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Last updated: 22 Jan 2021

Best Breaker Bars In 2021

Jordan Carter
This product guide was written by Jordan Carter
Published May 21, 2020
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

If you have ever struggled with a stubborn fastener while changing a tire, you will know the importance of breaker bars. These tools are typically long bars without a ratcheting mechanism that ARE used to produce more torque to loosen fasteners. Because tight fasteners are more secure, owning a breaker bar is necessary as it also elongates the life of your socket wrench. But, because of the variety of products on the market, you might be worried about getting the right one, which is why we have a list of some of the best breaker bars on the market.

The Best Breaker Bar

1
Neiko 00206A 1/2 Inch Drive Premium Breaker Bar

neiko 00206a 1/2 inch drive premium breaker bar
neiko 00206a 1/2 inch drive premium breaker bar
neiko 00206a 1/2 inch drive premium breaker bar
neiko 00206a 1/2 inch drive premium breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Strength is a pivotal feature that every breaker bar should have, which is why the Neiko 00206A 1/2 Inch Drive Premium Breaker Bar is such a fantastic product. It has a heat-treated moly ½ inch drive head, which adds a whole lot of durability to the bar. Additionally, at 24 inches, this bar is ideal for creating the necessary amount of torque for loosening the toughest nuts.

On top of that, the Neiko breaker bar is rocking a 180-degree flexible head that works from different angles and handles itself well in tight spaces. Therefore, no matter the fastener or what angle you want to loosen it from, the Neiko bar is up to the task. For this reason, the breaker bar is a firm favorite for many mechanics and is our top choice. If you like this product, make sure to check out our list of the best wrench sets.

Key Features:

180-degree flexible head

Ideal torque with 24-inch length

Lightweight

Easy to handle

Chrome vanadium steel handle

Secure spring load ball bearing

Specification:
  • BrandNeiko
  • Model00206A
  • Weight3.1 pounds
Pros

Trusted by mechanics worldwide

Conveniently exceeds ANSI standards

Forged drive head for greater durability

Cons

Some consumers have a problem with the drive head

The shaft was a bit too brittle for some

Doesn’t handle itself well with excessively tough bolts

2
Craftsman 3 pc. Flex Handle Breaker Bar

craftsman 3 pc. flex handle breaker bar
craftsman 3 pc. flex handle breaker bar
craftsman 3 pc. flex handle breaker bar
craftsman 3 pc. flex handle breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

What is better than one breaker bar? Three breaker bars, which is precisely what you get when you buy the Craftsman 3 pc. Flex Handle Breaker Bar Set. These excellent bars are the ideal tool to loosen any bolt on any device or contraption with their exquisite design and amazing features. For one, all the breaker bars in this set are made with high-quality alloy steel with a chrome finish that comes together to craft one of the most robust tools on the market. Also, all the bars feature 45° positive stops, which prevents over-tightening, and a bag for storage is also included in the package.

Additionally, the construction of this product is top-notch and the high-quality materials used to manufacture it ensure that you have a tool that lasts for a very long time. What’s more, Craftsman is a company that has been creating incredible tools for many years and can be trusted to produce the highest quality product possible every time. For more quality tools, check out our list of the top hex key sets.

Key Features:

Three-piece breaker bar set

Quality alloy steel construction

45-degree positive stop prevents over-tightening

Increased variety and versatility

Storage bag included

Maximum reach and efficiency

Specification:
  • BrandCraftsman
  • Weight3 pounds
Pros

It offers more value for money

Comes with a small bag for storage

Exceeds ASME specifications

Cons

It isn’t thick enough for some users

The retention clips were too light for some consumers

Its ball-bearing left some customers unimpressed

3
MAXPOWER 1/2-Inch and 3/8-Inch Drive Dual-drive 24-Inch Breaker Bar

maxpower 1/2-inch and 3/8-inch drive dual-drive 24-inch breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Versatility is always an attractive feature for any product to have, as it means you get more value for the amount of money spent. Therefore, the MAXPOWER 1/2-Inch and 3/8-Inch Drive Dual-drive 24-Inch Breaker Bar find itself on this list for this reason and much more. This powerful tool can be classified as a ½ or a ⅜ breaker bar as it features a dual drive. This ensures that it serves you well in most situations, and with its 360-degree rotating flex head, you will face no challenges while working with it.

Also, the chrome vanadium steel construction means that this breaker bar is sturdy enough to provide the required torque to loosen the most difficult nuts and bolts, even rusted ones. In addition, the comfortable handle makes this a convenient tool to use, and with an excellent customer service team to handle any problems you have, the MAXPOWER breaker bar is a great tool to have in your tool box.

Key Features:

1/2- and 3/8-inch drive head

360-degree rotating flex head

Ergonomically designed handle

Suitable for tough and rusted bolts

Chrome vanadium steel construction

Ideal for range of situations

Specification:
  • BrandMaxPower
  • Weight2 pounds
Pros

Versatile and useful for various situations

High-quality chrome vanadium steel construction

Excellent customer service

Cons

It broke too easily for some users

It loses some power due to its interchangeable ends

It falters when dealing with some tough nuts

4
Capri Tools 1/2 in. Drive 30 in. Extended Leverage Breaker Bar

capri tools 1/2 in. drive 30 in. extended leverage breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The Capri Tools 1/2 in. Drive 30 in. Extended Leverage Breaker Bar is an amazing tool that handles all your heavy-duty work perfectly. This breaker bar is made with premium chrome vanadium steel, which makes it a durable tool that handles the toughest jobs. While the head is made from chrome-molybdenum steel, which grants it a level of reliability that you won’t find with many other products on the market.

Moreover, the head rotates up to 230 degrees, which lends itself well to a variety of jobs and gives this breaker bar a high level of versatility. Additionally, the bar features spring-loaded ball bearing, which ensures that sockets are held securely. And finally, as a statement of their confidence, the manufacturers back this product with a lifetime guarantee, which helps to set your mind at ease as you make a purchase. If you need some more reliable must-have tools, browse these screwdriver sets.

Key Features:

Spring-loaded ball bearings to secure socket

Durable chrome-molybdenum steel head

230-degree rotating head

Sleek, rust-proof design

25% longer than standard tools

Ideal for tough nuts and bolts

Specification:
  • BrandCapri Tools
  • ModelCP40123
  • Weight1.61 pounds
Pros

Lifetime guarantee

30-inch length

Excellent for the toughest nuts and bolts

Cons

The handle end is a bit narrow

Wasn’t considered strong enough by some users

It doesn’t seem to do too well with lug nuts

5
Olsa Tools Extendable Breaker Bar

olsa tools extendable breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

While ½ breaker bars are a dime a dozen, the Olsa Tools Extendable Breaker Bar tries to stand out from the crowd with some innovative features. While it features pretty much the same materials used to make other products, its telescoping bars, which allows it to be extended from 16 inches to 24 inches is certainly a feature that you won’t find in too many breaker bars. Also, the breaker bar sports a knurled handle that provides a firm grip when you use it, which, in turn, makes jobs more convenient.

Furthermore, its flexible 180-degree head makes this a very comfortable tool to operate, and it doesn’t require any special steps to use. And as mentioned earlier, the steel used in its construction is of the highest quality, meaning that this is a tool that lasts. Lastly, the Olsa breaker bar is backed with a lifetime guarantee, so you can stop worrying about making a bad purchase. If this type of tool appeals to you, don’t forget to check out these torque wrenches as well.

Key Features:

16 – 24 inch extendable

Lifetime guarantee

Strong chrome steel body

180-degree flex head

Ergonomic handle

Durable and rust proof

Specification:
  • BrandOlsa Tools
  • Weight2.5 pounds
Pros

Ergonomic handle

Easy to use

Doesn’t rust and lasts long

Cons

Doesn’t do too well with lug nuts

Some users found it to be too brittle

It tends to lose a bit of power when fully extended

6
GreatNeck BB18 1/2 Drive 18 Inch Breaker Bar

greatneck bb18 1/2 drive 18 inch breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

If you are looking for a great, and affordable tool to deal with tough nuts and bolts, look no further than the GreatNeck BB18 1/2 Drive 18 Inch Breaker Bar. This exquisitely designed breaker bar is made with premium chrome vanadium steel for amazing durability and strength for all the heavy-duty jobs you have.

On top of that, it sports a knurled handle for that impressive grip. Therefore, you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about losing your hold on the tool while working. Besides, it is equipped with an excellent ball retainer which holds sockets in place with relative ease. And at just 1.5 pounds, it is a very light tool which does the job without straining your hands or body. Also, its 18-inch frame provides you with all the torque you need for heavy-duty tasks, so it is an amazing asset to have in your tool bag.

Key Features:

Excellent ball bearing features

Powerful 18-inch frame for security

Quality construction

Knurled grip for easy handling

Specification:
  • BrandGreatNeck
  • ModelBB18
  • Weight1.5 pounds
Pros

Affordable and budget-friendly

Easy to wield

Convenient for all kinds of people

Cons

The product can expose you to some harmful chemicals

Some users aren’t sold on the quality

It doesn’t do so well on some heavy-duty jobs

7
EPAuto 1/2-Inch Drive by 24 Inch Length Breaker Bar

epauto 1/2-inch drive by 24 inch length breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The EPAuto 1/2-Inch Drive by 24” Length Breaker Bar does the job with very little fuss and leaves you satisfied every time. This is because of the quality construction of the breaker bar, which enables it to last long even after heavy use. Furthermore, its chrome vanadium steel construction is of the highest quality and is rust and corrosion-resistant.

Also of note is the treated steel moly flex head, which gives you the necessary torque from any angle. Additionally, it features spring-loaded ball bearing, which helps it secure sockets adequately ensuring that your work goes as smoothly as possible. Finally, it sports an ergonomically designed handle, which makes it easy to grip, and in turn, convenient to use, just like any of these adjustable pipe wrenches.

Key Features:

Spring-loaded ball bearing for extra security

Moly flex head for necessary torque from any angle

24-inch length for added durability and strength

Amazing tool for heavy-duty jobs

Specification:
  • BrandEPAuto
  • ModelST-018-1
  • Weight2.95 pounds
Pros

Chrome vanadium steel

Very effective against tough lug nuts

Corrosion-resistant material

Cons

Many users can’t get past the non-removable sticker

Some users found the plating and coating substandard

The material wasn’t strong enough for some users

8
Neiko 00211A ½ Inch Drive Extension Breaker Bar

neiko 00211a ½ inch drive extension breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

As we’ve seen earlier in the article, Neiko products are quite classy, and you’ll feel the same after using the Neiko 00211A 1/2” Drive Extension Breaker Bar. This fantastic bar makes the process of changing tires very easy, and tackles all sorts of nuts and bolts with relative ease. In addition, it sports an 18-inch frame that provides just the right amount of torque to loosen the toughest fasteners.

Meanwhile, the drop-forged heat-treated chrome vanadium surface is a beauty to behold, and it is just as strong. Therefore, its sleek design makes it a firm favorite with many DIY enthusiasts and mechanics, which, coupled with its spring-loaded ball detent, make for a phenomenal product. Most importantly, the Neiko 00211A is equipped with square drive radius corners, which reduce socket wear, which, in turn, elongates the life of the product, so make sure to have in your tool belt.

Key Features:

Drop forged heat-treated chrome vanadium body

Square drive radius corners which prevent socket wear

Made with premium materials

18-inch frame for the ideal amount of torque

Specification:
  • BrandNeiko
  • Model00211A
  • Weight1.5 pounds
Pros

Affordable and budget-friendly

Spring-loaded ball detent for socket security

Rotating head for versatile use

Cons

It broke too easily for some users

The shaft diameter was too small for some

Some users were not pleased with the thin handle

9
TEKTON 3/8-Inch Drive x 18-Inch Breaker Bar

tekton 3/8-inch drive x 18-inch breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The TEKTON 3/8-Inch Drive x 18-Inch Breaker Bar is an example of a product that pulls out all the stops for its consumers. In that vein, this breaker bar is well made, and its ergonomic handle makes it really easy to hold and work with. Furthermore, the manufacturers put a lot of thought into how users would interact with their product, and for this reason, the handle is made to give you a firm grip regardless of how you hold the tool.

Also of importance is its powerful external head, which is stronger than most of the stuff you’ll find on the market today. This is as a result of the AISI 4140 steelhead, which is even stronger than the handle and prevents twisting or spreading in the fork. Finally, the head can rotate up to 230 degrees, which ensures that this breaker bar can be used from just about any angle. Make sure to browse these mechanic tool sets as well.

Key Features:

Powerful AISI 4140 steelhead

Powerful body that doesn’t break

Conveniently designed handle with impressive grip

230-degree rotating head for greater maneuverability

Specification:
  • BrandTEKTON
  • ModelSBH00118
  • Weight2.22 pounds
Pros

Steelhead is stronger than the body

Comfortable to use and hold

Easy to put together without stress

Cons

The head was too big for some

It broke too easily for some users

The metal spreads apart after you apply some pressure

10
Keyfit Tools Big Bertha BREACHER Super Leverage Breaker Bar

keyfit tools big bertha breacher super leverage breaker bar
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The Keyfit Tools Big Bertha BREACHER Super Leverage Breaker Bar is an all in one toolset for loosening any kind of nut without the slightest hint of trouble. Apart from its lovely design, these breaker bars create suitable extensions for just about any tool you have for loosening and tightening. On top of all that, they are both lightweight and aren’t difficult to use, and their relatively small size means that they fit perfectly into your toolbox with no hassle.

Meanwhile, the materials used to construct this product is of the highest quality, and you are rest assured that it will last you for a decent amount of time. Therefore, with the Keyfit tools, there is no job impossible for you to do. Versatility is the name of the game with this product, and its numerous uses make it a no-brainer to buy, just like any of these jack hammers.

Key Features:

Useful for a variety of jobs

Sleek design

Made with high-quality materials that last

Works well with combination wrenches

Specification:
  • BrandKeyfit Tools
  • Weight1.26 pounds
Pros

Fits easily into your toolbox

Guaranteed for life

Reliable slot that accommodates most wrenches

Cons

Some users weren’t impressed with the chrome finish

Some users found the edges to be too sharp

The drive head on the smaller bar isn’t welded straight to the pipe

Breaker Bar Buying Guide & FAQ

Before buying a breaker bar, you need to consider a few things as they affect your experience with the tool. So, if you give these factors, some thought, you are more likely to buy the perfect breaker bar for you.

Features To Look For In Breaker Bars

Size - As with any other product you want to buy, considering the size of your next purchase is of the utmost importance. Similarly, with breaker bars, size matters-- a lot. For instance, there are breaker bars with frames as short as 12 inches and as long as 30 inches, and depending on the job at hand, they are all effective to various degrees.

Also, if you are trying to change a tire, you would probably need a bar that’s about 18 inches or some to provide the necessary amount of torque to loosen the nuts. Similarly, there are other jobs that are more suitable for longer breaker bars. Also, the drive head is essential, and a ¾ breaker bar might be what you need for the job at hand, so ensure that you check the size of the job and the bar before making a purchase.

Quality - This is a no brainer as breaker bars typically have to endure a lot of pressure to achieve their required results. Therefore, the quality of the material is crucial. Not only does the quality dictate the price, but also the longevity of the tool. So, bars made with high-quality steel tend to last a lot longer than those made with other materials.

Also, the quality of the head is similarly essential as once it breaks, the tool is no longer useful to you. With that in mind, check out breaker bars that are well made and affordable as these are the best for you.

breaker bar

Ease Of Use - What is the use of a breaker bar that you have no idea how to operate? While it is unlikely that you’ll find a breaker bar too complicated to use, some are easier to use than others. More often than not, this is as a result of the design of the handle.

For instance, you’ll find it much easier to use a breaker bar with an ergonomic handle, and this also ensures that you expend less energy. Thus, it is in your best interest to buy a bar that’s convenient to use.

Price - We have alluded to this when talking about the quality of breaker bars. Just like with every other product, the price range for breaker bars varies wildly from the cheap to the exorbitant. And while the more expensive the tool is, the more quality is used in its construction. However, you also have to worry about your budget, which requires you to do some additional research to find products that deliver on both quality and affordability.

a breaker bar

Breaker Bar FAQ

Q: What is a breaker bar?

A: Generally speaking, a breaker bar is a non-ratcheting tool that is used in conjunction with sockets and wrenches in loosening fasteners. Also, they are typically longer than wrenches as the extra length enables them to provide the necessary amount of torque to loosen nuts.

Q: What makes a good breaker bar?

A: The quality of steel used in the manufacturing of a breaker bar is possibly the most important factor when picking out one to buy. So, bars with high-quality steel don’t break easily and can take a lot more pressure.

the breaker bar

Q: How much torque can a breaker bar handle?

A: While breaker bars are made to handle torque, there is only so much pressure any tool can take. As a result, different bar breakers have different breaking points, and their maximum weight allowance depends largely on their manufacturer and quality.

Q: How long should a breaker bar be?

A: There are various lengths for breaker bars, but it has been suggested that tools between 18 and 24 inches are the most useful for various potential jobs.

Q: Do breaker bars work?

A: Yes. Breaker bars are quite useful as they deliver the extra torque to loosen tough bolts that regular wrenches just can’t. So, as long as you purchase a breaker bar with the right specs and the requisite quality, they will certainly work for you.

Jordan Carter
Jordan Carter
Jordan Carter is Gear Hungry's resident Editor-in-Chief with a genuine love and passion for all things tech. Jordan works diligently to ensure only the best products ever make it onto the platform and are showcased in Gear Hungry's carefully curated, tested and expertly researched, informative buying guides.
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