Box Joint Pliers

[Paperclip]

So I've just learned that there's a type of pliers joint called box joint (with the usual side by side joint is called "lap joint"). Here's a pic for those who aren't yet familiar with it:


One "hand" is sandwiched by the other "hand".

I can imagine that this design has the capacity to prevent/minimize "side to side" play/development common in pliers. "Unfortunately", it seems that box joint is only used in fine works pliers like those used by jewelers or electricians where precision is important.

Does anyone have any experience using this kind of pliers? What do you think about it?


Some discussions about box joint pliers:
http://www.electro-tech-online.com/members-lounge/107825-pliers-cutters-lap-box-joints.html
http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb/general-archive/slightly-ot-box-joint-pliers-96004/

[tattoosteve99]

I actually have a pair similar to those. I do use it on occasion when I have small projects requiring delicate work. They are tighter than normal pliers and do have, IMO, more control. They don't have a cutter head because it's really not needed on a set of pliers that small.

[J-sews]

Ahh, didn't know there was a term for that type of pivot. Box joint eh? Seems like it would be very strong, but rather difficult to make...?

The only multitool so equipped that I know of was the old Schrade ST5E

[turnsouth]

Ahh, didn't know there was a term for that type of pivot. Box joint eh? Seems like it would be very strong, but rather difficult to make...?

The only multitool so equipped that I know of was the old Schrade ST5E

I can see where the layered construction would be stronger, but wouldn't the necessary reforging step in the other process tend to weaken the metal? 

[Paperclip]

Ahh, didn't know there was a term for that type of pivot. Box joint eh? Seems like it would be very strong, but rather difficult to make...?

The only multitool so equipped that I know of was the old Schrade ST5E

I didn't expect to see a multitool with it! I can see that they found a cost effective process to make the joint.

[J-sews]

Ahh, didn't know there was a term for that type of pivot. Box joint eh? Seems like it would be very strong, but rather difficult to make...?

The only multitool so equipped that I know of was the old Schrade ST5E

I didn't expect to see a multitool with it! I can see that they found a cost effective process to make the joint.

That's exactly what I said when I first saw it!!

Yeah, that was one major advantage of Schrade's "laminated steel plate" construction.