Best Adjustable Wrenches: Quickly Fasten Loose Nuts and Bolts
An adjustable wrench is a handy tool you can’t do without
The Drive and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Read more.
If you’ve ever struggled to tighten loose lug nuts or wheel bolts, you know how valuable an adjustable wrench is. It has a wide range of applications, thanks to its expandability. But don’t be quick to buy the first wrench you come across; pick one that ticks all the right boxes. We’ve evaluated many top-rated adjustable wrenches and have included three of the best in this guide.
Channellock Slim Jaw 8-Inch WideAzz Adjustable Wrench
Olympia Adjustable Wrench
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Adjustable Wrench Set
Tips
- The length of the wrench affects the quality of your work. Not only does it determine the effort you put in, it also determines how tight the fastening will be.
- Make sure you check the maximum width of the jaws. This will help you to know the fasteners you can use. Smaller wrenches are good for small fasteners.
- If you have the wrong wrench for a bolt, place a small coin in the gap between the wrench and the bolt. Then tighten your wrench to fasten or unfasten the stubborn bolt.
- You can modify some adjustable wrenches to open wider than normal by removing the adjustable thumbwheel and grinding off 1.5 ridges. This will give you an extra one-quarter inch in usable width.
FAQs
Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
Learn moreQ: What material is a wrench’s handle made out of?
A: Most wrenches have a steel handle that is covered by industry-standard rubber. This rubber might start to wear off after a while. Simply remove it, and you’ll still be able to use your adjustable wrench. Although, it may be less comfortable to operate.
Q: Should I get an adjustable wrench with or without teeth?
A: Most adjustable wrenches have flat jaws. As long as you place the jaws on a fastener, you should get a proper fit. The adjustment is enough for a firm grip.
Q: Which is the best adjustable wrench?
A: The best adjustable wrench is one that can be used for various projects. You can also get a set to cater to both small and big projects. Factors such as grip and expandability are essential in determining which wrench you should get.
Final Thoughts
Your tool box needs a wrench you can count on. We highly recommend the Channellock 8-Inch WideAzz Adjustable Wrench. However, if you want to save some cash, the Olympia Adjustable Wrench is a good purchase.
