DeWalt first dipped its toe into the automotive space a few years ago with the introduction some pneumatic impact wrenches, a die grinder, drill, and sander. The line’s expanded now to a 20V Max impact wrench, large tool chests, and wrenches – the focus of today’s review. Specifically, I have the DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set to check out. With such big advancements in power tools lately, the layman might be surprised to find that automotive Pros still reach for hand wrenches quite a bit, but it’s true. Whether I’m working on a transmission or doing an oil change, I often reach for a wrench – if only to hold the other side of a fastener I’m loosening with a power tool. Let’s find out if these things turn.

First Impressions

“Combination” in the name of the wrench means that one end of the wrench is open and the other end is boxed. Nothing uncommon there, but a closer inspection reveals some small features that might end up making a big difference. Both sides of the open end feature very slight protrusions to prevent slippage on – and rounding of – a fastener’s head. Likewise, the boxed end features DeWalt’s DirectTorque technology, which is basically a slightly milling out of the areas that contact the angles of a fastener’s head. This makes the broad areas of the fastener bear the burden of the applied force and prevents rounding in case of slippage. That rounding protection is especially important because the wrenches have a long panel design, which means simply that the wrenches are unusually long to provide more leverage. The polished chrome finish and four size markings – two on each side – are nice touches. Now, to fix some stuff!

We discussed DirectTorque technology in a previous review as well. The DeWalt Impact Socket Set uses this same technology in their impact sockets. This allows the sockets to spread the load on the broad areas of the fastener and socket.

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For My Next Metric…

Any Pro in any trade with a few years of experience will be able to tell you pretty quickly if the feel of a new tool will be good or bad. Fortunately for me, the feel and smoothness of the wrenches in the DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set really reminded me of a Snap-On, which is considered a gold standard in this tool category. That comfort must come from the panel’s contoured edges. Old wrenches – and still a lot of cheaper ones – have square panels and it doesn’t take much pressure for those edges to feel uncomfortable in the hand. Especially since you can apply more leverage with the DeWalt’s long panels, discomfort in the hand would be evident right away.

With all of the grease, oil, and various fluids and lubricants around the shop, it helps to have tools that prevent slippage or mitigate the damage upon slippage. The anti-slip open end and DirectTorque box end do just that.

I found the wrenches held securely through the review and gave me a lot of confidence when there was a particularly stubborn fastener. There’s some very light knurling/shallow crosshatching on panel, but it really seems more decorative than functional. What is functional, however, is the 13-degree offset of the box end and the 15-degree offset of the open end which gives you some extra, knuckle-saving space in the turn.

Great Price – Room To Grow

The size range of 10 to 17mm is right in the sweet spot of what I typically need.  Of course, I run into sizes outside this range, but it’s unusual. For the price point – $29.99 which includes a carrying case – the DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set is quite a deal. And the set isn’t just great for the shop – it’s at a great price for around the house. I wouldn’t be shocked if similar sets from more established automotive tool names were three or four times the price. Even the Monster Long Combo Wrench Set seems similar, but with a tool truck price more than double. That also means DeWalt could include a couple more sizes on each end of the range and still be worlds more affordable than the competition. But that’s hardly a knock against this set, maybe just a little wishful thinking for an upcoming review!

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The Bottom Line

The DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set features sizes 10 to 17mm with a 15-degree offset open end and 13-degree offset box end. They have a polished chrome finish, four size markings for easy identification, polished chrome finish, and long panel design for added leverage. DeWalt has included some special features if you look closely. Slight protrusions on the open end are anti-slip areas that grip a fastener securely and prevent rounding of the head. For the same reason, the boxed end features DeWalt’s DirectTorque technology. This removes the force from the angles of the fastener head. In addition, it makes the broad areas of the fastener bear the burden of the applied force.

I found these wrenches to be remarkably comfortable in the hand, secure on the fastener head, and especially powerful due to the long panel’s leverage. For both the automotive Pro and the handyman around the house, DeWalt has made a fine, affordable set of wrenches in a sturdy case at just $29.99. I highly recommend them!

DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set Features

• Includes 10mm, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
• Lockable Stacking Cases
• Stamped hashmark pattern on wrench handle provides added grip points.
• Longer panel design gives more torque during use.
• Full Polish Chrome
• 13 degree offset box end for knuckle clearance
• Sizes stamped twice on both sides of wrench handle for easier size identification
• 15 degree offset open end allows an increased range of arc swing in tight spaces
• DirectTorque Technology helps prevent rounding of fasteners

DeWalt 8 Piece Combination Metric Wrench Set Specifications

• Case: Included
• Unit: Metric
• Wrench Type: Combination
• 13 degree offset box
• 15 degree offset open end
• Full Lifetime Warranty

To purchase your DeWalt 8 piece combination wrench set, click here.