Every electrician eventually reaches for a pair of pliers that can grip, twist, cut, and sometimes help pull tape through conduit. The problem is choosing between two Klein Tools models that look nearly identical. The D213-9NETP is the dedicated pulling model, while the D213-9NE is the cutting model. Here's how to decide which one belongs on your belt.
Quick verdict: If your daily work is pulling tape through conduit, the D213-9NETP is the specialized choice. If you need a general-purpose plier for cutting and twisting wires, the D213-9NE will serve you better.
The two pliers share the same 9-inch frame and the Klein Tools name. The real difference is the job they're optimized for: one is built for pulling tape, the other for cutting wire. Price won't help you decide, because the gap between them is just five cents.
| Detail | D213-9NETP | D213-9NE |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $23.00 | $22.95 |
| Condition | Used | New |
| Design focus | Fish tape pulling | High leverage side cutting |
| Size | 9-inch | 9-inch |
Where each product wins:
- The D213-9NETP wins when tape pulling is a regular part of the job. The dedicated pulling design is the kind of feature you reach for when a standard plier lets the tape slip.
- The D213-9NE wins when you want a reliable cutting plier for everyday use. It covers the most common wiring tasks without needing a second tool.
Klein Tools D213-9NETP Lineman's Fish Tape Pulling Pliers, 9-Inch
The D213-9NETP is the specialist here. Its name points to its purpose: pulling fish tape. If you've ever fought with tape that keeps slipping out of standard pliers, this design is a real time-saver. It still works as a plier for gripping and twisting, so you're not giving up everyday utility. The trade-off is that this unit is listed as used. A used pair can be a good find, but it's not the same as starting with a brand-new tool. Also, this model is not described with the high leverage cutting emphasis of the other plier, so if cutting is your main concern, you may want the other one. For electricians who pull tape regularly, the D213-9NETP's dedicated function is what makes it stand out. It's a purpose-built option that solves a specific frustration, and that's worth something when you're on a job and the tape won't cooperate.
Klein Tools D213-9NE - 9" High Leverage Side Cutting Pliers Lineman's Pliers NEW
The D213-9NE is the everyday lineman's plier. The high leverage side cutting design gives you more cutting power without extra effort, which is helpful when you're twisting wires and cutting soft hardware all day. The limitation is that the tape pulling focus of the D213-9NETP isn't what this model is about. If your main task is pulling tape through conduit, you'll want the dedicated tool. For most electricians who want one dependable pair of pliers for daily electrical work, the D213-9NE is the more versatile option. Its cutting-oriented design covers the most common tasks and keeps the workflow simple. If you only have room in your bag for one plier, this is the one that handles the bulk of the work.
Final choice by use case:
- Choose the Klein Tools D213-9NETP for pulling-focused work, especially when tape pulls are a regular task.
- Choose the Klein Tools D213-9NE for a cutting-focused, all-around pair of pliers.
