Lastly, there’s one other added benefit to having both SAE & metric hex keys. In the United States, larger metric half sizes like 6.5 mm aren’t standard in most hex key sets. However, the 1/4″ SAE hex wrench will likely work in place of a 6.5 mm wrench. In scenarios like these, use the chart to estimate the correct alternative. You can test different sizes till you find the best match. We do recommend starting slowly to ensure that you don’t damage the hardware. Yes, Allen keys and hex keys are essentially the same tools. They both refer to a type of wrench or tool used to tighten or loosen screws or bolts with hexagonal heads. The term "Allen key" is more commonly used in the United States and Canada, while "hex key" is a more widely used term internationally. These keys are typically L-shaped, with one or both ends featuring a hexagonal shape that corresponds to the size of the hexagonal screw or bolt head. They come in various sizes and are made from durable materials such as hardened steel or chrome vanadium. So, whether you call them Allen keys or hex keys, they serve the same purpose of fitting and manipulating hexagonal fasteners. When were Allen keys invented? Our range of long-reach Allen keys are manufactured by leading brands like Irwin, Stanley, Bahco, GearWrench, Wiha Tools, Facom, RS PRO, and of course the original trademark designer, Allen. How would you use a long reach hex key? There are a few variations of hex keys available, the most common and the one that is synonymous with the tern Allen key is the L-shaped hex key. To help choose the right key for the job we have outlined the most common types below as well as a few of their features and benefits.

Hex keys also referred to as Allen keys or Allen wrenches are used in the application of loosening and tightening hexagonal fasteners. They are used in a variety of industries and are also a handy domestic tool with many uses. They are available in a number of different sizes with both imperial and metric variations available. Note you always fit or remove pedals from the crank end of the pedal spindle. If your pedals have a bolt, cap or screw on the outside end of the pedal spindle, this is only used to service the bearings. Left vs right pedals explained – what are the differences? Size of fastener - probably the most important consideration as the wrong sized key either won't fit the fastener or fit loosely resulting in either damaging the tool or rounding off the fastener making it difficult to remove. Did you know that most people use the wrong screwdriver for the job? It’s essential to distinguish between the various screwdriver types and know what screw you’re using. A set from Halfords will include a variety of screwdrivers for slotted head screws, Phillips drive screws and Pozidriv screws, perfect for any job. Impact drivers & screw bits Straight hex keys These resemble screwdrivers and function in much the same way except the head features either a flat or ball ended hex key, instead of the traditional screwdriver bit.Long-reach Allen keys are a common feature of most good quality hex key sets, which tend to include a useful range of common wrench sizes and diameters (typically from around 1-1.5mm, up to 12mm and beyond).

Moving over to the right-hand side, we’ve provided the metric to SAE guide for Allen wrench conversions. Similar to the metric hex keys, the SAE hex wrenches don’t always have a perfect substitute as seen for SAE size 3/16″. Thus, we recommend that those with only a metric Allen wrench set add a separate SAE hex key set to their stable. Substituting Uncommon Hex Sizes Don’t get confused by dust caps on the outside face of the pedal – these are used for servicing. Laura Dow / Immediate Media Left and right pedals have different threads, and ensuring you are fitting the correct pedal to each side of your bike is key. L-shaped hex keys The most common type of hex key. The L-shaped key is double ended allowing you to use torque to tighten and loosen fasteners with the short end, whilst the long end can be used in the same way as a straight key. Hex keys are available in many different sizes and in both imperial and metric measurements. The size needed will depend on the size of fastener you're working with.Like all hex wrenches, long-reach Allen keys are also sold with a variety of head and handle types for various more specialised applications - these can include: When removing pedals, you will always be turning the spindle of the pedal towards the rear of the bike.