Get a set with both SAE and metric hex keys, like the Klein 70552; it covers the 3/32 and 1/8-inch keys Delta lists for shower handles and the 1/4-inch key for disposal jams. Add ball-end L-keys such as the Bondhus 20199 for angled set screws, and a Torx set like the Klein 70550T for star-drive trim.
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This guide covers hand hex and Torx keys for faucet, shower and disposal work.
Hex and Torx sets compared
| Set | Sizes | Choose it when |
|---|---|---|
| Klein 70552 | 11 SAE + 10 metric, folding | One kit for faucet set screws and disposal jams |
| Bondhus 20199 | 13 SAE + 9 metric ball-end L-keys | Set screws you have to reach at an angle under a handle |
| Klein 70550T | 10 Torx, T6 to T40, folding | Fixtures and trim held with star screws |
Plumbers use hex keys most on faucet and shower handle set screws and on the bottom of garbage disposals. Torx shows up on some fixture trim, mounting hardware and tools.
Sizes plumbers reach for
Delta, as cited in our Delta cartridge guide, says its shower handles may need a 1/8-inch or 3/32-inch hex key or a Phillips screwdriver depending on the handle. Our limit stop guide uses the same keys.
Disposals with a bottom socket take a 1/4-inch hex key to free a jammed flywheel; our disposal jam guide walks through it.
Other brands use other sizes, and some imported fixtures use metric. A set that covers both SAE and metric means you are not guessing at the sink.
Klein 70552: SAE and metric folding sets
Choose the Klein 70552 as the all-around kit. Klein lists (kleintools.com) 21 keys in two folding holders: 3/32, 7/64, 1/8, 9/64, 5/32, 3/16, 7/32, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8 and 1/2 inch, plus 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 and 12 mm.
That covers the 3/32 and 1/8-inch keys for Delta handles and the 1/4-inch key for disposals. Folding sets keep every size together in the truck, so the one you need is not lost under a sink.
On October 15, 2026, the standard new offer sold by Amazon.com showed stock with model 70552.
Check Klein 70552 SAE and metric hex key set on Amazon →
Bondhus 20199: ball-end L-keys for angled access
Choose the Bondhus 20199 when set screws sit under a handle where you cannot get a key straight in. The listing describes a double pack of Balldriver L-wrench sets: 10937 with 13 inch sizes from 0.050 to 3/8 inch, and 10999 with nine metric sizes from 1.5 to 10 mm.
A ball end lets the key turn the screw at an angle, though it grips less than a straight end, so break a tight screw loose with the short straight end first.
On October 15, 2026, the standard new offer sold by Amazon.com showed stock with model 20199.
Check Bondhus 20199 ball-end hex key double pack on Amazon →
Klein 70550T: Torx folding set
Choose the Klein 70550T for star-drive screws. Klein lists (kleintools.com) T6, T8, T9, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27, T30 and T40 blades about 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches long, blades that open independently up to 270 degrees, and square-cut ends for a full-depth fit.
On October 15, 2026, the standard new offer sold by Amazon.com showed stock with model 70550T.
Check Klein 70550T Torx key set on Amazon →
More plumbing jobs that need a hex key
Slip-fit tub spouts: our tub spout guide quotes the maker saying the set screw under a slip-fit spout takes a 5/32-inch hex wrench, and that threaded spouts have no hex screw. The Klein 70552 includes 5/32 inch.
PEX crimp tool calibration: some crimp and pinch tools adjust with a set screw or an Allen wrench; our PEX crimp tool guide lists how each one is calibrated.
Some shower trim, lavatory faucet handles and toilet seat hinges use small hex or Torx fasteners too, so keep the small sizes, 3/32 inch down to the metric 1.5 and 2 mm, where you can find them.
Inch or metric: how to tell
Try the inch key you think fits. If it slips or rocks, try the closest metric size; some pairs, like 5/32 inch and 4 mm, are close enough to fool you and will round a tight screw. The right key slides in snugly with no play.
Note the size that fit on the job ticket or inside the cabinet door. Next time you or another plumber services that fixture, there is no guessing.
Keep the keys clean and dry; a rusty or chewed-up key end is the most common reason set screws strip. Replace a key once its corners round off.
A small key kit for service calls
You do not need every key on every call. A practical service kit is a folding inch-and-metric set like the Klein 70552, two or three loose ball-end keys in the sizes you meet most (3/32, 1/8 and 5/32 inch), a 1/4-inch key for disposals, and a small Torx set for trim.
Our disposal reset guide suggests taping a disposal key inside the sink cabinet door for the homeowner; leaving the customer a spare key is a small courtesy that saves a callback.
Keep the loose keys in a zip pouch or a magnetic strip in the bag so they do not scatter, and check the kit at the end of the day for missing sizes.
Removing a stuck handle set screw
Match the key exactly; a key that is almost the right size rounds the socket. Push it fully into the screw, then turn with steady pressure. A drop of penetrating oil and a few minutes help on old corroded screws; our penetrating oil guide covers options.
If the socket is already rounded, a screw extractor is the next step; our screw extractor guide explains how to use one without damaging the handle.
Many handle set screws hide under a cap or behind the handle; pry caps off gently with a thin blade so you do not mar the finish.
Folding set or loose keys?
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Folding sets keep sizes together and are hard to lose. Loose L-keys reach deeper and fit tighter spaces, and a ball end turns at an angle. A common setup is a folding set in the bag and a few loose L-keys in the common handle sizes.
T-handle keys give more leverage and speed on repeated screws, but they are bulky in a tool bag; many service plumbers skip them for this kind of work.
For power-driving, use hex and Torx bits in an impact driver instead; our impact bit guide covers sets.
Frequently asked questions
What size hex key for a Delta shower handle?
Delta says a 1/8-inch or 3/32-inch hex key or a Phillips screwdriver, depending on the handle.
What size hex key unjams a garbage disposal?
Disposals with a bottom socket take a 1/4-inch hex key.
Ball-end or straight hex keys?
Ball ends turn at an angle for hard-to-reach screws; straight ends grip better for breaking a tight screw loose.
What Torx sizes are in the Klein 70550T?
Klein lists T6, T8, T9, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27, T30 and T40.
Do I need metric hex keys for plumbing?
Sometimes. Some fixtures use metric set screws, so a set with both SAE and metric avoids guessing.
How we chose
This document-based guide makes no hands-on testing claim. We read Klein’s 70552 and 70550T product pages and used handle and disposal sizes from our existing guides, which cite the makers. The Bondhus set is described from its listing. On October 15, 2026, all three linked standard new offers were sold by Amazon.com and showed stock. Read our selection method and about Plumbing Picks.
Primary sources
- Klein Tools 70552 Pro Folding Hex Key Set (kleintools.com): 21 SAE and metric sizes.
- Klein Tools 70550T Pro Folding Torx Set (kleintools.com): T6–T40 sizes, blade length, 270° opening, square-cut ends.