Beginners Guide to Understanding Hex Keys

Are you looking to work on assembling a piece of furniture or repair your bicycle this weekend? You may need to have a hex key tool set close by. Such a toolset should be easy to get. You can buy one from a local hardware store or online on websites such as Amazon.

Hex keys remain versatile tools and offer some of the best performance in terms of not stripping the bolts or screws. We give you a detailed look at hex keys, why you should get them, how to use them correctly, and the projects that can potentially need using hex keys.

What are Hex Keys?

Tightening and loosening of hexagonal socket screw heads needs the use of hex keys or Allen keys. The hex keys have a distinct hexagon shape, which makes it easy to identify them. These are common tools we often use, but we do not realize just how versatile they can be. Expect a hex key set to be a valuable tool for anyone, whether you are a pro or a DIYer.

Most people consider hex keys for projects involving furniture assembly, bike repair, and sometimes complex professional applications. So long as there is a need for an Allen key, such a set comes in handy.

Hex keys come in a wide range of configurations and sizes. You can come across an L-shaped, t-handle, Allen wrench, and many others as types. As for size, this can vary depending on applications, as some could use tiny hex keys while others need bigger hex keys.

Benefits of the Hex Key Design

There are multiple benefits you can experience with the use of a Milwaukee hex key set. That is why such a set is a must have in any toolbox. Here is what you can expect.

1. Better torque performance

The hex key bits for drill tend to perform better for high torque applications. This is thanks to the hexagonal design.

The design requires you to insert the hex key into the screw before unscrewing it. This allows for better contact, and you can use more force to loosen it without worrying that it will snap.

2. Less clearance needed

The L shape of an Allen hex key set makes it good for small spaces. You do not need a lot of space to access and undo screws as compared to traditional wrenches or screwdrivers.

The hex key has a longer and a shorter side. So, depending on the use, you could switch from one side to another to accommodate less space for unscrewing the bolt.

3. Affordable toolset

Buy a Craftsman hex key set or any other brand and be assured of affordability. Hex keys are made using strong metals that can be used repeatedly to work on various projects. The most commonly used materials are aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and carbon steel.

Even though you can have many companies offering hex keys, we recommend buying from top brands. Examples include Wera hex keys, Wiha hex keys, Milwaukee hex keys, and others. At the very least, you will be assured of the best quality from these brands.

4. Does not damage fasteners

Whether you are using a hex key holder or a 5mm Journeyman t-handle hex key, you will always fasten or loosen screws faster without damaging the heads. The hexagon design ensures an even distribution of torque, reducing the chances of damage.

5. Multipurpose

You can rely on a Home Depot hex key set to be multipurpose. These hex keys can be used by DIYers and professionals alike. The most common ways would be assembling your furniture, office chairs, desks, and more. So long it is a project with a hex screw, the set will come in handy.

There are many other potential benefits of using hex keys, which you can discover as you keep using the set.

Hex Key Types and Uses

You are likely to come across multiple types of hex keys in the market. Understanding their designs can help you choose the right one for an application. Let us see what types of hex keys you can expect to get today.

Folding hex keys

As the name suggests, this hex key set can fold into the arm for storage. This design is all about saving space, and it only deploys when you need to use the hex key.

The arm acts as storage and can also be set at an angle so that you have an easy time turning the screws. This design is also good for reaching tight spaces, as the handle can fold up to 180 degrees.

T-handle

A T-handle hex key set is a popular tool among mechanics and other jobs that require regular use of hex keys. The T-handle is designed to offer more surface area for gripping, making turning easier and faster.

L-style hex keys

This is probably the most referenced type of hex key set. People are used to this classic L-shape design, so when you mention a hex key, this is what comes to mind.

This design has an L-shape with one long side and the other short. So, if you ever need to tighten fasteners in tight spaces, simply switch to the shorter side and get it done.

This design generally makes it the best hex key set, as it can be used for many tasks.

P-handle hex key

You can get a Husky hex key set with a p-handle design. It is easy to confuse it with the t-handle hex set as they look similar.

The p-handle is a modified L-shape hex set with a handle. Unlike some of the t-handle hex keys, this allows for more grip while keeping both sides usable.

Adjustable Allen wrenches

You can still get an adjustable hex key screwdriver set from your local hardware. In this case, the Allen wrench features multiple screwdrivers with a hex key design that can be interchanged depending on the application. Such wrenches also have a ratchet head that makes tightening and loosening easier.

Being an adjustable screwdriver hex key set means you can still set the right torque based on the application. Expect it to be a popular tool among bikers, car owners, and other DIYers.

You may still encounter other configurations of hex keys, but these are the most popular on the market and will get the job done.

DIY Projects that Need Hex Keys

A 14mm hex key socket can be more versatile than you think. The best bet is to get yourself a hex key screwdriver set so that you have as many options as possible to handle your projects.

Someone might ask, where do you even use an 8mm hex key socket? Below are DIY projects that might need hex keys.

• Hex keys are versatile and can be used to assemble products such as furniture. They can also be used to assemble any unit that needs hex keys.
• Expect to also use hex keys while working on your car. There are sections of your car or motorbike that exclusively need using the hex keys to open the parts.
• How about the construction projects? Yes, it is possible that you might need hex keys for tightening screws and bolts when working on a structure. This ensures the structure is safe and secure.
• It is still possible for plumbers to use Allen wrenches to handle pipe fittings. Allen wrenches are loved because they allow for reaching tight spaces, thus remaining a versatile tool.

There are many uses of hex keys right now. What is important is having the right size and build quality for the project.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hex Key Size

Let us say you are interested in a ratcheting hex key set; what are your options? Will you choose correctly? These are some questions you can ask yourself when seeking the right hex key set. Below are tips to guide you better in your choice.

1. Look at the handle position and material.

Whether it is a Klein Tools hex key set or any other brand, the handle material and position can offer more grip for easy use and determine the set’s longevity.

Is the handle collapsible? If it is, then it can give you more space in the toolbox. However, ensure the handle still fulfills its purpose of being a good addon to the hex key tool.

2. Hex key set material

The hex key set will likely be used in tough spots just to loosen the fastener. For this reason, you need the Allen hex keys to be made of strong materials. This means they will not break if subjected to high forces.

Notable materials used to make hex key sets include titanium, steel, vanadium steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, and more. All these materials are designed to withstand high pressure and not lose the shape of their edges.

3. Hey key size

The hex key sizes are quite important to look at. It comes down to which projects you often handle. For example, if you work on projects with tight fittings, then you need the smaller hex key set.

The other choice is to get an adjustable wrench, which allows you to elongate the size of the hex key bit to adapt to the application.

Most sizes of a hex key will work fine for many people, so there is nothing to worry about.

4. Storage

A hex key set for drill is all good until you need to store it.  For those with a large toolbox, it should be easy to store the hex keys once you are done using them. However, for portability, consider getting a foldable set.

This will not take up so much space, and you can always take it with you when working on projects.

5. Brand and customer support

The brand you choose can greatly affect the performance and durability of your hex key set. Look for hex keys from reputable brands such as Ronix, Stanley, Milwaukee, Bondhus, Wera, and more.

One way of finding a top brand is by looking at the brand’s reviews. It could be a new brand, but it still makes high-quality hex keys.

Remember to look at the customer support. It paints a picture of what to expect when you need support or more tools for your project.

Best Practices for Using Hex Keys

You just got yourself a hex key drill bit set and are wondering how best to use it. Proper use of hex key sets can lead to the longevity of the keys. That is why we recommend the following tips to keep the hex keys in good condition.

1. Always use the right size. If the hex key does not fit into the screw head correctly, it might damage it when you try to loosen or tighten it.
2. Ensure that the hex key is fully inserted into the screw head. Wiggle it in if necessary to get all six sides to contact the tamper-resistant hex key.
3. The angle at which you use the Swiss Tools hex keysis important. Maintaining a perpendicular angle helps with applying the torque efficiently and does not damage the key or screw head.
4. When working on a project, apply even pressure and avoid jerking motions. The even pressure leads to steady torque vital in tightening and loosening of the screws.
5. You might be tempted to overtighten the screws. However, this is not recommended while using hex key wrenches. Overtightening can lead to the stripping of the bolt.
6. Stubborn fasteners could use a bit of lubrication sometimes. Apply some lubricant so that you do not have to work so hard to remove some bolts or screws with your Craftsman hex key socket set.

Conclusion

Hex keys are versatile tools we need every day to handle various projects. It is why you should have a set in your toolbox. You never know when you might need it. Since hex keys come in different shapes and sizes, you can choose the right one for you. For example, if you need one with more portability, opt for foldable hex keys. You could also select the t-handle hex keys if you want more grip. Go ahead and get yourself the proper hex keys from top brands and start working on your projects.