subject: Everything You Need To Know About Hog Rings [print this page] Everything You Need To Know About Hog Rings
Most people probably have no idea as to what a 'hog ring' is or does, right? I know I didn't before I started to write this article. They are actually commonplace in their use and we are around them every day.
If you know what a chain link fence is you may already know about hog rings. They're the metal circles that hold the 'chain link' part of the fence to the vertical posts and supports. Another place they're used extensively is in the fastening of car upholstery during the manufacture of automobiles. But you won't have seen them unless you were able to look up underneath the seats. Out of sight, out of mind!
As in most applications, having the proper tool for any specific job is always a good idea (if possible). 'Specialty' tools might be a little pricier but will be well worth the benefits provided. Using the wrong tool can often be frustrating and will almost always require more time and effort. Attaching hog rings without the proper hog ring pliers can be just such an exercise in frustration. Having the right specialty tool makes all the difference in the world.
If a job you do frequently involves the use of hog rings one option is to use a pneumatic tool. This is faster and easier than the 'manual' method and will save time and effort. Rings used in these machines come in a wide assortment of sizes and materials. Aluminum, stainless steel and galvanized steel are the most commonly used.
Some other common uses for this particular type of fastener includes attaching sails to a sailboat rigging and making crab traps or lobster pots. Again, having the proper tool for the specific task pays numerous dividends in ease and comfort and pliers designed for this function are reasonably priced at twenty bucks or less. It's probably the best idea to buy an American made tool as these are still the best made. You can find cheaper goods but the quality of said items will almost always be substandard.
Top quality will always be worth paying more for. Paying double for something built to last a lifetime makes more sense than replacing a substandard imitation which will probably break or wear out and will NEVER work as well.
Electrician tools are a perfect example of the value in quality. A piece of junk equipment that ends up getting someone electrocuted wasn't such a bargain after all. Better to be safe than sorry, right?
