Abstract: The invention relates to gripping pliers with an upper extended handle 2 and a lower extended handle 1 which comprise a handle section 9, 7 and a jaw 8, 6 positioned opposite the handle section 9, 7, with the upper extended handle 2 and the lower extended handle 1 being hingeingly supported in relation to each other in a box joint and with the joint comprising an engagement position and an adjustment position, and furthermore with an adjustment element 11 manually displaceable against a spring 19 in the direction of the swivelling axis being provided for adjusting the engagement position and the adjustment position, with the lower extended handle 1 comprising a slot in the joint area and with the upper extended handle 2 being inserted through the lower extended handle 1 in the joint area.