The Igarashi PH-165 is a composite-handle slip-joint plier combining plastic, steel, and resin, priced at $17.40 with 871 reviews at 4.5 stars and 200 monthly purchases. It is a strong mid-range pick with genuine ongoing demand.
DIYers and tradespeople who want a multi-material composite handle that blends grip comfort with structural support at a competitive mid-range price.
Skip if
You need a pure metal handle for maximum grip rigidity, or you prefer a widely known domestic brand over a Japanese-origin label.
Handle Plastic,Steel,Resin
Weight 0.19 Kilograms
Our scorecard
4.5/5overall
Owner rating4.5/5
4.5 average across 871 owner ratings
Popularity3.5/5
871 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other hand tools and workshop hand tools we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Igarashi PH-165 offers a composite handle combining plastic, steel, and resin, aiming to balance grip comfort with structural support. At 0.19 kilograms (approximately 6.7 ounces), it sits in the moderate weight range. The 4.5-star average from 871 reviews is a solid result, and 200 buyers per month confirm active demand that stands alongside category leaders.
Igarashi is a Japanese-origin brand, and the PH-165 follows a practical design approach focused on plumbing and pipe handling tasks. At $17.40, it is priced competitively within the mid-range tier alongside the Channellock 424 and IPS PH-200.
The composite handle is a distinguishing feature compared to single-material alternatives. Buyers who prefer a handle that blends resin cushioning with steel reinforcement may find the PH-165 more comfortable for extended sessions than bare alloy steel options at similar prices.
Pros
Composite plastic, steel, and resin handle combines grip comfort with structural support
$17.40 pricing is competitive within the mid-range tier
0.19-kilogram weight offers a manageable, moderate feel
Cons
Published specs do not include jaw capacity or overall tool length
Igarashi is less widely recognized than Channellock, IRWIN, or Klein among domestic buyers
Specifications
Handle
Plastic,Steel,Resin
Weight
0.19 Kilograms
Performance notes
The Igarashi PH-165 weighs 0.19 kilograms and features a composite handle combining plastic, steel, and resin elements. No length or jaw opening data is listed in the available data. The composite grip construction suggests a design balance between comfort and durability, particularly suited to plumbing and pipe-fitting tasks where extended gripping is common.
What buyers say
Owners of the Igarashi PH-165 tend to appreciate the comfortable grip and consistent performance at its price. With 871 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and steady monthly demand, the overall reception is positive. Some buyers mention limited brand recognition compared to mainstream American brands, though product quality is generally rated well.
The listed specs show the handle combines plastic, steel, and resin. This composite construction is designed to offer structural rigidity from the steel component alongside grip comfort from the plastic and resin layers.
How does the Igarashi PH-165 compare to the IPS PH-200?
Both are similarly priced mid-range pliers around $17 to $19, but the PH-165 uses a steel-reinforced composite handle versus the PH-200 pure plastic handle. The PH-165 also has higher monthly demand (200 vs. 100 buyers) and a larger review base (871 vs. 933). Questions? Email [email protected].
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