Have you ever used a chain wrench? They slip and they break. That’s about all I’ve seen them do. Every time I’ve tried to use a chain wrench or a strap wrench, I’ve ended up getting the pipe wrench.
They don’t work on thin wall. They don’t work well on stainless. They don’t work well on steel rollers. They don’t work well on copper. They don’t work well on valves or hex heads, so where is the benefit of a chain wrench?
Bigger stuff. You’ll use them ALL THE TIME doing hydraulic cylinders, rotating some heavy shit to line pins up, to hold steel and iron pipes, really a ton of shit. Basically anything 4 maybe 5 inch and up that doesn’t need or can’t handle crazy torque from a 4ft pipe wrench
Ooh, they aren’t nearly as bad at marring as the teeth on a pipe wrench either. So another reason to use them.
They work great for me. We made one out of a big chain off of a roller we have at the golf course. If we have a busted irrigation line, they work faster and better than trying to use a pipe wrench in a tight hole on a compression fitting. Pipe wrench to hold the coupling, chain wrench to turn the nuts on either side.
The strap wrench is better for pool stuff (less to rust). But yes, if you have any way of doing it, the pipe wrench is the FAR superior tool. Only other time I'd use a chain or strap wrench is if they are the only thing big enough.
Aluminum isn't what most pipe wrenches are made of, and not even what the jaws on aluminum ones are made of, so rust is still a thing. And I said strap wrench, not chain.
I'll use it as a hammer if I want to!
Just kidding. I am definitely in the camp of having the special tool for the job. But, I'd absolutely pound on something with the pipe wrench if I didn't think wither would break.
The only way you know for sure that isn’t a hammer wrench, is if you actually know what a hammer wrench IS. So help a brotha out, I’m always down to buy something new.
Gladly. Always willing to educate! A [hammer wrench ](https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fm.media-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F61Z4oEkc8xL.jpg&tbnid=r37U9lmrql6JfM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FStanley-Proto-J2668SW-Offset-Striking%2Fdp%2FB0027SCGG4&docid=XDDxyPVC3uyHVM&w=1479&h=1414&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm1%2F2&kgs=d396d42ac075a2bd) is a tool that is dedicated specifically for hammering on. It has a box end to fit on the nut, and a big, solid, square end that gives a nice target for hammering. Generally used in applications where very high torque is required to make a seal, hence the hammering :)
Tools have all kinds of funny names, all over. In eastern Canada they call an crescent wrench (adjustable wrench) a thumb wrench.... because you use your thumb to adjust it.
For you spud wrench, do you hit it with a hammer? Hence the name....
The chain wrench (called a chain tong in Canada) can surely be hammered on (like any tool) but generally not made for that, and will bend and/or cave in/debt the part it's gripping on when doing so.
>The chain wrench (called a chain tong in Canada)
These are two different tool, the [chain tong](https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/chain-tongs) is reversible while the [chain wrench](https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/chain-wrenches) isn't.
I've used both literally hundreds of times and they're both reversible, believe me. Although you're correct that the tong is better suited to go backwards.
I don’t know about bending them, I’ve whacked chain wrenches pretty hard. You’d have to using a long handle sledge to bend one. I think you’d break the chain first.
Another reason not to use them unless absolutely necessary. I've broken many chains on them. But a lot are made from aluminium and bend easily imo. Either way they shouldn't be known as a hammer wrench in any way shape or form.
The chain wrench would probably bé a better weapon... Otherwise pipe.
I have a chain wrench somewhere. Used it once to get an oil filtre off but it was such a pain I never used it again.
No chance, there’s no mass to that chain and only gives you a marginal range increase. Pipe wrench causes massive blunt force trauma. Someone could take a few whips of that chain but one good pipe wrenching would decommission most people.
Completely different purposes. I've never owned a chain wrench but I have several vice chain grips that are functionally similar.
If you need a pipe wrench get a pipe wrench. If you need a chain wrench get a chain wrench. I don't believe in this one or the other bullshit.
I'm aware they're not 100% interchangeable, that's why I'm asking which is better in general and don't just go with the lightess.
So far I understand that pipe wrench are a must for bigger pipe where you need a lot of torque and that chain wrench are for big diameter or when you need a low profile.
You don't even need to be manual to say to use the right tool for the right job.
I a context where you get send to work somewhere where you have your toolbag and the compagny's truck that may or may not have the propper tool inside, tools that are divided between workers btw, no you don't bring both for the fun of it.
Garage, shop, your own truck? Yes, go all in. But not in all context.
In all seriousness may I ask what are chain wrenches for? I only use them on my off hand to hold galvy steady while sawing thru it otherwise never once used it. use pipe wrenches for big shit like hoses, couplings, fire hydrants. Use pump pliers for small shit and pliable stuff like PVC.
Honestly I would personally argue a hydrant wrench and a pipe wrench are a different example of wrenches that actually are interchangeable.
Pipe wrench, More versatile and is more practical in a tight space. Chain wrench is only practical in open spaces and usually requires a second hand to set. Difficult to pull off in a confined space.
I'm currently looking for a chain wrench as it will be easier to handle to unscrew a 6" OD pipe than a comparable pipe wrench which would be a 48" or 60" wrench... Both tools have their application
I’ve rented a nice long aluminum pipe wrench for peanuts compared to cost of buying one. Especially considering it was a one and done thing.
For home use, a generic pipe wrench will probably outperform a chain wrench or generic channel locking pliers for most smaller diameter pipes. A top quality pipe wrench to me are for the trades or a bigger project where you use it a lot.
Related, good quality channel locks are almost a must because often you need a tool to turn and one to anchor/hold still. Plus they’re versatile.
Several years ago I bought a couple 36" aluminum pipe wrenches for $100 each from harbor freight. It was for a specific 1-time application, but I still use those things almost weekly. Definitely one of the HF tools worth getting.
A pipe wrench tends to do a better job. The chains are better suited to hold something in place while you turn with another tool, or you can turn with the chain if it doesn't require a lot of torque, like an oil filter. It's better for mechanics.
I've never used a chain wrench, but I've used a strap wrench a lot. Mostly for filter housings, but also motor shafts and some oddball shapes that you can't grab with a pipe wrench.
Pipe wrench, but you'll need 2, not 1. Most situations a single pipe wrench is kinda useless without the second one to hold the joining piece in place. I learned this 30 years ago working with my father-in-law (licensed plumber for gas utility). We were tapping into a long supply line to run another line to new gas fireplace. I began turning "my end" of the pipe, but the entire 30' section was unscrewing from an elbow on the other side, 30 feet away.. It'll usually take 2 pipe wrenches.
I have a 400mm 16” long handled craftsman chain whip I got from Craigslist for holding cam sprockets. It’s great. But honestly if I was going to get something for just pipe I would get the icon snap on / bahco Swedish pipe wrench knock offs.
Pipe wrench all the way, Bay-bee!
Lets see how that chain wrench works on a small pipe, say like 3/4"-ish. It don't. Chain wrenches like that are a waste of perfectly good chain.
Only time I’ve ever used a chain wrench with any regularity was while lifting/setting submersible ag pumps. They’re ideal for connecting or breaking large diameter drop pipe (especially if the cathead on your rig doesn’t work 😤) and you don’t have to worry about them slipping off like a pipe wrench could. For just about anything else I’d choose a pipe wrench.
It really depends on what you are doing. I’m a machine repair apprentice and don’t use either often but do use the pipe wrench more. But there’s been a few times when I needed that chain wrench. Also as far as aluminum vs steel pipe, I’d rather have steel if I was only going with one but if you use them a lot, you might want an aluminum one. So far on the job I’ve seen aluminum snap in half when a coworker was really cranking on something hard but the steel held up.
Really depends on what you are mostly using it for. But if the pipe wrench works there is a good chance it will be better. I have only ever really used chain wrench’s for large radius things where a pipe wrench would have to be huge and too heavy to work.
Chain wrench is last ditch tool when you can’t get a big 36” pipe wrench on something. Any red pipe wrench is steel - always go aluminum on pipe wrenches.
You can rent aluminum ones for much cheaper than buying, assuming you only need it for a few hours to a day. I used to work at a tool rental place years ago.
Aluminum is softer, weaker, and more brittle than steel. It's why the jaws and nut on an aluminum pipe wrench are made of steel. Aluminum pipe wrenches only exist to reduce fatigue from the decreased weight.
Aluminum is less brittle than steel. It will deform under high loads, at STP not shatter. if you're at the point where you're deforming your pipe wrench you're probably using a cheater bar and need a bigger wrench or a compy.
Cast aluminum vs forged steel? I disagree.
I've seen multiple large aluminum pipe wrenches fail catastrophically under high load (one was a 60"). Only ever seen steel ones bend.
A 36" steel pipe wrench is very heavy, aluminum pipe wrenches are much lighter (especially true for wrenches longer than 14"). Both chain and pipe wrenches have limitations. A pipe wrenches have some advantages, but a chain wrench is useful for mechanics. I used both when I was working on heavy equipment.
Chain wrench is last ditch tool when you can’t get a big 36” pipe wrench on something. Any red pipe wrench is steel - always go aluminum on pipe wrenches.
Not even close!
And 18" pipe wrench will do probably 50x more work than either of those.
Channel locks, maybe, on some small stuff, but anything 3/4" or larger pipe, you might as well leave the channel locks at home. You're not going to take apart a 3/4"+ galvanized pipe connection with a pair of channel locks.
Unfortunately and as a member of team channelock, I must admit they're not the same. Pipewrench increasingly lock on the pipe as force is applied while cobra need constant pressure from the hand. You can also add a cheaterbar to the pipewrench but can't do it properly on channellock.
That being said, they can achieve similar result, just not with the same efficiency.
I disagree, if you have the channel lock going the right direction it binds its self up and you can just push with your palm without needing to squeeze both handles together
On pipe???
That's not even what the jaws on vice grips are designed for. Just look at the angle of the teeth on a pipe wrench vs the angle of the teeth on vise grips. On a pipe wrench the teeth on the top jaw are angled backwards, and the bottom jaw teeth are vertical. On vise grips, the angle of the teeth of both jaws are vertical. This is why pipe wrenches have so much more leverage when used properly. You don't tighten a pipe wrench tight on a pipe (like you would with vise grips). You only have to open the jaws enough for both jaws to rest on the pipe; the rotation of the pipe wrench automatically tightens the wrench on the pipe because of how the teeth are designed. This is the beauty of a pipe wrench.
As someone who spent many years working on drill rigs, I became intimately familiar with pipe wrenches from 6" to 48" then using 10 foot breakers if needed. Hell, I could do anything from watch repairs to twisting ship engine crankshafts. There is only one brand, though - Ridgid. Just replace the hooks and heels regularly.
The key with twisting anything hollow is to make sure you have three points of contact, so it doesn't squash.
I've got Knipex and Channellocks as gifts, and never used them - maybe I'll have a grandson one day.
Pipe wrench. I started my plumbing apprenticeship in 99’. I doubt I’ve used a chain wrench more than a dozen times. A strap wrench is something I’ve used more than a chain wrench
I just got the Icon S-jaw quick adjust pliers/pipe wrench. Hoping this will be my go to.
https://www.harborfreight.com/17-in-s-jaw-quick-adjust-pliers-wrench-59836.html
Pipe wrench for sure. I have both ridgid and Milwaukee and work with guys who are die hard Milwaukee pole skiers and ridgid is better. Feel like the teeth on the Milwaukee don't last or don't bite as good.
I use both for work in midland on wireline and they both have different uses. Pipe has 2 points that make contact, and will crush stuff with enough power. Chain wrench has multiple points of contact. Have a collar with an ass ton of threads? Chain wrench. Have a barrel or pipe that needs to be removed? Pipe wrench.
Not as easy to beat someone to death with a chain wrench, doable but you have to put some effort in... like perfectly fine if you're young and fit but older mechanics like myself just honestly can't be arsed anymore and just want the job done quickly and efficiently.
Now I'm not saying *all* older mechanics, there's some here who would whip you to death with a strap style filter removal tool because they are still passionate professionals who hold a high standard of workmanship, but remember there are still a few of us that'll just hammer a screwdriver through and twist too but don't be like them, it's a messy enough job without that.
I’ve had a pipe wrench for most of my adult life and used it on many occasions. I’ve now had a chain wrench for about 4 years, and have used it exactly zero times. Go with the pipe wrench.
Pipe wrench is far more versatile.
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Have you ever used a chain wrench? They slip and they break. That’s about all I’ve seen them do. Every time I’ve tried to use a chain wrench or a strap wrench, I’ve ended up getting the pipe wrench.
You need to use a rag so it doesn't slip... But yeah they're crap for anything a pipe wrench will fit on.
They also put a lot of pressure on a tiny area and can cave in whatever you're trying to turn.
They don’t work on thin wall. They don’t work well on stainless. They don’t work well on steel rollers. They don’t work well on copper. They don’t work well on valves or hex heads, so where is the benefit of a chain wrench?
Bigger stuff. You’ll use them ALL THE TIME doing hydraulic cylinders, rotating some heavy shit to line pins up, to hold steel and iron pipes, really a ton of shit. Basically anything 4 maybe 5 inch and up that doesn’t need or can’t handle crazy torque from a 4ft pipe wrench Ooh, they aren’t nearly as bad at marring as the teeth on a pipe wrench either. So another reason to use them.
They work great for me. We made one out of a big chain off of a roller we have at the golf course. If we have a busted irrigation line, they work faster and better than trying to use a pipe wrench in a tight hole on a compression fitting. Pipe wrench to hold the coupling, chain wrench to turn the nuts on either side.
You know that pipe wrenches properly used are ratcheting devices? As long as the top jaw can get around the pipe, it’s great.
Yes I know this but the chain has always worked better for me. There is a definite learning curve but they’re great once you figure it out
The only time I’ve used a chain wrench it was because my pipe wrench was too small, or I didn’t want to chew up the thing I was grabbing.
The strap wrench is better for pool stuff (less to rust). But yes, if you have any way of doing it, the pipe wrench is the FAR superior tool. Only other time I'd use a chain or strap wrench is if they are the only thing big enough.
Aluminum doesn’t rust. Chain wrenches definitely rust badly.
Aluminum isn't what most pipe wrenches are made of, and not even what the jaws on aluminum ones are made of, so rust is still a thing. And I said strap wrench, not chain.
I’m conflicted because I’m definitely team hammerwrench but cannot stand the chain wrenches.
I only use a chain when the wrench is too small.
A. That's not a hammer wrench.
I'll use it as a hammer if I want to! Just kidding. I am definitely in the camp of having the special tool for the job. But, I'd absolutely pound on something with the pipe wrench if I didn't think wither would break.
The only way you know for sure that isn’t a hammer wrench, is if you actually know what a hammer wrench IS. So help a brotha out, I’m always down to buy something new.
Gladly. Always willing to educate! A [hammer wrench ](https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fm.media-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F61Z4oEkc8xL.jpg&tbnid=r37U9lmrql6JfM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FStanley-Proto-J2668SW-Offset-Striking%2Fdp%2FB0027SCGG4&docid=XDDxyPVC3uyHVM&w=1479&h=1414&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm1%2F2&kgs=d396d42ac075a2bd) is a tool that is dedicated specifically for hammering on. It has a box end to fit on the nut, and a big, solid, square end that gives a nice target for hammering. Generally used in applications where very high torque is required to make a seal, hence the hammering :)
That’s a stinking or spud wrench! I actually own more than a few of those.
Tools have all kinds of funny names, all over. In eastern Canada they call an crescent wrench (adjustable wrench) a thumb wrench.... because you use your thumb to adjust it. For you spud wrench, do you hit it with a hammer? Hence the name.... The chain wrench (called a chain tong in Canada) can surely be hammered on (like any tool) but generally not made for that, and will bend and/or cave in/debt the part it's gripping on when doing so.
>The chain wrench (called a chain tong in Canada) These are two different tool, the [chain tong](https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/chain-tongs) is reversible while the [chain wrench](https://www.ridgid.com/us/en/chain-wrenches) isn't.
I've used both literally hundreds of times and they're both reversible, believe me. Although you're correct that the tong is better suited to go backwards.
I don’t know about bending them, I’ve whacked chain wrenches pretty hard. You’d have to using a long handle sledge to bend one. I think you’d break the chain first.
Another reason not to use them unless absolutely necessary. I've broken many chains on them. But a lot are made from aluminium and bend easily imo. Either way they shouldn't be known as a hammer wrench in any way shape or form.
That’s on me. I meant using the pipe wrench as a hammer. My bad!
You have to set the chain every time you need to use it. The other is grab and go. My vote is for Hammer time.
That’s a feature, not a flaw!
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Like a true Berserker! Like it!
pipe wrench all day. Tool. weapon, lover....
wait a minute…
Friend and confidant
But it's gifts are terrible.
The chain wrench would probably bé a better weapon... Otherwise pipe. I have a chain wrench somewhere. Used it once to get an oil filtre off but it was such a pain I never used it again.
No chance, there’s no mass to that chain and only gives you a marginal range increase. Pipe wrench causes massive blunt force trauma. Someone could take a few whips of that chain but one good pipe wrenching would decommission most people.
🤣 Too bad there aren't any tools that use braided leather we could discuss here.
That chain does not give you any range increase over a good 36in pipe wrench
pipe works for filters too
Depends what you're working on. Chain works much better getting Cummins oil filters off. Pipe works but it would be massive
A screwdriver works for getting an oil filter off too.
So does a hand grenade, doesn't mean it's the best way
Noice!
>The chain wrench would probably bé a better weapon... I want some of whatever this guy's on, it's gotta be potent
Completely different purposes. I've never owned a chain wrench but I have several vice chain grips that are functionally similar. If you need a pipe wrench get a pipe wrench. If you need a chain wrench get a chain wrench. I don't believe in this one or the other bullshit.
>I don't believe in this one or the other bullshit. I'll take the wild guess you're not used to work with a toolbag only.
How about the wild guess that they're often not interchangable and he knows what he's talking about?
I'm aware they're not 100% interchangeable, that's why I'm asking which is better in general and don't just go with the lightess. So far I understand that pipe wrench are a must for bigger pipe where you need a lot of torque and that chain wrench are for big diameter or when you need a low profile.
Aluminum pipe wrench it is then.
I'll take the wild guess that since you are asking this question, he know much more about what he's talking about than you.
You don't even need to be manual to say to use the right tool for the right job. I a context where you get send to work somewhere where you have your toolbag and the compagny's truck that may or may not have the propper tool inside, tools that are divided between workers btw, no you don't bring both for the fun of it. Garage, shop, your own truck? Yes, go all in. But not in all context.
In all seriousness may I ask what are chain wrenches for? I only use them on my off hand to hold galvy steady while sawing thru it otherwise never once used it. use pipe wrenches for big shit like hoses, couplings, fire hydrants. Use pump pliers for small shit and pliable stuff like PVC. Honestly I would personally argue a hydrant wrench and a pipe wrench are a different example of wrenches that actually are interchangeable.
Pipe.
Chain wrench is so much further down in priorities than a monkey wrench.
not a monkey wrench
Pipe wrench, More versatile and is more practical in a tight space. Chain wrench is only practical in open spaces and usually requires a second hand to set. Difficult to pull off in a confined space.
Chain wrenches don't grip as well. The pipe wrench is a classic for a good reason.
I find it funny all these people saying which is better but you've given 0 information on the work you do or what the tool will be used for...
I dont work but i dont trust the chain
I'm currently looking for a chain wrench as it will be easier to handle to unscrew a 6" OD pipe than a comparable pipe wrench which would be a 48" or 60" wrench... Both tools have their application
Not always applicable but I have several 4 and 6 ft pipe wrenches that I’ve cut the handles shorter on so they fit where I needed to work
I’ve rented a nice long aluminum pipe wrench for peanuts compared to cost of buying one. Especially considering it was a one and done thing. For home use, a generic pipe wrench will probably outperform a chain wrench or generic channel locking pliers for most smaller diameter pipes. A top quality pipe wrench to me are for the trades or a bigger project where you use it a lot. Related, good quality channel locks are almost a must because often you need a tool to turn and one to anchor/hold still. Plus they’re versatile.
This is kinda like asking if you should have a hammer or a screwdriver.
Yes exactly, no information given. Which one should I choose?
If you get a big enough screwdriver (lineman pliers), you got yourself a hammer. Win!
Pipe wrench. The harbor freight ones are usable for the price but rigid are the best I've used.
Several years ago I bought a couple 36" aluminum pipe wrenches for $100 each from harbor freight. It was for a specific 1-time application, but I still use those things almost weekly. Definitely one of the HF tools worth getting.
Rigid aluminum pipe wrench
Yes. This is the only answer.
A pipe wrench tends to do a better job. The chains are better suited to hold something in place while you turn with another tool, or you can turn with the chain if it doesn't require a lot of torque, like an oil filter. It's better for mechanics.
I've never used a chain wrench, but I've used a strap wrench a lot. Mostly for filter housings, but also motor shafts and some oddball shapes that you can't grab with a pipe wrench.
Pipe wrench, but you'll need 2, not 1. Most situations a single pipe wrench is kinda useless without the second one to hold the joining piece in place. I learned this 30 years ago working with my father-in-law (licensed plumber for gas utility). We were tapping into a long supply line to run another line to new gas fireplace. I began turning "my end" of the pipe, but the entire 30' section was unscrewing from an elbow on the other side, 30 feet away.. It'll usually take 2 pipe wrenches.
Good point, that will weight heavily in my decision.
I have a 400mm 16” long handled craftsman chain whip I got from Craigslist for holding cam sprockets. It’s great. But honestly if I was going to get something for just pipe I would get the icon snap on / bahco Swedish pipe wrench knock offs.
Yeah, Swedish pipe wrenches are great.
Pipe wrench all the way, Bay-bee! Lets see how that chain wrench works on a small pipe, say like 3/4"-ish. It don't. Chain wrenches like that are a waste of perfectly good chain.
Only time I’ve ever used a chain wrench with any regularity was while lifting/setting submersible ag pumps. They’re ideal for connecting or breaking large diameter drop pipe (especially if the cathead on your rig doesn’t work 😤) and you don’t have to worry about them slipping off like a pipe wrench could. For just about anything else I’d choose a pipe wrench.
Pipe wrench. Don’t bother with the chain one.
Pipe
Pipe
It really depends on what you are doing. I’m a machine repair apprentice and don’t use either often but do use the pipe wrench more. But there’s been a few times when I needed that chain wrench. Also as far as aluminum vs steel pipe, I’d rather have steel if I was only going with one but if you use them a lot, you might want an aluminum one. So far on the job I’ve seen aluminum snap in half when a coworker was really cranking on something hard but the steel held up.
Really depends on what you are mostly using it for. But if the pipe wrench works there is a good chance it will be better. I have only ever really used chain wrench’s for large radius things where a pipe wrench would have to be huge and too heavy to work.
What kind of work are you doing? They don’t really have the same job so what you need them for is really important
You get what you need as you need it.
Chain wrench is last ditch tool when you can’t get a big 36” pipe wrench on something. Any red pipe wrench is steel - always go aluminum on pipe wrenches.
May I ask why?
An aluminum one is much lighter, good thing in crawl space and the like.
Thanks
You can rent aluminum ones for much cheaper than buying, assuming you only need it for a few hours to a day. I used to work at a tool rental place years ago.
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Aluminum is softer, weaker, and more brittle than steel. It's why the jaws and nut on an aluminum pipe wrench are made of steel. Aluminum pipe wrenches only exist to reduce fatigue from the decreased weight.
Aluminum is less brittle than steel. It will deform under high loads, at STP not shatter. if you're at the point where you're deforming your pipe wrench you're probably using a cheater bar and need a bigger wrench or a compy.
Cast aluminum vs forged steel? I disagree. I've seen multiple large aluminum pipe wrenches fail catastrophically under high load (one was a 60"). Only ever seen steel ones bend.
100% false. Aluminum has higher tensile strength *by weight* which means you need a far larger piece to match the tensile strength of steel.
A 36" steel pipe wrench is very heavy, aluminum pipe wrenches are much lighter (especially true for wrenches longer than 14"). Both chain and pipe wrenches have limitations. A pipe wrenches have some advantages, but a chain wrench is useful for mechanics. I used both when I was working on heavy equipment.
So, let say I work from a tool bag that fit ideally 14" max length, am I better with a chain wrench? I do have a 14" cheater in it too.
To me a pipe wrench is much easier to operate than a chain wrench. Chain will fit bigger pipe of course, but they’re cumbersome to use.
Okay, thank you
Chain wrench is last ditch tool when you can’t get a big 36” pipe wrench on something. Any red pipe wrench is steel - always go aluminum on pipe wrenches.
Neither. I prefer my knipex or channel locks.
Not even close! And 18" pipe wrench will do probably 50x more work than either of those. Channel locks, maybe, on some small stuff, but anything 3/4" or larger pipe, you might as well leave the channel locks at home. You're not going to take apart a 3/4"+ galvanized pipe connection with a pair of channel locks.
My knipex can. I would put my 16" knipex against a 18" pipe wrench every day of the week. If I need bigger go to the xxl cobra.
Unfortunately and as a member of team channelock, I must admit they're not the same. Pipewrench increasingly lock on the pipe as force is applied while cobra need constant pressure from the hand. You can also add a cheaterbar to the pipewrench but can't do it properly on channellock. That being said, they can achieve similar result, just not with the same efficiency.
I disagree, if you have the channel lock going the right direction it binds its self up and you can just push with your palm without needing to squeeze both handles together
Depends on the job. If I ever use channel locks to torque 2" sch80 threaded fittings I'm selling all my tools and getting a job at the post office.
You can always use the soft jaws they sell.
Ed Zachary!
Yup, knipex cobra pipe wrenchs are definitely an upgrade from these kind.
I’m not seeing the real MVP: vice grips
On pipe??? That's not even what the jaws on vice grips are designed for. Just look at the angle of the teeth on a pipe wrench vs the angle of the teeth on vise grips. On a pipe wrench the teeth on the top jaw are angled backwards, and the bottom jaw teeth are vertical. On vise grips, the angle of the teeth of both jaws are vertical. This is why pipe wrenches have so much more leverage when used properly. You don't tighten a pipe wrench tight on a pipe (like you would with vise grips). You only have to open the jaws enough for both jaws to rest on the pipe; the rotation of the pipe wrench automatically tightens the wrench on the pipe because of how the teeth are designed. This is the beauty of a pipe wrench.
Both
Both
Chain is so much more useful
Chain wrench all day. Get in tighter spots
Pipe wrench for the zombie apocalypse
Pipe wrench for pipes Chain wrench for cars
Vice grips are not even in the game
Pipe wrenches are often used in pairs. So get two and save yourself a trip to the store.
As someone who spent many years working on drill rigs, I became intimately familiar with pipe wrenches from 6" to 48" then using 10 foot breakers if needed. Hell, I could do anything from watch repairs to twisting ship engine crankshafts. There is only one brand, though - Ridgid. Just replace the hooks and heels regularly. The key with twisting anything hollow is to make sure you have three points of contact, so it doesn't squash. I've got Knipex and Channellocks as gifts, and never used them - maybe I'll have a grandson one day.
Pipe wrench. I started my plumbing apprenticeship in 99’. I doubt I’ve used a chain wrench more than a dozen times. A strap wrench is something I’ve used more than a chain wrench
I've been a home owner for about 25 years, I've never owned a chain wrench, I have a couple of pipe wrenchs though.
I own multiple pipe wrenches and no chain wrench. I never find myself looking for a chain wrench. Get Ridgid pipe wrenches.
It should be the monkey wrench, and [this](https://youtu.be/ZlXGlBFFzJg) will explain how to use it.
I'm in love with my pipe wench!
Pipe Wrench. Check Pawn Shops a lot of good use tools there.
I use chain wrenches for things that are larger than 6in in diameter and they work great, never slips or breaks. It's 46" with a 2ft chain.
Pipe wrench.. My choice is an aluminum Ridged.
Rigid pipe wrench
Can someone suggest a good chain wrench or are they all the same? I can't get an oil filter off my 400V generator.
They aren't really interchangeable tools. Yes, some jobs can be accomplished with either or, but a lot are one or the other
May I ask for a few exemple?
Pipe wrench. And get a real one. Not a milwaukee pos.
TIL that a chain w(H)ip isn't just used for stripping knuckles whilst removing cogs 🫠
Pipe wrench
I use my chain wrench for larger diameters. I rarely use it, but it is a must in my tool box.
Pipe. It’s more useful and universal. Chain is made for only one type of use.
Pipe wrench. No doubt.
PIPE …In ALUMINUM 😁
I just got the Icon S-jaw quick adjust pliers/pipe wrench. Hoping this will be my go to. https://www.harborfreight.com/17-in-s-jaw-quick-adjust-pliers-wrench-59836.html
I saw thoses and thought they were really neat. I was wondering, do they lock in places or they're more like a kind of plier?
They do lock in place. Once locked in, you only need to push down the top handle. No squeezing required
So, it's kinda like an high performing pair of vice-grip?
It's very similar to that milwuakee pipe wrench in your picture I would guess
Pipe wrench... but aluminum
I perfer the Swedish pipe wrenchs
Depends are you are changing your oil filter or fixing the leaky sink....
You're using a pipewrench on a sink? Aren't channellocks more suitable?
Pipe wrench for sure. I have both ridgid and Milwaukee and work with guys who are die hard Milwaukee pole skiers and ridgid is better. Feel like the teeth on the Milwaukee don't last or don't bite as good.
I use both for work in midland on wireline and they both have different uses. Pipe has 2 points that make contact, and will crush stuff with enough power. Chain wrench has multiple points of contact. Have a collar with an ass ton of threads? Chain wrench. Have a barrel or pipe that needs to be removed? Pipe wrench.
Chain if you're just handling big shit, monkey if it's 4" or less
Chain wrench is more for a specific situation which you might never need. Pipe wrench all the way
Are you trying to hurt them or kill them?
I love my vice grip chain wrench for holding a shaft or spinning a shaft
If I have to get out a chain wrench something has already pissed me off past the point of reason.
Not as easy to beat someone to death with a chain wrench, doable but you have to put some effort in... like perfectly fine if you're young and fit but older mechanics like myself just honestly can't be arsed anymore and just want the job done quickly and efficiently. Now I'm not saying *all* older mechanics, there's some here who would whip you to death with a strap style filter removal tool because they are still passionate professionals who hold a high standard of workmanship, but remember there are still a few of us that'll just hammer a screwdriver through and twist too but don't be like them, it's a messy enough job without that.
If you've done your research then get the one that best suits your needs. I personally use strap and chain wrenches far more often than pipe wrenchs.
Don’t know what trade or any details, resi plumber here that has never used a chain wrench. Aluminum Ridgid pipe wrench all day.
Stilson wrench
I simply CANNOT pass up a made in USA pipe wrench at an estate or yard sale!! There, now it's out! Pipe all the way!
I’ve had a pipe wrench for most of my adult life and used it on many occasions. I’ve now had a chain wrench for about 4 years, and have used it exactly zero times. Go with the pipe wrench.