Platypus pliers are becoming increasingly rare and it is difficult to find quality samples of this pattern. This Kauplus forceps is a coveted quality design. The jaws have nice transverse teeth and mesh very well. The joint at the tips of the mouth cannot be felt when the handles are closed. At this price it's amazing; at twice the price it would still be impressive. The serrations are noticeable but not overly aggressive, and after a few weeks of use they show little to no wear (more than I can say about some other examples from better known American instrument makers). smooth; smooth. All faces are flat, parallel and square. Given the length of the handles, they will flex slightly when force is applied. I have examples of this template from several other manufacturers and the kink in the Kauplus version is in the middle of these pliers. Not the best, but not the worst either. The only minor downside - and I stress SMALL - is that they are a bit tighter than I would like. After lubrication and a little practice, however, they are quite usable. The only real competitors in this pattern are the Channelock versions, which aren't as precisely finished as the Kauplus pliers. This is a much better value. (There are other examples from European manufacturers, but they don't have the cross-jaws I think are necessary on this model.) For those in the know, Taiwan is quickly becoming known for making quality tools at a fair price. These pliers from Kauplus live up to this reputation.