Hand Tools Key Terms

Get some good information from theset hand tools key terms

By Steven A. Ottem

When shopping for hand tools, you'll need to know some of the key terms used in the ads. To begin your search, you will need to decide whether you want a power tool for your job. Most power tools will rely on a battery or 110-volt power supply. However, some power tools use compressed air for power. Even if you choose a hand tool for which you will supply the power, there are some key terms you need to fully understand before you buy. For example, you may want an open-end, box-end or adjustable wrench; a Phillips or straight-bladed screwdriver; or a ball peen, framing, claw or tack hammer.

Metric or SAE

When considering wrenches, whether open-end, box or socket, you will need to know whether you are dealing with inches or metrics. America is slowly converting to metric measurements, but nuts and bolts measured in fractions of an inch are common. If you see SAE, you will be using fractions of an inch to determine wrench size.
Try: Tyler Tool shows a set of wrenches with sizes from 1/2-inch to 1-inch or 8 millimeters to 22 millimeters. The wrenches are comparable in size and display the difference in the two systems.

Torque

When assembling a mechanical device, the instructions may indicate that you need to tighten a nut to a certain torque stated in inch-pounds, foot-pounds, Newton metres or kilogram force metres for metrics. To do this, you will need a torque wrench that will tell you how much torque, or force, you are applying. Torque wrenches have a needle, gauge or adjustable release point to help you get the right tightness. You may also select a power torque wrench.
Try: For a discussion of torque and converting foot-pounds to Newton metres, go to Maryland Metrics. For a selection of torque wrenches and a discussion of torque, see eMaxaction.com.

Ratchet

A ratchet makes it possible to loosen or tighten a nut or bolt without removing the wrench from the nut or bolt head. The ratchet allows you to apply force in one direction, then reposition your wrench handle by swinging it the opposite direction. Ratchets can be socket or box-end wrenches.
Try: Northern Tool + Equipment gives you a closeup picture of a set of ratcheting box-end wrenches. The Tool Warehouse provides a large selection of ratchet wrenches, including socket handles.

Impact wrenches

Electricity or air powers most impact wrenches, which supply the torque to loosen or tighten screw, nuts or bolts. Impact wrenches use a hammering force to help loosen or tighten threaded fasteners.
Try: For pictures and details about air impact wrenches, go to Tool King. Dewalt supplies pictures and specifications for electrical impact wrenches.

Lithium ion

Some electrical hand tools use batteries for energy supply. A recent development is the lithium-ion battery.
Try: To find out about lithium-ion batteries, check out Battery University. Coastal Tool lists several lithium-ion, battery-powered hand tools.

Composite

Many manufacturers of non-power hand tools use steel to make the parts, but some now use composites instead of steel. Composites do not conduct electrical current, making them ideal for use by electricians.
Try: A + Electrical Safety Equipment offers a series of composite tools designed to promote safety while working with electrical systems. MotoGF sells an air impact wrench made of composite materials.