Even the most basic tool kit needs a pair of pliers.

It goes along with the hammer, screwdriver, crescent wrench, and tape measure, all of which can be used to complete many basic home repairs and projects. That being said, pliers have very specific purposes, and are often abused and misused. It’s important to know what your pair of pliers are—and are not—designed to do.

Generally, pliers are used to increase one’s grip on an object using two levers as simple machines. Anything that’s difficult to turn or bend with fingers is a good candidate for a pair of pliers. It might be a wing nut that’s too tight, a stiff wire that needs to be twisted, or a threaded fastener that you want adjusted on a Christmas tree stand. Even stubborn bones protruding from a fresh fish filet are an excellent target for pliers. The clean pair you keep in your kitchen might get more use than the ones you keep in your garage.

Some pliers also have cutters in their jaws that are great for snipping wire as well as thin screws and nails. They are often found on linesman’s and needle-nose pliers. Such models are great when doing electrical work, or dealing with outdoor projects that require twisting and cutting bailing wire.

If a pair of pliers is the only tool on hand, it can be tempting to use them to turn hex nuts and bolts or even screws. Such uses should be avoided. Pliers are not designed to take the place of wrenches, socket sets, and screwdrivers. Using pliers to turn a nut or bolt will likely result in stripping the head, making it difficult to remove, even when the right tool is applied.

Pliers are relatively inexpensive tools. A common slip joint pair of pliers, which can be quickly adjusted to grab materials of different sizes, generally costs under $10. More specialized pliers run a bit higher—usually $15 to $25 depending on size and type.

A complete tool kit should include three or four different types of pliers. A standard slip joint, a needle nose, and a linesman’s model with a cutter, is a good combination. If you’re looking to maximize your investment, avoid purchasing these tools separately. Most stores sell sets that reduce greatly the price per tool.

Pliers have followed modern ergonomic trends, and good ones feel much more comfortable in the hand than those of old. Many retail stores sell the tool with the handles extending out of the package, so you can test the comfort of the grip before purchasing.

Finally, research the guarantee on the pliers before you make a purchase. A quality pair of pliers should last a lifetime if used and cared for properly, and many manufacturers make that guarantee. Most big box and specialized stores sell quality products that advertise guarantees. But beware of inexpensive models that are found in the aisles of grocery and drug stores. If they do not advertise a guarantee, they probably won’t last.

Peter Marschall is a native Nevadan and freelance journalist.