6 point vs 12 point wrenches

[SASORacing]

Does anyone recall seeing that test / study performed while ago? They got several brands of popular ratcheting wrenches and used a cheater pipe to apply force. The average was about 140 ft/lbs with Matco's at 200 before failure. I honestly am not worried about using them for high hand torque.... it doesn't seem worth it to carry an extra wrench to a job for that purpose which would be such a hindrance.

 

[jim1987]

Those were probably also bnib. Just because something can do something once, doesn't mean it can withstand the same use for years.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

I didn't want to hijack the SK day thread and get it off topic, but the last couple posts got me wondering. How many of you prefer 6 point box end wrenches to 12 point and why?

I was planning on getting a set of SK long pattern wrenches with the 12 point box ends, but I'm starting to wonder if I should try 6 points.

Usually when I find myself using the box end of a combination wrench, it's not really high torque situation. Either that, or I'm in a really tight spot and need the 12 point to get the wrench on at the right angle.

Usually if I'm worried about rounding something off, I pull out the 6 point sockets.

I would think the 6 points would be a pain for normal use, but would be good to have for that situation where you really need them. I really don't see myself replacing my main set of combination wrenches with 12 points though.

Besides worn, or rounded, or rusted fasteners, I have worked on equipment that contain brass, aluminum, and plastic fasteners... That is six reasons for me owning six point wrenches.... The use of a six point socket is not always an option..

My six pointers only go up to 19mm, so I don't have a fortune invested in them... I definitely would not have them for a primary set of wrenches..