Ball End Hex Keys?

[Snap50]

Interested in hearing opinions on ball end vs standard full section in regards to L Hex keys, or what I call Allen wrenches.

It would seem that the market for the non-ball ends seems to be fading, but I would think that they would be preferred in the larger sizes where one exerts a bit of muscle to the wrench. I can recall times when I've put another wrench or vice grips on the Allen wrench to convince the fastener to loosen; ****** drain plugs would be a good example.

 

[ZRX61]

I have both kinds & also 3/8drive hex sockets. I use the sockets with an adaptor for a 1/4drive ratchet

 

[MattT]

I used standard L keys where I needed full torque and reach back in the day. Since I've got a full set of sq drive SO hexes I only use ball end keys anymore. Aside from the angled access I also find ball ends are better for spinning screws in and out.

 

[Basskiller]

yep, ball end hex keys for general purposes and sockets for anything requiring a fair amount of torque.

 

[Teken]

yep, ball end hex keys for general purposes and sockets for anything requiring a fair amount of torque.

+1

 

[mrshaun]

i sell equal amounts of both. I carry the ball end more than the other.

 

[arizonaadam]

The ball end is usually only on the long leg anyway, so it's hard to apply too much torque unless you're using a cheater. I'd vote for ball end every time. I use them mostly on bicycles and motorcycles, though.

 

[hischj]

yep, ball end hex keys for general purposes and sockets for anything requiring a fair amount of torque.

I agree with Basskiller. I work on cnc mills and lathes and have found that if you don't need the ball there is room for a socket.

 

[MikeinLA]

I use them mostly on bicycles and motorcycles, though.

I agree, the ball ends are great for working on motorcycles and reaching those difficult spots. The set I have are Craftsman with the T handles. When the access is good, I prefer the sure fit and grip of the regular allen wrenches or a ratchet.

Mike

 

[Merkava_4]

I use the ball end for spinning in the bolt from an angle and then use a regular hex key for final tightening. I like those extra long ball hex keys from Bondhus with the small T handle.

 

[minitruck_freq]

+1

+10


cody.

 

[Snap50]

Thanks for the input.

The consensus is that the ball ends are handy but use the full hex end to sock it down.

 

[Mickey O]

Pick up piles of loose ones at garage and estate sales and flea markets, then you can make the short L's that you'll need at some point, you can grind your own ball ends and you can cut them down (with grinder) and put them in sockets or replace broken ones in sockets, you wouldn't believe how many hex keys, hex sockets, hex bits and folding sets I have.

 

[Aberdale]

Good tip, Mickey O. I never would have thought about making my own ball ends, but it wouldn't be that hard to do . . .

Dale

 

[Snap50]

Isn't the material usually hardened?
Wouldn't that make manipulation of the material difficult and prone to overheating damage?

 

[MarcSeattle]

I use the ball end for spinning in the bolt from an angle and then use a regular hex key for final tightening. I like those extra long ball hex keys from Bondhus with the small T handle.

I have those Bondhus drivers too, but I think they flex too much. Fine for whenever there isn't much torque needed. Many fasteners on European motorcycles are now hex so I have regular L-keys, t-handles, hex screwdrivers, hex socket sets in 3/8 and 1/2, and now these pivot drivers:

http://www.motostrano.com/moprohexprom.html

Found them by Gearwrench at Sears on Monday for $23. Since they pivot I really don't need the ball-end drivers much.

 

[tw33k2514]

They both have there uses. I go to my ball hex just as much as my standard.

 

[MarcSeattle]

How true. The great thing about hex in my mind is that there are so few sizes commonly used that you can several sets. Then use whatever type of tool is best for the situation.

 

[Aberdale]

Isn't the material usually hardened?
Wouldn't that make manipulation of the material difficult and prone to overheating damage?

I'm guessing that it might be tough to saw or file them, but they should grind pretty easy if I take my time. That way they won't get overheated, either.

Dale