Some people may say that wrenches and ratchets do the same thing, so you can basically get one or the other and not worry about that. Even though they may work similarly, there are plenty of jobs that would suit a wrench better than ratchets and sockets. A wrench can fit around a fastener if the space is tight and you cannot fit a ratchet over it. If you need to use a lot of torque and are afraid of damaging a ratchet, you can use a wrench and trust its sturdy construction will hold no matter how hard you pull.
Even though there are many specific types of wrenches, there are a few common terms that separate subgroups of wrenches: spanner, key, and socket wrenches. Spanner wrenches use a spanner head that has a pin or hook instead of a normal end. Key wrenches tend to be specialized wrenches that do not have T-shaped sockets or teeth. A socket wrench has a cylindrical socket that fits over screw heads and turns them.
TEKTON Drive Click Torque Wrench
Best Torque Wrench
Torque wrenches are designed to help you accurately apply the right amount of force to fasteners. The TEKTON Drive Click Torque Wrench produces a loud click that also reverberates through the handle when you have applied enough torque. The high-contrast scale is easy to read even when there is dim lighting. You can use the wrench in either direction and the steel construction has no plastic or other weaker materials that can break or wear out over time.
RIDGID Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench
Best Pipe Wrench
Sometimes your project just needs a heavy-duty pipe wrench. You will find that the RIDGID Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench will do the job. Although it is heavy-duty, it is far from being weighty. It is 40% lighter than the same size heavy-duty models on the market. Your arms will thank you after a long day of work with this pipe wrench. The wrench has self-cleaning threads and removeable components for easy cleanup. The I-beam handle makes it comfortable to grip and you can easily make adjustments with the forged hook jaw.
Olympia Tools Adjustable Wrench
Best Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench needs to be as flexible as you are when getting jobs done. The Olympia Tools Adjustable Wrench allows you to grip bolts that may not fit other standard-size wrenches. This durable wrench is made with forged alloy steel and is great to have on hand for small and big fixes. An adjustable wrench will help you not only fasten bolts but also perform tasks for auto repairs, plumbing, and furniture assembly.
As a handy professional, you need the right kind of wrench to fit your hand and your job. Any of our top picks will help you get the job done right.
