The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Pinchers \Pinch"ers\, n. pl. [From Pinch.]
   An instrument having two handles and two grasping jaws
   working on a pivot; -- used for griping things to be held
   fast, drawing nails, etc.
   [1913 Webster]

   Note: This spelling is preferable to pincers, both on account
         of its derivation from the English pinch, and because
         it represents the common pronunciation.
         [1913 Webster]