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Tap handles are an essential component in any bar, restaurant, or even a dedicated home bar setup. Not only do they serve an aesthetical purpose, but they also provide functionality and ease of use when dispensing beverages. It’s important to use the right tap handle for the best experience, whether you’re serving beer, coffee, or other beverages. However, choosing the right tap handle can be quite a daunting task due to the plethora of choices available. In this article, we will guide you in selecting the best tap handle, based on our hands-on testing and research.
Best Tap Handles
Choosing the right tap handle is an important decision for anyone looking to enhance their beverage-dispensing experience. Whether it’s for your home bar or commercial establishment, the right tap handle can improve functionality, provide a sleek aesthetic, and even increase customer satisfaction. With countless options to choose from, it can be a challenge to identify the best fit for your needs. After rigorous testing and extensive research, we have compiled a list of the best tap handles to streamline your decision-making process.
As passionate professionals in the food and beverage industry, we understand the significance of high-quality tap handles. Our diligent research and exhaustive testing have helped us identify various tap handle models that excel in different areas. Throughout this article, we will share our findings and guide you toward making a well-informed decision tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
IRWIN Hanson 12002 T-Handle Tap Wrenches, 1/4″ – 1/2″
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy tap wrench, the IRWIN Hanson 12002 T-Handle Tap Wrenches might be a great option for you.
Pros
- The 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 1/2″ square drive tap wrenches are designed to fit standard and metric tap handles.
- The chamfered edges of the wrenches make it easy to seat and securely hold tapered tap handles.
- The forged and hardened wrenches are built to last a lifetime.
Cons
- Some users might find the wrenches a bit pricey compared to other options in the market.
- The wrenches are quite heavy, which might not be suitable for some users.
- The wrenches might not fit some tap handles perfectly, which could be an issue for some users.
We’ve used the IRWIN Hanson 12002 T-Handle Tap Wrenches for a few weeks now, and we’re quite impressed with their performance. The wrenches are well-made and sturdy, and they fit standard and metric tap handles perfectly. The chamfered edges of the wrenches make it easy to seat and securely hold tapered tap handles, which is a great feature.
One of the things we like about these wrenches is that they’re built to last a lifetime. The forged and hardened wrenches are made from drop-forged and hardened alloy steel, which makes them durable and long-lasting. The wrenches also have a beautiful polished chrome finish that looks great and resists rust and corrosion.
However, some users might find the wrenches a bit pricey compared to other options in the market. Additionally, the wrenches are quite heavy, which might not be suitable for some users. Finally, some users might find that the wrenches don’t fit some tap handles perfectly, which could be an issue for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy tap wrench that’s built to last a lifetime, the IRWIN Hanson 12002 T-Handle Tap Wrenches might be a great option for you.
WILLBOND 2 Pcs Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle Tap Handle Tool Ratcheting Tap Handle for Tap Reamer Tapping Hand Tool (1/4″-3/4″, 1/16″-1/4)
If you’re looking for a versatile tap wrench that can handle a variety of tasks, the WILLBOND 2 Pcs Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 360° rotatable handle design makes it easy to operate in confined spaces, and the comfortable grip ensures that you can use it for extended periods without experiencing fatigue.
- The ratchet function allows you to change the direction of the tap wrench with a 15° turn, which can save you a lot of time and effort when you’re working on a project.
- The 1/4″-3/4″ and 1/16″-1/4″ tap handle sizes make it compatible with a wide range of tap wrenches, so you can use it with the tools you already have in your collection.
Cons
- The wrench is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as metal wrenches.
- Some users have reported that the wrench can be difficult to adjust to the right size.
- The wrench may not be suitable for very tight spaces or difficult-to-reach areas.
Overall, we think that the WILLBOND 2 Pcs Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle is a solid choice for anyone who needs a versatile and easy-to-use tap wrench. The 360° rotatable handle design and ratchet function make it a great choice for tight spaces, and the compatibility with a range of tap wrench sizes means that you can use it with the tools you already have. While the plastic construction may not be as durable as metal wrenches, we think that it’s a small price to pay for the convenience and ease of use that this wrench offers.
Ai T-Handle T Type Tap Wrench Set Of 3 Pieces Solid Collet Jaws
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable tap wrench set, the Ai T-Handle T Type Tap Wrench Set Of 3 Pieces Solid Collet Jaws is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The solid collet jaws provide maximum gripping power, making it easy to tighten or loosen screws and taps.
- The T-handle design provides extra leverage, making it easier to apply force and get the job done quickly.
- The set comes with three different sizes, so you’ll have the right tool for most jobs.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the set is not suitable for use with very hard materials.
- The set may not be as comfortable to use as some other tap wrench sets on the market.
- The set may not be as durable as some other tap wrench sets.
Overall, the Ai T-Handle T Type Tap Wrench Set Of 3 Pieces Solid Collet Jaws is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and durable tap wrench set. The solid collet jaws provide maximum gripping power, and the T-handle design provides extra leverage for faster and easier work. While the set may not be suitable for use with very hard materials, it is still a great option for most jobs.
The set comes with three different sizes, so you’ll have the right tool for most jobs. However, some users have reported that the set is not as comfortable to use as some other tap wrench sets on the market. Additionally, the set may not be as durable as some other tap wrench sets.
In conclusion, if you’re in need of a reliable and durable tap wrench set, the Ai T-Handle T Type Tap Wrench Set Of 3 Pieces Solid Collet Jaws is definitely worth considering.
MRbrew 【5 PCS Plastic Beer Tap Handle, Faucet Black Handle Fits for Standard American Threading Beer Faucet 】
If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to customize your home beer tap, the MRbrew 5 PCS Plastic Beer Tap Handle is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes five different designs, allowing you to mix and match to create a unique look for your tap.
- The handles are made of high-quality plastic and are built to last, ensuring that your tap looks great for years to come.
- The handles are easy to install, requiring no special tools or expertise.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the handles are not compatible with certain types of faucets, so be sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
- While the handles are durable, they may not be as sturdy as metal handles, which could be a concern for heavy-duty commercial use.
- The set only includes five handles, which may not be enough to fully customize a larger tap system.
Overall, the MRbrew 5 PCS Plastic Beer Tap Handle is a great choice for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home beer tap. The set is affordable, easy to install, and includes a variety of designs to choose from. While there may be some limitations in terms of compatibility and durability, the pros definitely outweigh the cons.
Piutouyar M3-M12 Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle 1/16″-1/2″ Tap Handle Reamer Wrench Profesional Tapping Wrench Tool
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tap wrench, the Piutouyar M3-M12 Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The upgraded design with an anti-skid grip provides a comfortable and firm grip, making it easy to use for extended periods.
- The adjustable design allows for easy switching between different sizes, making it a convenient tool to have in your workshop.
- Made of hardened steel, this tap wrench is durable and can withstand heavy use.
Cons
- The tap wrench is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods.
- The tap wrench may not fit all tap sizes, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing.
- The tap wrench is quite expensive compared to other similar products on the market.
Overall, the Piutouyar M3-M12 Adjustable Tap Wrench Handle is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile tap wrench. The upgraded design and adjustable size make it a convenient tool to have in your workshop, while the durable construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use. However, the weight of the tap wrench and the price point may be a deterrent for some users.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best tap handle, there are several factors to consider. As experienced homebrewers, we understand the importance of selecting a high-quality tap handle that not only looks great but also functions properly. In this section, we will discuss the key features to look for when selecting a tap handle.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tap handle is the material it is made from. The material can affect the durability, weight, and overall appearance of the handle. Common materials include stainless steel, brass, and plastic. Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Brass is also a popular choice for its classic look and feel. Plastic is a more affordable option but may not be as durable as other materials.
Style
The style of the tap handle is another important factor to consider. The style can affect the overall aesthetic of your tap system. There are several different styles to choose from, including lever handles, push handles, and knob handles. Lever handles are a popular choice due to their ease of use and sleek design. Push handles are also a good option for their simple design and easy operation. Knob handles can add a classic touch to your tap system.
Size
The size of the tap handle is another important factor to consider. The size can affect the overall look of your tap system and the ease of use of the handle. It is important to choose a handle that is the appropriate size for your tap system and fits comfortably in your hand.
Ease of Use
Finally, it is important to choose a tap handle that is easy to use. A handle that is difficult to operate can be frustrating and may even cause accidents. Look for a handle that is easy to grip and operate, and that provides a smooth and consistent flow of beer.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best tap handle for your homebrew system that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
