$300 for a crimping tool just seems ridiculous.

Has anyone had any luck with the knock off Deutsch crimpers? I see a few on Amazon for $20-$40, but the reviews are a bit sketchy.

 

I'm assuming you're looking to crimp solid (not stamped) contacts?

If so, S&G Tool Aid sells a few cheaper tools.

• 18880 for size 16 contacts (used in DT)
• 18890 for size 20 contacts (used in DTM)

They are not calibrated with different indent depths for different wire gauges, so they won't be as "set and forget" as a Daniels tool, but it's straightforward to get good results with them. Even though it gets expensive with solid contacts, the key is test crimps. The good news is that generic crimpers for solid contacts can be used to get more consistent results than most generic crimpers for the stamped contacts.

Some other tips:

• Standard size 16 solid contacts are for 20-16awg wire only. The Tool Aid crimper will only support 18-16awg.
• Standard size 20 solid contacts are for 20awg wire only!
• Color-banded contacts (green 16-14awg for size 16, brown 18-16awg for size 20) support bigger wires.
• If you're not using a fancy crimper, buying Deutsch terminals isn't mandatory, but they're often cheaper in hobbyist quantities than compatible Amphenol A-Series or Molex ML-XT contacts.

 

Awesome, thanks for the info! Found the 18880 on amazon and it has perfect reviews.

 

I have used the one you linked and I prefer that over the expensive one. Especially if it gets lost on a job or grows feet.

 

You can get DW connectors without barrel pins too,
However I really prefer the barrel connectors, never had one fail. You can over bend the style I linked and they'll break.

 

FYI- Proper crimpers are frequently available on EBay for around $100. The nicest crimpers I’ve ever used.

 

That's not bad. I'm only seeing one used for $170 right now.

 

I have a Blue Point ratcheting crimping tool that works perfectly. This isn't mine but is the same tool.

https://www.ebay.com/p/Blue-Point-PW...56f7d4ffe1501c

 

Cheap ebay pair user here. With solid barrel connectors, I've yet to have anything less than a perfect crimp. Since the depth doesn't adjust, I basically insert the connector, use my finger to make it flush with the opening, apply just enough pressure to grip the connector, insert wire, squeeze. Zero issues. In fact, I wish everything would crimp like that - makes you wonder why anyone uses the stamped/split barrel terminals.

 

Can you please show the ones you are using if you have a link?

 

Almost positive it came from this place: https://4rcustomswire.com/about

Their ebay name is brussellex. Think that's where my GXL wire came from too.

 

Just a follow up on this... ordered the 18880 and 18890 on amazon and they both work excellent. Great recommendation and for about $30 each they are great for solid terminals!