Mole grips/locking pliers are available in a number of different overall lengths, jaw capacities (the maximum amount of an object or material that the grips can hold in one movement), and weights.
Mole grip sizes
Straight jaw Mole grips
Straight jaw Mole grips range in length from 140mm (5.5 inches) to 250mm (10 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 48mm (1.9 inches).
Curved jaw Mole grips
Curved jaw Mole grips range in length from 125mm (5 inches) to 250mm (10 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 48mm (1.9 inches).
V jaw Mole grips
V jaw Mole grips are usually 225mm (9 inches) in length.
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 38mm (1.5 inches).
Needle nose (long nose) Mole grips
Needle or long nose Mole grips range in length from 145mm (6 inches) to 250mm (10 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 70mm (2.75 inches).
Long reach Mole grips
Long reach Mole grips range in length from 372mm (15 inches} to 508mm (20 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 46mm (1.81 inches).
Large jaw Mole grips
Most large jaw Mole grips have a length of 300mm (12 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 79mm (3.11 inches).
Parrot nose Mole grips
Most parrot nose Mole grips have a length of 225mm (9 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 50mm (2 inches).
Mini Mole grips
Most mini Mole grips have a length of 102mm (4 inches).
Most have a jaw capacity of up to 38mm (1.5 inches).
Note: Some manufacturers call all Mole grips/locking pliers that are smaller in length than the standard Mole grips/locking pliers of 200mm (8 inches) mini Mole grips/locking pliers.
Mole grip weights
The weight of a pair of Mole grips/locking pliers ranges from 167g (5.9 ounces) to 596g (19 ounces).
Summary
The Mole grips/locking pliers that you choose should be able to perform their task effectively. Therefore, when deciding which pair to buy, you should bear in mind the following:
Weight – Large jaw Mole grips/locking pliers are the heaviest, so for working at head height or for prolonged periods you might prefer a lighter pair of locking pliers.
Capacity – Ensure you measure the object you want to hold before purchasing Mole grips, to make certain they are right for the task. Most users will find the capacity of standard Mole grips/locking pliers suitable for their needs.
Length – Long reach Mole grips/locking pliers have the longest reach, and most of the grips/pliers come in varying lengths so you need to check where you will be using them and if they will reach the intended object.