If your business involves assembling furniture, kids' toys or other products, you know these tasks often require a hex wrench. Hex fasteners are used on everything from kitchen chairs to bicycles to exercise equipment. If you deliver and set up any such items, you can't go out on the job without a good set of hex tools.

As with nearly every other tool, hex tools don't come in a single type, or size. You'll need both standard and metric sizes and can also get short- or long-arm, T-handled and even ratcheting hexes. Hex tools, also called alen wrenches or allen wrenches, even come in fold-up styles that can fit right in your pocket. When you're gathering hex tools information, consider the following:

1. Get both metric and standard hex tools so you're never caught without the proper instrument.

2. Choose the style of hex tools that can meet your personal preference and handle your business needs.

3. Select quality hex tools manufactured by the best names in the business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find hex tools in all sizes and never meet a hex fastener you can't tighten or loosen

Twenty or thirty years ago, you might have done all right simply owning a set of standard hex tools. Today, however, more and more product manufacturers use metric hex fasteners. Whether you assemble bicycles or car engines, you'll need a good set of metric and standard hex tools to be successful on the job.

I recommend: Find a wide assortment of both standard and metric hex tools--and even hex power bits--at Wiha. Matco Tools carries a wide range of metric hex tools, in sizes ranging from 0.7mm to 19mm. You'll find a 10-piece set of standard-size hex tools at Grainger, complete with a carrying case.

Pick the type of hex tools that best accommodates your needs

Hex tools are not only used for assembling products, but they can also be used by mechanics, carpenters and other tradesmen. To that end, if you assemble furniture you'll likely need a different hex tool than an auto mechanic would use. Find hex tools that have the durability, torque power, angle and length you need to do your job.

I recommend: Northern Tool + Equipment has a huge inventory of hex tools covering every style and size, including metric and standard sizes, T-handles, folding hexes, long- and short-arm and even ratcheting hex tools. Aubuchon Hardware has a hex tools list that should satisfy any shopper, at prices to fit any budget.

Count on the top hex tools manufacturers to put the best products in your hands

When it comes to hex tools, some manufacturers may produce a sturdier, longer-lasting product than others. For instance, Bondhus manufactures custom mixed steel hex tools that endure longer than those made of common alloys. If hex tools are a staple of your business, find a hex tools provider offering names you can rely on for tools that will last.

I recommend: You'll find a list of Bondhus hex tools available at Tecra Tools, from six-piece up to 12-piece sets to folding hexes. ToolBarn.com carries sets of standard and metric hex tools made by Stanley, a familiar and reliable tool manufacturer.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For hard to turn hex fasteners, or to get the job done more quickly, get hex power bits that fit into your drill. These hex tools come in all standard and metric sizes.