Ideal Stripmaster #45 - 092 Wire Stripper

Anyone who has spent time with vintage sewing machines will eventually have to become familiar with wiring.  And re-wiring a machine requires stripping wire.

This is what I use.  It is a great tool, one that scores, cuts, and pulls off (strips) wire insulation in a single grip.  They're comfortable and when sharp, I can't imagine another tool doing a better job.   The cuts are straight, neat and clean, with no individual strands cut.

Like all tools, there are a number of strippers available and some really aren't worth your money.  I found these on craigslist being sold with a Black & Decker heat gun, all for $15.  Both were almost brand new when I bought them and Stripmasters usually sell for around $40 or more.  The blades come in various gauge sets.