A few weeks ago, we took a look at Southwire’s Made in America Ergo Wire Stripper. At the risk of being redundant, this week, we’re looking at the Southwire Made in America Compact Wire Stripper. I give the forwarning here, because, at a glance, there doesn’t seem to be too many differences between the two models. Although the sizes differ, as well as the handles and the wire gauges they can accommodate, the two wire strippers are pretty much the same. And, really, how many different ways could a company assemble wire strippers anyway? My point is simply that, if you liked the ergonomic model wire stripper, you’ll probably enjoy the compact version as well. They both exhibit the same quality of workmanship, they were both made in the good ol’ US of A, and they both do a handy job of stripping wires.
Southwire Made In America Compact Wire Stripper Highlights
The ergonomic model received a lot of praise for its comfortable, double-dipped handle. Although the compact model has shorter handles (which is probably obvious, given its name), it does feature the same grips that function so well on the larger version. It fits comfortably in the hand and shouldn’t cause unnecessary hand fatigue.
However, where the Ergo Wire Stripper can strip 10-18 solid and 12-20 stranded AWG wire, the Compact Wire Stripper can tackle 10-20 solid and 12-22 stranded AWG wire. The tradeoff here is that the compact model doesn’t have the capability of shearing screws like the ergonomic version has.
The Southwire Made in America Compact Wire Stripper also includes a handle lock and a spring that should last the life of the stripper. The nose features some ridges that make twisting and pulling cable easier.
Southwire constructs these compact wire strippers from heat treated steel to boost the durability. They retail for around $11 and come with Southwire’s no-hassle, 2-Year Warranty.
Final Thoughts
Just to echo the sentiment expressed in the Ergonomic Wire Stripper review, the Southwire Made in America Compact Wire Stripper will make a great addition to any electrician’s tool bag. It just takes up a little less space and has a little less leverage. It has a quality build, the blades are sharp and precise, and the spring doesn’t feel like it will crap out anytime soon. I wish that this model had the 6-32 and 8-32 shears that the ergonomic model has, but it’s definitely not a deal breaker for me, especially when this American-made hand tool will only run me $11.
Southwire Made In America Compact Wire Stripper Features
- Model Number: Southwire S1020SOL-US
- Made from durable heat-treated steel for longer life
- Strips and cuts up to 10-20 AWG solid and 12-22 AWG stranded wire
- Double-dipped grip for comfortable fit
- Serrated nose holds cable for easy twisting and pulling
- Spring-loaded for self-opening action
- Not intended for cutting bolts or steel wire
- No-Hassle, 2-Year Warranty
- MSRP: $10.98
Looks nearly identical to the Klein Made in America Sears Craftsmen series. Even the multi layer handle cushion material. Though this might be a tad cheaper at retail.