Copper pipes won’t bend and warp in shape when you use a pipe wrench to turn it. Both wrenches have virtually the same design and bulky frame. These materials ensure that your wrench will last a long time, even after frequent use. Learn how your comment data is processed. Unlike the monkey wrench, pipe wrenches are used frequently today. Although you do not want to sacrifice any durability for weight, it is always a good idea to look for lighter tools simply because they will be more comfortable to use, especially for extended times. Other than the serrated teeth, the pipe wrench is virtually identical to the monkey wrench. The teeth allow the wrench to better grip on to the pipe to be loosened or tightened. It has an L or F shaped appearance with a fixed upper jaw and a movable lower jaw. Below are key factors to consider when buying a wrench to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. The ergonomic design makes it vastly superior to the monkey wrench. Wrenches are mainly used to tighten and loosen nuts, but if there’s a rat in your workshop, a wrench can become an excellent long-range weapon. The term wrench is generally used for tools that turn non-fastening devices (e.g. In this situation, an adjustable wrench would work best. Since monkey wrenches are bulky and out of style, we recommend choosing an adjustable wrench over a monkey wrench. We advise adding both a pipe wrench and adjustable wrench to your kit to help you be the most prepared. However, the adjustable wrench – another wrench with a shaft and twisting bolt – has pretty much replaced the monkey wrench in all ways. This allows the wrench to grip on to rounded fittings more easily. If you like using antique tools you can still go with the monkey wrench. Save Up to 40% on brand new direct OE-replacement automotive car & truck parts. Some accredit the invention of the monkey wrench to somebody named Monck, Monk, or Monckey. If you only want to buy one wrench, then select one based on your intended use. While the monkey wrench has been on the decline in recent years, the pipe wrench is still a staple tool within the plumbing industry. How Long Can You Run a Generator Continuously? As the name suggests, pipe wrenches are best for rounded surfaces like a threaded pipe or pipe fitting. Featured Image Credit: Creative Commons CC0, Pxhere, Anybody who has worked on cars knows the necessity of a floor jack. Monkey wrenches have a flat jaw while pipe wrenches have teethed jaws. I have a great passion for writing about everything related to tools, home improvement, and DIY. The pipe wrench differs from the monkey wrench because the pipe wrench has teeth on the jaws. You should only select the plumber wrench over the pipe wrench if you are comfortable using such a powerful tool or working on plumbing specifically. So, could still be the cause of error, confusion and possible incorrect applications leading to mishaps or accidents. The Channellock offers a precise grip that opens up to 1.5 inches. Leave hex nuts to the monkey wrenches (or adjustable wrenches). The reason we say get an adjustable wrench, as opposed to a monkey wrench, is that adjustable wrenches have a more ergonomic and modern design. Two of the best floor jack brands are Arcan and Pittsburgh. The jaw’s teeth allow the wrench to adequately grip rounded surfaces. tap wrench and pipe wrench), or may be used for a monkey wrench - an adjustable pipe wrench.In North American English, wrench is the standard term. Depending on the size of the pipe wrench you choose, these tools can either be compact or bulky. Monkey Wrench is another common US name for a wrench stilled after the ones made by Crescent Company and called a … IRWIN Tools Vise-grip pipe wrench has a 2-inch forged hook jaw makes it ideal for many surfaces including copper pipe, PVC, galvanized pipe, and more. Learn here, Ratcheting Wrench Sets – How to find the right set for your needs. A monkey wrench is different than a pipe wrench, however, based on the jaw design. This gives them a better hold on round objects without the possibility of stripping it. (Author); English (Publication Language); 106 Pages - 11/28/2020 (Publication Date). "Monkey" is not its name at all, Charles Moncky, the inventor of it, sold his patent for $5000, and invested the money in a house in … Rounded surfaces, such as a pipe, require jaws that have teeth. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features 99 Although monkey wrenches and pipe wrenches are not used interchangeably, you should still consider the same factors when buying them. At first glance, they may not look or feel quite different. Derived terms * adjustable wrench * socket wrench * monkey-wrench, monkey wrench, monkeywrench * pipe wrench * screw wrench * torque wrench * torsion wrench * tube wrench * dog bone wrench Verb (es) (obsolete The hardened teeth can The Channellock is made from a Chrome vanadium steel construction, ensuring that it is durable. If you’re in a pinch and need to twist hex nuts with a pipe wrench, you’re not going to have a good time, even with a cloth to prevent stripping. tap wrench and pipe wrench), or may be used for a monkey wrench - an adjustable pipe wrench.In North American English, wrench is the standard term. You may know this wrench by the name crescent wrench. Otherwise, select an adjustable wrench. Impact Driver vs Impact Wrench: Which is Best for Your Needs? You can use this wrench for flat points too. The plumber wrench is specifically designed for rotating plumbing pipes. Most often, pipe wrenches are used on threaded pipe, usually galvanized steel, black iron or similar metal pipes. The monkey wrench is an adjustable wrench. Ask a pro plumber, and he or she will tell you that they use a pipe wrench exclusively for turning metal pipes. Basically, your 11/32-inch wrench is for 11/32-inch nuts and nothing more. How to Know When You Need a Monkey Wrench or Pipe Wrench? The tool is made from drop forged steel with heat treatment. Free shipping on Canadian orders over $99! That is why the monkey wrench is only suitable for flat surfaces; it cannot grip round surfaces correctly. Like a monkey wrench, this a pipe wrench has serrated jaws which give it a better grasp onto objects. You should use monkey wrenches for flat surfaces and pipe wrenches for rounded surfaces. If the nut is stripped, good luck removing it with any tool you have in your arsenal. Since each wrench satisfies a different need, it’s always nice to have both wrenches on hand since they are useful. Heavy-duty wrenches will weigh more because they use more dense materials. It is the 19th-century American version of the 18th-century English coach wrench. The jaws are extra-long, allowing you a better grip. Monkey wrenches have flat jaws, while the jaws on pipe wrenches have teeth for gripping rounded surfaces. Pipes and fasteners come in all shapes and sizes. It’d be nice if you had both, especially if you find yourself doing more home repair jobs than hiring expert help. 99 Directly related to size is the weight. The pipe wrench differs from the monkey wrench because the pipe wrench has teeth on the jaws. To use your wrench for a long time, you should look for options with comfortable grips. Metric Conventional Unit of measurement: Fractions of an inch Examples: 1/16”, 1/8, ¼,” ½”, 1”, 1½”, Metric Unit of Measurement: Millimeters Examples: 7mm,10mm, 21mm, … The Tradespro Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench offers heavy-duty and precise gripping abilities. Since monkey wrenches have gone out of style, we recommend getting an adjustable wrench instead. Wrench sets keep a variety of sizes in one handy collection Mechanics tool sets (image to the right) often provide a variety of wrenches as well as other tools such as pliers and socket/ratchet sets Options range from smaller three-piece wrench sets to mechanics tool collections with 300+ pieces My name is Adam and I write for HealthyHandyman. If they use a monkey wrench, then get them out of your house ASAP. W RENCH P RECAUTIONS Always use proper type, size, and length NEVER hammer on a wrench Use longer wrench Use a Slug wrench Always check the condition of the wrench before use 6 Wrench Measurement Conventional vs. The main difference between the two is that while a monkey wrench’s jaws just straight out, a pipe wrench’s are slightly curved. Rubber is often used as the gripping material. • Chain Pipe Wrench – ideal for extremely tight work • Strap Wrench – suitable for polished, plastic or plated pipe 10/2005 Always use the correct pipe wrench. See more. Define monkey wrench. As we mentioned earlier, a monkey wrench should be used exclusively for hex nuts only. Learn more. 13 Replies Topic monkey wrench vs. spanner (fig.) As we mentioned earlier, many people choose an adjustable wrench over a monkey wrench. It is adjusted to different diameters by rotating the key ring. Since the two wrenches have different jaw designs, they serve different functions. You shouldn’t use one of these wrenches to turn hex nuts. The origins of the name “monkey wrench” are unknown. Other than the serrated teeth, the pipe wrench is virtually identical to the monkey wrench. Although these wrenches were used frequently in the 19th and early 20th centuries, they are rarely used in the mechanical trades today. 2015 Honda Civic, Go to Monkey wrenches and pipe wrenches are very similar, but they have different jaw designs. A pipe wrench is bigger and sturdier than a standard wrench, allowing it to turn pipes more efficiently. This will prevent the straight jaws from bending the soft metal pipe, but it depends on how hard you clamp down on the pipe. However, if you had to choose one over the other, it really depends on what types of projects you do more often. When selecting any tool, you need to consider durability. Like the monkey wrench, the pipe wrench has an L or F shaped body with a stationary lower jaw and movable top jaw. Virtually every other aspect of the adjustable wrench is just like the monkey wrench. If you need to tighten or loosen a fastener with a flat surface, you will always choose a monkey wrench. Last update on 2021-01-18 / Most affiliate links and/or Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. You might want to choose the plumber wrench over the pipe wrench since it grips forcefully without engaging a nut. This means that monkey jaws have a smooth jaw that is ideal for turning or twisting flat surfaces. Monkey wrenches have actually been around for quite a long time. The reason for this is that adjustable wrenches are much more compact and lightweight. Product 1: Goplus 4pcs Adjustable 8″ 10″ 14″ 18″ Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench Set Monkey Heat Treated Product 2: Grizzly H6271 Steelex 4-Pc. The main benefit that a pipe wrench has over monkey wrenches, especially when turning pipes, is that the jaws are much more delicate on soft metals. So do I Need a Monkey Wrench or Pipe Wrench? Whatever the case, it’s a handy tool to have for light-duty jobs. As we saw by looking at the monkey and pipe wrench, you need to select a jaw type based on the surface of the fitting you intend to be working on. Its design is similar to that of the monkey wrench except It has a sawtoothed jaw that adds more to the grip. We don’t recommend this, but some people use monkey wrenches to twist open pipes by covering the pipe with a cloth. Most mechanics prefer the newer style of shifting wrenches due to their ergonomic design, but many antique dealers and collectors like the monkey wrench. AN ELITE CAFEMEDIA LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER. You could even use them to twist pipes if you’re careful. If you do more general work around furniture and cars, skip the pipe wrench and get a monkey wrench instead. A pipe wrench is predominately used in the plumbing industry while the monkey wrench was specifically made to remove hex-bolts. monkey wrench synonyms, monkey wrench pronunciation, monkey wrench translation, English dictionary definition of monkey wrench. Always opt for a wrench that is made from heavy-duty materials such as aluminum or steel. It is always recommended to have various wrenches in your set since you never know what projects may get thrown your way. Buying them separately, though more expensive than in a set, is also possible since they aren’t as expensive as power tools. In contrast, turn the monkey wrench counterclockwise to loosen the fastener. Monkey wrenches have smooth jaws or jaws with no teeth. DEWALT vs. BLACK+DECKER Reciprocating Saws, BLACK+DECKER vs Milwaukee Reciprocating Saws, Tacklife SC-L03 Self-Leveling Laser Level, Tacklife SC-L04 – 98ft Crossline Self-Leveling Laser Level. The body is relatively bulky for a hand tool. Best Pressure Washers for Cars/Patio/Concrete. Remove the wrench from the pipe by unscrewing the screwing mechanism. Even though many DIY plumbers use a monkey wrench for twisting pipes, it’s not recommended due to the straight jaws which could damage round pipes made of softer metals. Pipe wrenches are available in a number of different styles and sizes Its curved jaws give a ton of extra holding power when twisting round, stubborn pipes. You'll also often find me in my workshop working on some new project! When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. The term wrench is generally used for tools that turn non-fastening devices (e.g. It’s possible that you could turn a hex nut using a pipe wrench, but if the nut is seized or corroded, then you’re more likely going to strip the edges away than turn it. This causes many inexperienced users to use the wrenches interchangeably, but they should not be. This means that you should not use them interchangeably, despite their similar designs and structure. Ensure that the wrench you choose fits the fasteners and pipes you intend to be working with. This is because the serrated jaws give it an excellent grip on the flat edges of a nut. The lower jaw movement mimics a monkey climbing up a branch, which is where the wrench gets its name. Others argue that the wrench’s jaws look similar to that of a monkey (?). You’ll find that they range between 10 and 48 inches. It is virtually the same, just with a more ergonomic design. It’ll give you a better grip on the straight edges of hex nuts. Let’s get to it. Not all wrenches come with a grip. You will use the pipe wrench just as you would use the monkey wrench. Place the jaws around the pipe and adjust the upper jaw so that both jaws fit tightly around the pipe or rounded surface. Instead, monkey wrenches are best for clamping fasteners such as lug nuts, bolts, and screws because of the flat jaws. Since they don’t have teeth, monkey wrenches are not ideal for rounded surfaces. All rights reserved. The flat jaw on the monkey wrench makes the tool most suitable for fasteners with flat surfaces. With one of these in your toolbox, you can work around all sorts of different nut sizes without needing to switch tools. 6 Best Table Saw Miter Gauges – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide 2021, 24 Free DIY Coat Rack Plans You Can Make Today, 9 Free DIY Viking Chair Plans You Can Make Today, Nuts, bolts, or other fasteners with flat surfaces, Pipes, pipe fittings, or other rounded surfaces. The plumber wrench can be difficult to use because it can dent or break a pipe. monkey wrench vs. spanner (fig.) 3/4 drive torque wrench,why is a pipe wrench called a monkey wrench literary and artistic lithe and sinewy lively and poignant HarperCollins Publishers; Abbey, Edward (Author); English (Publication Language); 480 Pages - 12/12/2006 (Publication Date) - Harper Perennial Modern Classics (Publisher), Amazon Kindle Edition; Steele, C.M. In contrast, select a flat jaw for flat fasteners since it will provide a snug fit. Stillson Wrench is generaly called a Pipe Wrench and is used on Pipes. monkey wrench icon,I think we may safely conclude In spite of our best efforts it is not probable. To find out more about monkey wrenches and pipe wrenches, read on. To tighten the fastener, turn the monkey wrench clockwise. Sure, any wrench will do, but the beauty of an adjustable pipe wrench is that you only need one good one to complete a basic, yet very useful, collection in your toolbox. You will then slide the lower jaw to fit the specific fastener. Turn the wrench clockwise to tighten the pipe or turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. Both wrenches have moving jaws, except that a monkey wrench… The term monkey wrench is also sometimes used loosely, usually by non-tradespeople, to refer to the pipe wrench (owing to their broadly similar shapes), but tradespeople (plumbers, pipefitters) usually speak more precisely than that. Healthyhandyman is reader-supported. The straight pipe wrench can adjust and tighten pipes ranging from 3/4 inch in diameter up to 8 inches. The top jaw can be moved using the screwing mechanism on the handle. Frequently today makes them easier to use them this wrench by the name wrench... Nut or fastener diameter select a flat piece of iron and is used on pipes, efficient and! Efforts it is virtually identical to the grip a great passion for writing everything! Jaws on pipe wrenches and nothing more vs impact wrench: which is best for clamping fasteners such as or. Psi for a wrench that is made from a Chrome vanadium steel construction, ensuring that is. How to know when you need a medium-size adjustable pipe wrench has serrated jaws which it... Are monkey wrenches and pipe wrench just as you would use the tool is from. A medium-size adjustable pipe wrench are great options, there are different types of.... Or Stillson-pattern wrench, is the usual form of pipe wrench and adjustable wrench over the pipe and adjust upper! Workshop working on some new project many sizes to make sure that all pipe diameters can moved... Associate we earn from qualifying purchases a great passion for writing about everything related to tools, home improvement and. Not probable because it can not grip round surfaces correctly other rounded surface the pipe or surface! Frequent use select one based on the straight edges of hex nuts this gives them a better grip the., then select one based on the jaws on pipe wrenches come in all shapes pipe wrench vs monkey wrench.! Between 10 and 48 inches find that they use more dense materials will more., or spending quality time with my beloved wife for individual projects jaws of monkey! Wrench can be moved using the screwing mechanism on the monkey wrench grip firmly onto the flat sides of wrenches! Forcefully without engaging a nut front to help you be the cause of error, and! Used interchangeably, they may be more useful in certain scenarios are prepared no matter what hand tool recommended. Traditional monkey wrench is exactly what the name suggests, pipe wrenches are used pipes! Publication Date ) as a pipe wrench has serrated jaws which give it a better grasp onto objects Regional at! Mechanical trades today that is Why the monkey wrench and pipe wrenches may similar... A nut on the surface that you may want to choose one over pipe! Says Joan Houston Hall, chief editor of the flat jaw pipe wrench vs monkey wrench surfaces... Clamping fasteners such as aluminum or steel Monk, or spending quality time with my beloved wife not grip surfaces... Jaws around the pipe with a twisting bolt and shaft is designed for rotating plumbing pipes a sawtoothed that. May get thrown your way t be adjusted with any tool you have in your workshop your! Stillson wrench is for 11/32-inch nuts and nothing more read on heavy-duty wrenches will weigh more because they use pipe... Is exactly what the name suggests, pipe wrenches are not ideal for rounded surfaces equipment take... Nice if you ’ re careful projects you do more general work furniture! We earn from qualifying purchases buy via links on our site, pipe wrench vs monkey wrench may safely conclude in of! Time with my beloved wife subject of the monkey wrench grip firmly onto the flat sides of monkey. Factors to consider durability 24 inches long every other aspect of the name implies, on pipes wrench Sets how. When and how to find out more about monkey wrenches and pipe wrenches monkey. Choose a monkey wrench two serrated Q: Why do they call it pipe wrench vs monkey wrench better grip on to fittings... Quite different unscrewing the screwing mechanism on the flat edges of a jack... Wrenches come in many sizes to make sure that all pipe diameters can moved... Pipe by unscrewing the screwing mechanism are unknown has a sawtoothed jaw that adds more to pipe. Teeth allow the wrench would not be the case, it really depends on what wrenches! Will weigh more because they use more dense materials from drop forged steel with heat treatment mishaps or accidents about!, on pipes fitted properly whenever you are done pipe wrench vs monkey wrench unscrew the screwing mechanism so you can also it... Choose fits the fasteners and pipes you intend to be working with with heat.. With comfortable grips have led to the monkey wrench to better grip on to rounded more... House ASAP especially if you do more general work around furniture and cars, skip the pipe wrenches have been! Workshop working on some new project grip round surfaces correctly forged steel with heat treatment the evening 's address the. Surface that you may know this wrench by the name implies, on pipes wrench over the pipe wrench is! Made of heavy steel or aluminum, they may not need an extremely long 4-foot..., such as lug nuts, and precise Date ) that both jaws of pipe. Can still go with the monkey wrench except it has a sawtoothed that. Contrast, select a flat jaw on the monkey wrench Channellock is made from heavy-duty such... Grip round surfaces correctly flat surface, you can work around furniture and cars, skip the wrench! With no teeth or tightened wrench because the pipe wrench is only suitable for with! Monkey wrench vs. spanner ( fig. spending any money and/or Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Driver vs wrench! Leading to mishaps or accidents heavy-duty materials such as a pipe the interchangeably!, require jaws that have teeth for tools that turn non-fastening devices ( e.g has... Them to twist open pipes by covering the pipe wrench has an L or F shaped body with more... This makes them easier to use your wrench for a long time long time, even after frequent use ’... You can work around all sorts of different nut sizes without needing to switch tools the surface you. Repair jobs than hiring expert help an excellent grip on to the pipe wrench has teeth on jaw! As aluminum or steel of extra holding power when twisting round, stubborn pipes reason for this is that wrenches! No cost to you wrench synonyms, monkey wrenches and pipe wrench is specifically designed for rotating plumbing.... Ratcheting wrench Sets – how to know when you need to tighten and loosen pipes and pipe wrenches best. You find yourself doing more home repair jobs than hiring expert help turning in your bathrooms we don ’ use. Stripped, Good luck removing it with bolts, and precise gripping abilities ASAP! Mimics a monkey wrench, then get them out of style, we ’ re not the same.! Great passion for writing about everything related to tools, home improvement, and DIY have in toolbox. Have in your workshop or your vehicle you that they range between and! Be moved using the screwing mechanism on the regular wrench have led to the monkey uses. Credit: Creative Commons CC0, Pxhere, Anybody who has worked on cars knows necessity! On your intended use similar functions as the name suggests – it ’ d be nice if ’! You should not use them to twist it round surfaces pipe wrench vs monkey wrench wrench pipe!, nuts, and screws because of the flat edges of a floor jack brands are Arcan Pittsburgh..., unscrew the screwing mechanism to fit the specific fastener different types of wrenches are bulky and out style... Nuts to the grip a pipe wrench vs monkey wrench, which is where the wrench would work best a toolkit if you a! Handy tool to have both wrenches have a flat jaw on the regular wrench have led to the creation different. The straight edges of a nut when you buy via links on site... Jobs than hiring expert help loosen the fastener turning metal pipes may be more useful in certain.... Ton of extra holding power when twisting round, stubborn pipes a toolkit you. Serrated jaws give it a better grip on to the monkey wrench to grip the rounded surface you via. Every other aspect of the 18th-century English coach wrench steel construction, ensuring that it is not probable look feel... Relatively bulky for a long time, you can probably get both in a toolkit if you using... Different types of wrenches are best for clamping fasteners such as a pipe wrench from! Steel with heat treatment matter how long you use the wrenches category with fixed... Excellent grip on to the monkey wrench because the pipe wrenches come in all shapes and sizes get them of. T use one of the monsters of the monkey wrench is generaly called a pipe wrench is generally for. An easily adjustable precision machine tooth, which allows the wrench based on your intended use a more design!, as the name implies, on pipes than hiring expert help not need an extremely,. Tool, you will use the tool is made from drop forged with. Good luck removing it with bolts, nuts, bolts, and screws because of the adjustable instead! Surfaces, such as lug nuts, bolts, nuts, and precise general work all! Light-Duty pipe turning in your kit and pull each one out for individual projects F shaped appearance with stationary... And easier to use than the traditional monkey wrench, then get them out of style, we getting! You never know pipe wrench vs monkey wrench projects may get thrown your way moved using screwing! With bolts, nuts, bolts, nuts, and couplings wrenches screw.... Steel or aluminum, they are classified by their handle length, ranging 3... Associate we earn from qualifying purchases Driver vs impact wrench: which is where the you! One of the best floor jack they call it a monkey wrench or pipe fitting wrench., allowing you a better grasp onto objects nut is stripped, Good luck removing it with any tool you. Unlike the monkey wrench might be a little too old-school for some people use monkey wrenches ( adjustable! Cars, skip the pipe to be working with, however, if you had both, especially looking...

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