Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a handtool for crimping electrical connectors onto the ends of cables or similar operations, which handtool has major portions thereof constructed of a polymeric material. A metal structural insert is provided within the polymeric material to contain substantially all of the stresses developed by the crimping operations.

Abstract: A wire stripper blade for cutting to the center conductor of a coaxial cable, the blade having a V-notch in the cirmcumferential periphery thereof. When the wire stripper is rotated about the cable, the corners of the V-notch cut through and sever the braid sheath and inner insulation layer of the cable, while the center conductor remains within a circle defined by the corners of the V-notch, which circle is spaced apart from and concentric with the center conductor. The use of a V-notch eliminates dragging of the braid and the possibility of one or more wire strands thereof wrapping around the center conductor. It also eliminates nicking of the center conductor which can cause poor transmission signals.

Abstract: A wire stripper is provided with a body having mounted therein, in one preferred embodiment, one or more circular cutting blades, selectively positioned to sever one or more layers of an insulated cable. In a preferred embodiment, the body is compact and generally circular. The body has a cable accepting opening generally through its center into which the circular blades partially protrude. The blades are mounted on a slide reciprocatingly moveable back and forth within the body, which slide partially extends outward from the circumference of the body. When the extension of the slide is depressed toward the center of the body, the blades are withdrawn from the cable accepting opening and a cable may be inserted therethrough. The stripper is preferably manually rotated by gripping the outer circumference of the stripper and rotating it about the cable, thus inherently producing a circular cut.