Hex & Torx Tools

Coping with fasteners may be tricky, while working with specialized fasteners without proper tools is going to be a failure. Your standard screwdrivers and wrenches can work on various nuts, screws, and bolts, but they will be of little help when it comes to hex and torx security screws commonly found in automobiles, bikes, electronic devices, etc. Hex bolts and screws have a hexagonal socket in their head, while torx screw heads feature a star-shaped pattern.

Hex and torx bolts and screws are widely used as security fasteners that can prevent vandalizing or just limit access to the parts of devices and mechanisms than can be easily damaged by unprofessional intrusion. If you need to work on your bike’s brake system, computer’s hard drive, or car, you will need a set of hex and torx tools that will tackle these seemingly challenging tasks with ease. Hex keys, also known as Allen wrenches, are one of the handiest tools that are used with hexagonal screws and bolts. This lightweight L-shaped tool can accommodate very small bolt heads and provide access to hard-to-reach spots.

Hex keys are usually offered in 6 -39 piece sets, featuring long and short arm tools. Long arm hex keys provide greater torque and extra reach, while short arm tools are ideal for delicate jobs. Some hex keys are available in a ball end design. It allows for up to 25 degree angle access to reach around obstructions. Precisely-sized hex ends will accommodate fastener head of sizes ranging from 3/46'' up to 3/8''. Folding hex key wrenches resemble a classic folding knife and can include up to 10 different size keys. Hex bit sockets are more compact than hex key wrenches, though equally effective for removing hex fasteners.

When picking the correct size of torx tools, pay attention to special size markings of torx bolts and screws. The cap sizes of the torx fasteners are described with the help of the capital “T” that is coupled with a number from 1 to 100, the smallest T1 fasteners featuring 0.031 inch head, while the largest T100 having a 0.871 inch cap. External torx fasteners feature a post in the middle of the cap and cannot thus be tightened or loosened with a standard hex key, but require a special torx socket. Dual function internal and external hex keys let you easily switch from internal to external fasteners without changing the tool.