Breaker Bars

What Is A Breaker Bar?

If you’ve ever been stuck with a rusted or overtightened bolt that refuses to move, you’ll know exactly where a breaker bar comes in handy. Unlike standard ratchets, they have a longer handle designed to give you some extra leverage to make it much easier to loosen stubborn nuts and bolts, without putting excessive strain on you or your tools.

They’re a staple in workshops, garages and industrial environments because a lot of times, better leverage is what you need over brute force.

Why Use A Breaker Bar?

We've all been there - stuck fighting a stubborn lug nut or seized bolt that won't budge. Well, a trusty pry bar will help you apply the extra pressure needed without the risk of damaging your ratchet set or spanners. 

The extended handle provides more torque, reducing the required effort and minimising the risk of injury or strain. So, if you're a professional mechanic or a weekend DIYer, having a trusty breaker bar can save time, reduce frustration, and eliminate the risk of needlessly damaging your bolts or expensive tools.

Types Of Breaker Bars

Not all breaker bars are the same, typically they come in a wide range of sizes and designs. The right one depends on the task at hand. Here are a few sizes and their most common uses.

• 1/2 Inch Breaker Bars: The most common size for general usage.
• 3/8 Inch Breaker Bars: A versatile option for lighter tasks and working in tight spaces.
• 3/4 Inch Breaker Bars: A heavy-duty and powerful option, suitable for industrial and commercial applications.
• Adjustable Breaker Bars: Feature a flexible head, providing unmatched access to awkward angles.
• Extendable Breaker Bars: Gives users adjustable lengths for increased torque when required.
  

Choosing the Right Breaker Bar

Typically, knowing which breaker bar you need will come down to the size of the fasteners you’re working with and how much leverage you’ll need.

We would say that for everyday vehicle maintenance and workshop tasks, a ½ inch breaker bar is perfectly fine. On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you’re regularly dealing with larger equipment or industrial machinery you’ll be better off with a heavier duty ¾ inch model.

It’s also worth thinking about handle length. Longer breaker bars generate more torque, while extendable models give you the best of both worlds by allowing you to adjust the length when needed. 

If you’re unsure which breaker bar is the one for you, just get in touch with us - our team is always happy to help.