How to Buy Wrenches

• Adjustable wrenches – used to tighten nuts and bolts, has a moveable lower jaw for size adjustability
• Chain wrenches – used to tighten, loosen, and turn pipes
• Combination wrenches – used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts; has one open end and one box end
• Allen wrenches – used to tighten and loosen head-hex screws and bolts
• Torque wrenches – used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts to specific foot-pounds settings; commonly used by auto mechanics
• Stubby wrenches – used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts in tight spaces
• Pop-up wrenches – used to install and remove pop-up plugs and strainer baskets
• Basin wrenches – used to tighten and loosen nuts and hose couplings under the sink
• Internal pipe wrenches – used to turn pipes, nipples, and fittings
• Double box wrenches – used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts; have two box ends

Not only do you have to choose the right size when you buy wrenches, you also have to ensure that you select a wrench that’s appropriate for your needs. If you just need a wrench to add to your basic home tool kit, a 12” adjustable wrench will probably do the trick. This type of wrench has many uses around the home. It would also be useful to get a few mid-size combination wrenches, which can come in handy in both automotive and home repair situations. Allen wrenches are helpful to have as well because they are the only wrenches that can be used on recessed screws.

Cost Considerations

Wrenches are generally much cheaper if you buy them in a set rather than individually. However, you’ll probably want to avoid getting a very large set of wrenches because sets usually include extra tools that you won’t need. Instead, you can individually purchase hand wrench sets, socket sets, adjustable wrenches, and whatever other types of wrenches you need and combine them.

How to Determine the Quality of Wrenches

Wrenches of high quality are typically made from chromium-vanadium alloy tool steels. They are also drop forged and coated in chrome to prevent corrosion. Avoid buying wrenches from questionable sources. It will require a bigger investment on your part if you want to buy high quality wrenches, but the investment will eventually pay for itself because your wrenches will last for many years to come.

Metric vs. Standard

An issue that often comes up when one shops for wrenches is whether to buy metric-sized wrenches or standard wrenches. If you determine that you need one particular type of wrench, get it in both standard and metric sizes. There are also some wrenches available that are compatible with both English and Metric fasteners.