Park Tool HR-14, AWS-3 and NP-6: Workshop Tools FAQ
By Bicycle Superstore | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Product Reviews
Straight answers on the Park Tool HR-14 hex wrench, AWS-3 3-way hex wrench, and NP-6 needle nose pliers, so you can choose and use the right workshop tool.
Quick answer
The HR-14 is a dedicated 14mm hex wrench for freehub bodies and some crank bolts, the AWS-3 is a compact 2/2.5/3mm 3-way hex wrench for small fasteners, and the NP-6 is a 6-inch needle nose plier with crimping and cutting areas. Choose by the fastener size and job, not by brand alone.
Why the HR-14 is not a general-purpose hex key
The Park Tool HR-14 hex wrench is a single 14mm tool. That size is used for removing freehub bodies from several hub brands and for some Campagnolo crank bolts, so it solves a specific problem rather than covering everyday adjustments. If you already own a hex key set that stops at 10mm, the HR-14 fills a gap for hub service but will not replace the smaller keys you use for stems, seatposts, or brakes.
When the AWS-3 3-way hex wrench saves time
The Park Tool AWS-3 3-way hex wrench combines 2mm, 2.5mm, and 3mm sizes in one palm-sized tool. These small sizes appear on derailleur limit screws, some hydraulic brake bleed ports, and computer mounts. A 3-way wrench keeps all three sizes at hand and provides leverage through its shape, but it is not a substitute for a full set when you need 4mm, 5mm, or 6mm keys for larger bolts.
What the NP-6 needle nose pliers add beyond grabbing
The Park Tool NP-6 needle nose pliers are 6-inch forged, heat-treated cro-moly steel pliers with five crimping or grasping areas and a cutting blade. That makes them useful for pulling cable ends, holding small parts, and crimping cable end caps. They are not a replacement for a dedicated cable cutter when you need a clean cut on housing, and the 6-inch size favors control over reach in tight spaces.
Which Park Tool hex wrench to buy first
If your bike uses common 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex bolts, start with a set that covers those sizes; the HR-14 and AWS-3 target narrower jobs. Buy the HR-14 when you plan to service a freehub or need the 14mm size for a crank bolt. Buy the AWS-3 when you frequently adjust small limit screws or bleed ports and want one compact tool. The NP-6 is a separate purchase for cable work and fine grasping, not a hex wrench.
Workshop tool FAQ
- What is the Park Tool HR-14 hex wrench used for?
- It is a 14mm hex wrench for removing freehub bodies from several hub brands and for some Campagnolo crank bolts. It is not needed for routine 4mm, 5mm, or 6mm adjustments.
- Does the AWS-3 replace a full hex key set?
- No. The AWS-3 covers only 2mm, 2.5mm, and 3mm sizes. Keep a separate set for larger bolts such as stem, seatpost, and brake caliper fasteners.
- Can the NP-6 cut cable housing?
- The NP-6 has a cutting blade, but it is a needle nose plier, not a dedicated cable cutter. For clean housing cuts, use a proper cable cutter; reserve the NP-6 for grasping, pulling, and crimping.
- Which Park Tool hex wrench should I buy first?
- Buy the size your bike actually uses. If you service freehubs, get the HR-14. If you constantly adjust small limit screws, get the AWS-3. For general 4–6mm bolts, choose a standard hex key set instead.
Product facts
- Park Tool Hex Wrench 14mm (HR-14): 14mm hex wrench made from through-hardened industrial-quality steel with chamfered tips. The chamfered tip helps the wrench seat fully in the fastener, which matters on tight freehub bodies.
Park Tool Hex Wrench 14mm (HR-14) - Park Tool 3-Way Hex Wrench 2/2.5/3mm (AWS-3): 3-way wrench with 2mm, 2.5mm, and 3mm hex sizes made from industrial tool steel. One tool covers the three smallest hex sizes often found on derailleur limits and small fittings.
Park Tool 3-Way Hex Wrench 2/2.5/3mm (AWS-3) - Park Tool Needle Nose Pliers (NP-6): 6-inch needle nose pliers with five crimping/grasping areas and a cutting blade, forged from heat-treated cro-moly steel. The multiple areas let you crimp cable end caps and grasp small parts without switching tools.
