IDEAL FT-45 Feed-Thru RJ-45 Crimp Tool for CAT5e/6/6A – 5.5 in, 1 Crimper

Designed by IDEAL Industries, the FT-45 Feed-Thru Modular Plug Crimp Tool is a compact ally for installers who terminate RJ-45 connectors regularly. At just 5.5 inches long and weighing about half a pound, this tool slips into the tool belt with ease, helping technicians work swiftly from bundled runs to on-site patch panels. Its one-handed operation and minimal hand force reduction reduce fatigue during long days of cabling, while the rugged build promises durability in demanding environments.

What makes the FT-45 reliable

Key design philosophy centers on precise termination and clean finishes. The FT-45 uses a single crimp cavity for RJ-5/8 position connectors and supports feed-thru, standard, and shielded RJ-45 plugs for CAT5e, CAT6, and CAT6A cables. A durable, replaceable cutting blade delivers longevity beyond two thousand cuts, so you can rely on fewer blade replacements during busy projects. The metal crimp cavity improves crimping consistency, and the tool includes 568A and 568B wiring scheme markings for quick identification.

What you can crimp with confidence

• Feed-Thru modular plugs that let conductors pass through to verify wire placement before crimping
• Standard modular RJ-45 connectors for typical network terminations
• Shielded and non-shielded variants designed for CAT5e, CAT6, and CAT6A runs
• Compatibility with a broad range of non-IDEAL connectors in the field

Design and durability you can feel

• Lightweight, pocket-friendly form factor at 5 1/2 inches in length
• Ergonomic, textured grip and spring-loaded handle for reduced fatigue
• No ratchet is required; one-handed crimping is possible
• Locking hasp for safe storage on the job
• Metal crimp cavity for crimping consistency and a flush end-face finish
• Conductor ends are flush with no protrusions to minimize shorting

Real-world use cases

Whether wiring a home office, upgrading a data closet, or fielding a multi-building network, the FT-45 is built to be reliable under pressure. The ability to verify wires before crimping helps catch misplacements early, while the compact design leaves space for other tools at the panel.

Technical snapshot

• Length: 5.5 inches
• Weight: about 0.5 pounds
• Crimp cavity: one for RJ-45/5-8 position plugs
• Compatibility: feed-thru, standard, shielded RJ-45 connectors for CAT5e/6/6A
• Blade life: over 2,000 cuts

In short, Ideal Industries presents a practical, field-ready tool for technicians who replace crimping tasks with confident, repeatable results. It is designed to support current and evolving twisted-pair applications without adding unnecessary effort or weight to your toolkit.