Best pliers/tool for gear cable?

[Milzy]

What’s the best tool to use on the rear gear cable to pull tight as you pinch up the Allen bolt?
I used these old yellow pliers but have vanished after 20 years so I’m going to get something new.

 

[Yellow Saddle]

Any colour pliers will work.

 

[Big John]

A third hand. And Park cable cutter, of course.

 

[EckyH]

A third hand makes things easier, no doubt. In my experience it isn't essential, but nice to have.

Park cable cutter, of course.

Imo a good cable cutter is essential.
Park Tool is always a safe bet. In the same quality range I see Unior and Cyclus Tools.
Less bike specific I like pliers and cutters from Knipex for their quality.

E.

 

[Ajax Bay]

I use locking pliers with a needle nose which I can lock onto the cable and apply tension.
This type (but not this make):

On the RD cable (with the limit screw set correctly on the smallest sprocket) I also screw the H limit screw in one turn, then clamp, then unscrew the turn. This takes up the inevitable slack. And adjust.

 

[Rusty Nails]

Why do you need anything other than your fingers to grip the cable, especially if it has a cable end on it?

The only time I have ever needed help to grip the cable is if someone has cut the cable too short to allow enough purchase, and I certainly don't have a strong grip?

 

[Drago]

Halfords Professional electricians pliers.

 

[mickle]

As a former professional bike mechanic. If you need pliers or other instruments of destruction to pull a gear cable through, either you're doing it wrong or there's something wrong up cable.