When it comes to tools, wrenches are a staple in any toolbox. There are many different types of wrenches available, each designed for specific purposes. If you’re looking to expand your tool collection or simply want to know more about the different types of wrenches available, this guide is for you.
Here are 25 types of wrenches and a guide for choosing the right one for your needs:
Adjustable Wrench:
A versatile wrench with a moveable jaw that can be adjusted to fit different sizes of nuts and bolts.
Allen Wrench:
Also known as a hex key, this wrench is used to tighten or loosen screws with hexagonal sockets.
Pipe Wrench:
Designed for tightening and loosening pipes, this wrench has serrated jaws that grip the pipe securely.
Socket Wrench:
This wrench uses interchangeable sockets to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts.
Torque Wrench:
Used to apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener, ensuring it is tightened to the correct specification.
6. Combination Wrench:
Features an open-end and a box-end, allowing for versatility in tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.
7. Ratcheting Wrench:
Similar to a socket wrench, this wrench has a ratcheting mechanism that allows for continuous turning without removing the wrench from the fastener.
8. Crowfoot Wrench:
Used in tight spaces where a traditional wrench cannot fit, the crowfoot wrench resembles a socket wrench with an open end.
9. Flare Nut Wrench:
Designed for use on flare nuts, which are commonly found on brake lines and fuel lines.
10. Strap Wrench:
Features a strap that grips the object being turned, making it ideal for fragile or delicate surfaces.
11. Oil Filter Wrench:
Specifically designed to remove and tighten oil filters on vehicles.
12. Spud Wrench:
Used in ironwork to align bolt holes or to tighten or loosen nuts on structural connections.
13. Basin Wrench:
Ideal for tightening or loosening nuts on faucets or other plumbing fixtures in tight spaces.
14. Box-End Wrench:
A traditional wrench with a closed-looped end, perfect for securely gripping nuts and bolts.
15. Combination Ratcheting Wrench:
Combines the features of a combination wrench and a ratcheting wrench for added convenience.
16. Lug Wrench:
Used for removing lug nuts on vehicle wheels.
17. E-Torx Wrench:
Designed for tightening or loosening E-Torx screws, which have a star-shaped socket.
18. Spline Wrench:
Features a special spline-shaped socket for use on spline screws.
19. Hook Spanner Wrench:
Used to tighten or loosen nuts on circular or hexagonal objects.
20. Impact Wrench:
A power tool that delivers high torque for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.
21. L-Shaped Hex Wrench:
Features an L-shaped design with a hexagonal end for use on hex screws.
22. Stubby Wrench:
Shorter than a traditional wrench, ideal for use in tight spaces.
23. Tappet Wrench:
Designed for use on tappets or valve adjusters in automotive engines.
24. Beam Wrench:
A torque wrench that uses a visible indicator to show the amount of torque being applied.
25. Spark Plug Wrench:
Specifically designed to remove and install spark plugs on vehicles.
