What Is a Wire Stripper?
A wire stripper is a hand tool that removes insulation from an electrical conductor without cutting through the metal core. Its sized cutting notches match common wire gauges, while some models also crimp terminals or cut wire. Electricians use the tool during wiring repair to prepare clean conductor ends for connections.
Quick Facts About Wire Stripper
Category
Handheld electrical tool
Used for
Removing insulation from conductors
Common confusion
Not a voltage tester
Also called
Wire stripping tool, Stripping pliers
Often discussed with
Wiring Repair
Key Takeaways About Wire Stripper
- Sized notches separate insulation from the conductor.
- Clean stripping helps terminals grip exposed metal.
- A wire stripper is not the same as a voltage tester.
How Wire Stripper Works
A wire stripper uses a sharp notch to score insulation around a conductor. The electrician selects a notch that fits the wire gauge, closes the handles, and pulls away the insulation. The cut should reach the jacket without cutting into the conductive metal.
Related glossary terms: Wire Gauge, Wire Nut, Voltage Tester.
Many wire strippers include extra functions. A wire cutter trims conductors, while crimping sections attach terminals to prepared wire ends. Automatic models adjust around the conductor, but manual models give the user more control over the stripping point. After stripping, the exposed conductor can enter a wire nut, terminal, or other approved connection point.
From the San Bernardino Electrician team
When we repair wiring, we inspect the exposed conductor after stripping for nicks, flattened sections, or damaged strands. We then match the prepared end to the connection method and check that insulation remains close enough to protect the conductor without entering the terminal.
Wire Stripper in Practice: A Real-World Example
During a wiring repair, a damaged switch lead may need a fresh section of insulation removed before reconnection. We use a wire stripper to expose clean metal while preserving the conductor for the new terminal or wire nut.
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