The plumbing industry frequently debates the merits of a Stillson wrench, a tool patented by Daniel Stillson. Monkey wrenches, known for their adjustable jaws, present an alternative used across various trades. Evaluating stillson wrench vs monkey wrench requires understanding each tool’s specific design and application. Considerations by tool manufacturers highlight the ongoing discussion regarding which wrench offers superior performance in different scenarios.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Adam Savage’s Tested , from the video titled Adam Savage’s Favorite Tools: Monkey Wrench! .
Stillson Wrench vs. Monkey Wrench: A Detailed Comparison
This article will provide an in-depth look at the Stillson wrench and the monkey wrench, two pipe wrenches that often get confused. We’ll analyze their designs, uses, strengths, and weaknesses to help you understand the difference and choose the right tool for the job. The key focus will be a comparison of stillson wrench vs monkey wrench.
Understanding the Basics: What Are They?
Before diving into the comparison, it’s crucial to define each tool.
What is a Stillson Wrench?
- A Stillson wrench (also often just called a pipe wrench) is a heavy-duty adjustable wrench primarily used for turning soft iron pipes and fittings with a rounded surface.
- It features two toothed jaws that grip the pipe more firmly as turning force increases.
- The jaws are designed to bite into the pipe material, ensuring a secure grip.
- The adjustable jaw allows it to fit a range of pipe diameters.
What is a Monkey Wrench?
- A monkey wrench is an adjustable wrench with smooth, parallel jaws.
- The jaw opening is adjusted via a worm gear mechanism, typically a knurled wheel.
- Unlike the Stillson wrench, the monkey wrench is designed to grip fasteners without damaging them.
- It’s primarily used on nuts and bolts, especially older ones with larger or less precise dimensions.
Design and Construction: Key Differences
The fundamental differences in design dictate the suitability of each wrench for specific tasks.
Jaw Design: The Gripping Factor
This is perhaps the most significant difference between the two.
- Stillson Wrench: Features hardened, toothed jaws angled inward. This "biting" action is essential for gripping round pipes. As more torque is applied, the grip tightens. This design will likely damage any fastener with faces.
- Monkey Wrench: Has smooth, parallel jaws. The gripping force is distributed evenly across the surface. Designed for less aggressive grip.
Adjustment Mechanism: How They Adapt
The method of jaw adjustment also differs.
- Stillson Wrench: Typically adjusted with a threaded hook or movable jaw with a knurled adjustment nut that moves along a geared section of the wrench’s body. This allows for quick adjustments.
- Monkey Wrench: Adjusted using a screw-type mechanism, often a worm gear, that moves the lower jaw. Adjustments can be more precise.
Material and Build Quality
While both are typically made from hardened steel, the design purpose dictates some construction differences.
- Stillson Wrench: Generally heavier and more robustly built to withstand the high torque and demanding conditions of pipe work.
- Monkey Wrench: Can vary in build quality. Older models might be very heavy, while newer models might be lighter and more refined.
Intended Use and Applications
Understanding the intended use clarifies which wrench is appropriate.
Stillson Wrench Applications
- Plumbing: Tightening and loosening pipes and fittings.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Working with pipelines and related equipment.
- Any application where a strong, non-slip grip on round or irregular shapes is required.
- Sacrifice of pipe integrity/aesthetics is required to provide maximum grip.
Monkey Wrench Applications
- General mechanical work: Turning nuts and bolts.
- Antique machinery restoration: Working with old fasteners that may not conform to modern standards.
- Applications requiring a less aggressive grip to avoid damaging the workpiece.
- When a parallel, smooth grip is preferred.
Advantages and Disadvantages: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Let’s examine the strengths and weaknesses of each tool.
Stillson Wrench: Pros and Cons
- Advantages:
- Superior Grip: The toothed jaws provide an incredibly secure grip on pipes, even if they are slippery or rusty.
- High Torque Capacity: Designed to withstand high levels of torque.
- Durable: Built for rugged use and long life.
- Disadvantages:
- Damages Surfaces: The aggressive jaws will damage the surface of pipes and other materials.
- Limited Versatility: Not suitable for use on nuts and bolts.
- Can deform soft piping, like copper.
Monkey Wrench: Pros and Cons
- Advantages:
- Versatile: Can be used on a variety of fasteners, including nuts and bolts.
- Less Damaging: The smooth jaws are less likely to damage the workpiece.
- Adjustable: Easily adjusts to fit different sizes.
- Disadvantages:
- Lower Torque Capacity: Not designed for high-torque applications like stubborn pipes.
- Slippage: Can slip on smooth or rounded surfaces.
- Requires more precise adjustment.
Comparison Table: Stillson Wrench vs. Monkey Wrench
| Feature | Stillson Wrench | Monkey Wrench |
|---|---|---|
| Jaw Design | Toothed, angled inward | Smooth, parallel |
| Grip | Aggressive, non-slip | Less aggressive, can slip |
| Primary Use | Pipes and fittings | Nuts and bolts |
| Surface Damage | High | Low |
| Torque Capacity | High | Lower |
| Versatility | Low | Higher |
| Adjustment | Threaded hook with nut | Screw-type mechanism (worm gear) |
| Common materials | Iron, steel, soft piping (sometimes) | Hex nuts, fasteners |
Stillson vs. Monkey Wrench: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the differences and best uses for the stillson wrench and monkey wrench.
What’s the main difference between a stillson wrench and a monkey wrench?
The primary difference lies in their jaw design. A stillson wrench (also known as a pipe wrench) features serrated jaws specifically designed for gripping pipes and other rounded objects. A monkey wrench has smooth jaws, intended for nuts and bolts. So, stillson wrench vs monkey wrench is a tale of pipes vs nuts and bolts.
When should I use a stillson wrench?
Use a stillson wrench when you need a powerful, non-slip grip on pipes, fittings, or other cylindrical objects. The serrated jaws of the stillson wrench dig into the material, providing a secure hold for tightening or loosening. Never use on nuts and bolts though!
Is a monkey wrench a good substitute for a crescent wrench?
While a monkey wrench can sometimes be used similarly to a crescent wrench (adjustable wrench), it’s generally bulkier and less precise. Monkey wrenches are typically older designs, so many prefer the narrower profiles and easier adjustment mechanisms of modern adjustable wrenches.
Why is a stillson wrench not recommended for nuts and bolts?
The serrated jaws of a stillson wrench will damage the flat surfaces of nuts and bolts. This damage can make them difficult to work with in the future. A monkey wrench, with its smooth jaws, is the better (though not always best) choice compared to a stillson wrench for such applications.
So, after all that, what’s the final verdict on stillson wrench vs monkey wrench? Hopefully, you’ve got a better idea now! Whichever you choose, happy wrenching!