About Allen Wrench
Features, & Uses & Sizes
An Allen wrench, also known as an Allen key or a hex key, is a small, L-shaped tool that' s used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. Allen wrenches are one of the most underutilized tools since people assume that traditional screwdrivers or socket wrenches are enough for home mending. But don' t be fooled by its humble appearance. In fact, no toolkit is complete without a set of Allen wrenches.
Allen wrenches or Allen keys are generally available in several different styles or types. The most common Allen wrench type is the one mentioned earlier – the L-shaped hex key –and it is the focus of this blog.
Features of Allen Wrench
Uses of Allen Wrench
Now that we’ve covered what an Allen wrench is, let’s go over its uses. Allen keys are a staple for every mechanic, electrician, & machinist. The compact size of a hex screw makes it a great candidate for any application with size constraints. Thus, everything from furniture repairs to cars, rely on Allen wrenches. A number of machines and power tools also require Allen keys for adjusting their settings and positioning.
Sizes of Allen Wrench
There are two measure mechanisms for Allen key. If you want to find out the conversion of Allen wrench sizes, keep our guide handy so you can reference it whenever you need.
Didn' t see the wrench size you were looking for? No worries! We have both metric to SAE and SAE to metric conversion charts for hex keys. When you reference the hex key conversion chart below, do be aware that using a smaller size bit will increase your vulnerability for stripping the hardware. In some cases, you may want to try using a size larger than the one recommended in the chart to see if it fits. Lastly, do remember that not every Allen wrench size has a perfect counterpart. That' s it when it comes to comparing metric & standard Allen wrench sizes.
Allen wrenches come in both SAE fractional-inch sizes and in metric sizes. The wrenches can be bought individually, but it’s always best to buy them in sets, which are more economical and include all the most popular sizes. Be sure to buy two sets of Allen wrenches, one SAE and one metric. And of course, our tool sets have both versions of SAE and metric. If you wish to buy an Allen wrench set, you can have a look over our tool sets right now!
All-Purpose Household Tool Kit with Essential Tools 100-Piece
Professional Mechanics Tool Kit Automotive Hand Tool Set 198-Piece
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