Milwaukee has come out with a new 12″ smooth jaw pipe wrench, model 48-22-7186.
It was announced in 2018 as part of Milwaukee’s pipe wrench expansion, and started shipping late last Fall, but I think it’s still fair to describe it as new.
The new Milwaukee smooth jaw pipe wrench provides a parallel grip and should provide a secure hold on fittings and fasteners, without damaging them. It’s specifically designed for use on chrome plumbing fittings.
Milwaukee says that the handle has an ergonomic shape that won’t dig into your palms, and that its design helps to prevent fatigue and slipping.
- 11.5″ length
- 2-5/8″ jaw capacity
- Weighs 2.9 lbs
Milwaukee’s product imagery shows the wrench in use on a commercial toilet fixture.
Price: $32
Buy Now(12″ smooth jaw wrench via Acme Tools)
Offset Hex Pipe Wrench
Milwaukee also makes an offset pipe wrench with hex-style smooth steel jaws, model 48-22-7171.
- 10.5″ length, 14.29″ height
- 2-5/8″ jaw capacity
- Weighs 1.8 lbs
The Milwaukee offset hex smooth jaw pipe wrench allows for 3 points of contact, and like the 12″ wrench, it’s designed for non-marring use on chrome-finished fittings and other similar plumbing fixtures.
Price: $30
Buy Now(Offset wrench via Acme Tools)
First Thoughts
I have smooth-jaw pliers, and they come out when I need to work on finished plumbing fittings and fixtures. Despite the smooth jaws, I usually tape the jaws, just to be safe.
These pipe wrenches look a bit too big for things like shower head installs, which is why I think they’re more aimed at commercial plumbers than residential. But maybe there are some residential plumbing applications?
I’m curious to see what a pro plumber thinks of these Milwaukee pipe wrenches, especially if you do commercial installations or maintenance.
What about the offset hex wrench? That looks like it could be a handy problem-solver when working in tight spaces or very specific scenarios.
