Water pump pliers Pliers oblique - nosed pliers and pointed - nosed pliers vice vice vice pump pliers similar to the role of pipe pliers. It is lighter, smaller and easier to use than a pipe wrench. It is generally more suitable for the installation of plumbing fittings in homes or properties. It is especially suitable for replacing a tap or open spanner to twist hex screws, but its clamping force is not as good as a pipe wrench. The pipe tongs are not flexible and convenient, but suitable for twisting heavy pipe fittings.