Help me choose some combo wrenches.

[Fedwrench]

Combination wrenches are a personal choice as what feels great in my hand, might not feel so great in yours

For a no frills, get the job done, combination wrench that will do the job day in and day out, it's pretty hard to beat Tekton for price and quality.

I don't think Proto currently offers combination wrenches without the anti slip open end. However, not all anti slip open ends have teeth. Matco optitorque, Gearwrench, Williams supercombos, all use a type of notch that doesn't mar fasteners on their open ends.

Lots of people love SK combination wrenches except for me. The issue for me is that they're wide in the hips. The beam of the wrench is the same thickness as the height of the boxed end. To me it affects the balance of the wrench in sizes over 15 mm and I've never cared for them.I'm in the minority but, that's ok.

Here's my spin on some other non truck brand wrenches:

KT-Pro: These are some really nice combination wrenches that many people haven't heard of. They have good balance, comfortable beams, great chrome, off corner engagement boxed end, and can be a bargain.

OEM: when on sale from mobiledistributor.com are an excellent buy. Nice balance, great satin finish, long pattern, off corner engagement, wide range of sizes, large size markings.

Gearwrench: The Taiwan long pattern non ratcheting combination wrenches were a great value and well made. When production moved to the PRC, quality sank. There are threads here about wavy wrenches, bent wrenches, fitment issues, etc. i wouldn't currently recommend them unless you're buying in person where you can inspect before purchasing.

Williams: two lines of great combination wrenches, Supercombo and regular Williams. Supercombos are simply great wrenches. Long pattern, anti slip open end, off corner engagement box ends, thick beams that you can lean on, US made. Because of the thicker beams, larger sizes can be club like but, they also make a great weapon.
Regular Williams Combination wrenches are nice too. Satin finished, Taiwan made, comfortable to use, plain open ends.

Armstrong, Craftsman Professional/Industrial: These were probably the best bang for your buck long pattern, fully polished, combination wrench ever made. Nice chrome, good balance, off corner boxed end engagement, priced right. Sadly, no longer made and the ebay crazies have driven prices up beyond reality.

PROTO: I really like PROTO's extra length, balance, fit, & feel. You can choose between Satin or fully polished styles. They're not cheap but, one can find a bargain once in awhile on ebay. very comfortable to use for extended periods and tough as hell!!

Carlyle: Should probably call it Infar made. Carlyle, Channelock, Icon, & some Sunex long pattern combination wrenches are all versions of the same long pattern anti slip open end, off corner engagement boxed end wrenches. Carlyle & Icon are probably finished the best. Comfortable, can be a bargain if you shop around, nice size markings on both sides,

Good luck in your quest

 

[81turbota]

Be aware that the polished non wright grip wrenches have a rounded nose. I’m not a fan of that style.

 

[emeraldcoupe]

i just got a set of the icon sae ratcheting wrenches about a week ago, and like them so far. the beams are comfortable and almost identical in shape / thickness to my SK made craftsman pro's. i'd imagine the non ratcheting ones would be the same

 

[Hammer1963]

Most companies offer a quality line of wrenches in today's market. Comfort and fastener grip are what you need to focus on. Try a few and go from there. Some older wrenches have issues with less than ideal grip and some tend to spread on the open ends. Steel technologies and designs continue to improve and today's offerings are hard to beat

 

[Ton ton]

Combination wrenches are a personal choice as what feels great in my hand, might not feel so great in yours

For a no frills, get the job done, combination wrench that will do the job day in and day out, it's pretty hard to beat Tekton for price and quality.

I don't think Proto currently offers combination wrenches without the anti slip open end. However, not all anti slip open ends have teeth. Matco optitorque, Gearwrench, Williams supercombos, all use a type of notch that doesn't mar fasteners on their open ends.

Lots of people love SK combination wrenches except for me. The issue for me is that they're wide in the hips. The beam of the wrench is the same thickness as the height of the boxed end. To me it affects the balance of the wrench in sizes over 15 mm and I've never cared for them.I'm in the minority but, that's ok.

Here's my spin on some other non truck brand wrenches:

KT-Pro: These are some really nice combination wrenches that many people haven't heard of. They have good balance, comfortable beams, great chrome, off corner engagement boxed end, and can be a bargain.

OEM: when on sale from mobiledistributor.com are an excellent buy. Nice balance, great satin finish, long pattern, off corner engagement, wide range of sizes, large size markings.

Gearwrench: The Taiwan long pattern non ratcheting combination wrenches were a great value and well made. When production moved to the PRC, quality sank. There are threads here about wavy wrenches, bent wrenches, fitment issues, etc. i wouldn't currently recommend them unless you're buying in person where you can inspect before purchasing.

Williams: two lines of great combination wrenches, Supercombo and regular Williams. Supercombos are simply great wrenches. Long pattern, anti slip open end, off corner engagement box ends, thick beams that you can lean on, US made. Because of the thicker beams, larger sizes can be club like but, they also make a great weapon.
Regular Williams Combination wrenches are nice too. Satin finished, Taiwan made, comfortable to use, plain open ends.

Armstrong, Craftsman Professional/Industrial: These were probably the best bang for your buck long pattern, fully polished, combination wrench ever made. Nice chrome, good balance, off corner boxed end engagement, priced right. Sadly, no longer made and the ebay crazies have driven prices up beyond reality.

PROTO: I really like PROTO's extra length, balance, fit, & feel. You can choose between Satin or fully polished styles. They're not cheap but, one can find a bargain once in awhile on ebay. very comfortable to use for extended periods and tough as hell!!

Carlyle: Should probably call it Infar made. Carlyle, Channelock, Icon, & some Sunex long pattern combination wrenches are all versions of the same long pattern anti slip open end, off corner engagement boxed end wrenches. Carlyle & Icon are probably finished the best. Comfortable, can be a bargain if you shop around, nice size markings on both sides,

Good luck in your quest

Nice overall wrench explanation.

 

[Rabid Badger]

OEMTOOLS are a good recommendation. I've gotten a few pieces from them and they've all been excellent.

 

[cherrybomb]

I would start at looking in the Proto line up.My second choice would be SK in the long pattern.They will last,they both are just that good.Part of good wrenching,is enjoying quality tools.

At one point I wanted to update my RP.Craftsmem also.I did like you,checked all the options,and how I use mine.My plan was the Proto ASD which have help in the open end,if needed,with out being over aggressive. A great wrench and I've never looked back.I hope I'm convincing,I also picked up some SK off E bay,in shorts and long pattern in some sizes I use a lot.Options with out driving up cost.I have never looked back at either wrench line.Their our many other great choices out there.This is my story.Let us here at GJ know yours.

 

[seber]

Tractor supply has a 15 piece Tekton set for $60 with organizer. It strikes me as the Goldilocks set.

 

[Ton ton]

Thanks, seber.

 

[Cheapskate]

Tractor supply has a 15 piece Tekton set for $60 with organizer. It strikes me as the Goldilocks set.

I paid $34.21 on Amazon and it's presently $45.89.

I paid $70.32(free shipping) for both the standard and metric 15 piece sets on Amazon.

The 15 piece sets are great because they include some larger sizes, up to 1" sae and 22mm metric.

I didn't need any new wrenches but for that price I couldn't pass them up.

 

[BrandoJames]

Instead of buying a second set of combination wrenches, you might consider a set of ratcheting box ends (if you don’t already have a set). I really like the Tekton flex ratcheting box wrenches, with both ends ratcheting box.

I had a loose belt on my Camry’s power steering pump. Impossible to reach the tensioner bolt, even with the wheel off. Not enough clearance for my long flex ratchet, and too sharp of an angle for my long pattern Craftsman Pro combo wrench. After several frustrated attempts, I bought the Tekton flex box wrench set. Ah, problem solved. The Tekton flex box took a perfect bite on that fastener, and I tightened her down with a satisfied grunt, lol.

 

[lardy1]

If you live where there are Meijer department stores, they run fantastic 40% off sales on in stock Tekton occasionally. The last thing I need is more wrenches and I still had a hard time walking away without a set at those prices.

 

[bigjeff94]

I had a set of 6 point long pattern SK's and i liked them so much I went out and bought the 12 points. These are usually the first wrenches I grab. I am also a big fan of the WrightGrips

 

[racerjohnbf]

Well I just pulled the trigger on 2 full sets of Protos. Metric 7mm-22mm, Inch 1/4"-1"
Averaged out to $180 each plus tax. Didn't seem like a bad price, what do you guys think?

 

[KnurledNut]

Well I just pulled the trigger on 2 full sets of Protos. Metric 7mm-22mm, Inch 1/4"-1"
Averaged out to $180 each plus tax. Didn't seem like a bad price, what do you guys think?

Cant go wrong with Proto!
Did you get the ASD wrenches?

 

[racerjohnbf]

Yes they are ASD. From what I can tell that's all they sell now.

I read everthing I could find on here and watched a video on them, I guess it's up in the air if the ASD actually helps, but from what I can tell it shouldn't ****** up the fasteners at least.

I was really considering SK but the Proto was a way better price that allowed me to get a set for work and home. Still need to add on up to 1 1/4", but that came come later and maybe with a cheaper wrench since those sizes don't get used all that much, mostly just hydraulic fittings.

 

[Ohmthis]

That’s a good price. My wrightGrips were about the same price. Again, I use Proto ASD at work and love them. They are tough tough wrenches. I work in industrial maintenance and when the **** hits the fan tools are sacrificial. Mine have been through some rough ****. I don’t like treating them like that, but the company replaces broken tools......so.

 

[lardy1]

Proto is an excellent choice. In here the recommendations usually run the gamut. High end to low end and everything in between. Each with their own good reason for their recommendation.

You chose a top notch U.S. of A. manufacturer with a very long history of excellent products.

 

[Wamsutta]

Everybody always forgets about Cornwell. They're excellent wrenches that don't damage fasteners.

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=953629&stc=1&d=1575660703

 

[cherrybomb]

I believe you will really like your Proto ASD.I know I would purchase again.U.S.A. manufacturer also.

 

[RWPBR]

Hazet 600N or Stahlwille Open Box 14

 

[The Fall]

Glad to see all the SK mentions. That's always been my choice in the long patterns. You've gotta bite the bullet once. They won't fail you.

 

[WittHay]

I didn't know Wright made non Wrightgrip wrenches. At least I haven't seen then anywhere and the nice lady at Wright that I have been talking to hasn't said anything about them.

Right now I'm hoping someone will talk me into the Proto ASDs. I think I can get the most for my money with them. How are they at marking fasteners?

Keep in mind I'm working on mostly turf equipment so some marking is not an issue. I just dont want to dig grooves in like the Wrights did.

i didnt read this thread until now. The Protos are a good choice for hydraulic, air, fuel and coolant lines. They dont mark up the brass fittings and are long enough and tough enough for hydraulic fittings. i have and like the satin finish and use them on the back side of impacts. One plus with satin is no chrome to chip or peel

Regarding the ASD i dont think it is a huge help on things like seized tie rod ends where the teeth wrenches would be better but those same aggressive wrenches are useless on fittings

 

[Yarpo]

Everybody always forgets about Cornwell. They're excellent wrenches that don't damage fasteners.

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=953629&stc=1&d=1575660703

Those look fantastic, but I'm pretty sure Cornwell is charging near or above Snap on prices for those last I looked, no?

 

[Wamsutta]

Those look fantastic, but I'm pretty sure Cornwell is charging near or above Snap on prices for those last I looked, no?

That set from Cornwell is $349.96

Snap-on is $368.00

3/8'' thru 3/4''

 

[lardy1]

Those Cornwell's are to die for. I can't justify more combination wrenches though. I have SK SuperKrome and I pieced together a set of old set of New Britain made NAPA combination wrenches for my 2d set. It wasn't long before those became my preferred wrenches.

There is a plethora of good combination wrenches on the market. I promote domestic tools mostly but my retirement budget concerns have me have to fill in some blanks in my tool chest with foreign. Yes...…...I still cringe when I do it and only when I have to.

 

[Ton ton]

That set from Cornwell is $349.96

Snap-on is $368.00

3/8'' thru 3/4''

Thanks, this means a lot to me.

 

[Parrothead]

...or just getting another set of Tektons to use at home and keeping the set I use at work since I haven't had any problems with them.

Opinions.....

Umm...you haven’t had any problems with the Tekton which you use to make a living, yet wonder if you should buy them for home use? I’m confused?

In my opinion Tekton is the best value out there in combination wrenches. The Channellock (made by Infar and Carlyle clone) is a good second if you want the open ended teeth.

 

[smuro04]

I’ll jump in here.

I just sold my Gearwrench long pattern combos and replaced them with Tekton.

I can’t speak for the Tekton wrenches yet as I don’t have them in hand (will be here tomorrow), but the Gearwrench left a little to be desired.

If your needing decent quality on larger size wrenches, by all means, buy the Gearwrench. If you’re needing the quality more towards the smaller size wrenches, look elsewhere. My set had multiple wrenches with bent beams and they looked terrible. The small sizes start to look disfigured below 10-11mm as well. The off-corner engagement of the open end is nice, but, you shouldn’t be breaking loose nuts and bolts with the open end anyway.

As most have already pointed out, the best value for the money is Tekton. Most average Joe’s out there aren’t going to need combo wrenches in sizes bigger than 19mm and probably don’t even need SAE, though I do find a lot of SAE around the house. For those reasons, I sprung for the Tekton as they are two complete sets, no skips in sizes, affordable, and a respectable COO, YMMV.

I’d say get another set of Tekton and save your cash for another purchase.

 

[racerjohnbf]

I have had no trouble with the Tektons, they are very nice wrenches for the money. I just wanted something a little nicer so the Protos are on the way.

The tektons will continue to serve, I'll put them in a mobile box for taking out on the course when needed.

 

[VH5150]

I've got those Wright Grips and love 'em.

But I've got the SK Super Chromes too and love those as well...especially since they're 6-points. So I'd go with those if I were worried about marring anything up.

I don't see myself every buying wrenches again unless they're lost or stolen.

 

[racerjohnbf]

Proto ASDs arrived over the weekend. I like them much better. They feel good in the hand and I like the little extra length.

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

Proto ASDs arrived over the weekend. I like them much better. They feel good in the hand and I like the little extra length.

Congrats! Those wrenches will serve you well for a very, very long time.

 

[racerjohnbf]

Congrats! Those wrenches will serve you well for a very, very long time.

Thanks! That's what I'm hoping.

 

[JR 42]

Oh, those are nice looking wrenches... if you can, please follow up in a few months with how they compare to your other combos and how you like them after some use.

JR (looking for an excuse to buy yet more combo wrenches)

 

[scubadoober]

That set from Cornwell is $349.96

Snap-on is $368.00

3/8'' thru 3/4''

I know this thread is done, but I would pick up this larger Hazet set for less than half the cost.

https://www.amazon.de/dp/B001C9THIY/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=600na%2F10&qid=1575991954&sr=8-1

$100 cheaper even from a US seller.

https://www.kctoolco.com/hazet-600na-10-6-point-combination-wrench-set-10-pc-sae-set/

 

[racerjohnbf]

Oh, those are nice looking wrenches... if you can, please follow up in a few months with how they compare to your other combos and how you like them after some use.

JR (looking for an excuse to buy yet more combo wrenches)

I will be sure to do that, I like them a lot so far.

Zoro had the best price I could find, you just have to wait and catch one of their 25% off codes.

 

[kythri]

One plus with satin is no chrome to chip or peel

Isn't the satin finish still chrome, just not polished?

 

[Charlie Danger]

Well I just pulled the trigger on 2 full sets of Protos. Metric 7mm-22mm, Inch 1/4"-1"
Averaged out to $180 each plus tax. Didn't seem like a bad price, what do you guys think?

If I may ask, where did you find them for that price?

Or maybe the exact item number you ordered?

 

[jsmeece]

Most if not all of my combo wrenches (SAE and Metric, both polished and satin) are Armstrong. I have been able to piece together several sets (long, regular, and short length) off Ebay and from HCI supply store in tennessee for cheap. Look for deals, they are out there.