The premise of this tool is a simple one. Slide under the automotive clip to be removed and provide the necessary leverage to remove while minimizing the potential for damage to the clip itself.
While the idea itself works in principle, there are several things this tool cannot overcome.
First, the angle of the tool head, combined with the length of the handles make it to awkward to fit into most spaces where these clips reside. I would venture to say that the CT-175 tool will be able to be utilized less than twenty percent of the time you encounter a clip needing removal.
Second, it just doesn’t feel like a smooth transition to slide the clip on the tool from the bladed end into the hole at the middle. It seems cumbersome and you begin asking yourself if you should just grab a screwdriver instead. I want to like and use the tool, but it seems like there are easier options.
On a side not, I had a fear of cutting through the automotive clip with the sharpened edges. After experimenting on a few of them, I think you would almost have to purposely try and do this as the blades dig in but don’t seem to cut into the plastic unless real force is applied.
Overall the tool does feel sturdy and well built. It does work but I don’t know how often I will actually be able to use it given that these clips are usually tucked away in tight spots that are not necessarily easy to get to.