Jonard JIC-22148 Review: The 5-in-1 Combo Crimper Every Telecom Tech Needs

If you terminate telephone splice connectors regularly, you've probably had a drawer full of single-purpose tools—one for UR connectors, another for UY, needle nose pliers for tight spots, and a stripper for 22 AWG. The Jonard JIC-22148 consolidates all of that into one compact tool that actually works. Here's what low voltage techs should know.

Quick Verdict

At roughly $20, the Jonard JIC-22148 is a budget-friendly multi-tool that handles telecom splice connectors without the quality compromises typical of cheap combo tools. The chrome vanadium steel construction holds up to daily job site use, and the thin long nose jaws reach into cramped terminal blocks where bulkier pliers can't go. It won't replace dedicated Klein needle nose pliers for heavy-duty work, but for splice connector crimping with occasional gripping and cutting, it's hard to beat the value.

Who This Is For (And Who Should Skip It)

Ideal for:

• Fire alarm techs working with splice connectors on FPL cable
• Phone/telecom installers terminating UR, UY, and UG Scotchlok connectors
• Security system installers splicing 22 AWG alarm wire
• Anyone who wants to reduce tool pouch weight with a capable multi-tool

Skip it if:

• You need heavy-duty long nose pliers for bending and pulling wire all day
• You work exclusively with structured cabling (RJ45 crimpers are different tools)
• You prefer separate dedicated tools for each function

Key Features That Actually Matter

Five functions in one tool: The JIC-22148 combines a crimper nest for UR/UY/UG connectors, AMP Tel-Splice capability, 709 series connector crimping, B-type connector crimping, and standard long nose plier jaws. That covers most telecom splicing needs.

22 AWG stripping hole: The built-in 0.030" stripping hole handles the 22 AWG wire common in fire alarm and security systems. It's not as precise as a dedicated stripper, but for occasional use it saves reaching for another tool.

Chrome vanadium steel construction: The heat-treated steel with induction-hardened cutting edges holds up better than the mystery metal in generic imports. After months of use, the cutting blade should still cleanly slice 22 AWG without crushing.

Thin nose design: The 1-7/8" jaws are thin enough to reach into 66 blocks and terminal strips where standard long nose pliers are too bulky. Knurled gripping surfaces help with manipulating small wires.

Real-World Performance

The crimper nest seats UR connectors with a solid click—no partial crimps that you have to redo. The stop behind the crimp cavity prevents over-crimping that can damage the connector's gel filling. On a recent fire panel rewire involving about 40 splice connections, every crimp held during continuity testing.

The long nose jaws grip small gauge wire well enough for positioning and light bending. The knurled texture provides purchase on slippery wire insulation. For heavy pulling or aggressive bending, they're adequate but not exceptional—the jaws flex slightly under serious torque. This isn't surprising given the combo design prioritizes versatility over single-function strength.

Cutting performance is middle-ground. The side cutter handles 22-24 AWG solid and stranded cleanly. Pushing into heavier gauge or trying to cut through staples will dull the blade faster than a dedicated cutter. For its intended telecom applications, it's perfectly serviceable.

The plastic dipped handles provide decent grip without being tacky. They're comfortable during extended use but lack the cushioned spring action of premium ergonomic pliers. At this price point, that's expected.

At 6-7/8" overall length and relatively light weight, the JIC-22148 fits easily in a tool pouch without the bulk of carrying separate dedicated tools. For van stock or ladder work where every ounce matters, consolidating five functions into one package has real value.

What I Like (Pros)

• Crimps UR, UY, UG, AMP Tel-Splice, 709, and B-type connectors in one tool
• Built-in wire stripper for 22 AWG eliminates reaching for a separate tool
• Chrome vanadium steel holds edge and resists wear
• Thin jaws access tight terminal blocks and 66 blocks
• Budget-friendly at ~$20 with lifetime warranty
• Compact size reduces tool pouch weight
• Integrated cutter handles light-duty wire trimming

What Could Be Better (Cons)

• Jaws flex under heavy torque—not a substitute for dedicated long nose pliers
• Cutting edges not as sharp as Klein or Knipex equivalents out of the box
• 22 AWG stripping hole only—no accommodation for other wire sizes
• Plastic handles lack cushioned ergonomics of premium tools
• Made in China rather than USA (if that matters to you)
• Limited to telecom/low voltage splice connectors—no RJ45 capability

Specifications

Specification	Value
Model Number	JIC-22148
Overall Length	6-7/8" (175mm)
Jaw Length	1-7/8" (47.6mm)
Jaw Width	13/16" (20.6mm)
Jaw Thickness	3/8" (9.5mm)
Stripping Hole	0.030" (22 AWG)
Connector Types	UR, UY, UG, AMP Tel-Splice, 709, B-type
Material	Chrome Vanadium Steel
Handle	Yellow dipped plastic grip
Country of Origin	China
Warranty	Lifetime (Made for Life)

How Does the JIC-22148 Compare to Alternatives?

The Jonard JIC-891 is a dedicated UR/UY/UG crimp tool without the long nose plier functionality. If you only need splicing capability and already carry separate pliers, the JIC-891 is smaller and lighter. But the JIC-22148's combo design makes more sense for most techs who want to consolidate.

Compared to the Klein D234-6 Scotchlok crimper, the Jonard is more versatile but the Klein has a reputation for slightly better cutting edge retention. If you're crimping 100+ connectors daily, the Klein might justify its higher price. For typical workloads, the Jonard performs comparably.

Generic imports on Amazon offer similar 5-in-1 designs for less money, but the mystery metal construction tends to dull quickly and the crimp cavities often aren't sized correctly for consistent results. The Jonard's chrome vanadium steel and proper tolerances justify the modest premium.

What Are UR/UY/UG Connectors Anyway?

For techs new to telecom work: these are gel-filled splice connectors originally developed by 3M under the Scotchlok brand. They allow you to join multiple conductors without stripping insulation—just insert the wires and crimp.

• UR (blue): 3-wire butt splice for 19-26 AWG
• UY (yellow): 2-wire butt splice for 22-26 AWG
• UG (green): 3-wire butt splice for 19-26 AWG with moisture sealing

The gel filling provides moisture protection, making these connectors suitable for both indoor and outdoor splice applications in temperatures from -40°F to 140°F.

The Bottom Line

The Jonard JIC-22148 delivers legitimate 5-in-1 functionality at a budget price point. The splice connector crimping performance matches dedicated tools, the long nose pliers handle light-duty work adequately, and the compact size reduces tool belt weight. At roughly $20 with a lifetime warranty, it's a smart addition for fire alarm installers, security techs, and anyone who regularly terminates telecom splice connectors.

It won't replace your go-to Klein needle nose for heavy work, but as a splice-focused multi-tool that happens to do other things competently, it earns its place in the kit.

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