Knightsbridge Crimping Tool Review
Knightsbridge is a well-known brand in the UK electrical trade, offering everything from wiring accessories to professional tools. This review examines their crimping tool range, focusing on build quality, jaw alignment, and overall value for electricians and serious DIYers.
Quick answer
The Knightsbridge crimping tool range delivers reliable, ratcheted performance for both insulated and non-insulated terminals. For most electricians, the Knightsbridge Professional Ratchet Crimper (KBCRIMP) is the best overall pick, offering consistent crimp depth and a comfortable handle. For budget-conscious buyers, the Knightsbridge Compact Crimper is a solid entry-level option.
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Research updated June 2026.
Knightsbridge Professional Ratchet Crimper (KBCRIMP)
Consistent ratchet mechanism with hardened steel jaws for clean, repeatable crimps on 1.5mm to 6mm terminals.
Knightsbridge Professional Ratchet Crimper (KBCRIMP)
Best OverallPros
- Consistent ratchet action ensures full crimp every time
- Hardened steel jaws resist wear over heavy use
- Ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue
Cons
- Does not include a wire cutter or stripper
- Heavier than some compact alternatives
The Knightsbridge Professional Ratchet Crimper (model KBCRIMP) is the flagship tool in their range. It features a robust ratchet mechanism that will not release the terminal until the crimp is fully completed, preventing partial or weak connections. The hardened steel jaws are precision-ground to match standard terminal sizes from 1.5mm to 6mm, making it suitable for most domestic and commercial wiring tasks.
Owner reviews on electrical forums and retailer sites consistently praise its build quality and the clean, symmetrical crimps it produces. A common note is that the handle grip is comfortable even during extended use, though the tool is slightly heavier than budget alternatives. It is a dedicated crimper, so you will need separate tools for cutting and stripping cable.
Knightsbridge Compact Crimper (KBCCRIMP)
Best Budget / CompactPros
- Lightweight and easy to carry in a tool pouch
- Lower price point suitable for occasional use
- Integrated wire cutter and stripper
Cons
- Non-ratcheted design requires consistent hand pressure
- Jaws may show wear faster under heavy use
The Knightsbridge Compact Crimper (KBCCRIMP) is designed for DIYers and electricians who need a versatile, pocket-friendly tool. It combines a crimper, wire cutter, and stripper in one unit, saving space in a tool bag. The jaws are made from carbon steel and handle insulated and non-insulated terminals from 1.5mm to 6mm.
Owner feedback indicates it is a good value for light to medium use, such as wiring plugs or light fittings. The main trade-off is the lack of a ratchet mechanism, meaning you must apply full pressure manually to achieve a proper crimp. Some users report that the cutting edges dull faster than on dedicated tools, but for the price, it performs adequately.
Knightsbridge Bootlace Ferrule Crimper (KBFCRIMP)
Best for Ferrule TerminalsPros
- Specifically designed for bootlace ferrules with a trapezoidal crimp
- Ratcheted mechanism ensures consistent depth
- Wide range from 0.5mm to 10mm
Cons
- Not suitable for standard ring or spade terminals
- Larger and heavier than multi-purpose tools
The Knightsbridge Bootlace Ferrule Crimper (KBFCRIMP) is a specialist tool for terminating ferrules on stranded cable, a common task in control panels and distribution boards. It features a ratchet mechanism and hardened steel jaws that produce a clean, trapezoidal crimp that meets industry standards for pull-out strength.
User reviews highlight the precision of the crimp and the ease of use, even with smaller ferrules. The tool covers a wide range from 0.5mm to 10mm, making it suitable for most control wiring applications. The main limitation is its single-purpose design, but for those who regularly work with ferrules, it is a worthwhile investment.
Knightsbridge Coaxial Crimper (KBXCRIMP)
Best for Coaxial CablesPros
- Interchangeable dies for multiple connector types
- Compact and easy to use in tight spaces
- Affordable price for a coaxial tool
Cons
- Non-ratcheted, requires consistent hand force
- Dies may need occasional tightening
The Knightsbridge Coaxial Crimper (KBXCRIMP) is designed for terminating coaxial cables with F-type, BNC, and RCA connectors. It comes with interchangeable dies that snap into the jaws, allowing you to switch between connector sizes. The tool is compact and suitable for home networking or TV aerial installations.
Owner reviews note that it produces acceptable crimps for standard coaxial connectors, though it lacks a ratchet mechanism. Some users recommend tightening the die retaining screw periodically to prevent slippage. It is a good entry-level option for DIYers but may not withstand daily professional use as well as dedicated ratcheted coaxial crimpers.
Knightsbridge Heavy-Duty Terminal Crimper (KBHDCRIMP)
Best for Large CablesPros
- Handles larger terminals up to 16mm
- Forged steel jaws for durability
- Ratcheted mechanism for full crimp
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for everyday carry
- Not suitable for small terminals below 6mm
The Knightsbridge Heavy-Duty Terminal Crimper (KBHDCRIMP) is built for larger cable terminations, such as those found in distribution boards or industrial installations. It handles terminals from 6mm to 16mm and features a ratchet mechanism to ensure a full, consistent crimp. The forged steel jaws are designed to withstand repeated heavy use.
Owner reviews from electrical contractors indicate that it performs well on larger lugs and ring terminals, producing a secure connection. The main drawback is its size and weight, which makes it less practical for general wiring tasks. It is a specialist tool best suited for specific heavy-duty applications.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KBCRIMP (Professional Ratchet) | Overall / General Use | Ratcheted, 1.5-6mm | 4.6 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| KBCCRIMP (Compact) | Budget / DIY | Non-ratcheted, 1.5-6mm | 4.3 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| KBFCRIMP (Ferrule) | Ferrule Terminals | Ratcheted, 0.5-10mm | 4.4 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| KBXCRIMP (Coaxial) | Coaxial Cables | Interchangeable dies | 4.2 / 5 | Check Amazon |
| KBHDCRIMP (Heavy-Duty) | Large Cables | Ratcheted, 6-16mm | 4.1 / 5 | Check Amazon |
Who is the Knightsbridge Crimping Tool For?
Knightsbridge crimping tools are designed for electricians, electrical contractors, and serious DIYers who need reliable connections for wiring installations. The range covers everything from standard insulated terminals to specialist ferrules and coaxial connectors. The professional ratchet models are best suited for daily trade use, while the compact and coaxial variants are more appropriate for occasional or home use.
Performance and Build Quality
The Knightsbridge brand is well-regarded in the UK electrical market for producing tools that meet British Standards at a competitive price. The professional ratchet crimpers (KBCRIMP and KBFCRIMP) use hardened steel jaws that maintain their shape over time, and the ratchet mechanism ensures that the crimp is completed fully before release. Owner reviews on retailer sites consistently mention that these tools produce clean, symmetrical crimps that pass pull-out tests.
The compact and coaxial models use carbon steel or standard steel, which is adequate for light use but may show wear faster under heavy workloads. The non-ratcheted designs require the user to apply consistent hand pressure, which can lead to inconsistent results if not done carefully. Overall, the build quality is good for the price point, with Knightsbridge offering a standard one-year warranty on all tools.
Alternatives to Knightsbridge Crimping Tools
For those considering other brands, several alternatives exist. CK Tools (also known as Cembre) offers professional-grade ratchet crimpers with a similar price point and wider availability. Draper provides a budget-friendly range with both ratcheted and non-ratcheted options, though build quality may vary. Klein Tools (US market) is a premium alternative with excellent ergonomics and durability, but at a higher cost. For ferrule crimping specifically, Weidmuller and Phoenix Contact are industry standards, though they are typically more expensive.
What to Check Before Buying a Crimping Tool
Before purchasing a crimping tool, consider the terminal types you will use most often. For standard ring, spade, and butt connectors, a ratcheted tool covering 1.5mm to 6mm is essential. For control wiring, a ferrule crimper with a trapezoidal die is required. Check the jaw material: hardened steel is preferable for longevity. Also, consider whether you need a multi-function tool (with cutters and strippers) or a dedicated crimper for better precision.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is using a non-ratcheted crimper for critical connections, as inconsistent pressure can lead to loose terminals that fail over time. Another error is using the wrong die for the terminal type, such as using a ferrule crimper for ring terminals, which can damage the connector. Finally, avoid buying a tool that does not cover your required terminal size range, as using an oversized die will not produce a secure crimp.
FAQs
Are Knightsbridge crimping tools suitable for professional use?
Yes, the ratcheted models (KBCRIMP and KBFCRIMP) are built with hardened steel jaws and are suitable for daily trade use, though they carry a one-year warranty.
What is the difference between the KBCRIMP and KBCCRIMP?
The KBCRIMP has a ratchet mechanism that ensures a full crimp, while the KBCCRIMP is a compact, non-ratcheted tool that requires manual pressure.
Can I use the KBCRIMP for ferrule terminals?
No, the KBCRIMP is designed for insulated and non-insulated ring/spade terminals. For ferrules, use the dedicated KBFCRIMP model.
Do Knightsbridge crimpers come with a warranty?
Yes, all Knightsbridge crimping tools come with a standard one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
What terminal sizes do the Knightsbridge crimpers cover?
The KBCRIMP covers 1.5mm to 6mm, the KBFCRIMP covers 0.5mm to 10mm, and the KBHDCRIMP covers 6mm to 16mm.
Is the KBXCRIMP suitable for F-type connectors?
Yes, the KBXCRIMP includes dies for F-type, BNC, and RCA connectors, making it suitable for TV and networking cables.
How do I maintain my Knightsbridge crimping tool?
Keep the jaws clean and lightly oil the pivot point periodically. Store in a dry place to prevent rust.
Can I use the KBCCRIMP for heavy-duty work?
The KBCCRIMP is best for light to medium use. For heavy-duty work, the ratcheted KBCRIMP or KBHDCRIMP is recommended.
Where are Knightsbridge tools manufactured?
Knightsbridge tools are designed in the UK and manufactured in China to their specifications.
Do Knightsbridge crimpers include a wire cutter?
Only the compact KBCCRIMP model includes an integrated wire cutter and stripper. Other models are dedicated crimpers only.
Our verdict
The Knightsbridge Professional Ratchet Crimper (KBCRIMP) is the best overall for most electricians, offering reliable ratcheted performance and durable jaws. For budget-conscious users, the Compact Crimper (KBCCRIMP) provides good value for occasional use, while the Ferrule Crimper (KBFCRIMP) is the specialist choice for