First time buying pipe wrench

[BarrelRoll]

Ridgid 10" raprench is standard issue in the underground mining industry. The only one I've seen broken involved a 6' scaling bar (aluminum pipe). If underground miners can't break it it's a tool you want to own.

For general homeowner use I don't think brand matters much. I use them at work on the industrial maintenance side of things on occasion. 95% of the time I'd rather used 2 pairs of Knipex than 2 pipe wrenches. If I am dragging around a pipe wrench usually it's a 24"+ and something is being stubborn. I agree with the buy 2, maybe a 10" or 12" and a 14" or 18"

 

[dr_clyde]

Pipe wrenches are best used in pairs, so whatever you buy, buy two. They're cheap if you get the steel ones.

I rarely use a pipe wrench around the house, but when you need one, they're the ticket. I recommend Rigid, and unless you buy the big dogs, aluminum is not really needed. I have Rigid wrenches up to 48", and they're the industry standard for a reason.

You can use them for a variety of things, not just pipes. Gripping large hex fasteners, anything round, or sometimes a rounded off bolt or similar. I've used them for demolition too, you can grip a 2x4 and pry with all kinds of grip.

 

[Sycan]

Every man should have a RIDGID tool