Every time I install new electrical cable, I wind up using three tools. First I use a utility knife to slice down the center of the cable jacket and remove the excess jacket. I figure I’m doing well if I don’t slice my hand in the process. Then I use a wire stripper tool to remove insulation from each wire. Finally, I use an electrician’s pliers to bend the copper wire ends into loops. Well, I’m giving up on all those tools now that I own the Ideal Industries brand Lil’ Ripper Stripper (No. 45-025; $6 at amazon.com).
Just shove the ripper end into the cable jacket and push it up the cable. It cuts without damaging any wires. Then use the built-in jacket-cutting blade to remove the excess jacket. Strip wires with the stripper blades built into the side of the tool. To bend loops, just insert the copper wire into a hole and rotate the tool—instant loops! As if the tool doesn’t do enough, jam a wire nut into the end and use the tool as a wire nut wrench. This tool really saves time because it does it all. I’m really impressed with the design.
Electric Accessories and Electric Supplies 