Searching for the perfect pliers...any help?

[RustyBarnacle007]

I'm looking for the perfect pair of pliers.

They will need the following attributes:

Braid Cutting Ability
Split Ring Plier Tip
Long Handles
Regular Needlenose Plier Tip
Floating if possible, but not necessary
Lanyard & Sheath

I currently have to carry three pairs and I'm tired of keeping track of them all.

X-tools for braid, but the plastic tips on the pliers are pretty worthless
Split Ring Needlenose Pliers
Regular Needlenose Pliers

Any help or recommendations would be appreciated.

Tight Lines.

[dasfish]

A bit expensive but worth it..Van Staal.

[Bionic]

Since Larry is a shimano guy maybe he can give you some input on these.

Shimano Baysteel Stainless Steel Multi Tool
http://www.anglerscenter.com/acc_shimano_baysteel.htm

They seem to have what you need. I friend of mine had a pair and liked them.

I have Anglers Choice Pliers and they cut braid fine and are reasonably priced,
but no split ring tool. I have a seperate one for that.
I also have Xtool metal pliers that are ok, but I like the Anglers better.

Scott

[Henry Schmidt]

I love my Baysteels but they arent listed on Shimano's 2009 website. They may be discontinued. They are the best split ring pliers ever made and easily open extra heavy duty rings. They cut braid like butter. The leader cutter is very handy especially on the kayak when dealing with sharks and sailcats. The only negative is the sheath is clip on only, no belt loop.

[Questor]

For saltwater and for northern pike fishing, I prefer the long-handled needlenose pliers that are available at hardware stores. It's just such an improvement for handling plugs and other de-hooking chores. Keeps the hands away from the fish's teeth. Some of them don't have the wire-cutter feature, so check for that feature. It's really useful when cutting leaders of fish you don't want to handle. Cost is about $10.