Any tradesperson or avid do-it-yourself enthusiast will emphasise the importance of a spanner in your toolbag. Tradies always have them on hand, and any good handy person knows to always have one available at home. They’re good for working on construction sites, and just as crucial for odd jobs around the house. A spanner is useful for tightening any nuts or bolts, both inside and outside the house, and can also be used when working on your car. Trust me, you need one.
The importance of a spanner sets
The challenge with spanners lies in the fact that one size doesn’t fit all projects. In this case, size matters, and to tackle various tasks, you’ll require a diverse range of spanners readily available. This is where spanner sets come to the rescue, offering a convenient solution to keep all your spanners organised in a single package.
A spanner set typically comprises an assortment of different sizes, thoughtfully curated into one kit. While the contents may differ among various manufacturers, the best sets always come encased in protective packaging, ensuring their longevity, and facilitating easy transportation. Though it is possible to purchase individual spanners and assemble your own set, opting for pre-packaged spanner sets usually proves more cost-effective.
The size of the spanner set you need depends on the nature of your tasks. Tradies might require a more extensive set compared to a homeowner or hobbyist who may manage well with a smaller selection. In any case, having a spanner set at your disposal ensures you have the right tool for the job whenever the need arises.
Types of spanner sets
Differentiating one spanner set from another goes beyond just the number of spanners included. Let’s explore some of the most popular types:
Ratchet Spanner Sets:
Though slightly pricier than other options, ratchet spanner sets stand out for their unparalleled versatility. The key advantage lies in their unique design, enabling a full rotation without the need to remove the spanner from the nut or bolt between turns. Moreover, they allow for bidirectional movement and excel in confined spaces, significantly saving time and effort during your projects. Professionals who rely on spanners regularly prefer ratchet spanner sets, but they also make an excellent choice for beginners due to their user-friendly nature compared to non-ratchet spanners.
Box Spanner Sets:
Recognisable by their boxy appearance, box spanner sets feature a rounded metal tube with a built-in spanner attachment on each end. Their elongated shape proves advantageous for accessing hard-to-reach areas. While it might take some getting used to for beginners, box spanners effectively get the job done. A drawback of box spanner sets is their compatibility with only one specific brand, limiting options for expanding your set. However, they offer a firmer grip than many other spanners, making them a popular choice. As the metal rod is turned instead of the spanner itself, using two hands becomes feasible, making it beneficial for individuals dealing with wrist pain or arthritis.
Socket Spanner Sets:
For those seeking value for money and a versatile tool usable in various situations, socket spanner sets fit the bill. The standout feature is that you receive a single spanner shaft, which accommodates a wide array of spanner heads at the end, granting endless functionalities from a single tool. While this means you might have to switch heads frequently during projects requiring different spanner types, these sets occupy less space and allow you to expand your collection over time by adding new heads. This flexibility particularly benefits home users who do not require a professional-grade set.
Some of the other spanner sets on the market include:
- Ring spanner sets
- Combination spanner sets
- Imperial spanner sets
- Metric spanner sets
- Adjustable spanner sets
- Flare nut spanner sets
- Flexible head spanner sets
- Open-ended spanner sets
- Insulated spanner sets.
Each spanner set has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Spanner set sizes
When it comes to choosing the right spanner set, you’ll need to consider what you’re going to be using it for, and how much you’re willing to spend. Some spanner sets come with only three spanners, while some can come with more than twenty. It really all comes down to you and your needs. Consider the sizes of the bolts and nuts you’re going to use, and make sure your spanner set will be compatible with it. It's wise to err on the side of caution and include a few extra sizes in your set. This will account for unforeseen future projects that may need different spanner sizes. You never know when such versatility will prove invaluable, so having additional options on hand means you’ll be well-prepared for any task that arises.
Spanner set cases
Your spanner set typically comes nestled within a protective casing, safeguarding them from everyday wear and tear. The quality of the case directly correlates with the level of protection afforded to your tools, so always opt for a reputable company that provides sturdy equipment and accessories.
These casings can be crafted from heavy-duty plastic or even robust metal, ensuring durability and resilience. However, such cases may entail higher costs and prove somewhat bulkier for transportation.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly and lightweight alternative, a material case might be a preferable option. A spanner roll, available in 12 or 15 spanner capacities, offers a practical solution for carrying your set with ease. As the name suggests, a spanner roll means you can easily roll it up and take it with you on any project.
Consider your specific needs, considering factors like portability and overall convenience. By choosing the right case, you’ll ensure your spanner set remains well-protected and ready for use whenever duty calls.
Made for tradesmen, by tradesmen
At Tuff Tool Bags, we offer a wide range of vinyl tool bags to suit any tradie or hobbyist. And if you’re not sure what you need or need a little help, simply contact us today. We’re always happy to have a chat.
