JACK Norton started its small fishing business under the premise of producing innovative tools that were reliable during the moments that mattered. It strived to build products that last the test of time. I have been fortunate enough to test drive the Jack Norton pliers range.
There are three different models with almost identical designs, priced according to the materials used in construction. Aluminium (with stainless steel jaws for hardness), Stainless steel and Titanium.
The Titanium pliers are considerably more expensive than the other models. RRP is $229.95, which may be overkill for casual use. I would highly recommend this to dedicated fishos who will frequently use this tool such as topwater enthusiasts. Titanium is worth considering for several reasons. The strength to weight ratio is exceptional, the light feel in the hand makes it easy to work with for long periods, plus it won’t take up as much weight in your luggage. The strength is also improved, even though it is lighter. Titanium is corrosion and rust resistant, which makes it particularly suitable for saltwater applications. There is nothing worse than investing in good equipment to see it defeated by the elements.
The stainless steel midrange model is priced at $69.95, making it more affordable. Stainless steel is heavier than titanium and much heavier than aluminium. It is corrosive resistant, however will rust if not rinsed and regularly used in salt. If I didn’t want to break the bank, I would go with this option, especially if I was going to be using them on the water.
The aluminium pliers are the lightest option. The stainless steel jaws maintain hardness at the business end. I would strongly recommend this option for anglers who do the majority of their rigging in the garage or man cave. They have the least corrosive resistance yet perform exceptionally well with light weighting. They are still able to be taken on the boat; however, maintenance is essential.
There’s going to be a model that suits your needs best, so ensure you choose wisely.
All three metal pliers have a range of shared features. The moulded handles are comfortable and provide a good grip in a range of conditions. The handles come in a range of colours. The red pliers in the images are titanium, the black are stainless and the green are aluminium.
The split ring feature is well designed. I found them easy to control and manipulate both heavy and light gauge split rings. Which makes these pliers functional from smaller barramundi/estuary lures size right up to heavy GT topwater equipment. The pliers are well designed and manufactured, spring-loaded for responsiveness and smooth under pressure.
The pliers come with a cutting tool with blades made from chromax shield-coated tungsten. A hard metal designed to hold its edge. The cutting tool snipped through 150lb fluorocarbon with ease and cleanly cut the braid without fraying the edge.
The lock for these pliers is rock solid. I can’t see it faulting overtime. It is super easy to use and holds the pliers together firmly. I find that some alternatives have smaller hook designs which, if offset or placed slightly out of position can restrict the functionality.
The folks at Jack Norton can engrave your pliers to give them the personalised touch of a perfect gift. They come with a pouch and lanyard to help provide ease of access out on the water. I highly recommend this range of pliers from Jack Norton.
More info at www.jacknortonfishing.com
