The Best Crescent Wrenches for Your Toolbox

Crescent wrenches, also known as adjustable wrenches, feature an adjustable jaw that can be used on many different bolt sizes. As such, they’re incredibly useful for automotive and bicycle repairs and are a great tool to keep in your car, toolbox, or around the house. However, finding the perfect one for your needs can be tricky. We made this guide to simplify the process in order to help you find a great crescent wrench at the best possible price.

Shopping for a Crescent Wrench

Here’s what to look for:

• Jaw Width: While an adjustable jaw will help you find the size you need in many cases, crescent wrenches are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For this reason, you will want to do your research and ensure that your new wrench’s jaw width is ideal for the nuts you will be working with. If you need to remove extremely large nuts, such as the ones employed in plumbing jobs, finding a specialized option is likely your best bet.
• Size: The size and length of your wrench will largely determine how easy it is to work with, depending on the type of job it’s being used for. Longer wrenches with a thin jaw will be able to sneak into tight spaces more easily and allow for more leverage to pry a nut off. However, these can be quite unwieldy for jobs such as bicycle repairs that do not require their longer size.
• Durability: As with any tool purchase, durability is very important. A great crescent wrench will feature a hardened construction that will resist corrosion, such as high-quality chrome-vanadium steel. However, when looking for a great budget option, many other treated alloy steel options will still offer good durability for a fraction of the price.

Top Pick: Channellock 8-Inch WideAzz Adjustable Wrench

For those seeking a heavy-duty crescent wrench that outshines the rest, the Channellock 8-Inch WideAzz Adjustable Wrench is our top pick. While more expensive than many other products out there, there is no denying the utility of this tool’s long, thin jaws, which maintain an excellent grip while giving you access to the tightest of spaces. The 1 1/2-inch jaw opening is wide enough for a wide array of applications, while the compact body is perfect for storing in your car or bike should unexpected repairs become necessary. This crescent wrench also features chrome-vanadium steel construction for long-term durability and a comfortable grip that budget models can’t replicate, making it an amazing choice.

Best Value: Olympia Tools Adjustable Wrench

For those who will only be using their new crescent wrench when the rare occasion arises, the Olympia Tools Adjustable Wrench will definitely give you the most bang for your buck. This crescent wrench features drop forged alloy steel construction that belies its budget price tag and eight size options to ensure you can find the right size for the job. It scores major points for its sturdy construction and widespread jaw sizing; however, those working in extra-tight spaces might want to consider a crescent wrench with a thinner jaw. Either way, for its low price, this is a product that is hard to beat.

Best Set: Craftsman Adjustable Wrench Set

Considering that this Craftsman Adjustable Wrench Set offers three high-quality crescent wrenches for the price of one premium wrench, those who put durability and size options above all else will find a lot of value here. These corrosion-resistant wrenches are constructed of alloy steel with a chrome finish, making them a great choice for those who expect to get a lot of use out of their tools. They feature jaws that adjust smoothly and are tight and secure once set. They sport metric and SAE scales on either side of the head to size parts before getting to work. With jaw openings that measure 15/16, 1 3/16, and 1 3/8 inches at their widest, there is a lot that you can do with this set.

Best Jaw Width: Proferred Plumbing Adjustable Wrench

While the average crescent wrench may be great for working on your bike or automobile, it will run into serious problems when being used in tight spaces or to remove large plumbing nuts. Luckily, this is where the Proferred Plumbing Adjustable Wrench shines brightest. This tool features a super-wide jaw capacity and a jaw depth and thinness that is ideal for a secure hold in narrow, hard-to-work spaces. It also comes in four sizes, is durably constructed of high-quality steel, and can be put through plenty of abuse before showing any wear and tear. For those seeking a crescent wrench that is great for going where other tools can’t, this product is the perfect choice.