[mhconley]

I want to buy a crimp tool for 12-28 AWG wire, preferably one with interchangeable dies that I can use for other projects.  I really don't want to spend $250 for a Canare crimp tool and dies or $150 for gold plated WBT crimp pliers.  I want something capable of creating "gas tight cold welds".  I've found many ratcheting crimp tools between $20 and $50.  See Parts Express for one example.  But I also don't want to spend money on a tool that won't get the job done.

Does anyone have any recommendations for a good crimp tool?

Martin

[mhconley]

Just an FYI for those interested - I've purchased this crimp tool.

Martin

[phb2020]

I just got the same crimper from Parts-Express.  Just want to verify method to crimp a split-ring spade connector.  I read that the split side goes in the solid curve of the crimper and the pointed other end comes down on the solid side of the spade.  Split part is supposed to bend inward to make the crimp.  Right?

[Elizabeth]

That hardware company that advertises in Stereophile had a great HYDRAULIC crimper (I bought one) for like $60 or so. It is a super crimper. it will totally cold weld the parts together. It's only flaw is the dozen sets of dies included are all hexagon shaped. It would be better if some were ground out to an oval, or round shape. The dies are hardened steel.
Anyway, I just used it again after it sat for a year, and it has not leaked (a problem with a  lot of hydraulic stuff)
Anyway it is the cats meow of cold weld crimping. It takes almost no effort at all to get an incredible solid cold fusing of the parts. I have very weak hand strength and it does the job,  no problem.
Like I said, if you got some of the crimp dies recut by a machinist, it would be the best possible crimper ever.
http://www.harborfreight.com/hydraulic-wire-crimping-tool-66150.html?