Torque Wrench suggestions?

I've always dedicated certain screwdrivers to certain tasks. First off, I grind the end so the sides are parallel--getting rid of the wedge effect. ("Hollow ground" is needed whether or not you use a torque wrench.)

Small-handled screwdrivers for the small scope-mount screws. Say, no more than 3/4" diameter. Larger for the receiver screws, maybe 1" or 1-1/4". For the thumb-screws of a Weaver-type mount, a quarter coin does quite well, or the larger screwdriver.

I go by the feel of the screw as it nears its final tightening; you can feel the change in the resistance to turning. Odds are that as you get used to this, you'll be pretty close to torque limits or torque specs, anyway.

As near as I can tell, the most need for a torque wrench is for the Allen-head screws on a Remington 700; I understand the factory calls for a torque spec of 60 inch-pounds. (Is this correct?) Even with these, however, developing a sense of the "feel" of the screw as you near the tightness limit will suffice.

From what I've seen through the years, most folks tend to over-tighten. (Tire shops are the worst! :) )

Just some thinking points...

Art
 
Careful with those Seekonk T-handle wrenches. They're good but dont be tempted to use em' like a little hammer on anything, you'll whack em' out quick! Take it from experiance.
 
If you are looking for a relatively inexpensive 1/4" drive beam torque wrench consider one from Park Tool Company. They are a maker of bicycle tools and theirs can be had for $20-$30 bucks. And it is made in the USA.
 
Mike be aware that the torque wrench must be backed off all the way when not in use. IF you don't back off the wrench on the click style like it appears you bought it will not be accurate vary long. I make sure I back mine off after every use and have them recalibrated every couple of years witch works out to be about 1000 uses.
 
Another thing to remember with torque wrenches and almost all measuring things for that matter, is they are most accurate in the middle of their range and least accurate at the extremes. Better ones minimize this effect.
 
Back
Top