A ratchet mechanism allows you to turn fasteners without removing and repositioning the wrench. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Chrome-plated wrenches are shiny and corrosion resistant. They have a smooth surface, so they’re easier to clean than black-oxide wrenches.

Black-oxide wrenches are easier to grip when dirty or wet because they’re not as smooth as chrome-plated wrenches. To prevent rust, oil them periodically.

Repair kits (sold separately) let you replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

When you’re working up high, keep these wrenches secure at your side. Hook their tether ring to a carabiner or lanyard (not included), so they won’t fall to the ground if dropped. They have a gasket on their head that seals lubrication in and keeps contaminants out. A ratchet mechanism allows you to turn fasteners without removing and repositioning. The smaller the turn needed to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Black-oxide wrenches are easier to grip when dirty or wet because they’re not as smooth as chrome-plated wrenches. To prevent rust, oil them periodically.

Chrome-plated wrenches are shiny and corrosion resistant. They have a smooth surface, so they’re easier to clean than black-oxide wrenches.

Repair kits (sold separately) let you replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

Sealed against dust, dirt, and moisture, these wrenches can be used in greasy machine shops and dusty construction sites. A gasket on their head locks lubrication in and keeps contaminants out. They have a ratchet mechanism, so you can turn fasteners without removing and repositioning. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Black-oxide wrenches are easier to grip when dirty or wet because they’re not as smooth as chrome-plated wrenches. To prevent rust, oil them periodically.

Chrome-plated wrenches are shiny and corrosion resistant. They have a smooth surface, so they’re easier to clean than black-oxide wrenches.

Wrenches with a plastic grip have a cushioned handle.

Repair kits (sold separately) let you replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

No need to pull the socket off these wrenches—push a button to release it. They have a ratchet mechanism that allows you to turn fasteners without removing and repositioning the wrench. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Standard wrenches are built to last. They come from industrial brands, such as Tekton and Gearwrench. Repair kits (sold separately) let you replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

Economy wrenches come from high-quality consumer brands, such as Crescent and DeWalt. They may wear out more quickly than standard wrenches.

Extend the length of these wrenches for more reach—the shaft locks into place at set increments. When it’s time to change your socket, release it with the push of a button. These wrenches have a ratchet mechanism that allows you to turn fasteners without removing and repositioning the tool. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Flip between 1/4" and 3/8" drive-size sockets without switching out your wrench. These ratchet wrenches are an efficient choice for maintenance tasks that involve a broad range of bolt sizes. They're even used for military aircraft repairs in the field—they're also known as crew chief ratchets. An open-head design makes them narrower than sealed-head ratchet wrenches for use in tight spaces. For easy cleaning, turn the exposed ratchet with your fingers to dislodge dirt. This design also allows you to use them like a finger ratchet and get a precise feel for bolt tightness.

Add a ratchet repair kit to replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

No need to pull the socket off the tool—push a button to release. These wrenches also have a head that pivots 180° to reach fasteners in tight spots. Thanks to the ratchet mechanism, you can turn fasteners without removing and repositioning the wrench. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Standard wrenches are built to last. They come from industrial brands, such as Tekton and Gearwrench. Repair kits (sold separately) let you replace a damaged ratcheting mechanism.

Pivot the head and extend the handle—these wrenches adapt to reach fasteners in challenging spots. When it’s time to release the socket, just push the button on the back of the head. You can turn fasteners without removing and repositioning the wrench, thanks to the ratchet mechanism. The rubber grip makes the handle comfortable to hold.

Rather than teeth, these wrenches use a series of rollers to engage the ratchet, enabling work in the tightest of spaces. Also known as silent ratchets, they don't make the traditional clicking sound when turned. The smaller the turn required to ratchet, the less clearance you need to engage the ratchet.

Wrenches with one head can ratchet in both directions, but you’ll need to remove the square drive with pliers and insert it on the opposite side of the head. The square drive is held in place with a retaining ring.

Wrenches with two heads ratchet in both directions—simply flip them around to switch between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation.