ASVAB · Fasteners and Hardware

What is the primary advantage of a box-end wrench over an open-end wrench?

Correct answer

It completely surrounds the bolt head, providing 360° contact and reducing the chance of rounding off the fastener

  1. A It adjusts to any size
  2. B It completely surrounds the bolt head, providing 360° contact and reducing the chance of rounding off the fastener
  3. C It is lighter
  4. D It works better in tight spaces

Why this is the answer

A box-end wrench fully encloses the fastener head, distributing force evenly around all six (or twelve) points. An open-end wrench contacts only two flat sides, concentrating force and allowing the wrench to slip and round off the fastener if excessive force is applied. Box-end wrenches are preferred for breaking loose tight fasteners because of this 360° grip advantage.
Source: ASVAB SI, Wrench Types