Best Draper Crimping Tool of 2026
Finding a reliable crimping tool from Draper means choosing between budget-friendly multi-function tools and professional-grade ratchet models. We have compared specifications, build quality, and owner reviews to help you select the right tool for your electrical work.
Quick answer
The Draper Expert 56383 Ratchet Crimping Tool and Terminal Kit is the best overall pick for its precise ratchet mechanism and included terminal kit. For a budget-friendly option, the Draper Redline 67652 4-Way Crimping Tool offers solid multi-function performance for occasional use without breaking the bank.
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Research updated June 2026.
Draper Expert 56383 Ratchet Crimping Tool
Precise ratchet mechanism and ergonomic handles for professional-grade crimps.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Draper Expert 56383 | Overall | Ratchet, 0.5-6 mm² | 4.5 / 5 | $$ |
| Draper Redline 67652 | Budget | 4-Way tool, 1.5-6 mm² | 4.0 / 5 | $ |
| Draper 64335 | Heavy duty | Hammer-strike, battery cable | 4.3 / 5 | $$ |
| Draper 13656 | Insulated terminals | 5-Way tool, 0.5-6 mm² | 4.2 / 5 | $$ |
| Draper 44052 CT-RJ45 | Networking | Ratchet, RJ45 modular plugs | 4.1 / 5 | $$$ |
Draper Expert 56383 Ratchet Crimping Tool
Best OverallPros
- Ratchet mechanism ensures consistent crimps
- Comes with a metal storage case and mixed terminal kit
- Accurate die alignment for professional results
Cons
- Heavier than simple multi-function tools
- Not suitable for very large terminals
The Draper Expert 56383 is a ratchet crimping tool designed for electrical professionals. It covers a crimping range of 0.5 to 6.0 mm² across color-coded red, blue, and yellow channels, which includes the most common terminal sizes for automotive and household wiring. The ratchet mechanism ensures the tool does not release until a full crimp cycle is completed, preventing partial or weak connections.
Owner reviews highlight the solid build quality and the precision of the dies. The carbon steel jaws hold alignment well over time, and the PVC grips provide a secure hold even in oily conditions. Some users note the tool is heavier than simple compound-lever alternatives, but the consistent crimp quality justifies the weight for frequent users.
Draper Redline 67652 4-Way Crimping Tool
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable for the feature set
- Crimps, strips, cuts, and shears small bolts in one tool
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- No ratchet mechanism for full crimp assurance
- Simple lever action needs visual inspection to confirm a full crimp
The Draper Redline 67652 is a 4-way crimping tool aimed at DIY users and occasional professionals. It crimps insulated terminals in the common 1.5, 2.5, and 6.0 mm² sizes, and doubles as a wire stripper and small-bolt shear. The multi-function design covers most light electrical jobs with a single tool.
Owner reviews appreciate the low cost and the lightweight, carbon steel build. The tool performs well for light to medium use, but since it has no ratchet, you must squeeze the handles firmly and check that the crimp is fully closed by eye. The moulded grip handles are functional but less plush than the PVC grips on the Expert series.
Draper 64335 Battery Terminal Crimping Tool
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Built for large battery cable lugs a plier crimper can't handle
- Laminated, hardened steel construction for durability
- Cross-marked underside helps align terminals for a straight crimp
Cons
- Requires a hammer or vice to operate, not a squeeze-handle tool
- Not suitable for small wires or insulated terminals
The Draper 64335 is a hammer-strike crimping tool built for automotive and marine battery cable repair. Rather than a ratchet or lever mechanism, it is positioned over the lug and struck with a hammer (or set in a vice) to form the crimp, which lets it handle heavy-gauge battery cable that plier-style tools cannot compress.
Owner feedback highlights that it is a straightforward, affordable way to terminate thick cable without buying a hydraulic crimper. It is not suitable for standard insulated terminals or small-gauge wire, and it takes a bit more manual effort than a ratchet tool, but for battery lugs it is a reliable specialist option to keep in a workshop or van.
Draper 13656 5-Way Crimping Tool
Best for Insulated TerminalsPros
- Color-coded dies for insulated AND non-insulated terminals
- Also strips wire and shears small bolts in the same tool
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- No ratchet, so crimp force is applied manually
- Not suitable for battery lugs or heavy-gauge cable
The Draper 13656 is a 5-way crimping tool that covers the standard 0.5 to 6.0 mm² (22-10 AWG) range and features color-coded dies (red, blue, yellow) that match common terminal color codes. Beyond crimping insulated and non-insulated terminals, it also strips wire in six gauges and shears small bolts, which speeds up repetitive electrical work.
Owner reviews highlight the convenience of the color-coded system and the consistent crimp quality on spade and bullet connectors, insulated or bare. The tool is compact and fits easily in a tool bag. It has no ratchet, so full crimp force has to be applied by hand, and it is not designed for battery lugs or heavy-gauge cable.
Draper Expert 44052 CT-RJ45 Ratchet Crimping Tool
Best for NetworkingPros
- Purpose-built for RJ45 and RJ11 network cable termination
- Ratchet ensures consistent, fully-seated crimps on modular plugs
- Compact size for network cabinets and tight spaces
Cons
- Limited to modular data plugs only
- Not suitable for standard electrical terminals
The Draper Expert 44052 CT-RJ45 is a ratchet crimping tool built specifically for network and telephone cabling, terminating RJ45 and RJ11 modular plugs rather than electrical spade or ring terminals. The ratchet mechanism ensures the plug's contacts are fully seated before the tool releases, which reduces intermittent connection faults.
Owner feedback praises its accuracy on modular connectors and its compact size for working in patch panels and network cabinets. Its main limitation is that it is a specialist tool for data cabling only, not a general-purpose electrical crimper, so it complements rather than replaces a standard terminal crimping tool.
What to check before buying a Draper crimping tool
Consider the wire gauge range and terminal type you work with most often. Draper's crimping lineup covers standard insulated and non-insulated terminals (roughly 0.5-6 mm² / 22-10 AWG), heavy-gauge battery cable lugs using hammer-strike style tools, and specialist RJ45/RJ11 network cable termination. Choosing the wrong tool for the job means either poor crimps or damaged terminals.
Decide between ratchet and simple lever mechanisms. Ratchet tools ensure a complete crimp cycle, which is important for reliable electrical connections. Simple multi-function tools are lighter and cheaper but require the user to apply full pressure manually and visually confirm the crimp.
Check the handle material and ergonomics. Moulded grip and PVC handles are adequate for occasional work, while the cased Expert kits add a storage case for the tool and terminals. The tool weight also matters if you carry it in a tool bag all day.
Mistakes to avoid when using a crimping tool
Using the wrong die size for the terminal is a common error. Always match the terminal size to the correct die position to avoid crushing the insulation or failing to grip the wire core. Most Draper tools have clear markings for each size.
Not completing the full crimp cycle with non-ratchet tools leads to loose connections. With simple lever tools like the Redline 67652 or the 13656, squeeze the handles firmly until they meet completely. Visual inspection after crimping can help catch incomplete crimps.
Applying too much force on small terminals can damage them. For the smallest insulated terminals (the red 0.5-1.5 mm² channel), a ratchet tool such as the Expert 56383 provides controlled, pre-set pressure to prevent over-crimping compared to squeezing a non-ratchet tool by feel.
FAQs
What is the best Draper crimping tool for general use?
The Draper Expert 56383 Ratchet Crimping Tool and Terminal Kit is the best general use option. It covers the standard 0.5-6 mm² range and features a reliable ratchet mechanism plus a case of terminals.
Is a ratchet crimping tool better than a simple lever tool?
Ratchet tools are better for consistent results because they ensure a full crimp cycle. Simple lever or multi-function tools like the Redline 67652 are lighter and cheaper but require manual pressure control.
Can I use a Draper crimping tool for non-insulated terminals?
Yes, most Draper crimping tools, including the 13656 5-way and the 56383 ratchet kit, can crimp both insulated and non-insulated terminals depending on the die channel used.
What wire sizes do Draper crimping tools cover?
Draper's standard electrical crimpers cover roughly 0.5-6 mm² (22-10 AWG) for insulated and non-insulated terminals. Separate hammer-strike tools handle heavy-gauge battery cable, and dedicated ratchet tools handle RJ45/RJ11 network plugs. Choose based on your typical wiring needs.
How do I maintain my Draper crimping tool?
Keep the jaws clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust. Store the tool in a dry place and avoid dropping it, as misaligned dies can affect crimp quality.
Are Draper crimping tools covered by a warranty?
Draper offers a standard warranty on their tools, typically shorter for Redline series and longer for Expert series. Check the product listing or documentation for specific terms.
What is the difference between Draper Expert and Redline tools?
Draper Expert tools are designed for professional use with higher quality materials, ratchet mechanisms, and included storage cases. Redline tools are budget friendly, simpler multi-function tools suitable for DIY and occasional use.
Can I use a Draper crimping tool for battery or solar cable?
Yes, the Draper 64335 Battery Terminal Crimping Tool is designed for heavy-gauge battery cable lugs, including automotive, marine, and solar applications. Unlike the standard ratchet tools, it is a hammer-strike style tool used with a hammer or vice.
How do I know which die size to use?
Most Draper tools have color-coded markings on the tool body or dies (red, blue, yellow) indicating the wire size. Match the terminal size to the die size for a proper crimp.
Do I need a separate tool for network cabling?
Yes, standard electrical crimpers are not designed for RJ45 or RJ11 modular plugs. A dedicated tool such as the Draper Expert 44052 CT-RJ45 ratchet crimper is built specifically for terminating network and phone cable.
Our verdict
For most users, the Draper Expert 56383 Ratchet Crimping Tool and Terminal Kit is the best overall choice, offering reliable ratchet action and a versatile 0.5-6 mm² range. If you are on a tight budget, the Draper Redline 67652 4-Way Crimping Tool provides solid multi-function performance for occasional use. For heavy-gauge battery cable or network cabling, choose the specialist models accordingly.