What tool is commonly used to strip insulation from wires?

The tool most commonly used to strip insulation from wires is a wire stripper. This tool is specifically designed to remove the insulation from electrical wires without damaging the underlying conductor. Wire strippers come with various sized cutting notches that correspond to different wire gauges, allowing the user to select the correct size for the wire they are working with. By squeezing the handles of the wire stripper, the user can effectively cut through the insulation and pull it away from the wire, making it ready for connection or termination.

While other tools like wire cutters can cut through wire, they are not tailored for stripping insulation, which requires precision to avoid damaging the wire itself. A screwdriver and pliers, while versatile, do not have the specialized design necessary for stripping insulation effectively. Thus, using a wire stripper ensures safe and efficient preparation of wires in electrical work.