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Today we look at the performance difference between 12-point, 6-point and spline box end wrenches and sockets on soft and rounded fasteners. Because for as long as I can remember there’s been plenty of debate about each, without much testing or data to say one way or another for sure. Was surprised by some of the results on this one, sometimes a design you may question just doesn’t care about your opinion and brings the beans.
Torque of TTC is working in product development for Astro Tools (who don’t make combination wrenches). TTC is not the only testing out there, always consider multiple sources when looking at a tool!
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*Follow up video testing 14 brands on the open end! **https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzY4jg7NmKw*
If you’re wondering why 12 point and spline are being tested on 6-point fasteners, its because that’s how they are used 95% of the time in a shop environment. And how they are sold to us on tool trucks. Combination wrenches are as old as time yet very infrequently used on actual 12-point or spline head bolts now days, they are a way to wrench on 6-point with less arc swing before repositioning, and therefore more access.
You have to have a set of 12 point around for the occasional square nut or square stock/ valve stem.
I’ve always wondered which worked better on what fasteners. Thanks for the video
Man, spline feels so gimmicky….but I guess I should be getting a couple sets. Who knew?
So much false in this video.
12p sockets were invented to allow initial engagement, back when rachets had low tooth count.
Same is true for 12p box wrenches.
It’s a lot easier to get the wrench on & start torqing a bolt loose in tight places… than it was a 6p.
12p bolt heads came much later to enhance initial engagement in tight places… & are also less prone to rounding off, as a 12p wrench or socket contacts more surface area on a 12p bolt head.
That’s why we have & still use 12p sockets.