I hve tried many types of strippers and even have a friend who just pinches the wire with needle nose pliers and then pulls the insulation off with his fingers. I finally bought a stripper from home depot that does small ga wire and have not looked back. I needed if for working on model railroad stuff as well so I get dual use from it. Good tools, whatever there are always make a difference in doing any project whether you are building a house or building electronics. I leanred many years ago the it was better to buy a good tool (usually at more money - darn it) and use if for years than buy cheap tools and end up replacing them or getting frustrated.