Best PEX Crimp Tool in 2023 What You Need To Know

It’s good to repair or install small issues of households by the owner instead of calling the technicians. It helps you know the ins and outs of the basic of everything around you. Plumbing is a job for the experts but repairing pipes or installing fittings can be done by you. It’s all about a simple task if you have the best PEX crimp tool.

Modern plumbing is all about PEX pipe plumbing. As PEX is flexible, durable and bendable, it is widely used in household waterline purposes. So, people have started it for its various benefits. It leaves no hassle even for the amateur. The professionals also prioritize PEX for its versatile use.

PEX crimp tool is a hugely popular crimp tool to join connection precisely. So, it’s quite tricky to choose the best tool among hundreds in the market, especially for the amateurs. So, we have guided in details review of the best PEX crimp tool so that you get the best usage by saving your time and money.

What is a crimping tool?

A crimping tool is an essential and widely used device in the plumbing industry. It is used to join two or more metals in a way that holds one another. This joining is called crimp. A crimp tool works based on several principles. It makes a permanent connection by squeezing pliers and scissors by a deformable metal sleeve around the wire. Sometimes, the sleeve is used to build a terminal and to puncture the insulation on the wire. However, crimping is fast and secure and leaves no leaks on the connection.

For example, Phone cables and network cables are used to join and created a CAT5 cable by using the crimping tool.

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Best PEX Crimp Tool Review

PEX crimp tool is a much-needed tool in the plumbing industry. So, you may find hundreds of thousand of crimp tools in the market. But all are not up to the quality and results in waste of money. Also, finding the best PEX crimp tool is a hassle to the amateur. So, don’t waste your time and money by searching for ordinary tools. Instead, pick the best one from the following crimp tools which are efficient to accomplish the plumbing task perfectly.

1. IWISS PEX Best Pipe Crimping Tool Crimper for Stainless Steel Clamps

It’s quite rare that one can get everything done by purchasing a single tool. Hence, IWISS PEX is such an exceptional crimping tool which helps you touch all possible means. It is a stainless steel made clamps which can work from 3/8” to 1”.

As IWISS is a universal tool, you can use it with any standard clamps. The factory-adjusted measurement helps you direct using. The tool is easy to calibrate which requires only correct installation. However, you are ensured for the best durability and better service as the head of the tool is made of forged #40 steel. Also, the head part of the tool is cut off with Wire EDM Machine to ensure precise installation.

Along with the precise installation, the handyman’s first choice works excellent for plumbing repair. It comes with a shark bite system with a slip. So, crimping isn’t hard work for the amateur handyman. It ensures zero leak issues of the two connections using the shark bite slip to connect.

Finally, the leverage of the tool comes precisely which is not too long or too short. So, the standard size can help you handle the tool both for a wide area as well as a tight space. So, junk is the joint or in the kitchen is far away from you. In fact, it reduces 30% effort of crimping for the standard quality and handle.

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2. Zurn Best Multi-Head Crimp Tool for Creating Watertight PEX Connections

If you are looking for a crimping tool for watertight PEX connections, the QCRTMH is a perfect choice. It is a manual crimp tool kit which works with 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″ and 3/4″ PEX Fittings. Though it is called that plumbing isn’t a place of saving money, Zurn resists you to pay extra money. Instead, it comes with great crimping tools with a cost-saving price but sturdy quality.

The main concern for the crimping tool is the perfection of the connections. Here, Zurn QCRTMH has all the connections came out perfectly fine. So, you are entirely free from hassle and worries. Even, you can manually fit the connections parallel to the center-line without using gauge. As it can be used for different sizes, you can easily change the head within no time.

The Zurn crimping tool is made of corrosion resistant polymer and stainless steel. So, it ensures longevity and durability. Even, the fittings are optimized with port configurations with full-flow ball valves. Though it is a manual tool, you can assembly the connections precisely for the innovative module. Surprisingly, the third-part certified fittings are to set the bar for chlorine and UV resistance.

Finally, over thirty years of experience, the Zurn is the leader of the crimping tools industry for innovative modules and accessories. The QCRTMH has lead-free law compliant brass valves inside the crimping tool which is easy to repair and maintenance. So, it’s easy to connect from valves to fixtures.

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3. IWISS Combo Angle Crimping Tool Kits for All US F1807 Standards Copper Rings

You may find a few tools which can conform to all the available brands’ pipes and fittings. IWISS has brought a combo package which is compatible with all available brands. The combo tool kits come with a unique and innovative design along with all necessary tools you need to complete the PEX fittings. Interestingly, all the PEX instruments inside the combo box are certified for safety by maintaining US F1807 standards.

The excellent mechanism of the crimp rings ensures spiffy performance. It prevents the devices from slipping. The Go/ No-Go gauge helps you to check the crimps after compressing. So, the connections are free from any susceptible accident. Also, the apparatus comes with an open-end wrench and a jaw to work with from 3/8” to 1”. So, the versatile tool is compatible with all sorts of pipes and fittings in all conditions.

The IWISS is a leading company of the fittings and pipes industry. Its manufacturing system is mainly concern with safety. So, the ratcheting system of the crimping tool releases the connectors before the kit condenses. It ensures the perfect fittings which leave no leaks.

The commendable part of the combo kits is the PEX pipe cutter. It comes with a perfect size with a big cutting head. So, anyone can use it with a single hand in a confined space. However, the kits have come with a compact and comfort grip carrying case. So, it ensures durability and comfort in a package without paying more bucks.

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4. PEX GUY Best Crimping Tool PEX Pipe/Tubing Crimp for Plumbing and Radiant Heating

Sometimes the amateur even the professionals face problem while plumbing as they need to heat the joint. However, most of the clamp tool comes with either plumbing or heating. PEX GUY is one of the best clamp tools which has brought clamp tool both for plumbing and heating in a single kit.

Made of high-quality steel, it ensures high functional quality. Also, it ascertains longevity and durability without compromising with quality. The tool comes with factory calibrated. It not only saves your time for adjustment but also confirms the perfect connection of the fittings. So, no leaks are found for many years but get the best performance over time.

PEX GUY is an all-in-one tool which is compatible with 3/8″ to 1″ cinch rings. So, it covers all the areas of fitting work you need. Also, the rubber-grooved coating handles are designed in such a way that you feel comfortable while working. It also prevents all sorts of slips from crimping. However, don’t forget a unique feature of the PEX GUY. It includes a LED light to help you work in the low-lighting area or close-fitting spaces.

Finally, a clamp tool used in a single hand is much needed for the professionals. Also, many a time they need to work in a narrow space. Hence, PEX GUY is a super solution for the professionals in terms of functionality and quality service.

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5. Ridgid RP 200-B Best Compact Press Tool

With the legacy of a modern pipe wrench, Ridgid has about 100 years of experience in the world’s expert trades-people. From the very that day, they have been providing reliable and effective products which result in high performance. So, they know which obstacles can hinder the progress of the products and how to exceed them.

The Ridgid RP 200-B is a no ordinary tool instead of an option to enjoy a reliable way of mixing copper, stainless steel and PEX. It is the newest addition to the press tool line that allows access to the tightest spaces. It comes with an inline form along with a 270-degree rotating swivel barrel. It also has two 18V advanced technology batteries to ensure efficiency by providing up to 250 presses per charge.

In addition to the advanced batteries, the ProPress hydraulic tool comes with compact ProPress jaws. It is compatible with a ½ inch to 1-1/4-inch copper and stainless-steel fittings along with 3/8-inch to 1 ½ inch PEX fittings.

As Ridgid is the inventor of many things of the fittings industry, the LED indicator in front of the tool has brought a revolutionary change in the workplace. It not only removes the darkness of the workplace but also indicates any misconduct of the tools. The indicator blinks while working in an improper temperature, low battery performance or maintenance required. It also indicates by blinking to ensure the use of proper tools and pressed connections.

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6. JWGJW Pex Best Crimping Tool Crimper for Stainless Steel

JWGJW is another highly efficient clamp fastening tool which grows its market share by conquering the users. It ensures top performance by the quality design and sturdy materials. So, why do we choose the JWGJW for our top products?

JWGJW has brought some innovative fittings and Pipe tools in the product pipe line. It features the clamp fastening tool to reduce the labor force. So, if you want a labor-saving design along with durability, JWGJW is the top priority.

The JWGJW comes with ratchet safety-release function. It helps to fasten connection within no time. As the tool is made of high forged stainless-steel, it ensures durability. Also, the installation comes with factory calibration takes no hue and cry but provides a sturdy and lifelong product.

Here, like many other renowned crimp tools, the JWGJW clamp tool is compatible with from 3/8″ to 1″ sizes. As it maintains ASTM F2098 standards, you can take it for your professional task solution.

Surprisingly, the clamp tool handle is about 20 percent longer than its counterparts. The longer handle assumedly helps the not-so-strong person to get leverage in the workplace. Though it seems that longer handle isn’t useful for tight space, the leverage will mitigate the issue. It comes with a comfortable rubber grip which helps you feel cozy while working. Also, it reduces labor up to 30 percent.

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7. Yescom 5in1 Best Pex Crimper for Plumbing Copper Ring Tool

Yescom is another incredible addition to the list of the best PEX crimp tools. It comes with five different jaws so that all sorts of tasks can be completed by using the combo tool kit. You can interchange the jaws to meet the needs what you want. It comes with a compact design which reaches to the tight space connections.

The go-no-go gauge crimping and plumbing tool come with ergonomic design. It has a slippery resistant rubber grip on the handle which reduces user fatigue. The anti-slip handle not only ensures safety but also comfort in the workplace. Also, the five jaws are compatible with all available fittings such as from 3/8″ to 1″. The clear instructions along with the crimp tool help even the amateur to perform the job done precisely.

The Yescom is no exception that most of the famous bands. Like others, it also comes with factory calibration. So, you need not additional adjustments to install the crimp tool. So, you can start work after getting the tool. The go-no-go gauge helps you to get efficient work done. Moreover, the comfortable and user-friendly design helps you to reach even in the tightest space.

However, the crimp tool kit is useful only for the copper crimp rings. It ensures reliability and durability for the copper rings and PEX fittings. Also, its labor-saving design helps a lot to reduces labor force in completing the job done. Moreover, the cost-effective crimp tool saves your bucks without compromising with the quality and the functionality.

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8. Apollo PEX 69PTKG1096 Best 3/8-inch Stainless Steel Pinch Clamp Tool

Conbraco has a long tradition to provide the best quality fittings and pipes in the industry. Like other products in the pipe line, Apollo PEX 69PTKG1096 is another awesome and quality product from the Conbraco. The stainless-steel clamping tool wrench provides up to 100 pounds of crimping force. The most astonishing fact of the wrench is that you can change the jaws and the jaw itself can automatically adjust the crimping force.

Made of robust materials and forged steel, the Apollo PEX 69PTKG1096 ensures functionality and durability. It is compatible with from 3/8” to 1” PEX fittings and pipes. Also, the handles have come with yellow rubber coating. It resists slips and makes the user feel comfortable.

To top it all off, the package includes a go/go-no-go gauge to ensure the fastening perfectly and efficiently. Also, it comes with plastic storage which you can use to store all the necessary tools together. So, nothing will be lost, and you will get the tools ready when you need them.

Apollo PEX 69PTKG1096 comes with factory calibration which requires no additional adjustments. But, it has four settings of tightness from 0 to 4. So, you can tighten the arms even up to the end of the job.

By the way, the clamp tool comes with a heavy and massive size. Some users may find it overly massive in size. However, the size is standard to feel you comfortable while working. Even though the jaw screws seem weak and susceptible to breaking, they are sturdy enough to last long. Even, applying heavy force on the jaws can’t break them until the tension crosses the limit.

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Top PEX Crimp Tool Brands on the Market

Crimp tool has a long history with time to time development and up-gradation of the fittings, pipes, etc. So, hundreds of thousands of companies have been established from the time being. Among them, some of the companies share the largest part of the market by providing the best PEX crimp tools. Here, you can go through some of the best brands.

IWISS

Founded in 2008 Olympic year, IWISS has established itself one of the prominent companies in America, Europe, and Australia. The base of the production is high-quality materials and modern production technology. However, the astonishing performance of the company amuses most of the analysts. But, the hidden truth of growing so fast is that meeting the professional users’ need through the performance, service life and the ergonomics of the products.

IWISS has successfully qualified with ISO 9001:2015 for its outstanding performance both in wholesales, retail sales, and online sales. It also resembles the inheriting enterprise culture, cultivating scientific research and technological talents. It also fulfills the corporate social responsibility successfully.

IWISS combines strong development capabilities and excellent service to serve more customers efficiently. They have creativity, high-level technological expertise, robust materials, and modern production technology. So, the produced tools, pipes and wires are top notch in quality. The products successfully meet the demands of professional users’ expectations.

SharkBite

With the motto of “world-class technology for efficient plumbing” SharkBite only focuses on plumbing. SharkBite always believes in top-level of professionalism to provide the best service to the customers. So, they don’t divert too many things instead of the master of a single product. Even, SharkBite is the pioneer of push-to-connect plumbing.

Over 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry, SharkBite is the forefront of innovating, remodeling, servicing and repairing work. Each time they innovate new products to solve the problems to increase productivity and efficiency. Hence, SharkBite is a reliable brand for commercial and residential applications.

The production system of the SharkBite is awesome and quite different from the others. It can produce more than 1.5 million connections every week. All the connections come with about 25 years warranty. The unparallel user experiences have made the SharkBite one step ahead in the market. However, the SharkBite manufactures all plumbing accessories required to plumb a portable water system such as fittings, PEX pipes, valves, outlet boxes, etc.

ZURN

Water is the most important element for life, business, and facility. ZURN knows it well and plays an important role in the best uses of water resources. Also, ZURN always maintains safety, comfort, cost and everything else under the users’ control. It compromises all sectors of water solutions such as linear drainage, Wilkins, valves, PEX, and other water control.

Apollo Conbraco

Conbraco has a long tradition and fame in water solution for both in commercial and residential purposes. It ensures a continuous flow of water to the required areas at home and workplace. It provides high-quality plumbing materials across all the country in north America.

Apollo is the most significant and remarkable product of the Conbraco. It is the most comprehensive portable water product found in the retail market. Some other tremendous products are PEX. PEX tools, PEX fittings, PEX fasteners, PEX tubing, PEX oxygen barrier, Push fittings, Manifolds, Valves, etc.

PEX Crimp Vs. PEX Clamp Vs. PEX Expansion

Though copper was vastly used in the plumbing industry just a decade ago, PEX has replaced copper with its great varieties of uses. It’s not only less expensive but also durable than copper. Also, it assumes heating more efficiently than copper and makes the product competitive in the long run.

Also, PEX can be bend with each change n direction. It reduces potential leaks along with faster installation. PEX is so flexible that it can cause resistant damage due to occurred by frozen water in the pipe.

However, PEX is much better than copper. But, which PEX is better; PEX Crimp, Clamp or Expansion?

PEX Crimp Tool

As PEX is the first choice of the professionals, Crimp tool gets priority for PEX fittings. It’s the most common and affordable types of fittings tool. Also, it is available across the country such as home improvement stores, supply houses, and online stores. All Crimp tool maintains the ASTM F1807 standards ASTM F2159 standards.

However, with a PEX crimp tool, you can work with any PEX sizes. It is compact, and most of the time you’ll get all the tools in a combo pack. Hence, it saves your bucks by which you can spend to fulfill your hobby. Furthermore, the crimp tool doesn’t need to wrap around the tube and pipe. So, it’s much easier to use the tool in a tight space.

PEX Clamp Tool

Like Crimp tool, PEX clamp tool is used to connect the fittings. But the duos require different method as well as a different type of ring. Both of them create reliable seals those leave no leaks but work perfectly. So, the choice should be based on personal preference.

However, corrosion-resistant stainless-steel clamp rings are more effective than copper crimp rings. They are more durable and stronger. So, when it freezes the water, the copper connection tends to be leaked. On the contrary, the stainless-steel is completely free from leaks whether water freezes or not.

Moreover, PEX clamps are easy to remove. As a single piece of the clamp is to be compressed to make a connection, it can work with multiple sizes. By the way, a clamp tool is all about to make the best and original connection. But, the only drawback is a PEX clamp tool is slightly more expensive than that of a crimp tool.

PEX expansion

A PEX expansion is relatively a new product which is used to expand the PEX piping around the connection. It increases the flow rate by decreasing the pressure drop. The cost is much higher because of the using of accessories, fittings, valves, and tools.

However, PEX expansion can be divided into two groups, i.e., Uponor ProPEX Expansion System and Rehau RauPEX Expansion System.

On the one hand, the first one is manufactured to ASTM F1960 standard and is compatible with for both brass and poly fittings. On the other hand, the last one follows ASTM F2080 standard and is compatible with only PEX A-Tubing. However, the advantages of using PEX expansion can be followed:

• With the PEX expansion, you can still get micro adjustments although you seem to be finished with PEX crimp or clamp tool. It ensures your utmost satisfaction in tightening the PEX tubing and fittings.
• Expansion requires the least space to move by itself. So, you can get it to the tightest space where using a crimp or clamp tool is quite troublesome.

How to Use PEX Crimp Tool

It is a wise truth that the way a professional works to complete the job is quite impossible for the amateur. Hence, professionals even can do great art in work even in the simplest work. As most of the crimp tools come with factory calibration, you need not adjustment to install the crimp tool. But, specialty on working with the PEX tool will make the job easier for you.

So, let’s start. At first measure the length of the pipe you want to cut with the crimp tool. Put it to the ends of the crimp rings. Then push the fittings into the pipe and slide the crimp ring towards the edge. After sliding the crimp ring, take the crimp tool out and open it by pulling apart the handles. Hence, an opening is created. Work both sides of the pipe until the fittings are set accurately.

Now, it’s time to create the necessary pressure which pushes the crimp in the required place. So, push the handles together so that it can shut the tool. As a result, a watertight seal will be made which is the utmost requirement for the connection.

How to Care for Your PEX Crimp Tool

PEX crimp tool is such a tool that every plumber wants to have to complete the task efficiently. It is compatible with from 3/8″ to 1″ for all sorts of pipes and fittings. The tool is simple to use but draws special attention to take care of. So, go through the following recommendations to take care of the small tool.

• Always keep to tool clean and store it in carrying case.
• Always check the parts before and after each time using. Never miss any part as it will suffer you when it is necessary.
• Always lubricate all the parts of the tool before storing and using it. You can use light coating oil for lubricating.
• If the tool is dropped in the dirt, clean it first before using. The dirt can keep the inserts from setting properly which results in improper work. Also, it lessens the longevity and durability of the tool.
• Always inspect the tool for signs of wear, galling or distortion. If you find anything wrong with the tool, replace it as soon as possible.
• Check the adjustments of the tool before starting to work. When you successfully finish the adjustments, the indicator BLUE LED lights will light. Otherwise, you have to set the point for further modifications.
• After completing the crimp, lose the nuts. But, don’t run the nut all the way to the top of the screw. It can jam against and impact the wrench.
• If you need to remove the nut from the screw, keep them together.

Question: What is the difference between a long handle and short handle crimper?

Answer: both the long and short handle crimp tools are available in the market. But, the core difference is the measurement of the length of the crimp tool. The short handle requires more effort while crimping. It is worth using in the tight space where a long handle can’t get. On the contrary, a long handle requires less effort to accomplish the job. But the main drawback is that you can’t get the long tool to any tight space.

Question: Can I remove or reuse the fitting?

Answer: Yes, most of the fittings can be reused for testing purposes. But, if you want to use for permanent installation, it won’t be a wise decision. The ETP copper type fittings are reusable with a great variety of applications. They are soft and durable along with providing the best performance. They are widely used in electric, plumbing, and other similar uses. However, in the hydraulic process, the fittings ensure a secure fit in the connections. Among the reusable fittings, bolted, EC5 and HWH hose compression fittings are worth of safe connection.

However, some fittings can never be reused. Among them, AP16A wellhead and Ferrule are the most popular. Also, copper connectors should be reused as it never ensures any perfect connection for reuse.

Question: Is it necessary to check with a go/no go gauge for every connection?

Answer: A go-gauge/go-no-go gauge refers to the inspection of the tool that it can allow tolerance or not. Simply: there are two types of the gauge. The gauge which can allow tolerance is called go-gauge and the other one is called go-no-go gauge.

It helps to provide a quick inspection to the quality inspectors or the machinists to check the threads as they can accept tolerance. It means the gauge interacts with the mating part of the connection correctly. So, a go-gauge perform to the full depth of the features without any restriction. On the contrary, a no-go-no gauge will accept the above features. So, it’s obvious to check the go/go-no-go for every connection to get the optimum result of the connection.

Question: How Does the Gauge Work?

Answer: the gauge works after having finished connection all the pipes and crimps well. So, after connecting, open the gauge on the “GO” side and set it over the crimped ring. Close the ring and move it. If the crimp works well, the gauge will slide easily.

Now it’s time for the “Go-No-Go” gauge. Repeat the above process with “Go-no-go” gauge. Here correct installation means the crimp won’t enter into the gauge.

However, if any or both side(s) fail in gauge test, you may have to cut the PEX fittings. Try to get a new crimp ring and test the gauge to work correctly.

Question: Can PEX Pipe be buried?

Answer: PEX pipe is also known as Cross-linked polyethylene. It is widely used is residential water lines. Nowadays it is common is commercial uses. The reason behind of wide acceptance of the PEX pipe is that it is a great alternative to PVC, CPVC and copper tubing. That’s why it is also known as PEX tubing.

However, PEX tubing is approved to use for burial outside. But, here care should be taken. As PEX tubing tends to be freeze and burst, it should be buried under the frost line. Along with the PEX tubing, the high-density polyethylene made PEX can be buried under the concrete because of its high tolerance.

Question: Is there any difference between red and blue PEX?

Answer: the ingredients used for manufacturing PEX is same for all sorts of PEX. So, there is no performance difference between the red and blue PEX. The color is used to distinguish the PEX as which PEX is used to meet which needs. For example, red is for hot distribution line and blue is for cold distribution lines. So, it saves time to find the accurate pipe when it requires some maintenances.

Question: Can you use heat tape on PEX pipe?

Answer: PEX is rated to use hot water. So, in that sense, you should use heat tape on the PEX pipe. But, there is a requirement to use heat tape on it. PEX pipe is resistant to freeze damage. But, if you use any adhesive material on it, it can interact with the PEX and leech into the water. Here, you can use heat tape on it, and it creates no problem. Remember: using adhesive can damage and leech the PEX pipe.

Question: Is PEX pipe freeze proof?

Answer: obviously, the PEX is completely frozen proof. It can expand when necessary especially when it is cold. After that, it can contract to its original shape. But, you have to use the same standard insulation precautions to prevent the PEX from freezing.

Question: Can I use PEX in direct sunlight?

Answer: Direct sunlight is a problem. Hence, PEX pipe isn’t approved to be let the direct sunlight for an extended period. But, light through the window for a short time won’t harm to the PEX pipe. Constant UV exposure damages the PEX pipe permanently. Though PEX comes with high resistance to chlorine and scale, it can’t resist UV rays.

Question: Which tools are essential for a total PEX connection?

Answer: A PEX combination is an essential set for any plumbing project. Generally, it has ten power tools in the box. Each tool has a different usage to accomplish the project perfectly. So, the necessary tools you must keep in your box are:

• Basin Wrench for tightening and loosening nuts on sink faucets.
• Pipe Wrench for tightening and loosening threaded pipes, fittings, and nuts.
• Adjustable wrench for working on supplying lines.
• Hand Auger for removing obstructions from showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, and drain lines.
• Hacksaw for handling difficult nuts.
• Flange & Cup Plungers for dislodging clogs from sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.
• Tubing cutter to cut copper pipe.
• Tongue-and-Groove Pliers for getting a grip, pull, twist, hold, tighten, or loosen something
• Plumber’s Tape perfect for ensuring a good seal on threaded pipes
• Metal File to Smooth the edges of cut metal pipes with a metal file.

Final Words

PEX crimp tool is an excellent tool for precise connection of the fittings and pipes. It requires no expertise to get the professional level work done. However, if you spend minimal time to be an expert, the tool will help you a lot. Even, the professionals find the crimp tools expedient and convenient.

All the above-mentioned PEX crimp tools are among the best of the brands. Choosing from them will be a great investment which saves your bucks from buying another one. Hope you’ll get plumbing fun by using the tool.