Lineviper vs One Handed Tubing Tool

[FarmallCT]

I am looking to get some input regarding tubing tools, particularly live viper and one handed tools.

At this time I have made do without any tubing tools, though I am looking at getting a couple of tubing tools to use as I have reached the point where doing it by hand is no longer practical (going for 400-500 taps this year).

I am planning to pickup a 2 handed tubing tool, but was also thinking it may be good to have a smaller tool to help with assembling drop lines and installing taps (replace check valve taps every year).

Originally I was looking at the simple 1 handed tubing tool with vice grips, though then I also found the line viper. I have not heard much about this tool. From what I can gather from previous posts here it does provide a good bit of a hand workout but I did not see anything else major in the complaint department.

I did notice leader does make a similar model, their "Compact One Handed Tubing Tool", without vice grips, though the local supplier does not usually carry and I have not heard any reviews on that either.

Any input or suggestions from those with experience with these tools? I think I will definitely want the 2 handed for laterals, though just not sure on the one handed. Not having vice grips to constantly open and close would be nice. Might get the 2 handed this year, and just wait to get a one handed next year.

Thanks in advance.

[NhShaun]

I borrowed a friends two handed tool last season(Not sure of the manufacturer) and used it the few days i was able. I immediately purchased one for myself from Maple tech tools along with a one handed tool. I was very happy with the customer service and quality of the tools i recieved. I can't believe i waited 6 seasons to bite the bullet on a tool for this task. If you are only going to choose one surely get the two handed tool, it really helps with stringing new lines and cutting T's & drops. I also found it helpful for pressing on taps and tees, you just use one of the clamps as a backstop to press whatever fitting against.

[Spanielslovesappin]

I have never used a Lineviper so i can't really give you the comparison and i am also interested BUT i can speak to the quality and value of Maple Tech tools. I have a double hand tool and a single hand compact and have found them to work very well. I agree that if your only in the market for one tool the double is the way to go. The vice grips seem like they would be cumbersome until you use to tools; the vice grip step in using the tool is very fluid and the positive lock on the tubing is tenacious.

[Pdiamond]

I have to agree with the two previous posts about the Maple Tech tools. That and the fact that they seem to cost less, and are good quality.

[christopherh]

I have a LineViper and it works well. It took a little while to get used at first, but I find it pretty handy to have.

[Trapper2]

I started out with a 2 handed tool 3 years ago and this year I bought the Viper. I hardly use my 2 handed anymore. Some people complain it hurts their hands but I dont see a problem.