Crescent brand R2 RapidRench - Official Site
Ever since the Robo-Grip replaced the Channel Lock for all but the highest torque jobs, I’ve had my eye out for the next big improvement in tool design. Of course, you run across gadgety type tools all the time. But it’s very rare that a tool actually stops you in your tracks at the Home Depot when you’re not even looking in the direction of the tool corral!
That’s what happened to me today when I took the picture at the top right. Of course, I only had my camera phone with me, and it doesn’t take very good pictures. So, in case you can’t see, I’ll tell you, that’s the Crescent R2 RapidRench.
This thing is amazing. What really caught my eye was the fact that this thing can effectively grip, and still ratchet, eye bolts, wing nuts, hooks, and thumb screws! The only other tool I can think of that can grap those is a standard pair of pliers, and they don’t ratchet. Of course, it still grabs hold of any socket 1/4″ to 7/8″ (4.8mm to 22.2mm).
Now, the head of this thing is a little large (just like the original Crescent Wrench). So, it won’t get to that 1/4 inch nut in a tight spot. But it’ll fit on most anything that you’ve got good clearance on. The thumbwheel used for adjusting the jaws is good and rough. So, you can get a good grip on adjusting it when you’re wearing gloves.
There are several other reviews out on the internet (even Bob Vila), so I’m a little slow with this one cause I didn’t even hear about it until today! I’m glad I finally heard about it, though. And I’m glad you’re hearing about it before Christmas!
I’m thinking that this should be included in everyone’s trunk tool kit!
One Comment
I had one of those moments when I first saw Black and Decker’s auto wrench. It’s an electrically adjustable wrench. Very fast adjustments.
http://gadgets.boingboing.net/2007/10/24/black-decker-auto-wr.html
Cheers
-Dorri