For the best result, you need to use the right tools. With the best torque wrench for the money, you can be sure of never over-tightening bolts or nuts, which can damage the thread.
With a torque wrench, you can tighten bolts and nuts to an accurate and set torque.
These are not destructive features for a little wrench, which is why it’s no surprise many manufacturers are producing them.
Luckily, we have put together 12 of the best torque wrench to recommend buying to get the optimal value.
Table of Contents
Best Torque Wrench for the Money
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Is it Worth it to Purchase the Best Torque Wrench
Yes, it is worth it to purchase a torque wrench than an ordinary wrench. A rule of thumb that might help you understand better is to not compromise features for the price.
Buying a high-quality torque wrench would make all fastener tightening more efficient.
More so, a torque wrench won’t damage easily and would most likely cost more in the long run.
The 12 Best Torque Wrench for the Money Review 2024
AmazonBasics 1/4-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
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The first option we would be looking at is this AmazonBasics torque wrench that offers a drive click feature.
Unlike other digital torque wrenches that cost over $100, this wrench is reasonably priced.
What’s even more interesting about this torque wrench is that it is backed up by AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty.
Durable Construction
When looking at this torque wrench, what comes to mind first is its durability.
AmazonBasics built this torque wrench to last with a durable ratchet head constructed from a heat-treated Chromium-molybdenum steel alloy (Cr-Mo).
To further increase the durability and aesthetics, AmazonBasics polished this wrench with a chrome finish, which makes it resistant to corrosion and rust.
Torque Power
Take note, and the AmazonBasics DS-DTW-1 is a ¼ inch drive torque wrench. More so, with this torque wrench, you can get a torque power ranging from 20 – 150 inch-pound or 2.5-15 Nm.
And the dual-range scale control mechanism at the bottom part of the wrench is high-contract, which is easy to read.
AmazonBasic’s DS-DTW-1 can accurately measure up to ±3% accuracy on the control mechanism on this torque wrench.
Making it easy to set this wrench to the right torque needed at the moment.
Comfortable Handle
Using this torque wrench has a good feel on the hands because of the soft rubberized grip put in place by AmazonBasics.
Moreover, the grip handle allows a firm grip on the torque wrench while using it.
Overall, the length of this torque wrench is about 10 inches, which gives you enough room to apply enough force.
And with a weight of only 0.86 pounds or 390g, the weight of this wrench is pretty comfortable to carry for an extended period.
Plastic Case
The plastic case that comes with this torque wrench is great for easy storage. The sturdy plastic is durable and makes this wrench portable and easy to transport.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable rust-resistant construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Comes with a storage case
Cons
- Low-budget wrench, low quality
- Cumbersome to adjust
TEKTON 24335 Reversible Ratchet Head Drives Torque Wrench
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Another great torque wrench we can recommend for the money is from TEKTON. Besides, TEKTON is a Taiwan manufacturer of tools like torque wrenches that lets you work with confidence.
However, the TEKTON 24335 wrench eliminates guessing and the tendency of over-tightening at an affordable price.
Durable Construction
TEKTON, as we already know, build tools to give you confidence; as such, the durability of this torque wrench was not compromised despite its affordability.
The TEKTON 24335 torque wrench is durably built with no plastic parts. Its full steel construction inspires confidence with no worries about it breaking or wearing out.
Powerful Torque
Another point worth noting is that this wrench comes with up to 10 – 150 foot-pound from this wrench.
Here is a rule of thumb, to convert from foot-pound to inch-pound, note that 12 inch-pound is equal to 1 foot-pound. Also, this ½ inch drive torque wrench ranges from 13.6 – 203.5 Nm.
Easy to Use
TEKTON claims this 24335 torque wrench is easy to use; well, that is because of the easy-to-read scale.
The high-contract, dual-range scale is bold and easy to read even in a low-light environment.
Apart from that, the wrench features a reversible ratchet head that makes it possible to drive the wrench in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction.
Simple and Reliable
The simplicity of this torque wrench is impeccable as TEKTON built-in a mechanical operation mechanism of this wrench such that when the preset value is reached, it produces a click sound.
As such, with this torque wrench, there are fewer worries about over-tightening bolts. What even makes this wrench more reliable is that it is calibrated to ±4%.
Pros
- All steel body adds a good surface
- Accurate and reliable
- Easy to grip handle
Cons
- If not handled properly, it is susceptible to rust
Wheeler 553556 Firearms Accurizing Torque Wrench
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Wheeler FAT wrench is a firearm accurizing torque wrench ideal for gunsmithing, scope mounting, and maintenance in general.
The Wheeler 553556 FAT is a perfect complement to the Wheeler Deluxe Gunsmithing Screwdriver Sets.
With these two sets, you can accurately tighten and loosen almost screws on most guns.
Durable Construction
One of the benefits of purchasing this torque wrench is its durability. While it might not be built all steel, it is still durable enough to handle tough tasks.
The bits that come included with the torque wrench are made of S2 tool steel, which is a Rockwell grade C 56-58.
Adjustable Torque
Wheeler 553556 wrench is a hand-driven torque wrench that offers an adjustable torque ranging from 10 – 65 inch-pound.
Note leaving this wrench adjusted at a high torque setting for a long period may damage the internal mechanism.
Accurate and Easy to Use
Apart from being a reliable torque wrench, this Wheeler torque wrench can also take readings as low as ±2 inch-pound up to 40 inch-pound, which is up to ±5% accurate.
This ¼-inch drive is also easy to use as you can apply the same torque settings repeatedly with the flat blade bit, Allen bit, or Torx bit.
Storage Case
Another interesting feature of this torque wrench is the storage case that comes with it. Included in this case are the torque wrench itself and a bunch of bits.
The bits in this torque wrench include a square drive adapter bit,
- T20 Torx bit,
- T15 Torx bit,
- 5/32-inch Allen bit,
- 7/64-inch Allen bit,
- 3/32-inch Allen bit,
- #32 flat blade bit,
- #11 flat blade bit,
- #10 flat blade bits, and
- a Leupold/Buehler windage bit
Pros
- Portable and easy to store
- Works on most common gun screws
- Solid bit heads
- Uses a convenient storage case
Cons
- Has a smaller torque range
EPAuto ST-010-1 Dual Range 1/2-Inch Best Torque Wrench for the Money
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EPAuto is another nice Taiwan manufacturer of professional tools, wrench, and socket set.
As such, expecting this EPAuto ST-010-1 torque wrench to meet up with the highest industry standard is only logical.
Not only that, but this torque wrench offers optimal value for money.
Durable Construction
The first thing we are going to be considering in this torque wrench is durability.
This torque wrench is a good old fashion all-steel wrench forged from hardened chrome vanadium steel alloy.
EPAuto further treated this wrench with a satin finish, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion.
Torque Power
Furthermore, the 5-inch long extension bar can produce a torque power ranging from 10 – 150 foot-pound. The torque ranges from 13.6 – 203.5 Nm.
Also, the ½-inch ratchet head features a ½-inch to 3/8-inch drive reducer for more versatility.
Simple and Reliable
Using this torque wrench is also pretty simple and straightforward. After setting the right torque power needed, proceed to tighten the bolt.
On hearing a click sound, note that the preset torque value has been reached.
Moreover, the dual-range high contrast scale is super easy to read and is accurate to ±4%.
Easy Storage
Another interesting feature of this torque wrench is the sturdy plastic storage case it comes with. The case can be used to easily store this tool and bit, which makes it even more portable.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle
- Easy-to-read scale
- High torque power
- Durable chromium-vanadium steel alloy
Cons
- Takes a bit of time to adjust the set
TEKTON High Quality 3/8 Inch Storage Case Click Torque Wrench
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TEKTON is a Taiwan manufacturer we are already familiar with in this review as such, they need no further introduction.
But the TEKTON 24550 torque wrench is a more affordable wrench ideal for minor DIY tasks.
It is lightweight and more suitable for more precise tasks.
All Steel Construction
One of the stand-out features of this torque wrench is the all-steel construction. With no plastic part in the construction, this wrench guarantees the durability of its parts from breaking off.
Also, the steel is heat treated to prevent rust and corrosion giving, ensuring a longer-lasting tool.
Calibrated for Confidence
Another interesting feature of this torque wrench is the well-calibrated settings as well as the thought-out design to confidently tighten fasteners to a precise specification.
The high torque capacity of this 3/8-inch wrench ranges from 10 – 80 foot-pound or 13.6 – 203.5 Nm. This wrench can be accurately set up to ±4%.
Simple and Reliable
What makes this torque wrench simple and reliable are the features it comes with, like the easy-to-read high-contrast dual-range scale that is visible even in a low-light environment.
Also, the reversible ratchet head can be driven in both directions and used to measure torque in the clockwise direction.
And when you get to the preset torque, this wrench makes a click sound, indicating you stop tightening.
Storage Case
TEKTON included a sturdy case with this torque wrench to make storage easier. Included in the box are a torque conversion chart and manual.
Pros
- Easy to grip handle
- All steel body adds a good surface
- Accurately calibrated
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can rust is not well maintained
LEXIVON LX-184 Yellow Print 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
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Lexivon is another manufacturer of manual torque wrench with outstanding performance. The Lexivon LX-184 wrench is affordably priced below $50.
Apart from the reasonable price, Lexivon comes with an interesting warranty on their products, which led us to recommend this wrench.
Long-lasting
First, we look at the durability of this wrench. This Lexivon LX-184 wrench is an all-steel wrench. The steel is a heat-treated hardened chrome vanadium alloy built to withstand rough handling.
To prevent rust and corrosion, Lexivon treated the steel with an electro-black finish.
Performance
Performance-wise this wrench has a torque power ranging from 25 – 250 foot-pound or 33.9 – 338.9 Nm. Also, when the preset torque is reached, the ½-inch drive ratchet gear head makes a click sound.
As such, with this wrench, worrying about over-tightening fasteners would no longer be a problem.
Precision
Precision is also important in a torque wrench, as this Lexicon wrench is pre-calibrated to accurately measure up to ±4%.
Included with this wrench is a calibration certificate that makes the conversion of units easy.
Furthermore, the easy-to-read, dual-range highlighted yellow print scale is visible even in low-light conditions.
Comfortable
And for more comfort, the ergonomic handle provides plenty of room to exert force. Moreover, this wrench comes with a ratcheting head that allows this wrench to move in both directions.
And after using this wrench, store it safely in the sturdy storage case.
Pros
- Come with a ratchet feature
- Lexivon offer a calibration certificate
- Pre-calibrated to ±4% accuracy
- Well treated to prevent rusting
Cons
- Contemporary design
EPAuto ST-012-1 Non-Slip 3/8-Inch Best Torque Wrench for the Money
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Are you a fan of EPAuto tools but looking for something a lot more affordable? If so, then the ST-012-1 is an ideal wrench to consider.
Like all of EPAuto tools, this wrench meets the highest industry standards.
There is so much you can achieve with this wrench from bicycle to motorcycle, trucks, and car maintenance.
Durable Construction
Durability is always the first thing to check out when buying a new tool. And as we already know, EPAuto is a Taiwan manufacturer known for its durability.
EPAuto built the ST-012-1 wrench with a durable heat-treated chrome vanadium steel alloy which is resistant to rust and corrosion.
Torque Power
Another feature we would be considering is the torque power, although we don’t expect much from this wrench.
With this wrench, you get a torque power ranging from 10 – 80 foot-pound or 13.6 – 108.5 Nm.
Apart from this, EPAuto calibrated this wrench such that you can read up to ±4% accuracy.
Easy-to-Read Scale
The scale on this torque wrench is designed such that it is easy to read. Besides, the scale is high contrast and dual-range, which makes it easy to see even in a dark environment.
However, the ratchet head allows you to use this wrench in both directions. And when the preset torque is reached, a click sound will be heard.
Easy Storage
This torque wrench comes with a sturdy case to store the wrench and other included parts for safekeeping, amongst other parts that come with this wrench.
There are two included adapters: the 3/8 – ½ inches drive adapter, 3/8 – ¼ inches drive adapter, and the 3/8 inches drive extension bar.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- The lightweight design wouldn’t tire your arms
- Easy-to-read scale
- Durable construction
Cons
- Does not offer much torque power
EPAuto ST-013-1 Simple and Reliable 1/4-Inch Torque Wrench
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Lastly, let’s look at one more product from EPAuto, the ST-013-1 wrench. Like most EPAuto wrenches, this wrench is durably built and super affordable. It is a pretty small torque wrench and the lightest weight wrench in this review from EPAuto.
Built Tough
The ST-013-1 torque wrench is another EPAuto wrench built from heat-treated hardened chrome vanadium steel alloy.
To make it rust and corrosion-resistant, EPAuto used satin finishing, which gives it a nice look.
Performance
Performance-wise, this 1/4 inches drive EPAuto wrench has a torque power ranging from 20 – 200 inch-pound or 2.26 – 22.6 Nm.
Apart from that, EPAuto calibrated this wrench such that you can read up to ±4% accuracy.
Comfortable
Comfort is another critical part of using a torque wrench; as such, features like the ratchet head are features to look out for.
Also, the high-contrast and dual-range scale make reading the scale easy, even in low-light conditions.
The non-slip grip handle of the extension bar also adds to the comfort you get from this torque wrench. And remember, on hearing a click sound, that means you have reached the preset torque.
Storage Case
To sum things up, this torque wrench comes with a sturdy storage case where you can store the wrench. Safely store this wrench and the bits in that case that come with it.
Pros
- Durable construction with nice finishing
- Affordably priced
- Ergonomic knurled handle
- Easy-to-read scale
Cons
- Does not offer much torque power
LEXIVON LX-181 Inch Dual-Range 1/4-Inch Torque Wrench Drive
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In the same spirit of wrapping things up, let us look at yet another Lexicon wrench, the LX-181 wrench. This Lexivon torque wrench is a lower model, but it is equally as durable.
This Lexivon wrench is available for sale at a reasonable price and still offers the full benefit that comes with the Lexivon tools.
Long-lasting
First, we look at the durability of this wrench. This Lexivon LX-181 wrench is an all-steel wrench. The steel is a heat-treated hardened chrome vanadium alloy built to withstand rough handling.
To prevent rust and corrosion, Lexivon treated the steel with an electro-black finish.
Performance
Performance-wise this wrench has a torque power ranging from 20 – 200 inch-pound or 2.26 – 22.6 Nm. Also, when the preset torque is reached, the ¼-inch drive ratchet gearhead makes a click sound.
As such, with this wrench, worrying about over-tightening fasteners would no longer be a problem.
Precision
The precision of this torque wrench is pre-calibrated to ±4%. Additionally, the calibration certificate that comes with this kit makes unit conversion easy.
Furthermore, the dual-range highlighted yellow print scale is easy to read even in low-light conditions.
Comfortable
And for added comfort, the ergonomic handle provides plenty of room to exert force. Moreover, the ratchet head of this wrench lets you use this wrench in both directions.
And after using this wrench, safely store it in the sturdy storage case.
Pros
- Dual range scale makes reading easy
- Reversible ratchet head for easy use
- Durable construction with nice finishing
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Does not offer much torque power
Precision PREC3FR250F 1/2″ Drive Split Beam Torque Wrench
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Precision is another top manufacturer of different kinds of the best torque wrench for the money since 1938.
Precision designed different models of torque wrench based on the workload, and today we would be looking at the PREC3FR250F wrench.
And it comes with only a few parts making it super easy to put together or use.
Durable Construction
This Precision torque wrench is durably built with solid, high-quality steel that can stand the test of time. And the chrome/nickel finishing makes this wrench rust and corrosion-resistant.
Also, the flex ratchet head on this wrench adds to its durability.
Torque Setting
As for the torque settings, this Precision wrench comes with an adjustable knob that eliminates the spring tension allowing you to set the wrench fast and easily.
Moreover, you get a torque power ranging from 40 – 50 foot-pound. And with the increment to a precision of ±5%, you can accurately set the torque.
Lightweight Design
This Precision torque wrench comes with an ergonomic handle and weighs only 3.39 pounds.
As such, you can use this wrench for all kinds of tasks, from heavy-duty to light-duty, and with no issues of arm fatigue.
Pros
- Accuracy is high
- Easy to handle
- Torque setting mechanism is easy
- Durably built
Cons
- Pretty expensive torque wrench
eTORK EC3250 Click Style 1/2-Inch Best Torque Wrench for the Money
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With over 40 years of manufacturing experience, eTORK has proven to be one of the most reliable tools manufacturers from China.
The eTORK EC3250 is the first digital torque wrench we will be looking into in this review.
Although this wrench may be somewhat expensive, it is quite durable to stand the test of time.
Well-built
eTORK built this torque wrench with a combination of alloy steel and plastic to give you a durable enough wrench for heavy and light-duty projects.
The hardened alloy steel house offers strength and durability, giving you a lighter and slimmer design.
Torque Power
The eTORK EC3250 wrench comes with a ½-inch drive. Also, it has a usable torque power ranging from 25 – 250 foot-pound.
The 45-tooth ratchet head makes it easy to operate this wrench clockwise and anticlockwise in tight spaces.
Additionally, you can accurately set the torque power to a precision of ±3% clockwise and ±4% anticlockwise.
Easy Conversion
As a digital torque wrench, you can easily convert the torque power you need between units. This eTORK wrench comes with four pre-programmed torque ranges, which include ft-lb, Nm, in-lb, and cm-kg.
As such, the 25-250 ft-lb can also mean 33.9 – 339 Nm, or 300 – 3000 in-lb, or 346 – 3456 cm-kg.
Simple and Reliable
To make using this wrench simple, eTORK designed it such that you can operate and measure torque in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions. Additionally, when the preset torque value is reached, you will hear a click or release.
The ball-bearing release of this wrench ensures greater sensitivity, consistency, and precision.
Pros
- Hardened plastic storage case
- Calibration certificate for each wrench
- Easy to convert between unit
- High-accuracy torque setting
Cons
- Quite expensive
GEARWRENCH 85079 Vibrating Handle 1/2″ Flex Head Electronic Torque Wrench
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GEARWRENCH is another family of torque wrenches and products that offers the latest innovation in torque measurement. However, GW was the manufacturer to produce the original 5 degrees ratcheting wrench in 1996.
Year after year, GEARWRENCH continued to expand its line to help industrial and automotive technicians get their job done easier and faster.
Durable Design
GEARWRENCH constructed this torque wrench with alloy steel, giving it the needed durability to handle any task thrown at it. Even the housing and handle are solvent and oil resistant, which protects the tool from harmful agents.
Also, the 5 degrees swing arc with a 72-tooth ratchet mechanism of this wrench makes it easier to turn fasteners even in constricted spaces.
3 Function Mode Electronic Settings
For additional versatility, GEARWRENCH designed this wrench with 3 function modes: peak angle, angle, and peak torque.
Torque Settings
This torque wrench is a ½-inch drive with a torque power ranging from 25 – 250 foot-pound. Also, there are up to five torque measurement units, which include ft-lb, Nm, in-lb, and cm-kg, m-kg.
The 10 preset torque settings on this wrench make work easier.
Accuracy
Accuracy-wise, you can set the torque of this wrench to an accuracy of ±2% in the clockwise direction and ±3% in the anticlockwise direction.
And the angle setting offers a ±1% reading angular accuracy.
Most importantly, when a preset torque value is reached, you get an alert from the solid LED light, buzzer, and vibrating handle.
Pros
- Alloy steel construction
- Flex head with angle
- Easy torque measurement conversion
- LED indicator target torque alert
Cons
- Quite expensive
Buying Guide of the Best Torque Wrench for the Money
Buying the best torque wrench is only so easy when you need the key features to look out for. So, why risk buying a torque wrench before reading the quality parameters?
Below we compiled a list of buying guides to look for when shopping for a torque wrench for less price.
Build Material
The first and most important feature to look out for when buying a torque wrench is the quality of the material used to build the wrench.
Steel or an alloy of steel is the most common type of building material most manufacturers opt-in for because of its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
A full-body steel torque wrench is ideal for heavy-duty tasks like automotive maintenance, although they are more expensive.
Torque wrench with a plastic handle, on the other hand, is less expensive but only works fine on light-duty tasks like bicycle and motorcycle maintenance.
Torque Range
All torque wrench usually comes with a certain limitation to the amount of force the wrench can deliver. This limitation is called the torque range of the wrench and is most often measured in foot-pound or inch-pound.
While taking note of the torque range, don’t forget to also take note of the drive size. Some wrench comes with a ¼-inch drive, 3/8-inch, and ½-inch, amongst others.
Wrench with ¼-inch and 3/8-inch drive tends to have a torque range that max out at 21 and 75 foot-pounds, respectively.
The wrench with a ½-inch drive is the most common, and they usually have a torque range of 30 to 250 foot-pound, which is ideal for work on automobiles.
Accuracy
To get the best result from a torque wrench, you need to consider the accuracy of the wrench. A torque wrench’s accuracy depends on the precision and calibration of the wrench.
Using a torque wrench properly means you need to align the beam correctly. To get an accurate torque setting, the wrench needs to be calibrated properly as well as the readout needs to be boldly written.
Better accuracy is achieved with an electronic torque wrench or a click drive wrench. While reading the quality parameter of a torque wrench, you will see the accuracy level of the wrench.
Aim to buy a torque wrench with an accuracy level of ±4% or ±5%.
Ratcheting Feature
The ratcheting feature is highly useful as it allows you to use the torque wrench bi-directionally. It can rotate anti-clockwise and clockwise.
However, it is easier for a torque wrench to maintain the preset level of torque.
Since when it comes to a ratchet head, even when you are increasing the overall torque, the ratchet head holds the preset level of torque even if you apply more force.
As such, the ratchet feature is what protects your fasteners from being over-tightened. Note that the ratchet feature is most common in high-end torque wrenches.
Non-slip Grip
Lastly, note that a good quality torque wrench would offer an exceptional grip handle. The handle should have a piece of rubberized material wrapped around the steel wrench to provide a comfortable grip while working.
While maintaining automobiles, there is every chance of having a wet and greasy hand. Fastening bolts with a slippery hand can be quite challenging.
But choosing to buy a torque wrench with a good grip makes it a lot easier to tighten fasteners, even with a slippery hand.
Remember, while you aim for durability, don’t forget to choose a comfortable wrench.
Best Torque Wrench- FAQs
What torque wrench do I need?
Ans: The nature of the work you need to be done is a major determiner of the type of torque wrench you need. Generally, a ½-inch drive wrench can do most of the work you need.
A ½-inch drive torque wrench is the size needed in a driver’s garage for wheels and all sorts of mechanical uses.
What happens if you don’t use a torque wrench?
Ans: Not using a torque wrench to tighten fasteners simply means you are guessing how tight they should be.
Not tight enough fasteners are prone to loosen, and too tight might damage the thread of the fastener.
So, why take the risk when you can simply purchase a torque wrench and work more efficiently?
Do you need a torque wrench for the wheels?
Ans: You can use a torque wrench for a tire change, but it is not a compulsory tool to use. Cars come with their wrench set for a tire change.
So, for wheel maintenance, you can just simply tighten the nuts until they stop moving.
Wrench for common cars is usually somewhere between 60 and 100 foot-pounds.
Are digital torque adapters accurate?
Ans: Yes, a digital torque adapter is quite accurate. You can use a digital torque adapter to calibrate digital and analog torque wrenches.
Digital torque adapters are 3 times more accurate and precise in their measurement than mechanical wrenches.
Does a torque wrench wear out?
Ans: Yes, a torque wrench can wear out if not well cared for. For example, storing your torque wrench with a high-torque setting for an extended period can make the springs wear out.
Also, using a torque wrench on an anticlockwise thread may not be suitable.
Final words
To wrap things up, when buying a torque wrench, beware of what is available, especially those torque wrenches that are unbelievably cheap.
The best torque wrench for the money must have three features, quality build, ease of use, and precision. Also, we recommend not using an extension bar of more than a few inches.
An extra-long or short extension bar makes it impractical to use. Finally, ensure you store this tool safely in its storage case after every use.