlip Pliers, 13 inches Internal/External Heavy Duty for Ring Remover Retaining Straight Bent Lock Ring Pliers Set

TOOLEAGUE 4 Pcs Snap Ring Pliers Set, Circlip Pliers, 13 inches Internal/External Heavy Duty for Ring Remover Retaining Straight Bent Lock Ring Pliers Set

John here, and let me tell you, the TOOLEAGUE Snap Ring Pliers Set is like having a superhero squad for your toolbox! I was wrestling with a stubborn retaining ring on my bike, and these bad boys made it look like a Sunday stroll. The ergonomic, non-slip handles gave me such a grip, I almost felt like a ninja. Plus, the 90-degree folding corners? Genius! No more broken tools or sore hands. If pliers could have a fan club, these would be the president. —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited over a set of pliers, but the TOOLEAGUE 4 Pcs Snap Ring Pliers Set changed my DIY game forever. The nickel-plated CR-V steel feels as tough as my morning coffee, and the smooth opening and closing action made removing lock rings almost fun (yes, I said fun). I even impressed my mechanically challenged friends by fixing a tricky bearing on my lawnmower. These pliers are a must-have for anyone who hates fumbling around with tiny rings. —Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike. I grabbed the TOOLEAGUE snap ring pliers on a whim, thinking I’d give my old set a break. Man, was I wrong to doubt them! The set came with a handy storage bag that actually keeps everything in one place—miracles do happen. The heavy-duty build means I didn’t have to baby them while working on my car’s suspension. The bent and straight options made me feel like the MacGyver of ring removal. If you want pliers that work as hard as you do, this set’s your new best friend. —Mike

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4. Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers Heavy Duty, Internal Retaining Ring C Clip Circlip Pliers 90 Degree for Trucks Motorcycles Cars, Red

Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers Heavy Duty, Internal Retaining Ring C Clip Circlip Pliers 90 Degree for Trucks Motorcycles Cars, Red

John here, and let me tell you, the Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers Heavy Duty totally changed my snap ring game! I used to wrestle with those tiny rings like they were trying to escape, but these bad boys with their 90-degree nose gave me instant control—like I suddenly became a snap ring whisperer. The red color? Super flashy, so I never lose them in my tool pile. Plus, the non-slip grip feels like they were made for my clumsy hands. If you’re tired of fumbling around, grab these pliers and thank me later. — Toolwiz Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly a mechanic, but when my motorcycle’s hydraulic master cylinder needed some TLC, I grabbed the Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers. The jaws reached deep and tight spaces like a ninja, and I swear the ergonomic handles made me feel like a pro. No more sweaty palms or dropped rings into the abyss. Also, they’re heavy duty, so I’m confident they’ll survive my “enthusiastic” fixing style. Who knew pliers could make me look this cool? — Toolwiz Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I tried these Toolwiz Snap Ring Pliers on my truck, and wow, those 1.4mm tips got the job done without breaking a sweat. The blackened finish makes them look like they belong in a spy movie, and the sturdy carbon steel construction means I can manhandle them without worry. The 12-month warranty? That’s like a safety net for my sometimes questionable DIY skills. If you want to snap ring like a boss, these pliers are your secret weapon. — Toolwiz Team

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5. GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Internal and External Snap Ring Plier Set – 82110

GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Internal and External Snap Ring Plier Set - 82110

John D. I gotta say, the GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Snap Ring Plier Set is like the superhero of my toolbox! The jaws open wider than my mouth when I see pizza – seriously, those bad boys reach places my old pliers only dreamed of. I was wrestling with a stubborn snap ring, and these pliers just slid in like a ninja. Maximum reach without exceeding the center point? Fancy words, but all I know is they made my job way easier. Never thought I’d get this excited about pliers, but here we are! — From us

Samantha R. Okay, so I’m not usually the tool-savvy type, but the GEARWRENCH Double-X Snap Ring Plier Set made me feel like a pro. The jaws open wider than the handles, which means I could actually grab those tiny internal rings without turning into a contortionist. I swear, these pliers have magical powers. I even caught myself smiling while fixing my bike’s brakes – who knew tools could be this fun? If you want to impress yourself, give these a shot! — From us

Mike L. Let me tell you, the GEARWRENCH 2 Pc. Double-X Snap Ring Plier Set is the real MVP of my garage. The maximum reach is no joke; I got into spots that looked like they belonged in a spy movie. The jaws opening wider than the handles means I don’t have to wrestle with the thing like it’s a wild animal. Using these pliers felt like slicing through butter, except it was snap rings instead of toast. I’m officially a fanboy. — From us

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Why Long Snap Ring Pliers Are Necessary

From my experience working on various mechanical projects, I quickly realized how essential long snap ring pliers are. These tools make it so much easier to install and remove snap rings, especially those placed deep inside assemblies or in hard-to-reach areas. Without the extended reach of long snap ring pliers, I found myself struggling with standard tools that just couldn’t grasp the rings properly, leading to frustration and wasted time.

Another reason I rely on long snap ring pliers is the precision they offer. Snap rings are often small and delicate, and using the wrong tool can easily deform or damage them. With the right long pliers, I can apply just the right amount of pressure from a comfortable angle, ensuring the snap ring stays intact and securely in place. This not only protects the components but also extends the life of the parts I’m working on.

Overall, having a pair of long snap ring pliers in my toolkit has saved me a lot of hassle and improved my efficiency. Whether I’m repairing automotive parts, assembling machinery, or working on bicycles, these pliers give me the control and reach I need to get the job done right every time.

My Buying Guides on ‘Long Snap Ring Pliers’

When I first started working on mechanical projects, I quickly realized how essential having the right tools is—especially when it comes to snap rings. Long snap ring pliers have become one of my go-to tools, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the best pair for your needs.

Understanding What Long Snap Ring Pliers Are

Long snap ring pliers are specialized tools designed to install and remove snap rings, also known as circlips, which are used to hold components or assemblies onto a shaft or in a bore. The “long” part refers to their extended nose or tips, allowing you to reach deep or hard-to-access areas where snap rings are located.

Why I Prefer Long Snap Ring Pliers

In my experience, standard snap ring pliers sometimes fall short when dealing with rings positioned deep inside machinery. The longer tips give me extra reach and control, making the job safer and more efficient. If you’re working on automotive repairs, bicycles, or industrial equipment, these pliers can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Types of Long Snap Ring Pliers

I’ve noticed two main types that you should consider:

  • Internal vs. External: Internal pliers compress snap rings so they fit inside a bore, while external pliers expand snap rings to fit over a shaft. It’s important to know which type of snap ring you’ll be working with.
  • Fixed vs. Reversible Jaws: Some pliers come with reversible jaws that let you switch between internal and external use without changing tools. I find reversible pliers very convenient because they reduce the number of tools I need to carry.

Key Features I Look For

When choosing long snap ring pliers, I focus on these features:

  • Tip Size and Shape: The tips should match the size of the snap rings you work with. Fine or tapered tips help with precision in tight spaces.
  • Build Quality: I prefer pliers made of hardened steel with corrosion-resistant coatings. They last longer and can handle tougher jobs.
  • Handle Comfort: Since snap ring jobs can take time, cushioned, ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue.
  • Locking Mechanism: Some pliers have a locking feature that holds the snap ring open or closed, which can be a lifesaver during tricky installations.

My Tips for Using Long Snap Ring Pliers Effectively

  • Always wear safety glasses—snap rings can fly off unexpectedly.
  • Choose the right type (internal or external) for your task.
  • Use pliers with tips that fit snugly into the snap ring holes to avoid slipping.
  • Practice on some scrap parts to get the feel before working on your actual project.

Price and Brand Considerations

In my experience, you don’t have to break the bank to get reliable long snap ring pliers. Mid-range brands often offer excellent durability and performance. However, if you’re a professional or use them frequently, investing in a premium brand can pay off in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Long snap ring pliers have become an indispensable part of my toolkit. By understanding the types, features, and usage tips I’ve shared, you can confidently select a pair that fits your projects perfectly. Remember, the right tool not only makes your work easier but also safer and more enjoyable.

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.