Abstract: A pair of composite material substantially buoyant-in-water hand pliers including a pair of elongated metallic lever members each having a handle portion and a jaw portion and formed of higher rigidity metallic material having a density greater than water. The lever members are pivotally connected together at common central portions between the jaw and handle portions. Each handle portion is substantially encapsulated by an elongated molded-in-place contoured grip formed of material buoyant in water wherein the effective density of the pliers is in very close proximity to that of water. Uniquely configured jaw inserts are also provided.