Keep your pincers in good condition by only using them on the size of wires or nails for which they are intended. If you try to use them on thicker objects, you might damage the cutting edges.
Don’t be tempted to use pincers as a hammer unless they have the specialised flat jaw feature. You could damage the pincers, or miss the nail and hit your hand.
Make sure you clean the pincers after use. Clean with a cloth or a stiff brush, and wash off any grease from the cutting edges with soapy water. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust forming.
Lubricating the jaws and hinges of the pincers with a drop of light oil before you put them away will help them last longer and avoid corrosion.
Store the pincers so that their cutting edges don’t come into contact with other tools. A compartmentalised tool case would be suitable, or you could hang them on a wall.
A tool roll is also a good storage place. The separate pockets will stop the pincers from bumping into other tools and protect their cutting edges from damage. Thick leather ones offer the best protection.
Store the tool box or tool roll in a dry place such as a shed, garage or workshop to help keep rust at bay.
