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We evaluated each for pop in, length, jaw capacity, handle design, and other features.
The Spruce
The jaws expand to an impressive 1.5 inchesthe feature that gives the tool its name.
You’d generally need to use a 12-inch wrench to get that kind of jaw capacity.
Unlike typical crescent wrenches, this tool does not have an adjustment screw.
PHOTO: Amazon
Instead, it uses a push-button adjustment function with 13 possible positions.
The Knipex Pliers Wrench is made of chrome vanadium steel and has ergonomically designed comfort grip handles.
It has a slim head that easily reaches into tight spaces and an overall length of 7.25 inches.
The Spruce
However, that can be a good feature if you are concerned about damaging the object you are turning.
All are reasonably priced, durable options that are good additions to a handyperson’s toolbox.
These applications have small fasteners or tight quarters that render most adjustable wrenches unwieldy and useless.
PHOTO: Amazon
The wrench has a metric scale but no SAE measurements.
This spud wrench from Crescent is 10 inches long and has a maximum jaw capacity of 1.3 inches.
It weighs a little less than 1 pound.
The Spruce
The wrench is made of alloy steel with a black oxide finish that resists corrosion and rust.
It has a tension spring to help stabilize the jaw and reduce play or wiggle.
Between the jaws, the tool has both metric and SAE measurements laser-etched.
PHOTO: Amazon
The wrench is also available in a 16-inch length if you need a construction wrench for oversized fasteners.
The alloy steel wrench has a rubberized grip around the handle to help keep it securely within your grasp.
It’s marked with a metric scale but not SAE measurements.
PHOTO: Amazon
The handle is covered in a grippy plastic material that makes it easy and comfortable to hold.
This adjustable wrench from Crescent solves that problem with a locking mechanism that holds the jaws firmly in place.
The serrated jaws also come in handy, providing a little extra grip that you wouldnt have otherwise.
The Spruce
If youve ever usedlocking pliers, the basic functionality of this locking adjustable wrench will be familiar.
you should probably adjust the wrench to tighten it around a nut, then squeeze the locking mechanism.
In addition to length, also consider the design of the handle.
PHOTO: Amazon
Typically, the longer the wrench, the wider its jaw capacity.
However, some manufacturers make adjustable wrenches that have extra-wide jaw capacities on shorter-length tools.
It can be difficult to fit a regular wrench around small fasteners or into tight spots.
PHOTO: Amazon
The extra thread can provide steadier performance with less wiggle, but the difference can be quite slight.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullmanis the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce.
PHOTO: Amazon
She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative.
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
