DIY & Home Improvement
Related: About this forumMystery (to me) tool
I ran across this tool that belonged to my father. It looks like a wire cutter/stripper, but it's attached to a little cylinder with a screw cap. When I unscrew the cap, it extends outward, but it's spring loaded to pop back in if I let go.
I don't know much about tools, so this one stumped me. Ideas?

RGinNJ
(1,029 posts)This is used to tighten those wires and give them their twist.
Thanks so much!
2naSalit
(96,325 posts)

hurl
(1,024 posts)count on the great people at DU to help!
2naSalit
(96,325 posts)DU rocks!
Girard442
(6,594 posts)You thread safety wire through something, clamp the pliers on the loose ends and the center handle twirls the pliers round and round to make a nice twist.
Appreciate the assist!
SeattleVet
(5,664 posts)Used for twisting safety wire to hold fasteners in place on aircraft, race cars, motorcycles, etc.
Here's more info:
hurl
(1,024 posts)Dad had a small airplane, so now I get why he had this.
The Velveteen Ocelot
(124,075 posts)Aviation mechanics use them to twist safety wire that secures some kinds of fasteners. I have one.
hurl
(1,024 posts)That makes sense!
gibraltar72
(7,629 posts)hurl
(1,024 posts)I always say!
Thanks!
OxQQme
(2,550 posts)Also a single one that is reversible.
Here's one at amazon --> https://www.amazon.com/Imperial-Tool-41W-Reversible-Twister/dp/B01N34VZN4/ref=sr_1_14?crid=412R07ATMUZI&dchild=1&keywords=safety%2Bwire%2Bpliers&qid=1586722167&sprefix=safety%2Bwire%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-14&th=1
Thanks!
I could tell it must be for twisting something, probably wire - but never saw one before or a clue what you would do with the twisted wire. in jewelry work I have seen rigs made from old hand egg beaters and hooks on electric drills but that thing would probably be good too.
hurl
(1,024 posts)Take something that was intended for one thing and apply it artistically to creating something else entirely. Love it!
JustGene
(421 posts)A combination of a Yankee screwdriver and wire pliers w/ a lock
Neat tool if you need one.