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ASVAB · Fasteners and Hardware

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

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

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 is lighter
  3. C It completely surrounds the bolt head, providing 360° contact and reducing the chance of rounding off the fastener
  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

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About this topic: Fasteners and Hardware

Fasteners and hardware questions cover screws, bolts, nuts, washers, nails, rivets and anchors, including thread types and when to use each. Expect questions on the difference between a wood screw, a machine screw and a lag bolt. This is one of 9 Shop Information questions on fasteners and hardware, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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