What is a combination wrench?

A combination wrench features a boxed end and an open end. The boxed end features either six or twelve points. There is a slight angle between the shaft and the boxed end, allowing for additional torque in a variety of applications.

Most combination wrenches feature twelve points on the box end, giving the user more usable positions when working on a nut or bolt with six sides, with only 30 degrees between positions. A six-point box is preferable when working on bolts or nuts that show corrosion or some stripping, as a twelve-point box causes the fastener to strip more easily.