The KastKing Cutthroat 7.5″ Saltwater Fishing Pliers & Scissors Set is a two-piece tool kit aimed at anglers who need reliable cutting and gripping implements on the water. The set includes a pair of 7.5-inch pliers and a pair of scissors, both finished in a bright orange color that makes them easy to spot against boat decks or tackle bags. KastKing is known for offering budget-friendly fishing gear, and this set fits that mold: it’s priced affordably but doesn’t feel like a disposable toy. In this review, we’ll examine how these tools perform in real-world fishing scenarios, their key features, and where they might fall short.
What you get and how it’s used
The pliers are the primary tool here. They feature a corrosion-resistant coating, which is essential for saltwater use, and a spring-loaded mechanism that keeps the jaws open for easy one-handed operation. The handles have a non-slip grip, and there’s a locking latch to keep them closed when not in use. The jaws include a wire cutter and a crimping slot, useful for cutting braided line, monofilament, and leader material, as well as securing crimps on heavy leaders. The scissors are similarly built for fishing tasks: they have serrated edges for gripping slippery materials and a compact size that fits in a pocket or hangs from a lanyard.
In practice, these tools are used for everything from trimming tag ends after tying knots to cutting line when re-rigging, and even for removing hooks from a fish’s mouth. The pliers’ long nose can reach into a fish’s mouth to grab a hook, while the scissors are handy for cutting bait, trimming line, or cutting through tough braid. The orange color is a thoughtful touch—it reduces the chance of losing them overboard.
Performance and build quality
For the price, the Cutthroat set performs adequately. The pliers have a solid feel, and the spring action is smooth, allowing for quick operation. The wire cutter handles braided line without fraying, and the crimping slot works for small to medium crimps. However, the cutting edges may dull over time with heavy use, especially if cutting hard materials like wire. The corrosion-resistant coating helps, but after repeated exposure to saltwater, some rust may appear on the pivot points if not rinsed and dried after each trip. The scissors are sharp out of the package and cut braid cleanly, but they are not designed for heavy-duty tasks; using them on thick monofilament or wire will quickly degrade the edge.
The locking latch on the pliers is a nice feature, but it can be stiff initially and may require two hands to engage. The sheath that comes with the set is basic—it holds the tools but doesn’t offer much protection or mounting options. Some users might prefer a more robust holster.
Comparison to alternatives
Compared to higher-end fishing pliers like those from Van Staal or Abel, the KastKing Cutthroat set is clearly a budget option. Those premium tools offer better corrosion resistance, tighter tolerances, and often come with a lifetime warranty. However, they cost several times more. For casual anglers or those on a tight budget, the KastKing set provides most of the functionality at a fraction of the price. Disposable aluminum pliers are another alternative, but they tend to be flimsier and lack features like crimping slots. The Cutthroat set strikes a balance between cost and capability.
Who should buy this
This set is well-suited for occasional saltwater anglers, kayak fishermen, or those who want a spare set of tools to keep in a tackle bag. It’s also a good choice for freshwater anglers who encounter occasional saltwater conditions. However, serious offshore anglers who fish frequently in harsh environments might want to invest in a more durable, corrosion-proof tool. Similarly, if you often cut heavy wire or large crimps, the pliers may not hold up as well as heavier-duty models.
Final thoughts
The KastKing Cutthroat 7.5″ Saltwater Fishing Pliers & Scissors Set is a practical, affordable option for anglers who need basic cutting and gripping tools. It’s not without flaws—the corrosion resistance could be better, and the scissors are somewhat limited—but for the price, it’s a solid value. Just remember to rinse and dry after each use to extend the life of the tools. If you’re looking for a dependable set that won’t break the bank, this is worth considering.
