A pipe wrench can be useful in any household
A burst water pipe or leaking washing machines are a common problem in German households. To prevent such disasters, you can replace outdated pipes and check the seals. But especially pipes that spend years in dark and damp corners are not easy to work on. To loosen a stubborn socket, you can take the help of a pipe wrench or water pump pliers.
Pipe wrench buying guide
- When there is work to be done on pipes, sooner or later you will need a pipe wrench. Costing an average of $30, these tools will help you loosen joints or other fasteners.
- Many household repairs can be done quickly and easily on your own. Save yourself the $100+ for the gas and water repairman and simply change your trap yourself.
- Whether you buy a pipe wrench or a water pump wrench: You will be able to loosen the union not quickly – as long as the span or jaw position of the pliers is large enough.
If you do small jobs yourself, you save a lot of money. It is often enough to simply clean clogged pipes or leaky connections or replace them if necessary.
Best Pipe Wrench 8, 10, 14, 18 inches
Best choice
CRAFTSMAN Utility Knife Blades
Set of 8″, 10″, 14″ and 18″ wrenches for a wide range of uses. The wrench handle is made of strong and durable iron and wrapped in plastic. The Pipe Wrench head is made of forged steel, which is strong and hard for long-term durability.
- 4,9 Rating
- 8, 10, 14, 18 inches
- Opening size of 2.5 inches
Top rated Chic Pipe Wrenches
1. Generic 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
2. Tradespro 836159 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
3. RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Pipe Wrench
4. VEVOR 48” Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench
5. IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Pipe Wrench, Cast Iron, 6-Inch Jaw, 48-Inch Length
Best pipe wrench for home
But then, as the world and the economy changed, Schick went out of business. Today there are still Schick wrenches – and other manufacturers develop Schick wrenches that come very close to the real world. So if you do not have a Schick wrench, how can you get the best Schick like wrench?
The most popular sizes of Pipe Wrench:
- 8 inch
- 10 inch
- 14 inch
- 18 inch
- 24 inch
- 36 inch
- 48 inch
Best Pipe Wrench
Best pipe wrench
Below you will find our recommendations for the 5 best Schick pipe wrench clones on the market:
1. Generic 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
Buy Generic 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
This 14″ pipe wrench is a combination of many factors that Schick pipe wrenches often had – namely durability. The solid aluminium construction of this Schick wrench makes it much lighter than conventional Schick wrenches. However, thanks to its stainless steel jaws, the wrench retains all its power and torque.
The entire wrench is 14″ long, making it almost perfect for any toolbox or garage of a DIY hero. The jaws reach up to a maximum of 2 1/2″ – enough to easily meet the needs of home installation.
With a handle long enough for both hands and a convenient notch on the bottom of the handle, this is the ideal Schick pipe wrench for anyone on a budget.
Pros:
- It Will Not Easily Break or Warp
- Solid steel jaws
- Heavy duty Aluminum construction
Cons:
- May loosen up with large opening
2. Tradespro 836159 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
Buy Tradespro 836159 14” Aluminum Pipe Wrench
The Tradespro 836159 14″ aluminum pipe wrench is a powerful, professionally recognized hand tool that mimics the enormous strength of Schick.
This Tradespro pipe wrench is 14″ long, which is about the standard for a good wrench. It is also made entirely of aluminium to keep the weight as low as possible. This makes this wrench ideal for do-it-yourselfers who are always on the go or carry their toolbox everywhere. The jaws reach up to the standard 2 1/2″ wide to accommodate any tube or nut you need to work with, and the entire product weighs just over 2 pounds.
Above all, this wrench is supported by the full faith and confidence of Kawasaki, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of mechanical products. It is pretty affordable, and the best part is! This is one of the best chic pipe wrench clones for the money if you want a lightweight solution for home installation maintenance.
Pros:
Made using the highest quality standards
Tested for durability
Officially licensed by Kawasaki
Cons:
The thread of the adjustment mechanism is far too loose, making the head of the wrench susceptible to wobbling and difficult to adjust.
Best aluminum pipe wrench
3. RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Pipe Wrench
Buy RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Pipe Wrench
The RIDGID 31100 Straight Pipe Wrench Model 818 is an excellent and powerful solution for the maintenance of plumbing, just like you are used to from a Schick Pipe Wrench.
This rugged wrench is 18″ long so you can get the best leverage on stubborn nuts, rusted, screws or stripped parts. This high performance pipe wrench will not strain you nearly as much as the Old School versions as it is made of lightweight aluminium and has a total weight of 4 pounds.
The wrench itself consists of an I-beam handle with a practical suspension loop in the base for convenient storage. The forged hook jaws are supplied with a non-stick adjusting nut that allows easy extension to the maximum capacity of 2 1/2″. In addition, the self-cleaning threads ensure that this wrench remains clean, strong and rustproof for years after purchase. In the unlikely event that your jaws are damaged, you can quickly replace them with spare parts.
If it sounds like RIDGID has thought of everything that is because they have. This wrench is not cheap, but that is because this is on a professional-grade use. With so much power in such a lightweight tool, this is among the best Schick pipe wrench clones around and can completely change how you approach fastening hardware in plumbing and carpentry.
Pros:
- Nearly 40% lighter than heavy-duty models of the same size
- Straight pipe wrench is suitable for all types of pipe work
- The plumber has a non-stick adjusting nut and self-cleaning threads with easily replaceable hook jaws, heel jaws and spring arrangement.
Cons:
- Not at all like the picture
4. VEVOR 48” Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench
Buy VEVOR 48” Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench
The VEVOR 48″ straight tube wrench is similar to the Schick wrench because it is designed for maximum strength, durability and torque.
This pipe wrench is four feet long so you can exert as much leverage as you need to loosen even the most stubborn hardware or pipes. The aluminum construction makes it 40% lighter than other high performance wrenches of the same type, although you can only do as much for a 48″ wrench. All in all, this tool is available in about 16 pounds.
Nevertheless, this pipe wrench is worth its weight – in the truest sense of the word. The I-beam handle makes it easy to get a firm grip even when wearing thick gloves. The hook and heel jaws are fully replaceable in the unlikely event of damage and even come with a spring arrangement for quick and easy jaw adjustment.
All in all, this Schick pipe wrench is the most faithful to the old school wrenches of the early 20th century. It is strong, powerful, reliable, durable and huge compared to most other wrenches. If you are looking for direct force from your wrench, this is the model for you!
Pros:
- Nearly 40% Lighter than heavy-duty models of the same size, this professional-strength Aluminum Pipe
- Wrench offers comparable durability and ease of use
- This Pipe Wrench features an I-beam handle with full floating forged hook jaw for superior gripping and quick adjustment
- Straight Design makes this Pipe wrench suitable for all types of pipe work
Cons:
- None
5. IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Pipe Wrench, Cast Iron, 6-Inch Jaw, 48-Inch Length
Buy IRWIN Tools VISE-GRIP Pipe Wrench, Cast Iron, 6-Inch Jaw, 48-Inch Length
The wrench appears to be a well-made quality product. The wrench is designed with a capacity of 6 inches. Based on the measurements, this capacity could easily be “stretched” to 7 inches. The jaws are well machined and the adjusting nut rotates smoothly. If you need a powerful, large volume 35 lb. If you need a pipe wrench, this is an excellent choice.
This is the right size pipe wrench for around the house. It is not too small or overly large and heavy like a lot of pipe wrenches are.
Strong cast iron that in turn makes this a hefty 14-inch pipe wrench but it is extremely well balanced.
Pros:
- The heavy-duty drop forged cast iron housing is heat treated to prevent deformation or fracture.
- The wide design of the I-beam handle ensures excellent weight distribution.
- The unique “hammer head” design offers a flat surface for hammering.
Cons:
- The teeth aren’t as sharp as expected
We all have this little plumber in us, right? Imagine you need a plumber’s job that needs to be done, and that includes working with pipes. Usually the cost of hiring a professional installer will be $45-$200 per hour. This means that the job requires a budget of $175-$450. So you decide to wake up the inner plumber and try the job out.
You prepare yourself with your equipment and start loosening a pipe or screw. What would it feel like if your tool keeps slipping and doesn’t get that surface under control? What happens here is that the pipe/screw/nut is round or too smooth. Conventional wrenches have smooth teeth which they cannot grip.
So how can this problem be avoided? Well, here’s where the best wrenches benefit you. Sometimes a plumbing job is so simple that you only need the right tools and a little workaround knowledge. It would be a waste to call a professional plumber. Don’t know, how to choose the right welding machine for you? So read our review about this.
Schick aluminum pipe wrench
A pipe wrench may not be the most useful tool in your collection, but if you’re thinking about building your toolbox, it’s a must-have. Especially because it can save hundreds of plumbing costs.
It is an investment for a lifetime. These wrenches are extremely durable and you will get every cent compensated.
In this article we will talk about this particular type of tool, its types and the main decisions that determine the market. This comprehensive article will also include purchase instructions and tips for maintaining a pipe wrench. So, read on forward!
What is a pipe wrench, by the way?
The pipe wrench is one of the basic types of wrenches that normally come to mind when you think of wrenches.
The main task of a plumber’s wrench is to tighten and loosen pipe connections and threads. Often a round tube is smooth, or the nut has lost its hexagonal shape due to overstraining.
In these cases, the hardened toothed teeth in the jaws of a plumber’s wrench are practical. They press the metal firmly and allow the user to rotate the surface even against resistance.
As a rule, these tools are not intended for use against hexagon nuts. A normal wrench should be able to do this. However, the hexagonal edges become too blunt, this wrench comes into play.
Pipe spanners are usually made of cast steel. It is a durable metal and prevents rust formation in the long term. Some modern wrenches are made of aluminum, but the parts are more important, the jaws and teeth are made of steel.
There are tools that are between 3 inches and up to 60 inches long.
The best Schick pipe wrench is the one that looks best, feels best and works like the original. Schick was one of the best manufacturers of wrenches in the country and their wrenches have been valued for their excellent durability, which has given many of them a long life. Read our review, when you need a new torque wrench.
What you should consider before buying a pipe wrench
Imagine having to replace or repaint an entire wall just because you didn’t fix a leak in time. Unhappy, isn’t it? Whether you’re a professional or a homeowner with a toolbox in mind, hand tools are a must. With them available, you don’t have to run to a plumber every time a pipe joint needs to be repaired. Adding a simple, economical plumber’s key can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. However, if you consider some essential features,
you will be led to the right purchase.
Size
While industrial wrenches are usually larger, they are not the ones you need for home use. Identify the usual types of work you will be doing with your tool and choose a size that is suitable for that work. Experts suggest 14-18 inch sizes for home use. With this size you will be able to do simple DIY work.
Specifications
Size isn’t the only specification you need to look at. Since the job includes pipes and nuts, other specifications can determine how much you can achieve with it. Below we go through the things you need to consider.
Jaw Capacity – For home use, a jaw capacity between 1 and 6 inches should be sufficient.
Jaw adjustment – Sometimes finding the right fit for the surface diameter can be annoying. Some wrenches come with spring-loaded jaws. They eliminate guesswork and allow easy tool adjustment. Some can even be fixed in different places once you have achieved your correct fit and need repeated use.
Head type – Sometimes you have to work with difficult angels or little space between the pipe and the wall. In these cases, a wide head can be difficult to use. You need a narrow head with more gripping teeth or a strap that wraps around the surface.
Engraved number – Sometimes it’s really hard to determine how much jaw opening you need to adjust the surface diameter. Some pipe wrenches come with numbers engraved on the jaw. When the adjustable nut is moved, this shows which pipe diameter can be measured with the current jaw opening.
Material
Materials play a role in the longevity of a tool. If you choose cheap tube wrenches, you can immediately save a few dollars, but you won’t get expected performance from them in the long run. Typically, the wrench heads are made of cast steel, carbon steel, or forged steel. They tend to last longer and prevent them from breaking. Some wrenches are made of ductile iron. Which can be bent after a period of use and you will know that it is time to replace them. Stainless steel keys also last long time and offer you good value for money.
Apart from the materials, the wrenches are usually provided with a protective coating. Black oxide or sandblasted wrenches reduce the likelihood of rust. They are also less prone to wear.
Types
As already mentioned, there are about six common plumber’s keys to choose from. A straight version is sufficient for normal housework. But if you come across work in the basement, such as working in the basement or repairing things in confined spaces, you can also choose offset keys. If the pipe connection is too stiff, a composite lever wrench is the right choice for you.
It is plausible that you may not want to buy one of each type for home use. A wrench with spring-loaded jaws will help you work with pipes of different sizes. All you have to do is adjust the jaws and you can start working right away.
Performance and ease of use
Repairing a broken connection can be quite a strenuous task. And if your pipe doesn’t make things easier, you’ll end up endangering the fitting.
The weight of the key should be something that can be held over a long period of time. A wrench that is too heavy will strain and hurt the muscles if it is held too long.
There is a gap that you should keep between the hook jaw and the surface. The gap is ½ inch. This gap makes it easier to tighten or loosen the tube. When the hook jaw comes into contact with the surface, moving is more difficult.
Finally the teeth. Make sure that the toothed teeth are sharp and have a strong gripping effect. You do not want the tool to slip through blunt teeth, which can lead to unwanted accidents.
Grip
Every hand tool, not just the pipe wrench, should be comfortable to hold in your hand. You will work by holding the handle and probably getting a sweaty palm. If the grip is slippery, your hands can slip and injure themselves. A naked grip can also strain the palms of your hands.
Plumbing keys should be supplied with handle covers. Non-slip rubber with a plastic-coated handle will be a pleasure to hold on to.
Which is the right Schick pipe wrench clone for your needs?
Not sure, which wrench is right for you? Let us break down the advantages of the individual ones!
Our first article, the generic 14″ pipe wrench, is an intelligent solution for anyone looking for an affordable tool. It will not cost too much, and it is likely to be enough for most residential jobs you need to repair.
The Tradespro 14″ pipe wrench has the same length as the first item on our list, but is a proven workhorse of a private toolbox. This is the only item on our list that comes with the full support of a third party, and this third party is the world-renowned manufacturer Kawasaki. If you want something guaranteed by someone else, this is the pipe wrench for you!
So what if you are looking for a Schick pipe wrench that is more faithful to the original? Take a look at the “RIDGID 18” (see complete specifications) straight pipe wrench. This wrench will withstand almost any punishment you can throw at it, and is the first on our list to feature interchangeable parts. Do you have a broken jaw from a particularly stubborn nut? Do not get a new wrench – just repair it!
Finally, let’s say you are looking for the real deal. You want a chic, similar pipe wrench that is so powerful that it is barely different from reality. This is where the “VEVOR 48” (see full specifications) wrench comes in. This is an absolute mammoth of a wrench, and it is capable of solving problems at a professional level. If you want a pipe wrench that you can give to your grandchildren, this is the right choice!
Irwin Tools is an American manufacturer of professional grade hand tools and power tools designed for woodworking, metalworking, plumbing and automotive applications.
How to maintain your pipe wrench for a long service life
What would it feel like to quickly pick up your pipe wrench to quickly fix a water leak and find that the device is not ready for use? This may not be an immediate scenario after you buy a pipe wrench, but time will catch up if you ignore maintenance for too long.
It’s not that tools require intensive maintenance. They are built to endure all the abuses you impose on them. But they also need proper maintenance if they are to maintain high performance levels. With tools such as pipe wrenches, deterioration can begin if you ignore maintenance for too long.
So how can you take care of your wrenches so that they stay close for a long time? The processes are simple, and below is the list of processes.
Clean after use:
After intensive use sessions, the wrench must breathe and be cleaned. If you leave the dirt and deposits lying around for a long time, the tool is prone to damage. Be sure to wipe the tool clean and then use a wire brush to clean your teeth. Ensure that no particles are trapped between the teeth.
Use lubricants:
The connectors and unpainted parts of a key should be cleaned regularly, even if you are not using it. Tools such as wrenches that have moving parts or use friction as part of the work can quickly disintegrate. Lubricating these parts slows down the wear process.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to do this. Simply using simple pneumatic tool lubricants should do the trick. Use a small swab from time to time to keep the parts lubricated.
Avoid high humidity:
Moisture is an enemy for, well, almost everything. From food to tools, keeping your things wet accelerates wear. Tools rust.
The application of an oil layer is a good step to prevent corrosion. But even better, keep your pipe wrench in a dry place. You can store your tools in a toolbox. This will help you organize them and protect them from moisture.
You can also use one or two packs of silicone gel. They tend to absorb moisture from the air and keep the environment dry.
Hopefully these tips will be enough to keep your pipe wrench ready for the game for a long time. Remember, however, that you shouldn’t sweat too much. Keys are intended for hard use and may be damaged or broken from time to time. When that happens, go ahead and look for your next economic option.
Conclusions
Blaming ignorance for guilt is easy, but it’s you who has a loss in the end. Every investment should be made with an informed decision, not on a whim. There are resources that can help you, but it is up to you to determine your priorities. The same applies to tool selection. When you decide to buy the best pipe wrench, remember that the choice depends heavily on your requirements. You may need a quality plumber’s wrench without being too heavy, not just one, but a set of wrenches for your professional or personal use.
You may have to work in insufficient places that conventional straight spanners can’t handle. So many people, so many minds. That’s why the best choice is not the same for everyone. This is where we come in. We have provided you with detailed instructions on tube wrenches. We have searched the market and decided for the Top 11 models of this special tool. While most of them are equipped with different functions, one thing is common. They are loved and appreciated by their users and are market leaders.
With the detailed reviews, you can choose a solution that fits your specific requirements.
Are you ready to get the best Schick pipe wrench clone for your needs? Take a look at our list now! Good luck!
