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Klein Tools K12045 Heavy-Duty Wire Stripper
Heavy-Duty: Klein Tools K12045 is a slim-forged wire stripper for specified solid, stranded and NM-B wire sizes. Its spring-open handles, cutting features and listed grip make it a multi-purpose hand tool, but its stripping range is limited to the sizes stated below.
At a glance
- Slim-forged construction is described as lighter than traditional forged wire strippers.
- Designed to strip 12-14 AWG solid, 14-16 AWG stranded and 12/2 or 14/2 NM-B wire.
- Built-in spring opens the handles after use, while the shear cutter also cuts specified machine screws.
- Cross-hatched jaws are claimed to grip and twist up to three 12 AWG wires.
Price
$52.91Save 18%
Reference price: $64.35
Price checked: Nov 13, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines wire stripping, cutting, gripping and twisting functions in one hand tool.
- The internal spring is intended to reduce repeated manual handle opening.
- The listed stripping ranges make its supported wire applications clear.
Cons
- The listed stripping capacities cover only the stated wire and NM-B sizes, so buyers needing other gauges may need another tool.
Technical specifications
14 specifications| Brand | KLEIN TOOLS |
|---|---|
| Model | K12045 |
| Dimensions listed | 21.3L x 5.9W centimetres |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 213 g |
| Material listed | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Handle material | Stainless Steel, Plastic/Rubber |
| Colour | Yellow |
| Solid wire stripping range | 12-14 AWG solid wire |
|---|---|
| Stranded wire stripping range | 14-16 AWG stranded wire |
| NM-B cable sizes | 12/2 and 14/2 NM-B non-metallic sheathed wire |
| Machine screw cutting | 6-32 and 8-32 machine screws |
| Grip type | Pistol, Ergonomic, Textured |
|---|---|
| Jaw grip claim | up to three 12 AWG wires |
| Opening mechanism | Built-in internal spring |
What to know before buying
- The stripping ranges, machine-screw cutter and jaw capacity are manufacturer-listed capabilities. Confirm the wire type and size you need are among those specified before buying.
What’s in the box
Included- Item
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Electricians and DIY users working with the listed solid, stranded or NM-B wire sizes.
- Buyers seeking a hand stripper with a spring-opening action and integrated cutting and gripping features.
Less suited to
- Users who need stripping capacity outside the listed wire ranges.
- Buyers seeking a tool whose suitability for live electrical work or insulation rating is specified. The supplied details do not establish either.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
72% 72% - 4 stars
0% 0% - 3 stars
9% 9% - 2 stars
7% 7% - 1 star
12% 12%
Aggregate customer ratings lean positive, with most ratings in the five-star category, but the overall spread also includes one- and two-star ratings. With a small rating sample and no customer-comment details supplied, these figures do not identify what buyers liked or disliked. Consider whether the tool's stated wire-size range fits your work.
Frequently asked questions
Which wire sizes does the K12045 strip?
The listing specifies 12-14 AWG solid wire, 14-16 AWG stranded wire, and 12/2 and 14/2 NM-B non-metallic sheathed wire.
Does this tool cut machine screws?
The product description lists a built-in cutter for 6-32 and 8-32 machine screws.
Does the handle open automatically?
The listing describes an internal spring that makes the handles self-opening.
Can the jaws grip multiple wires?
The manufacturer claims the jaws can grip and twist up to three 12 AWG wires.
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