What are the hexagon tools called?
Hexagon keys are also known by several other names including hex key, hex wrench, Allen key, and Allen wrench. Torx is a brand name trademark for fastener heads and keys that have a six-point, star-like pattern.
What is a hex tool used for?

A hex key, also known as an Allen key is a simple tool used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. From standard keys in chrome vanadium steel to extra-long with ballpoint heads in chrome molybdenum steel, there are a wide variety to choose from.
What is a hexagonal wrench called?
A hex key (also, Allen key and Allen wrench) is a simple driver for bolts or screws that have heads with internal hexagonal recesses (sockets).
What are Star Allen keys called?
Torx keys
Torx keys are also commonly known as star keys. Like hexagon allen keys, most torx keys are small enough to be carried in a pocket and enable the user to drive the appropriate fasteners without needing a separate screwdriver or power tool.

What are the different types of hex wrenches?
The three most common types of hex keys are L handle, T handle, and fold-up sets. The three common types of hex keys are L shaped, T shaped, and fold-up sets. The long arm on L shaped handles produces more leverage than the other hex wrench variants, allowing for higher torque and better reach into tight areas.
What is a hex screwdriver used for?
Hex Key/Screwdriver Precision hex screwdrivers are great for turning small screws on sensitive electronic components. Drivers have handles with a rotating cap that allows the user to hold the shaft of the screwdriver steady while only rotating the cap at the back.
How does a hex key work?
Allen keys work like most other screwdrivers and wrenches but with a few nuances. You can use them by placing one of the ends inside a fastener with a hexagonal socket head and turning it. Turning the Allen key clockwise will tighten the fastener, whereas turning it counterclockwise will loosen or remove the fastener.
WHAT IS A Allen?
1. Of or relating to a bolt or screw with a head having a hexagonal socket: an Allen bolt; an Allen screw. 2. Of or relating to a usually L-shaped wrench or screwdriver that fits such a socket. [Originally a trademark.]
What can I use instead of a hex key?
Socket Wrench or Ratchet Wrench If you have one that will fit in the hex screw hole or hexagonal socket you are working with, a socket wrench may come in handy in place of an Allen wrench. What is this?
What is hex and Torx for?
Hexagon and Torx keys are used for turning corresponding fasteners, such as in-hex bolts. These fasteners have advantages for certain applications.
Is Torx better than hex?
In order for a hex head to work and not strip out it requires quite a bit more depth for the head, the torx requires about 30 to 50% less depth. So they are well suited to applications that require a thinner bolt head to prevent clearance issues. This is the primary reason they are used as rotor bolts.
How do you use a hex wrench?
Why is it called Allen key?
Originally named Allen Manufacturing Company, the business produced hexagonal set screws and wrenches to fasten them. The terms “Allen wrench” (American English) and “Allen key” (British English) are derived from the Allen brand name and refer to the generic product category “hex keys”.
What is a hexagonal screwdriver?
A hex screwdriver is a type of screwdriver that features a hexagonal tip for driving certain nuts, bolts and screws. Hex screwdrivers, like all types of screwdrivers, are available in an extensive range of both standard and metric sizes.
How do you use a hex spanner?
When you need to use the Allen wrench, stick the short end of the L shape into the bolt head and press down on the longer side of the L to turn the bolt. Of course, the Allen wrench will only fit in a hex bolt (a bolt with six sides), so don’t try using the Allen wrench to screw in any other type of fastener.
What is the L shaped tool called?
Allen Keys
An Introduction to Allen Keys Also known as a hex key, an Allen key is an L-shaped tool that’s used for the installation and removal of fasteners with a hexagonal head. They consist of a single piece of material, typically metal, that’s formed into a right angle. Both ends of an Allen key are hexagonal.
Is Torx same as hex?
No, they are two very different tools. The Allen wrench or hex key, as it is sometimes called, is a hexagon shape, that is why many refer to them as hex keys. The Torx key has a star shape. So if you are trying to use an Allen wrench on a Torx screw, it won’t work, and vise versa.
Is hex or Torx better?
Does hex fit in Torx?
But for metric, it’s a perfect match for 2.5 mm. T10 converts perfection over to a 7/64″ hex size. However, it joins the pack of torx wrenches without a metric hex size….Breaking Down Each Torx to Hex Conversion.
Torx Size | Allen Wrench Conversion |
---|---|
T25 | 3/16″ |
T27 | 5 mm |
T30 | 7/32″ |
T40 | 9/32″ |
Are hex screws less likely to strip?
A square drive and a Phillips drive offer four points of contact, making them less likely to strip than a slotted screw. Hex and Torx screws both offer six points of contact, reducing the likelihood of stripping compared to Phillips and square drives.
What does a hex tool look like?
A hex key, also known as an Allen key or Allen wrench, is a small handheld tool that’s used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip. To learn more about hex keys and the benefits they offer, keep reading.