How to Adjust Vice Grips for a Secure Hold

Vice grips (locking pliers) are a workshop staple, but they only work well when adjusted to the right jaw opening and clamping force. This guide walks you through the simple adjustment process so you get a secure, non-slip grip on whatever you’re holding—without crushing the workpiece or rounding off the fastener.

What You’ll Need

• Vice grips (any brand or size)
• The workpiece or fastener you intend to clamp
• A clean, flat surface (optional, for easier adjustment)
• Protective gloves (optional, for sharp or hot items)

Step-by-Step

1. Open the jaws fully. Squeeze the release lever (the small tab between the handles) to unlock the pliers. Let the handles spring open as far as they will go.
2. Turn the adjustment screw. At the end of the bottom handle is a knurled screw. Turn it counterclockwise to widen the jaw opening, or clockwise to narrow it. Start with a setting slightly smaller than the object you plan to grip.
3. Test the opening. Hold the pliers over the workpiece and close the handles gently. The jaws should just barely touch the object, but not yet clamp it. If they don’t reach, open the screw a bit more; if they hit before the handles are near each other, tighten the screw.
4. Position the pliers. Place the jaws onto the workpiece at the desired angle. For a hex bolt, align the jaws flat against two opposite flats. For a pipe or round object, center the jaws so the curved teeth grip evenly.
5. Clamp and lock. Squeeze the handles together firmly until the locking mechanism engages. You’ll hear a distinct click and the handles will stay shut on their own.
6. Test the hold. Try to rotate or pull the pliers. If they slip, release the lock, turn the screw one-quarter turn clockwise (to tighten), and re-engage. Repeat until the grip is solid.
7. Release when done. To unlock, squeeze the release lever. If the pliers are stuck, tap the release lever with a hammer or give the handles a sharp squeeze first.

Common Mistakes

• Setting the screw too tight. This makes the jaws clamp before the handles are fully closed, so the locking mechanism never engages, or it engages with too much force and damages the workpiece.
• Setting the screw too loose. The jaws close but the handles don’t click, so the grip is weak and the pliers slip off.
• Ignoring the release lever. Forcing the handles open without using the release lever can bend the mechanism or strip the threads.
• Using on rounded or worn fasteners. The sharp teeth can chew up soft material; for delicate surfaces, use a piece of leather or plastic between the jaws.

Tips

• For most jobs, the screw should be set so the handles are about 1/2 inch (12 mm) apart when the jaws first touch the workpiece. This gives enough travel to lock securely.
• If you’re working on a car or machinery, use the adjustment screw to set the grip once, then use the release lever to open and close—don’t re-adjust every time.
• Keep the threads of the adjustment screw clean and lightly oiled. Dirt or rust can make it hard to turn.
• When gripping a bolt or nut, apply a little downward pressure while locking to keep the jaws seated.
• For extra torque, use your whole hand on the handles, not just your fingers.

Troubleshooting

Pliers won’t lock at all. The screw is likely too loose. Turn it clockwise a full turn and try again. If it still won’t lock, the internal spring may be worn; check if the release lever moves freely.

Pliers lock but slip on the workpiece. The jaws aren’t gripping enough. Tighten the screw a quarter turn, or clean the teeth with a wire brush to remove oil or debris.

Pliers lock too hard and damage the item. Loosen the screw slightly. For soft materials like copper or plastic, use a lighter setting or attach soft jaw covers.

Adjustment screw won’t turn. Apply penetrating oil to the threads and let it sit for a few minutes. If it’s still stuck, use a pair of pliers on the screw head—but be careful not to strip it.

Release lever is stuck. Tap it gently with a hammer or push it with a screwdriver. If the pliers are locked onto something, squeeze the handles together slightly to relieve tension, then press the lever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my vice grips are adjusted correctly?
A: When you close the handles, they should click and stay locked. If they don’t click, the screw is too loose; if they click before the jaws touch, it’s too tight.

Q: Can I use vice grips on a stripped screw?
A: Yes, the sharp teeth can bite into a stripped screw head. Adjust them so they clamp firmly, then turn slowly to avoid slipping.

Q: What’s the difference between vice grips and regular pliers?
A: Vice grips lock in place hands-free, providing a constant clamping force. Regular pliers require you to keep squeezing.

Q: How do I adjust the pressure without changing the jaw opening?
A: The adjustment screw controls both opening and pressure. To increase pressure without changing the opening, you’ll need to turn the screw slightly while the jaws are on the workpiece—but this will also close the jaws a bit more.

Q: Can I use vice grips as a wrench?
A: Yes, for occasional use on bolts and nuts. However, they can damage the fastener’s corners, so use a proper wrench for repeated or high-torque work.

Q: How do I clean and maintain my vice grips?
A: Wipe off dirt and oil after use. Occasionally, apply a drop of oil to the pivot and adjustment screw. Store them in a dry place to prevent rust.

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