Hex Allen Key: Things to Know

The best tool to use when dealing with hex screws and bolts are Allen wrenches, also called hex keys or hex wrenches. It’s important to have the right tool for the job: Allen wrenches; they have a shorter side and a longer side, which allow you to have the right leverage that you need for completing the job. There are different sets of Allen wrenches in the market to choose from; we will discuss two of the common types: the t-handle and the regular extractor Allen wrench. We have created a practical guide on how to choose the best set so that you make your buying decision with confidence.

Types of Allen Wrenches 

L-shaped

L-shaped wrenches are probably the most common in the market. They have the shape of an “L”, with a short and a longer side. Using the longer side gives you more torque, but also requires greater clearance, using the shorter side gives you better access but with less ability to provide higher torque. Our Hex Key and Allen Wrench Set feature both the regular hex key design and an innovative extractor design that is carefully engineered to remove damage or stripped screws, exclusive at Olsa Tools. They include ball ends that can be used to turn a fastener at an angle of up to 25 degrees, which come in handy to get to those hard-to-reach bolts with ease.

T-shaped

Having a T-shaped hex key means having more leverage than with a regular Allen hex key; this tool has an extended grip length, which allows for better handling that enables you to deliver more torque. The Olsa Tools T-Handle Hex Key Set features a dual-material ergonomic handle that provides a larger grip surface and reducing hand fatigue. The long end is engineered to get into tighter spaces more easily, and the phosphate-coated ball-drive tips provide maximum gripping strength, at the same time reducing the potential for fastener round-off. Finally, these hex keys follow ASME B18.3.2M requirements to guarantee industrial-grade quality for many years. 

Hex Key Set Features

1. Sizes

Having a set that includes different sizes for your convenience is crucial, to ensure you have the right tool for the job;  This is why both of our Allen wrench sets come with a wide variety of sizes; our regular set comes in SAE with the most frequent sizes included, and the t-handle hex key set includes every standard metric hex key size from 2-10mm.

2. Length of the Allen Wrench

When it comes to the length of Allen keys there are 2 things to keep in mind, gripping capabilities and accessing recessed spots. The longer that the shafts are on an Allen keys make it possible to get a better grip giving you the ability to get more torque delivered to the fastener. Also the longer the shafts the deeper you can get into hard-to-reach spaces that smaller Allen keys won’t be able to reach. 

3. Heavy-duty Hex Key Set

Cheap Allen hex wrenches are usually made from low-quality materials that are not resistant to rust and corrosion, a professional-grade set should at least have a rust-resistant coating. The material from which the set is made is also important, as this will determine how much stress the keys can handle before breaking Our regular and t-handle hex key sets feature Chrome Vanadium (Cr-V) and SVCM steel, respectively. They both are chrome-plated to prevent corrosion over the years to ensure that your tools are always looking new.

In order to find an  Allen wrench set that is best for you, you should start by evaluating your needs. If you know what you will be using your Allen keys set for, you will be able to determine which features are most important for you. As all of our wrenches, our Allen wrenches come with 30-day risk-free returns and are covered under our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee & Limited Lifetime Warranty to give you peace of mind that these tools are designed to last a lifetime.