Installer's Toolbox #1 — S&G Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool
Bringing that wire down to size

There's more than one way to skin a cat. At least that's what they tell me. I'm just going to take their word for that, but I know from experience that there's more than one way to strip a wire.
- First there's the bad way — take a pair of needle nose pliers, squeeze the wire just lightly enough to cut the insulation without cutting through the wire, then pull like crazy until the insulation comes off. Sound difficult? It is.
- Then there's the worst way — use your teeth. On second thought, just don’t.
- And finally there’s the best way — use the right tool for the job.
Like, for example, this Wire Cutter/Stripper Tool from S&G. When it comes to quick, neat, and safe wire trimming, I’ve never used anything better. All you do is put the wire in the "mouth" of this tool and pull the trigger — the blades come down, the insulation is gone, and you’re one step closer to enjoying great car audio. It even has ruler markings in the mouth so you’ll know exactly how much insulation you're stripping.
This versatile cutter handles everything from the hefty 12-gauge wire used for subwoofers to the tiny 22-gauge wires that connect to your car stereo. Of course, it’s also handy for lots of other electrical projects around your home, so it’s one of those tools you’ll use over and over again.
Stripping wires shouldn’t be a frustrating, time-consuming hassle; it should be quick, painless and easy. With this cleverly engineered tool, it suddenly is. And what's more, when used properly, it won't hurt your teeth.
Or your cat.
Meet Robert Ferency-Viars
Eating up the highway with clarity and volume.
During my first few years at Crutchfield, I served as one of our Advisors, helping our customers choose new audio components for their homes and cars. That helped me learn what's really important to our customers. Eventually, I moved to the writing team and spent a decade researching new products and getting even more hands-on with car audio gear.
As the editor of Crutchfield's car audio web articles, I couldn't ask for a cooler job. We listen to music and play with car audio gear every day!
Like most of us here, I've always been into music and the electronics we use to listen to it. I installed my first car stereo system before the family car was even mine. In college, I helped friends and roommates install their car stereos and set up the sound systems in their apartments. I was a volunteer DJ for the local community radio station for a few years (playing late night metal and Sunday morning bluegrass & alt-country). That's where I also first learned a little bit about sound mixers.
I love playing role-playing games, board games (there were nearly 200 board and card games in our house at last count), spending time with my family, and watching horror movies when they aren't around.
More about Robert
More from Robert Ferency-Viars
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