10Best.Guide

Pry Bar

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Remarkable ability to slip between two pieces of wood with either screws or nails
  • Built to last and withstands heavy use
  • Perfect weight and balance
  • I-Beam design gives added strength and does not flex
  • Lightweight and effective tool
Cons
  • End is quite thick and hard to get between boards
  • End is too square, making it hard to pull nails
Bottom Line
The Estwing I-Beam pry bar is a durable and effective tool with remarkable ability to slip between two pieces of wood with either screws or nails. However, it may not be suitable for all users due to its thick end, sharp points and edges, and slightly higher price point compared to other pry bars.
Pros
  • Very strong and great quality.
  • Built to hold up heavy-duty work.
  • Exceptional warranty.
  • Pulls up boards with ease.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons
  • May have more flex than some other brands.
  • The largest and heaviest bar may not fit through some hooks.
Bottom Line
Mayhew's pry bars are a great investment for those who need a strong and durable tool for heavy-duty work. They are professional grade, made in the USA, and come with an exceptional warranty. While they may have more flex than some other brands, they are still a great alternative to more expensive options.
Pros
  • Made of quality materials
  • Sturdy and strong for their size
  • Thinner than other brands
  • Sharp edges for scraping and shaving
  • Great for smaller jobs
Cons
  • Larger pry bar may bend easily
  • Hole for grabbing nails designed incorrectly
Bottom Line
These pry bars are great for smaller jobs and made of quality materials, but may not be suitable for heavy construction or demo work. Some models have design flaws, but overall they are sturdy and strong for their size with sharp edges for scraping and shaving.
Pros
  • Both ends of the bar are sharp and work well for pulling small nails and getting behind molding.
  • Great solid tool.
  • Stands up to an absolute beating.
  • Good quality metal.
  • Hammer strike end allowed them to finally pry off damage-free.
Cons
  • The pry end is too chunky to be really useful for carefully prying moldings, casings from a wall/window.
  • The angle on the molding puller is a bit too extreme.
Bottom Line
The Estwing Pro Claw Bar is a solid tool that can handle tough work. However, the pry end is too chunky for careful prying, and the angle on the molding puller is too extreme. The flat blade is also too thick for easy scraping. The description is not accurate, and some customers received a tool made in Taiwan instead of the USA. Buyers may want to consider other options made in the USA.
Pros
  • Well-shaped and perfectly curved for prying.
  • 4' long, easier than my 36" for tough projects.
  • Best pry bar, wrecking bar.
  • Useful for checking bearings/bushings/rollers/shafts for wear/corrosion.
Cons
  • Nail-puller end had a defect in the casting and broke in a very mild prying situation.
  • Not as high a grade of steel as expected.
Bottom Line
The Gorilla bar is a great pry bar and wrecking bar that is well-shaped and perfectly curved for prying. However, the nail-puller end may have a defect in the casting and the shipping may be slow.

The Ultimate Pry Bar Buying Guide: Types, Features, Prices, and Tips

Overview

Pry bars are essential tools for any demolition or renovation project. They come in different sizes and shapes, and each type is designed for specific tasks. In this buying guide, we will discuss the different types of pry bars, key considerations when choosing a pry bar, important features to look for, and price ranges. We will also provide tips on how to use a pry bar safely and effectively.

Types

1. Flat Pry Bars: These are the most common type of pry bars. They have a flat, straight blade that is ideal for prying and lifting objects. They come in different lengths and are suitable for a wide range of tasks.

2. Curved Pry Bars: These pry bars have a curved blade that provides more leverage than a flat pry bar. They are suitable for removing nails, prying open doors, and other heavy-duty tasks.

3. Mini Pry Bars: These are small pry bars that are perfect for tight spaces. They are ideal for removing trim and molding without damaging the surrounding area.

4. Adjustable Pry Bars: These pry bars have an adjustable head that can be set at different angles. They are versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks.

Key Considerations

1. Size: Consider the size of the pry bar based on the tasks you will be performing. A larger pry bar will provide more leverage, but it may not be suitable for tight spaces.

2. Material: Look for pry bars made from durable materials such as steel or titanium. These materials are strong and can withstand heavy use.

3. Weight: Consider the weight of the pry bar. A heavier pry bar may provide more leverage, but it can also be more difficult to handle.

Features

1. Nail Puller: Look for pry bars with a nail puller feature. This will allow you to remove nails easily and efficiently.

2. Non-Slip Grip: Look for pry bars with a non-slip grip. This will provide better control and reduce the risk of accidents.

3. Angled Head: Look for pry bars with an angled head. This will provide better leverage and make it easier to pry open doors and other objects.

Prices

Pry bars can range in price from $5 to $50 or more, depending on the size, material, and features. Flat pry bars are generally the most affordable, while curved pry bars and adjustable pry bars are more expensive.

Tips

1. Use the right size pry bar for the task at hand.

2. Always wear safety goggles and gloves when using a pry bar.

3. Position yourself properly to avoid injury.

4. Use a block of wood to protect the surface you are prying against.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a pry bar to remove tiles?

A: Yes, a pry bar can be used to remove tiles, but you should be careful not to damage the surrounding area.

Q: Can I use a pry bar to remove baseboards?

A: Yes, a pry bar is an excellent tool for removing baseboards. Use a mini pry bar for tight spaces.

Q: How do I maintain my pry bar?

A: Clean your pry bar after each use and store it in a dry place. You can also apply a coat of oil to prevent rust.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Versatile tool for dislodging/installation of automotive components
  • Sturdy and reliable
  • Adjustable and locks into place
  • Good grip
  • Useful for heavy furniture lifting
Cons
  • Push button to adjust locking position is difficult to push
  • Tips are a bit blunt for some applications
Bottom Line
The ARES Indexable Pry Bar is a versatile and reliable tool that provides good leverage and grip. However, it may not be suitable for extreme force applications and the push button to adjust the locking position can be difficult to push. The price may also be a concern for some buyers.
Pros
  • Adjustable head for versatility
  • High quality for the price
  • Indexing feature is a game changer
  • Compact size for easy storage and use
  • Great customer service
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy abuse
  • Does not handle moisture well
Bottom Line
The Olsa Tools Indexable Pry Bar is a versatile and high-quality tool that is perfect for tight spaces and light abuse. Its indexing feature and adjustable head make it a game changer, while its compact size and great customer service make it a great value for the price. However, it may not be suitable for heavy abuse and does not handle moisture well.
Pros
  • Well-built and heavy-duty
  • Telescopic handle provides leverage and can be retracted to fit small spaces
  • Adjustable tip angle
  • Good for prying and lining up holes
  • Great for removing hubcaps
Cons
  • Head may strip out in demanding environments
  • Pivot point of the head may bend quickly
Bottom Line
The telescopic pry bar is a well-built and heavy-duty tool that is great for prying and lining up holes. It is adjustable and can be retracted to fit small spaces. However, the head may strip out in demanding environments and the indexing angle is not as smooth as other brands. Overall, it is a good tool for everyday use.
Pros
  • Great quality and durability
  • Excellent for leverage and prying
  • Solid and well-made
  • Stronger than other brands
  • Smaller profile head for tight spaces
Cons
  • Crooked toe and off-center stamping
  • Too thick to pry anything
Bottom Line
Mayhew pry bars are excellent tools that are made in America with good quality and durability. They are great for leverage and prying, but may have some minor quality issues.
Pros
  • Made with great craftsmanship
  • Ergonomic handles allow nice grip while using pry bars
  • Good product for the price
  • Can be used like chisels
Cons
  • Not sturdy enough for heavy equipment repair
  • Thin and flimsy
Bottom Line
This pry bar set is a good choice for light DIY and home projects, but not recommended for heavy equipment repair or frequent use. The handles are ergonomic and the set is reasonably priced, but the bars are thin and not very sturdy.
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