Choose a coaxial crimping tool with a cavity that matches the cable and connector, such as the coax size used in the installation. For RJ45 plugs, select a tool that cuts, strips, and crimps the applicable cable, while RJ45 keystone jacks require a tool matched to the jack’s termination style, such as 90-degree or 180-degree Cat 5e or Cat 6 keystones.

When selecting crimping tools, compare the tool’s stated cable range, conductor size, cavity or die sizes, and connector compatibility, such as coaxial F, N, BNC, or TNC connectors, RJ45 or RJ11 and RJ12 plugs, and RJ45 keystone jacks. Also check the termination style, including standard or pass-through connectors, 90-degree or 180-degree keystones, crimp-only or crimp-and-trim operation, and whether the tool requires a matching frame and die.

Choose a crimping tool with integrated cutting, stripping, or flush-trimming functions when you want to prepare cable and terminate a compatible connector with fewer tool changes, especially during repeated RJ45, coaxial, or BNC installations. Select the tool based on the cable type, connector style, and termination method, since features such as pass-through trimming, keystone seating, and stripping may apply only to specific connectors or cable configurations.

Choose a fixed-jaw crimping tool when you regularly terminate one supported connector style, such as a specific RJ45 keystone configuration, and want a straightforward tool with fewer setup steps. Choose a tool with interchangeable dies when projects involve multiple connector or cable types, since replaceable dies can support different termination formats, including coax, BNC, and RJ45 applications, when the die and connector are compatible.