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Top 10 Best Pipe Wrenches

Pipe wrenches are a necessary tool for anyone working with pipes, whether a professional plumber or a DIYer. These tools allow you to grip and turn pipes securely, making it easier to tighten or loosen fittings and joints. 

With so many different pipe wrenches available on the market, choosing the best one for your needs can be overwhelming. To make things easier for you, I’ve curated a list of the best pipe wrenches for DIY or professional use. 

In this article, I have reviewed the top 10 wrenches and mentioned some factors to consider when selecting a pipe wrench, as well as tips for using and maintaining it.

10 Best Pipe Wrenches: Reviewed in Detail 

Below I have reviewed 10 highly-rated pipe wrenches you can use for any type of job. All the wrenches belong to popular brands and are highly durable to last longer.

RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench:   Overall Best 

https://www.amazon.com/31100-Aluminum-Straight-18-inch-Plumbing/dp/B0000224JF

Specifications 

The RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench is a high-quality tool that is popular among both professional plumbers and DIY enthusiasts. Made of durable aluminum, it is lightweight and easy to handle yet strong enough to grip pipes firmly. 

The straight jaw is designed for gripping smooth pipes, and the adjustable jaws can be tightened or loosened to fit pipes of different sizes. The wrench also has a comfortable handle that is easy to grip, even with gloves on. Overall, the RIDGID 31100 Model 818 is a reliable and versatile tool that is well worth the investment.

Pros 

Cons 

IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Pipe Wrench: Best for Professional Use 

https://www.amazon.com/Tools-VISE-GRIP-Wrench-14-Inch-274102/dp/B0001VNWLC/ 

Specifications 

Professional plumbers need a pipe wrench that’s sturdy, heavy-duty, and has an adjustable jaw, and this wrench from IRWIN checks all boxes. Made using a blend of materials, including cast iron, the wrench lasts pretty long, and you don’t have to worry about rusting as well.

The highly precise jaw teeth can grip any pipe firmly, and you can turn it without scratching its surface. Most plumbers say that the I-beam handle on this wrench is wide and provides excellent weight distribution.

Lastly, the pipe wrench comes in multiple sizes, and you can choose one depending on the type of job you want.

Pros 

Cons 

Channellock 8WCB 8-Inch WideAzz Adjustable Wrench:  Best Portable Pipe Wrench 

https://www.amazon.com/Channellock-8WCB-WideAzz-Adjustable-Opening/dp/B001I70C34

Specifications 

If you need a pipe wrench that can slip inside your pocket, Channellock 8WCB 8-Inch is exactly what you are looking for. One of the standout features of this wrench is its extra-wide jaw, which allows it to grip a larger range of pipe sizes with ease. 

The jaws are also made of high-carbon steel for added strength and durability. The wrench has a comfortable handle with a non-slip grip, and the adjustable jaws can be tightened or loosened with a simple thumb wheel. 

On the jaws, you’ll see some readings mentioned to tell you about the pipe’s diameter for added convenience. Lastly, the Channellock 8WCB Pipe Wrench lets you secure a lanyard with it, so you can carry it around with ease.

Pros 

Cons 

KOTTO 4 Pack Set Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench Set:  Best pack of Wrenches 

https://www.amazon.com/Wrench-Treated-Adjustable-Plumbing-Storage/dp/B086JVLXW2

Specifications 

If you are a professional or work on different pipe sizes, you’ll need a wrench set like this one from KOTTO. The set contains four wrenches in different sizes, ranging from 8 inches to 14 inches, allowing you to choose the best size for the pipes you are working with.

The alloy steel construction promises durability and makes these wrenches perfect for heavy-duty tasks. There’s a blue coating over all wrenches to safeguard the metal from rusting. Plus, the rubberized grip lets you hold the wrench firmly when working with pipes. 

Lastly, all four wrenches come packed in a durable carrying case, making them ideal for professional plumbers.

Pros 

Cons 

Crescent 10” Adjustable Wrench: Best for DIY Use 

https://www.amazon.com/Crescent-AC210VS-Tools-Wrenches-Adjustable/dp/B00002N5L1 

Specifications 

Hate it when the wrench slips off the pipe every time you try to turn it? Well, this adjustable wrench from Crescent has solved that problem. The hex jaw design improves gripping and reduces slippage, so you can get the job done quickly.

The 10-inch wide jaw lets you use it with various pipes, and you can use the thumb wheel to adjust the size. I loved the alloy steel construction, and the wrench feels sturdy. Plus, the chrome finish reduces the risks of corrosion. Lastly, the wrench is very compact and ideal for any DIY application. 

Pros 

Cons

LASIEYO Adjustable Wrench:  Best Adjustable Pipe Wrench

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KC5RBR3 

 Specifications 

Sometimes the pipes have a very awkward location, and turning them with a regular wrench isn’t an option. For such tasks, you can use this LASIEYO Adjustable Wrench. The head moves 180 degrees, and you can easily bend it when working with pipes.

Furthermore, the straight jaw adjusts from 10-12 inches, and you can work on a wide variety of pipes with this wrench. The perfectly gripped handle keeps the wrench stable in your hand while preventing slips. Talking about the construction, the entire wrench is alloy steel, so you can expect it to last for years. 

Lastly, it’s lightweight, and you can attach a lanyard with it for added convenience.

Pros 

Cons 

Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Adjustable Straight Pipe Wrench:  Best Heavy-duty Wrench 

https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Heavy-Duty-Adjustable-Straight/dp/B08L8BVJG2

Specifications 

If all you need is a durable wrench that lets you work with small and large pipes, look no further, and choose the Amazon Basics Heavy-Duty Adjustable Straight Pipe Wrench. With its traditional design, the wrench features a big handle, and you can easily turn those stubborn pipes.

The straight jaw has bigger heat-treated teeth for firm gripping, reducing the risk of scratching the surface. You can quickly adjust the jaw size using the non-slip nut thread. There’s a black coating all over the wrench, and you can rest assured it won’t rust easily. 

However, this is a big and bulky wrench, so I recommend it more for DIY tasks. 

Pros 

Cons 

Performance Tool W1133-10B 10-Inch Pipe Wrench:  Best Wrench on a Budget

https://www.amazon.com/Performance-Tool-W1133-10B-10-Inch-Wrench/dp/B0002KNZ9Q

Specifications 

There are limited options if you have a packed budget, and the best wrench you can get under 10 bucks is Performance Tool W1133-10B. It’s a compact alloy steel wrench you can use for any type of task. 

The jaws open up to 10 inches, and you can easily adjust the size to grip the pipe. Furthermore, the precision milled, and drop-forged steel jaws reduce the risks of scratching or damaging the pipe, making things even easier. Performance Tool has used durable protective enamel paint to protect the wrench from corrosion, however, it may chip off due to regular wear.

Pros 

Cons 

RIDGID 47057 Model 812 Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench:  Best Aesthetic Wrench 

https://www.amazon.com/47057-Aluminum-Straight-12-inch-Plumbing/dp/B0009W2T4E

Specifications 

If you think pipe wrenches don’t look good, have a look at RIDGID 47057 Model 812. Made using aluminium, this wrench has a silver finish making it stand out. In addition, the silver finish curtails the chances of corrosion, and you can rely on this wrench for years.

Since it’s aluminium, the wrench is 40% lighter than cast iron models. The fully adjustable jaw has a capacity of up to 2 inches, and you can use it for thick drain pipes. The I-beam handle is wide and well-balanced, so you can conveniently turn the pipes using this quality wrench. 

Another reason to have this wrench in your arsenal of tools is the heat-treated teeth that offer a firm grip on all types of pipe surfaces.

Pros 

Cons 

DURATECH 8-Inch Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench:  Best Powder-coated Pipe Wrench 

https://www.amazon.com/DURATECH-Adjustable-Plumbing-Malleable-standard/dp/B08G8SW891/

Specifications 

The DURATECH 8-Inch Heavy Duty Pipe Wrench is an excellent choice for DIY and workshop tasks, because it’s alloy and cast iron, the wrench is quite heavy for its size. However, the solid body promises longevity, and you can use it even in tough conditions.

The 8-inch adjustable jaw comes with a non-freezing nut, and you can adjust it according to the pipe’s size. The precision teeth on this wrench offer a firm grip on different types of pipes to reduce damage, such as scratches. 

Just like other quality wrenches, it also features an I-beam handle, and you can use it conveniently for any type of pipe-related job. Lastly, DURATECH offers this wrench in a range of sizes for varying jobs.

Pros 

Cons 

Factors to Look for When Choosing the Best Pipe Wrenches 

Each pipe wrench is different, and no you should choose one based on your requirements. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best pipe wrench. 

Size of the Wrench

Begin with choosing the size of the wrench, as it’ll affect the convenience and ease of doing the job. Make sure the pipe wrench is the right size for the pipes you will be working with. A wrench that is too small will not provide enough grip, while one that is too large may damage the pipes.

Material (It should be durable)

Pipe wrenches are typically made of steel or aluminum. Steel wrenches are more durable but heavier, while aluminum wrenches are lighter but less durable.

Jaw Type 

Pipe wrenches come with either a straight jaw or a curved jaw. A straight jaw is better for pipes with a smooth surface, while a curved jaw is better for pipes with a rough or uneven surface.

Adjustability

Some pipe wrenches have adjustable jaws that can be tightened or loosened to fit different sizes of pipes. This can be useful if you will be working with pipes of varying sizes.

Brand

Choose a reputable brand with a good track record of producing high-quality tools. There are plenty of reliable brands, such as MAXPOWER, KOTTO, Wideskall, and more, that offer durable pipe wrenches. 

Price

Determine your budget and look for a pipe wrench that fits within it while still meeting the other criteria. In this article, I’ve reviewed an excellent pipe wrench for every budget. 

Top Tips for Using a Pipe Wrench by Expert Handymen 

Using a pipe wrench may seem easy since it doesn’t have any fancy features, but it can be quite challenging. Below I’ve mentioned some quick tips to help you use the wrench like a Pro.

FAQs

Q: What size pipe wrench do plumbers use?

A: It depends on the size of the pipes they are working with. Plumbers typically have a range of pipe wrenches in different sizes to suit different pipes. For example, they may have a 14-inch wrench for larger pipes and a 10-inch wrench for smaller pipes. Some plumbers even have adjustable pipe wrenches that can be adjusted to fit a range of pipe sizes.

Q: What are the three basic types of pipe wrenches?

A: There are three basic types of pipe wrenches: the Stillson wrench, the end pipe wrench, and the adjustable pipe wrench. The Stillson wrench is ideal for gripping smooth pipes, the end pipe wrench is suitable for pipes that are not perfectly round, and lastly, the adjustable pipe wrench can work on a variety of pipes of different sizes.

Q: How do you use a pipe wrench without scratching it?

A: Make sure the wrench has gripped the pipe properly. Also, you can use a strap wrench to avoid scratching the pipe.

Final Thoughts 

Simply put, a pipe wrench is an essential tool for any plumber or DIY enthusiast. When choosing a pipe wrench, it is important to consider the size, material, jaw type, adjustability, brand, and price. 

By taking these factors into account, you can find the best pipe wrench for your needs and ensure that you have the right tool for the job. Proper use and maintenance of your pipe wrench will ensure that it lasts for many years to come.