Feel challenging to work with hard-to-reach fasteners with the standard length wrenches?
Or do you have little room for jobs to back and forth the wrench arm movement?
In those cases, using a stubby wrench is convenient.
Buying a whole set will give you better value rather than purchasing a specific stubby wrench on a needed basis.
However, when it comes to finding the right stubby wrench set, there are many options out there on the market. So, finding the right one for the best value isn’t as easy as it seems, though.
But, no worry, our best stubby wrench set reviews will make it easier.
The list below highlights the 3 best short-body wrench set and their specific features. I hope, it’ll help to ensure you choose the right one for your needs and not waste money on it.
Best Stubby Wrench Sets-Quick Comparison Chart
Short in time? Check out this quick chart.
Product Name | No. of pieces | Materials | Measurement System | Drive Type | Price |
  Sunex 9930 | 11 | Steel | SAE | Not specified | |
  TEKTON WRN01170 | 12 | Steel | Metric | 12-point | |
  GEARWRENCH 9520D | 10 | Steel | Metric | 12-point | |
  Williams 11030 | 7 | Steel | SAE | 12-point |
Best Stubby Wrench Set Reviews-4 Top Choices & In-depth Reviews
Check out our comprehension list of short length wrenches that are suitable for almost any project from appliance maintenance to automotive work in limited space. They are also reasonably priced to meet any budget.
We have mentioned the best and worst attributes of each model so that you know exactly what each wrench set is like before you buy.
#1 Sunex 9930 SAE Stubby Combination Wrench Set-Top-Pick
Specs
- Brand: Sunex Tools
- Model: 9930
- Material: Steel
- Weight:1.9-pound
- No. of pieces: 11
Included Sizes: 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 11/16″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″, 15/16″, 1″
Key Features
- Drop forged alloy steel construction
- 15-degree offset on box end
- Chamfered box end
- Polished chrome finish
If you frequently find yourself working in repair jobs for vehicles, you should invest in this Sunex SAE stubby combination wrench set. Sunex 9930 is a very lovely complete wrench set that includes the most common sizes from 3/8″ to 1″, useful for automotive repair.
The short length, compact design offers unimpeded wrench access in tight spaces such as under the dashboard of a hot rod project or engine bays of subcompact cars. The 15-degree offset box end provides clearance for any obstructions near the fastener and for your fingers.
These wrenches offer decent leverage considering their short arm length. The wrench body is wide enough to be solid without being bulky.
Sunex 9930 is excellent in both fit and finish. The smooth chrome finish is very nice and looks exceptional. It’s also corrosion-resistant. Moreover, it makes the wrenches super easy to clean up after working on a greasy project.
The drop-forged from high-grade alloy steel construction ensures both strength and durability.
This set comes with a high-quality nylon roll-up carry bag with a Velcro Strip. It features pockets for each wrench to keep them organized. That means after each use, you can easily tuck them into the pouch and roll them up to store them in your toolbox or tool cabinet.
Finally, this set is priced attractively.
Pros
- Designed for work in most vehicles
- Excellent workmanship
- Lightweight and durable
- Compact design
- Feel great in the hand
- Easy to clean
- Corrosion-resistant
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Sharp edges near the box end and open-end, which may present a problem when handling.
Bottom line
Overall, Sunex stubby wrench set does just what it’s expected to do. It’s a good investment due to build quality and durability. This is an excellent wrench set to add to any tool arsenal. Highly recommended.
Notable Mention-1
If you’re working on metric fasteners, Sunex also offers the 10-piece #9930M Metric Stubby Combination Wrench Set. This metric wrench set is similarly designed with the most common metric sizes: 10mm to 19mm.
#2 TEKTON WRN01170 Metric Stubby Combination Wrench Set
Specs
- Brand: TEKTON
- Model: WRN01170
- Material: Steel
- Weight:1.9-pound
- No. of pieces: 12
- Drive Type: 12- Point
Included Metric sizes: 8 to 19 mm
Key Features
- Forged from chrome vanadium steel
- 15-degree angled open end
- 15-degree, 12-point box end
- Mirror chrome finish
- Includes roll-up pouch
- Meets or exceeds ANSI and ASME specifications
TEKTON Metric Stubby Combination Wrench Set is designed to offer you premium performance in confined spaces. This metric wrench set includes 12 pieces size ranging from 8 to 19 mm. That means this set comes in handy for almost any job around your home or in your car engine.
The slim wrench body and the short arm length of these pieces make them easy to maneuver in small spaces. The 15-degree angled open-ends reduces working swing arc in limited areas. Moreover, it facilitates you to flip over the wrench with each rotation.
The 12-points box ends are offset 15-degree for ease of use and finger clearance. It box-end opening grips the fastener head’s flat sides to prevent round-off.
You must love the store-and-go rack that comes with the set. This wrench keeper features a foldable handle that saves space in your mechanic toolbox or tool chest. Moreover, the non-slip grippers lock the wrenches securely in place when you’re on the go.
Pros
- Snug fit on fasteners
- Easy to flip over
- Easy to clean
- Prevents round-off
- No sharp edges
- No skipped sizes
- Easy to carry
Cons
- Questionable quality control
Bottom line
Beginner and intermediate mechanics won’t go wrong with this TEKTON Metric Stubby Wrench Set. This small wrench set is also perfect as a backup wrench set for professionals alike. Although it’s far cheaper than its professional-grade competitors, it’ll provide excellent service for your fastening jobs for years to come.
Notable Mention-2
TEKTON also offers a stubby wrench set in SAE configurations. TEKTON WRN01066 SAE wrench set includes eight pieces with sizes from 5/16 to ¾ in.
#3 GEARWRENCH 9520D Stubby Ratcheting Combination Metric Wrench Set
Specs
- Brand: GearWrench
- Model: 9520D
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight: 2.01-pound
- No. of pieces:10
- Drive type:12 point
Included Metric Sizes: 10mm to 19mm
Key Features
- Forged from strong alloy steel
- Sleek head design
- 72 tooth ratcheting box end
- Off-corner loading design on box end
- Bright, full polish chrome finish
- Packaged in the molded package tray
- Lifetime Manufacturer’s Warranty
If you’re in the market for the original five-degree ratcheting wrench, GEARWRENCH 9520D is sure to be a welcome addition to your tool arsenal. Even in confined work areas, these short-length wrenches offer enough strength and torque to get the job done faster and easier.
With a total of 10 sizes (from 10mm to 19mm), these Ratcheting Combination Metric Wrench will provide you with improved productivity and increased strength. Their subtle and smooth ratcheting features combined with their stubby length provides you with easy adjustments and movement.
The sleek open-ended heads fit nicely into confined areas. On the other hand, the 72 tooth ratcheting box-end works flawlessly. The box-end needs as little as 5–degree swinging arc to turn a fastener. This feature lets you move bolts with the ease and speed of an excellent tooth ratchet.
Additionally, the off-corner loading design reduces fastener rounding. It provides a stronger and safe grip on the fastener. What’s great about these stubby wrenches is that the box end works on long threaded bolts. Thanks to its pass-through technology.
Finally, the wrench set arrives in the molded package tray for organizing and storing all the 10 pieces when not in use.
Pros
- Small ratcheting box end design
- Very well made
- Comfortable to work with
- Excellent ratcheting actions
- Easy to maintain the finish
- Corrosion-resistant
- Longer tool life
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
Bottom line
GEARWRENCH 9520D combines the speed and convenience of a ratchet with the control and access of a wrench. These little workhorses are very useful for specific applications, including boat repairs, working on auto engines, small tractor-pressure washer engines or appliances and purchase assembly activities. Overall, it’s an excellent addition to any mechanic tools collection.
#4 Williams 11030 Stubby Combination Wrench Set
Specs
- Brand: Williams
- Model: 11030
- Material: Steel
- Weight: 14.4-ounces
- No. of pieces: 7
- Drive size:12-point
Included SAE sizes: 3/8, 7/6, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4-Inch.
Key Features
- 12 point box end
- Recessed corners in box end
- 100% polished chrome finish
If you’re looking for the finest quality stubby wrench set, you shouldn’t miss the Williams 11030 (by Snap-On). For those who don’t know the highly-coveted Snap-On Industrial Group manufactures Williams wrenches.
This brand is a market leader when it comes to pro-quality automotive and mechanic tools. Williams 11030 SAE Stubby Combination Wrench Set is perfect for professionals or the shade tree mechanic. Considering materials, finish and fit, these pieces are unrivaled.
These wrenches feature an extra short arm that allows easy access where clearance is minimal. The box end has 12 points that offer maximum versatility.
Additionally, the recessed corners of the box end give extra turning power. The rounded edges also ensure the most comfortable grip possible.
Pros
- Super quality
- Versatile and handy
- Easy socket engagement
- No rounding off
- Simple to clean
Cons
- Nothing found
Bottom line
This pro-quality wrench set is the most comfortable, powerful, and durable pieces on the market. You can’t go wrong with Williams 11030 SAE Stubby Wrench Set. And the offered price makes it that much better.
What Is a Stubby Wrench?
Stubby wrenches are short-length wrenches. They are significantly shorter than standard wrenches. Regular size or long wrenches are better for all-around use for their better reach and torque. But there are some situations where you may have limited access to bolts and nuts.
Regular wrenches may contact other components making turning the wrench difficult before you gain a meaningful amount of twist. The Stubby designed wrenches are perfect for work in those confined areas.
Best Stubby Wrench Sets- Buying Guide
Not all stubby wrench sets perform exactly the same way. Before buying one you should consider the quality, durability, and efficiency. Of course, you should be realistic about your needs.
This buying guide will help you a lot to decide on the right one. Considerations when choosing a stubby wrench set.
Range of wrenches
The set many includes from five to thirty pieces or more. So, first, decide on how many wrenches you’ll often need for your work. If you need to use the set regularly, go for a larger range. However, if you don’t need to use them frequently, a small range set may do.
Decide on Measurement system (Metric or SAE sizes)
You should have the right wrench on hand. Consider for what type of bolt or nut you need the wrench. A wrench is measured in fractions of inches, whereas the Metric wrenches are in millimeters. If you’re not sure, go for a wrench set that includes both the metric and SAE wrenches.
Drive Sizes And Head Shapes
Wrenches come with a round head, flex head, teardrop-shape, slim head, go-through head, pear-shaped shape head. Additionally, they also come in different sizes. SAE wrenches measure from ¼-inch. They can be around 1-inch or larger.
On the other hand, a metric wrench measures about 8mm to 20mm. Based on your applications it needs for, choose the wrench set with the right size and head shape. Make sure you have the set that has the right-sized components.
Wrench Uses and Maintaining Tips
A wrench isn’t hard to use. But incorrect methods of use may lead to severe issues. Injury is also a possibility due to the wrong uses of the wrench. It may slip off and lead to you injury like falling or knuckle.
However, practising some tips will help you to avoid these problems.
- Regardless of wrench types, use the right size wrench for the fasteners. Your wrench doesn’t make adequate contact with the nut or bolt, or it’s slipping means you’re not using the correct size.
- Avoid using a piece of pipe or something like that over the wrench to get more leverage. Use a longer wrench instead.
- Don’t use impaired or bent wrenches. Never try to straighten a bent wrench. Doing so will weaken the tool further.
I’m Ivan D. Mitchell. I’m the Chief Engineer, Manufacturing Engineering Tool and Launch, specialising in automotive equipment design and build which meets World Class Manufacturing methodology. I have 15 years of work experience as a Tooling Specialist on some of the leading automotive manufacturing companies. When I launched this site, I wanted to create a platform where you’ll get everything about tools in one place. I also wanted to share my experience in the tool industry. I’ll do my best to share the information you need to truly make your tool using experience better. I hope you find our guides, reviews, information HELPFUL. If you have any inquiries, I’m always here to help you.