10Best.Guide

Allen Wrenches Sets

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Comprehensive set with all sizes needed.
  • Sturdy and well-made.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Comes in a durable carrying case.
Cons
  • Not rust-resistant.
  • Inconsistent quality control.
Bottom Line
The Lexivon Hex Bit Socket Set is a comprehensive and affordable set that comes in a durable carrying case. While the quality is generally good, there have been some issues with rust and inconsistent quality control. It is not suitable for high torque force and may be missing some sizes.
Pros
  • All-in-one tool for different sizes of hex keys.
  • Good quality and sturdy.
  • Saves space in tool bag.
  • Great for working on panels and motorcycles.
  • Well-marked and easy to use.
Cons
  • Too bulky and heavy for day-to-day use.
  • Not suitable for small sizes of hex keys.
Bottom Line
The Klein Tools Folding Hex Key Set is a versatile and sturdy tool that is great for working on panels and motorcycles. It saves space in your tool bag and is well-marked and easy to use. However, it can be too bulky and heavy for day-to-day use and is not suitable for small sizes of hex keys. The metal can twist and bend easily, and the plastic and metal quality is poor. Overall, it is a good value for the price but may not be the best option for everyone.
Pros
  • Good price
  • Hefty and good quality
  • Versatile with ball ends
  • Convenient holder with marked sizes
  • Easy to hold and use
Cons
  • Holders are a pain
  • Painted labels come off easily
Bottom Line
This set of allen wrenches is a good value for occasional use, with a complete set of various sizes and convenient holder. However, the holders are a pain and the sizing is not accurate, and the quality is not suitable for regular or professional use.
Pros
  • Complete range of sizes and includes Torx drivers.
  • Nice, thick coating doesn't rub/scuff off easily.
  • Hinged rack is convenient.
  • Ball head is a nice feature to have over cheaper sets.
  • Sizes cover most allen bolts you will find and the ball ends make it easy to get to bolts that you can only reach from an angle.
Cons
  • Smaller wrenches don't always fit their intended size.
  • Rack has circular holes, so wrenches can fall out.
Bottom Line
This is a good set of hex keys for the price, with a complete range of sizes and Torx drivers included. The thick coating and ball head are nice features, but the plastic handle and some of the wrenches being of different dimensions on each end are drawbacks to consider.
Pros
  • Includes all sizes needed for small electronics and guitars.
  • Chamfered ends and stamped sizes for most wrenches.
  • Affordable and good value for the price.
  • Comes in a case for easy organization and accessibility.
  • Extra ball at the end for better grip.
Cons
  • Poor quality, some wrenches are bent or rusted.
  • Plastic case is not durable and grips loosely.
Bottom Line
This hex wrench set is a good value for the price and includes all the sizes needed for small electronics and guitars. However, the quality is poor, and some wrenches are easily bent or rusted. It is not suitable for heavy-duty use, and some sizes are not practical.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Allen Wrench Sets

Overview

Allen wrenches, also known as hex keys, are a versatile tool used to tighten or loosen hexagonal bolts and screws. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, making them an essential tool for DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, and professionals.

If you're in the market for an allen wrench set, this buying guide will help you choose the best one for your needs. We'll cover the different types of allen wrench sets, key considerations to keep in mind, features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Standard Allen Wrench Sets - These are the most common type of allen wrench sets and come in a range of sizes from 0.05 inches to 3/8 inches.

2. Metric Allen Wrench Sets - These sets are designed for use with metric bolts and screws and come in sizes ranging from 1.5mm to 10mm.

3. T-Handle Allen Wrench Sets - These sets feature a T-shaped handle that provides a comfortable grip and allows for greater torque when tightening or loosening bolts.

4. Ball-End Allen Wrench Sets - These sets feature a ball-shaped end that allows for greater flexibility and ease of use when working at an angle.

5. Long-Arm Allen Wrench Sets - These sets feature longer arms that provide greater leverage and allow you to reach bolts and screws in hard-to-reach areas.

6. Short-Arm Allen Wrench Sets - These sets are ideal for working in tight spaces and provide greater precision when tightening or loosening bolts.

7. Folding Allen Wrench Sets - These sets are compact and easy to store, making them ideal for on-the-go use.

8. Multi-Size Allen Wrench Sets - These sets feature multiple sizes of allen wrenches in one set, making them a versatile and convenient option.

9. Torx Allen Wrench Sets - These sets are designed for use with torx bolts and screws and come in a range of sizes.

Key Considerations

1. Size - Make sure the allen wrench set you choose includes the sizes you need for your specific project.

2. Material - Look for sets made from high-quality materials such as chrome vanadium steel or hardened steel, as they will be more durable and long-lasting.

3. Grip - Consider the grip of the allen wrench set, as a comfortable grip will reduce hand fatigue and allow for greater precision.

4. Compatibility - Ensure that the allen wrench set you choose is compatible with the bolts and screws you will be working with.

5. Durability - Look for sets that are rust-resistant and have a long lifespan.

Features

1. Case - Look for sets that come with a case for easy storage and organization.

2. Markings - Sets with clear markings on each wrench will make it easier to identify the size you need.

3. Ball-End - Consider sets with ball-end wrenches for greater flexibility and ease of use.

4. T-Handle - Look for sets with T-handle wrenches for greater torque and comfort.

Prices

Allen wrench sets can range in price from $10 to $100 depending on the size, material, and features included in the set. Budget sets are available for those on a tight budget, while professional-grade sets are ideal for those who need a durable and long-lasting option.

Tips

1. Choose the right size allen wrench for the job to avoid damaging bolts or screws.

2. Use a lubricant such as WD-40 to loosen rusted bolts or screws.

3. Store your allen wrench set in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

4. Use a torque wrench to ensure you are tightening bolts to the correct torque.

FAQs

Q: What is an allen wrench?

A: An allen wrench, also known as a hex key, is a tool used to tighten or loosen hexagonal bolts and screws.

Q: What are the different types of allen wrench sets?

A: There are standard, metric, T-handle, ball-end, long-arm, short-arm, folding, multi-size, and torx allen wrench sets.

Q: What should I consider when buying an allen wrench set?

A: Size, material, grip, compatibility, and durability are all important factors to consider.

Q: How much does an allen wrench set cost?

A: Allen wrench sets can range in price from $10 to $100 depending on the size, material, and features included in the set.

Q: How do I use an allen wrench?

A: Insert the appropriate size wrench into the hexagonal bolt or screw and turn it clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Comprehensive set with a variety of sizes.
  • Wrenches are durable and made of good quality material.
  • Hex keys fit nicely in the case and do not come loose.
  • Great for heavy-duty work and working on guns.
  • Affordable price.
Cons
  • The case is too big and heavy.
  • Some of the smaller keys are flimsy and can bend easily.
Bottom Line
This hex key wrench set is a comprehensive and affordable option for those who need a variety of sizes for heavy-duty work or DIY projects. However, the case is too big and heavy, and the quality control and durability of the case and some of the smaller keys are questionable.
Pros
  • Different color handles make it easy to grab standard or metric.
  • Size range is great.
  • Both standard and metric are included.
  • Consolidated tool versus having to keep track of individual hex wrenches.
  • Good size; each one fits comfortably in the palm of my hand.
Cons
  • Some of the keys are extremely loose.
  • Difficult to get some of the tools to swing out for use.
Bottom Line
These Allen keys are a great investment for the price, with a good quality and a range of sizes. However, some of the keys are extremely loose, and the wrenches are difficult to open and have a flimsy feel when using a hex key to tighten a nut.
Pros
  • Compact and precise.
  • Sturdy and well-made.
  • Convenient to have all sizes in one place.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Lifetime warranty.
Cons
  • Packaging is difficult to remove.
  • Bulky handle can get in the way.
Bottom Line
This set of fold-out hex keys is a good value for the price and is well-made and sturdy. However, the packaging can be difficult to remove and the bulky handle can get in the way in tight spaces. Overall, a convenient tool to have on hand.
Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Great finish
  • Comes with a storage box
  • Can be used with an impact driver
  • Holds up well under pressure
Cons
  • Sizing is not accurate
  • Tolerances could be better
Bottom Line
This set of steel Allen wrench bits is a great value for the price. They are sturdy, durable, and come with a convenient storage box. However, buyers should be aware of potential sizing and tolerance issues, and exercise caution when using them.
Pros
  • Fit and finish is nice and uniform.
  • Comes with two durable plastic storage cases.
  • SAE and Metric sizes are labeled and coated with anti-rust oil.
  • Size is printed on each bit.
  • Fits into a standard 1/4" ratcheted screwdriver handle.
Cons
  • Color is not as advertised.
  • Magnet strength is not strong enough for medium-sized screws/bolts.
Bottom Line
The Amartisan Hex Bits are a good choice for DIY projects and automotive enthusiasts. They come with labeled and coated bits, two durable storage cases, and fit into a standard 1/4" ratcheted screwdriver handle. However, the color is not as advertised, the magnet strength is not strong enough for medium-sized screws/bolts, and the 1.5 mm bit slips when tightening.
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