Remove Stubborn Nuts and Bolts With These Editor-Approved Adjustable Wrenches

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Along with a hammer, tape measure, and screwdriver, an adjustable wrench is an essential part of any well-rounded toolkit. These handy tools—also called crescent wrenches—have an adjustable jaw to fit a wide range of fasteners, which means that a single adjustable wrench can essentially do the job of an entire set of fixed wrenches. Adjustable wrenches almost always have size markings on the jaw, so you can set the correct size before you get to work.

Adjustable wrenches are available in a range of prices, though we recommend springing for a quality model if it’s within your budget. Ultra-cheap models are frustrating to use, with loose, wobbly jaws that are more likely to lose their grip and strip a fastener head. Below, we’ll expand on what to consider when choosing an adjustable wrench, and break down eight of the best options available.

For more great additions to your tool set, check out our picks for the best cordless drills, needle-nose pliers, and electric screwdrivers.

The Best Adjustable Wrenches

• Best Overall: Bahco 9071 R US Adjustable Wrench

• Best Budget: Irwin Vise-Grip 2078610 Adjustable Crescent Wrench

• Best Adjustable Wrench Set: Crescent AC26810CV 3-Piece Crescent Wrench Set

• Best for Extra-Large Fasteners: Bahco 9035 R US Ergo X-Wide Adjustable Wrench

• Best Slim Jaw: Channellock 806SW Xtra Slim Crescent Wrench

What to Consider

Length

Adjustable wrenches come in a range of sizes, the most common of which are 8, 10, and 12 inches. The longer the wrench, the more handle you have to grab, and the more torque you’re able to apply to a fastener. So, if you’re tackling stubborn or rusted fasteners, and you don’t mind the extra length, go with a longer handle. If you’re working in tighter spaces with less room to maneuver, a smaller size is more convenient. Less common sizes are available too, from portable 4-inch adjustable wrenches (our favorite is covered below) to 2-foot monsters. Just keep in mind that these aren’t as versatile.

Handle

Many adjustable wrenches have bare metal handles, but some feature a rubber or plastic-dipped coating. These coatings provide a comfortable grip—I enjoy the “tacky” feel of a rubber-dipped wrench—although they’re more vulnerable to ripping or tearing if tossed around too much. I’ve also found the bright color of dipped wrenches to be easier to find in a toolbox or drawer. Some prefer bare handles because they’re less bulky and slide out of your pocket easier, so it’s more of personal preference.

Adjustment Operation

Most adjustable wrenches are crescent-style wrenches, which use a worm gear knurled for maximum grip to adjust the distance between fixed and movable jaws. The threads of this worm gear fit into the teeth of the movable jaw, and, depending on the direction you spin it, the distance between the jaws increases or decreases until you reach your desired size.

The number of threads also have an impact on the wrenches' overall accuracy and stability. While most worm gears have three threads, higher-end wrenches can have four or even five. This extra contact reduces the wiggle, or “play” between the jaw and the gear, resulting in more precise sizing and smoother operation. While a bit more precision is a nice perk, don’t blow your budget on a pro-quality tool unless you know you need it. An adjustable wrench with three threads is sufficient as long as the tool is from a reputable brand.

Jaw Size

Consider the size of the fasteners you plan on working with, as well as the type of measurement used. All adjustable wrenches clearly state the maximum size their jaws can open—called the jaw capacity—and most feature a full measurement scale printed on the bottom of the jaw for quick sizing. Since fasteners use either metric or SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) measurements in their sizes, make sure the wrench has the scale best suited for your task. To make sure that you’re prepared to handle a wide range of sizes properly, and you don’t find yourself using a huge wrench on a tiny bolt, consider choosing a set of wrenches with multiple sizes.

Jaw thickness also comes into play when working with small nuts and bolts, like those found on a bicycle. In this case, look for a wrench with a “slim” jaw that can more easily slip around smaller fasteners and also fit into tighter areas.

How We Selected

I’ve used a variety of adjustable wrenches over the years for plumbing projects around the apartment, assembling furniture, as well as appliance repair tasks. I used this experience to help assemble our list of options, keeping in mind what would be most useful to the average individual, as well as providing options that run the gamut in terms of size and price. Whether you’re a beginner DIY-er looking for a versatile tool to have on hand for occasional maintenance tasks, or a seasoned pro with a specific job in mind, you're sure to find an option that suits your needs below.

9071 R US Adjustable Wrench

This Bahco wrench combines maneuverability and durability, thanks to a slim jaw profile and heavy-duty construction. The wide handle and thermo-plastic coating provides a solid grip while you work, and the black phosphate finish resists rust and corrosion over time.

Its 8-inch length is sufficient for most day-to-day tasks too, and etched jaw measurements make it easy to quickly adjust the jaw size to your fastener. Plus, the slim head is convenient for maneuvering those tight or awkward areas. If you’re interested in a professional-quality wrench at a reasonable price, look no further.

Vise-Grip 2078610 Adjustable Crescent Wrench

If you just want a basic wrench to have on hand for occasional use, and don’t have the budget or need for a higher-end option, this Irwin model is a great choice. It’s priced lower than most, but still offers helpful features like a measurement scale on the jaw—with both SAE and metric scales—and a comfortable, extra-thick cushioned handle.

Its 10-inch size is also large enough to generate the necessary leverage to dislodge stubborn bolts, and Irwin offers a lifetime guarantee if any issues arise. It’s worth noting that this model is not specifically stated to be corrosion-resistant, so needs to be kept out of the elements.

AC26810CV 3-Piece Crescent Wrench Set

This 3-piece set ensures that you’re prepared for a wide range of fastener sizes and working environments. I’ve been using this exact set for a few months, and really appreciate how smooth they are to adjust, as well as their etched standard and metric measurements.

I’m also a fan of the rubber-dipped grips, which are not just comfortable to hold, but their orange color is also easy to spot in a cluttered toolbox or jobsite. The 10-inch unit has the length to generate a ton of torque, and the 6-incher is small enough to slide into your pocket when you’re not using it.

9035 R US Ergo X-Wide Adjustable Wrench

Boasting a super-wide jaw capacity of 2 3/16 inches, this Bahco wrench handles large fasteners commonly found in plumbing, electrical, or equipment maintenance work. Despite the wide jaw, it has a surprisingly slim profile, and combined with the relatively short handle, really comes in handy when working in cramped areas. When working in especially hot or cold conditions, the Thermo-plastic handle – found on most Bahco wrenches – remains comfortable and cool to the touch.

806SW Xtra Slim Crescent Wrench

Sometimes a fastener doesn’t give you much surface area to grab onto, or is just too small for a normal wrench to grip effectively. This Channellock wrench uses an offset jaw shape with an extremely slim side—just 3/16 inches—while still providing 6 inches of handle to generate leverage.

I’ve used similar wrenches for dealing with slim pipe fittings, and also seen machinists utilize them for wrench-over-wrench applications (when two wrenches are used on a single fitting). With four threads in the worm gear, instead of the typical three, you’re also getting a bit more precision in sizing.

The slim jaws won’t be durable enough for heavy-duty use, though, so keep that in mind.

8603180 Pliers Wrench

Well-known for their high-quality construction, Knipex pliers like this one are used by tradespeople and DIY-ers alike, thanks to their user-friendly operation and heavy-duty feel. The non-slip plastic-dipped handles provide maximum control while you work, and a straightforward adjustment button slides the jaw opening to any of the 15 positions you need.

Regardless of the position or amount of force applied via the handles, the jaws always remain completely parallel, so you don't have to worry about applying uneven pressure. The black finish on this model displays the lighter measurement markings well, but if you prefer a lighter finish, it’s also available in chrome.

4-inch Adjustable AT24VS Wrench

We love little wrenches like this 4-inch unit from Crescent, and since they’re so easy to keep in your pocket or backpack, are readily available when you need them. This model is perfect for accessing hard to reach fasteners, and its short handle can pivot in places that longer wrenches can’t fit. The black oxide finish resists corrosion, and provides a rough texture that’s easy to grip. At this low price, there’s really no reason not to grab one or two and keep around the house or garage.

2-Piece Pliers Wrench Set with Keeper Pouch

These adjustable pliers aren’t cheap, but considering Knipex’s stellar reputation for quality and precision, as well as the wide range of sizes they cover, this set is a great investment. You’re getting 10 and 7.25-inch pliers, both of which are made from extremely strong and durable Vanadium steel. Laser-etched measurement scales make it easy to set the jaw size before you grip the workpiece, with metric on one side and inch markings on the other.

A push-button adjustment mechanism switches jaw sizes in an instant, and you know it’s securely locked into place every time. These jaws are smooth enough to use on delicate materials – like chrome – and since they’re always parallel, apply pressure without sacrificing a uniform grip.

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