What do towel rails, flat pack furniture, and chainsaw chains have in common? They all need an Allen key (also known as an Allen wrench or hex key) to tighten them up.
These versatile L- shaped metal bars have a hexagon head at each end, and are used to turn bolts and screws with recessed hexagonal heads. When a screwdriver is the wrong shape for the fastener in front of you, an Allen key is often the answer.
As your ultimate hand tool destination, Tool Kit Depot are your experts in all things hex key. So if you’re looking to turn a few (bolt) heads, grab a torque wrench. After an Allen key drill bit set to supercharge your hex game? We’ve got your back. So head on down to your local Tool Kit Depot store, or shop online for all your hand tool needs
Allen Keys FAQ
Why are Allen keys so popular?
From home DIY to automotive, manufacturing, construction and engineering—Allen keys are essential in almost every project and industry. They’re light, compact, and simple to use, but it’s this simplicity that makes them versatile. Whether you’re installing bathroom fixtures, securing caliper slide pins when replacing brake pads, or assembling a cot, a set of hex keys or Allen key screwdriver is your best mate to get the job done right.
What is the difference between an Allen key and torx key?
While very similar to look at, these two hand tools are different. A hex key is, as the name suggests, a hexagon shape, formed of six flat sides. On the other hand, a star Allen key or torx key is a star shape, with six points. This unique shape means the tool has more contact with the fastener, giving you increased torque and a lower chance of slipping or rounding off. So for your general tasks or working in tight spaces, reach for the simple Allen key. But if high torque for greater tightening force is needed, grab a torx key.
What is the difference between imperial Allen keys and metric Allen keys?
The unit of measurement is the key difference between an imperial Allen key and its metric mate. In a metric Allen key set, the hex keys are measured in millimetres, but an imperial Allen key set is measured in inches. So depending on the application you're using it for, one may be a better fit than the other.
Check whether the bolt or screw you’re tackling is imperial or metric measurements and use the relevant Allen key. While you can use them interchangeably in a pinch, using metric on metric, or imperial on imperial will give you a tighter fit and less chance of slippage or rounding.
There’s also the matter of precision. Because metric Allen keys come with smaller size increments, they give you a broader range of measurements that allow for more options and better accuracy when you're on the job.
What is a good Allen key set?
A solid hex key set will be made from tough, durable steel like you see in a Kincrome Chrome Vanadium set. It's built to last, comfortable in the hand, and comes in a range of sizes to handle all sorts of jobs.
Depending on what you're using it for and how you store your tools, there are different styles available. A small Allen key set on a ring will do the trick for DIY, but if you’re after something more convenient for your tool box, a T-handle or foldable set might be a better fit. Or you may find a hex screwdriver set more ergonomic for those longer jobs—it’s all down to personal preference and the task at hand.
