Open-End Wrench
Also known as
Spanner (UK/AU), Combination Wrench, Box-End Wrench, Ring Spanner
Used for
Turning nuts and bolts when a socket wrench won't fit. The open jaw slides onto the fastener from the side, useful in tight spaces. A combination wrench has an open end on one side and a box (closed ring) end on the other.
Trade note
In British English, all wrenches are called spanners — "open-end spanner", "ring spanner", etc. In American English, "spanner" is rarely used except in technical contexts. The box end grips all six flat surfaces of a hex nut, reducing the chance of rounding it off — always prefer box end when space allows.
Direct answer
Open-End Wrench is used for turning nuts and bolts when a socket wrench won't fit. The open jaw slides onto the fastener from the side, useful in tight spaces. A combination wrench has an open end on one side and a box (closed ring) end on the other. It is also known as Spanner (UK/AU), Combination Wrench, Box-End Wrench, Ring Spanner. Trade note: In British English, all wrenches are called spanners — "open-end spanner", "ring spanner", etc. In American English, "spanner" is rarely used except in technical contexts. The box end grips all six flat surfaces of a hex nut, reducing the chance of rounding it off — always prefer box end when space allows.
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