Tool Review: Lisle 1/4" Pry Bar with Strike Cap

Dec. 6, 2023
Reviewed Pete Rudloff owner of Pete's Garage Inc. in Newark, Delaware.

Content brought to you by PTEN. To subscribe, click here.

Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?

A: Sometimes you simply need a small pry bar that can take getting hit by a hammer. 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?

A: Zero set up, just remove the packaging. 

Q: How easy was it to use?

A: The tool side of this is super simple, it is a pry bar, only smaller. 

Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?

A: Well packaged on a card with shrink wrap, traditional Lisle packaging. 

Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual and was the manual easy to understand?

A: A manual of sorts is included, a single paragraph on the back of the card explaining the tool can be struck with a hammer. 

Q: What features did you like?

A: The strike cap is critical, more pry bars come with this nowadays but that wasn’t always the case. Technicians have been striking pry bars for a long time and not having a strike cap inevitably ends up in the handle getting damaged or sometimes completely breaking off. 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?

A: Lose the shirt pocket clip, I don’t see this as a tool that one would typically carry around all day. The clip makes handling the pry bar a little awkward, and it pops off very easily.  

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?

A: Seal removal and light duty prying, it is only limited by the user’s creativity. It’s not a tool for every job but most technicians will find a use for this small pry bar. 

Q: How does this tool compare to other tools you've worked with?

A: I own many pry bars, none this size. I’m actually surprised by how often I use it now that I own one this size. It is going to save me from damaging many flat-bladed screwdrivers.

Q: Is there anything you had questions or concerns about in regard to the tool?

A: None, the tool is quite user-friendly and does exactly what it is designed to do.  

Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?

A: An eight. I think it is a great tool and has lots of practical purposes.   

About the Author

Pete Rudloff | Owner, Pete's Garage, Inc.

Pete Rudloff is a nationally awarded technician, national automotive instructor/consultant, technical writer, software developer, automotive trade advocate, and owner of Pete’s Garage Inc. in Newark, Del. Rudloff has a national reputation as friend to the general auto repair shop and is known for fixing difficult to fix cars and facing challenging trade issues head-on. In 2016, Rudloff created FlexCheck Auto DVI in order to help independent auto repair shops nationwide increase their revenue.   

Sponsored Recommendations

Garage Tip: The Value of System Solutions

Learn why inspecting related parts when repairing your vehicle can save you time and money. Avoid future failures and ensure satisfaction! Click to watch now.

Access the Best Learning Resource for Professional Mechanics

Get hands-on tips, updated repair instructions, mounting videos, failure diagnosis, and best practices for professional mechanics. Click to access essential technical info to ...

From the Basics to Innovations - Transmission Technical Training Videos

Explore Schaeffler's portfolio of transmission technical trainings for the LuK brand. Tailored for all skill levels, our modules cover basics to innovations. Click to learn more...

Clutch Release Problems - Diagnosis & Failure Analysis

Explore common clutch release problems and their causes, from hydraulic issues to mechanical faults. Understand diagnostics and solutions for optimal clutch performance.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!