Abstract: In order to ergonomically optimize the hand side of combination pliers, whose gripping arms in each case form a mouth jaw on their ends and are in operative connection by means of a joint in such a way that in the case of different activities with the pliers the adaptation of the gripping arms to the anatomy and anthropometry of the human hand is retained, it is proposed that the gripping arms face one another elliptically in the plane thereof and that in the vicinity of the coupling surface to the hand the gripping arms have an elliptical cross-section.

Abstract: Prior universal pliers with two gripping arms (11, 15) and an adjustable jaw have the disadvantage that during adjustment one must change hands while using the pliers which is unfavourable as regards the economic requirements. This disadvantage is obviated by the present invention in that both gripping arms (11, 15) are non-displaceably articulated on one another and one of the two jaws (19) is displaceably mounted with respect to its associated gripping arm (15) at right angles to the jaw opening.