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Pipe Wrenches

A pipe wrench grips pipe and round work with serrated jaws that bite in the tightening direction and slip on the return. On plated or thin-walled pipe the teeth mark the surface, so a chain or strap pattern is the right choice. Stillson, adjustable, chain and heavy-duty patterns are listed here from 8″ to 48″.

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Stillson, 85-degree, chain and heavy duty

The Stillson pattern with its angled serrated jaw is the common one: the jaw bites into the pipe in the tightening direction and slips on the return. The 85-degree pattern carries its jaw almost square to the body, so it works close to a wall and in narrow gaps. The heavy-duty pattern has the section for large diameters and seized joints.

A chain pipe wrench grips with a chain wrapped around the pipe instead of a jaw. Where jaw marks are unacceptable and where the diameter exceeds any jaw opening, it is the only answer; capacities from 4″ to 8″ are listed.

How the grip works, and when it marks

The angle between jaw and pipe is what drives the teeth into the material as force is applied -- the grip comes from that bite. Which is why the wrench marks the pipe and should not be used on plated, chromed or thin-walled tube; there you need a strap or chain pattern.

Set the opening to the diameter before pulling: with the jaw on the pipe there should be about one tooth of clearance between body and pipe. Set dead tight, the jaw cannot bite and the wrench slips.

Spare parts

The jaw is what wears, and the jaw is replaceable. Spare jaws, links and nuts from 8″ to 48″ for heavy-duty and Stillson patterns, spare nuts for the 85-degree pattern and spare chains for the chain wrench are all listed. A sound body does not need replacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Stillson or 85-degree pattern?

    The Stillson carries its jaw at an angle to the body and is the general-purpose choice. The 85-degree pattern holds the jaw nearly square, for pipe close to a wall or in a narrow gap.

  • Can I use a pipe wrench on chromed pipe?

    No. The serrated jaw scores the plating. Use a strap or chain wrench on plated, chromed and thin-walled tube.

  • The wrench slips on the pipe -- why?

    Usually the opening is set too tight: with the jaw on the pipe there should be about one tooth of clearance between body and pipe, or the jaw cannot bite. If the teeth are worn, replace the jaw.

  • When do I need a chain wrench?

    When the diameter is beyond any jaw opening, and where jaw marks are unacceptable. Capacities from 4″ to 8″ are listed here.

  • Can a worn pipe wrench be repaired?

    Yes. Spare jaws, links and nuts for sizes from 8″ to 48″ are listed in the spare parts section.