Allen Wrench Size report
An Allen wrench is a tool with an L-shaped shape and a hexagonal cross-section, which can be used to tighten or loosen socket head screws. Over the years, Allen wrenches have come in various shapes, such as T-shaped, Loop Handle, etc.
The size of the screw determines the Allen wrench size, that is, the distance between the opposite sides of the hexagonal section. For example, for a 2mm Allen wrench, the length of the cross-section of the wrench is required to be between 1.96-2mm, and for a 4mm Allen wrench, it is required to be between 3.95-4mm.
The size system of the Allen wrench has metric and imperial, but sometimes they are also universal. Once again, the Allen key size you need is based on the screw's diameter. Generally speaking, the Allen wrench size will be a size smaller than the screw. Here are handy size charts of the Allen wrench below.
Allen Wrench Size Guide
Allen wrenches are versatile tools designed to work with Allen head screws. These screws are widely used in applications ranging from new construction projects to auto repair and furniture assembly. Understanding Allen wrench designs sizes will make working with Allen head screws easier. An Allen wrench comes in many convenient sizes, which can be perplexing. The diameter of the screw determines hex wrench sizes; that is what you will need to know when choosing an Allen wrench.
- Long Arm L-Shaped Allen Wrench
The long arm L-shaped Allen wrenches are small and practical tools that will make standard Allen head screws short work. The tool comes in many sizes, and the long arm will give you added leverage when tightening these screws. This Allen wrench option is commonly packaged with modular furniture because it is easy to make and relatively cheap to produce.
- Short Arm L-Shaped Allen Wrench
The short arm L-shaped Allen wrench is also a standard for furniture assembly. This tool has a shorter arm length. Although the shortened length limits the power you can achieve when tightening hex screws, the shorter arm is ideal when reaching into confined and tight spaces.
Common Allen Wrench Size Chart
The Allen Manufacturing Company is a registered trademark and created a set of quality hexagonal wrenches, standard and metric sizes, where Allen key sizes in mm are common.
Hex size(inch) | Hex size(mm) | Long arm length | Short arm length |
---|---|---|---|
0.05 inche | 1.3 mm | 83 mm | 14 mm |
1/16 inch | 1.5 mm | 90 mm | 15 mm |
3/32 inch | 2.4 mm | 112 mm | 19 mm |
7/64 inch | 2.8 mm | 119 mm | 20 mm |
1/8 inch | 3 mm | 123 mm | 21 mm |
9/64 inch | 3.6 mm | 130 mm | 22 mm |
5/32 inch | 4 mm | 137 mm | 24 mm |
3/16 inch | 4.8 mm | 154 mm | 27 mm |
1/4 inch | 6.4 mm | 185 mm | 34 mm |
5/16 inch | 8 mm | 195 mm | 37 mm |
3/8 inch | 9.5 mm | 224 mm | 42 mm |
Allen Wrench Use Tips
The smaller Allen wrenches need more maintenance than the larger ones; the smaller ones can easily strip a hex bolt or be stripped down. You should ensure that the hex bolt is clean before you begin to tighten or loosen a bolt and that you have inserted it with all six sides properly aligned.