A lockable pliers comprises a fixed assembly comprising a first handle supporting a first jaw. A second jaw is movable relative to the first jaw between an open position and a closed, locked position. A second handle is movable relative to the first handle and is connected to the second jaw at a fixed pivot. A toggle-link locking mechanism locks the second jaw in the closed, locked position. A movable pivot connects the second jaw to the fixed assembly such that the second jaw can move relative to the fixed assembly when the second jaw is in the closed, locked position and a torque is applied to the pliers.