What is another name for a hex wrench?

A hex key (also, Allen key and Allen wrench) is a simple driver for bolts or screws that have heads with internal hexagonal recesses (sockets).

What are the hex tools called?

Allen key
A hex key, also known as an Allen key or Allen wrench, is a small handheld tool that’s used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip.

What is a hex wrench used for?

In fact, no toolkit is complete without a set of Allen wrenches. Allen wrenches, which are also called hex-key wrenches or hex keys, have a hexagonal cross section to fit various machine screws and set screws that have hexagonal-shaped recessed holes.

What are the different types of Allen wrenches?

Different Types of Hex Keys

  • L-Style Allen Wrenches. This is the standard Allen key and is easily found anywhere.
  • T-Handle. This is a popular tool, mostly used in motorsport applications.
  • P-Handle.
  • Folding Hex Key.
  • Ratcheting Drivers.
  • Torque Wrench.
  • Allen Screwdriver.
  • Ball Hex Sets.

Is hex same as torx?

No, they are two very different tools. The Allen wrench or hex key, as it is sometimes called, is a hexagon shape, that is why many refer to them as hex keys. The Torx key has a star shape. So if you are trying to use an Allen wrench on a Torx screw, it won’t work, and vise versa.

Why is it called Allen wrench?

Originally named Allen Manufacturing Company, the business produced hexagonal set screws and wrenches to fasten them. The terms “Allen wrench” (American English) and “Allen key” (British English) are derived from the Allen brand name and refer to the generic product category “hex keys”.

What is the difference between hex and Torx?

However, Torx keys have a six-pointed star-like shape, instead of the six flat sides of a hex key. Unlike hex keys, which usually have a hexagonal cross-section along their entire length, Torx keys frequently have a circular cross-section, with the Torx shape only appearing at the ends of the tool.

Are there different sized Allen wrenches?

In addition to the precision sizes mentioned above, the common metric Allen wrench sizes are 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, & 10 mm. Of these sizes, some of the more popular ones are 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, & 10 mm.

Can I use torx for hex?

The short answer is…you’ll break your torx wrenches on a hex screw head. The fragile tips of a torx or security star bit are prone to bending & snapping without fitting snugly inside of the screw head.

What are the two types of Allen wrenches?

Is Torx the same as Allen?