I’ve been a multi-skilled craftsman for about 30 years and have worked at several major manufacturing facilities in the U.S. One of the things that I come to understand is that all craftsmen need sockets and wrenches.

I know this sounds obvious, but I am continuously amazed by the mechanics and electricians who will grab a pair of pliers instead of choosing the correct socket or wrench that should be used for that particular job. My guess is that they do this to save time, but:

• this usually ends up taking longer
• by not using the proper tool for the job, they will probably damage the fastener which will result in the “next” repair taking additional time
• this is not safe (pliers could slip and injure the craftsman)
• using the incorrect tool may not tighten the fastener to the proper torque setting, which results in “come-backs” and “do-overs”

In general, if room and application permits, you should use a six point socket and ratchet. Your next best choice would be a combination wrench using the box end, if possible. The reason for this is simple - “the more contact points you have, the less chance there is of damaging the fastener”.

Or your knuckles when those pliers slip.

While on this subject, I’d like to point out a few things about adjustable wrenches. Personally I don’t like them, but I do feel they have there place, such as when space is at a premium - like in an emergency tool kit or when traveling.

As with all tools, quality really counts, but even more so with adjustable wrenches:

• look for solid construction
• make sure that the adjuster and jaw to have very little play but still move freely through out the entire range of motion

Also many people don’t realize that there is a right and wrong way to put an adjustable wrench on a fastener. The movable jaw should go on the side of the direction rotation. That is if tightening it will be on the left, if loosening it will be on the right.