Learn how to properly use an Allen wrenches and also what alternatives there are for multiple kinds of Allen wrenches.
This article discusses the right strategy for using an Allen wrench as well as the advantages and disadvantages of various Allen wrench models.
You may have noticed a bolt or screw with a hexagon head that needs an Allen key if you’ve ever bought some ready-to-assemble furniture, worked on your own automobile, or repaired a bicycle.
Sometimes, you might have seen a tiny L-shaped wrench in the most recent item you put together at home.
Hex keys, often known as Allen wrenches, are a common tool that is frequently used for tasks around the house.
It is crucial to know how to handle an Allen wrench properly since it is such a widely used item. This article will discuss Allen wrenches and the correct way to use them.
What Is An Allen Wrench?
It is crucial to first discuss what the tool is and what it does before we go into detail about utilizing it.
The Allen wrench is a basic instrument by nature, much like the screwdriver. They often arrive as a collection of metal L-shaped parts in various sizes.
Yet, just because they have a straightforward design does not make them inferior or pointless instruments. The Allen wrench’s versatility and adaptability will astonish users.
Most frequently, Allen bolts or hex screws are tightened or loosened with Allen wrenches.
The most popular places to do this are on bikes or furniture. Allen wrench use does appear to be increasing across industries.
Traditional Allen wrenches have an L-shaped form, but there are various kinds of hex keys. A T handle wrench is another variation of the Allen wrench that is frequently encountered.
The hex-headed wrench on this kind of Allen wrench descends from a T-shaped handle, forming a T. Others include long arm hex keys, short arm hex keys, and ball end hex keys.
These are made to turn more easily. Folding hex keys are another frequent type of Allen wrench. An Allen wrench hexagon head folds up into a base in the fold-up set, which is similar to a pocket knife.
No matter how your hex keys are made, you must know how to use this tool properly. Several of the styles have various benefits and drawbacks. The use of the equipment does not, however, differ significantly between the wrenches.
How To Use An Allen Wrench
By inserting one of the two ends of the conventional L-shaped Allen wrench into the screw or bolt, the user can tighten or loosen the component. An L-shaped wrench has the benefit of giving you a lot of torque leverage.
Users will be able to exert a great deal of leverage and tension on the longer arm of an L-shaped wrench by placing the shorter arm of an L into the hexagon head, if necessary.
This is particularly useful for releasing stubborn screws. You can also utilise the wrench’s longer end to access difficult-to-reach areas.
If you’d like to learn more about the specific sizes of Allen wrenches, you may find our article on Allen Wrench Sizes helpful.
Another benefit of a T-shaped Allen wrench is that it can fit into small areas. The T-shaped form makes it simple to turn the screw with a motion similar to that of a standard screwdriver.
Simply place the hexagonal key through into the hex-headed bolt and turn the T-shaped wrench to the right or left, based on if you want to loosen or tighten it.
The torque produced by the T-shaped wrench is not as high as that of the L-shaped one.
Allen wrench sets are identical to T-shaped Allen wrenches, with the exception that they contain a handle that can be used to turn the wrench.
This is fantastic because there are a few various ways it may be modified. The handle of the folding hex wrench serves as the cross-section to turn, and it can be utilised essentially identically to the T-shaped Allen wrench.
The wrench resembles a screwdriver when used like a pocketknife when it is rotated in the upright position.
By placing the hex key through into the hex headed screw and rotating either clockwise or counterclockwise, this tool is utilised similarly to other hex head versions.
Additionally, there are hex fasteners for torque wrenches, drills, and screwdrivers with interchangeable heads available for purchase by consumers.
Instead of purchasing a set of conventional Allen wrenches, they are typically adapters which will snap onto a more recognisable tool.
For individuals who are unsure of the many Allen wrench shapes, it can be a great alternative.
Buying Allen Wrench Sets
You can buy sets of Allen wrenches or buy them individually. To have them in all of the various shapes and sizes if the need arises, we advise purchasing them as a set. We also advise getting the metric size and the usual American set.
The kinds of jobs that call for an Allen wrench but whether or not these projects use metric or American wrenches vary widely.
Allen wrenches are not particularly expensive tools, and having a full set of both is practical.
Often, a single wrench is included in the components when you purchase furnishings or any other items to assemble at home.
However, individual Allen wrenches are difficult to remember, so it makes sense to keep a whole set of wrenches nearby in case you require them.
A hexagonal key set can be bought in a wide variety of ways. No matter if they favour T-shaped, L-shaped, or fold-up sets, they should do so.
Hex heads that suit sockets, screwdriver heads, or drills can also be purchased. Sets can also be purchased on key rings, which is a handy option.
This makes it possible for the different kinds to be in a convenient spot as opposed to other places. The aesthetic is less crucial than having an accessible American or metric set for when you need them.
How many Allen wrenches each set should contain is a different aspect to take into account when making a purchase. Hex keys come in a variety of sizes, but some are less common than others.
Only automobiles, trucks, and other heavy machinery use many of the larger sizes. You should be fine with 8 to 12 metric wrenches plus 8 to 12 American wrenches in your home for casual, everyday use.
However, buying bigger metric as well as American sets might be useful if you frequently work on massive machinery or big rigs.
Before purchasing an Allen wrench set, it is crucial to take into account your tool needs and estimate the number of tools you could require.
Final Thoughts
You’ll be shocked at how often the Allen wrench is used as you work on your house and goods.
You will understand the benefit of having a complete collection of hex key wrenches and understanding how to use them when building, repairing, or disassembling furniture, maintaining your automobile or motorbike, or working on a home appliance.
The Allen wrench can be used in addition to its conventional application.
People who are shut out of their homes can frequently help pick locks using the tiniest Allen wrenches. Allen wrenches are frequently required for repairs on various power tools.
Saws and drills are particularly prone to this. In the electrical industry, Allen wrenches are being used increasingly frequently.
Allen screws are now more prevalent than ever on computers, tablets, and mobile devices.
For more tips on using Allen wrenches effectively, visit our post on How to Use an Allen Wrench Like a Pro.