CK tools quality drop?

[justbigboned]

I've got one or two tools made by CK, mainly for light electrical work. Always thought they were decent quality, if not the absolute best.

Just picked up a pair of automatic wire strippers, model 95001. They feel rather cheap and it was a bit of a surprise. Slippery/shiny plastic grips, a strange clicking feel in the hand due to grips being poorly seated, sharp edges (not the cutters obviously!) and just an overall air of a low end tool.

Now in fairness, I think they cost about £20, so I'm not expecting top notch kit at that price, but I was surprised about the price being so low also. I suppose I'd expected to pay around £70 for such a tool or maybe more.

Bought from a reputable retailer.

Since I haven't bought anything by CK for about 10 years, have they gone the way of el'cheapo or might a counterfeit tool have sneaked into the supply chain, which seems to happen from time to time?

Anyone noticed the same or perhaps its just me?

 

[mattylad]

And this just as I am looking to replicate my 30yr old CK long nosed pliers?

<< Keeps an eye on replies.

 

[delmel]

cheap ones are usually not great, and probably find it difficult to replace the ones you have had for 30 years and got used to. I have always rated Knipex