Magnusson Spanner Set Review
Magnusson spanner sets are a staple in UK DIY sheds, offering a budget-conscious entry point for home mechanics. This review examines the build quality, range, and real-world value of these affordable tools.
Quick answer
The Magnusson spanner set is a solid budget choice for light DIY and occasional use, but serious mechanics should look to brands like Bahco or Sealey for better steel and fit. The 8-19mm combination set offers the best value for the price.
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Research updated June 2026.
Magnusson 8-19mm Combination Spanner Set (12-Piece)
Best value for the price, covers most common fastener sizes.
Magnusson 8-19mm Combination Spanner Set (12-Piece)
Best OverallPros
- Very affordable price point
- Covers the most common metric sizes
- Chrome finish resists rust well
Cons
- Jaw fit is not as precise as premium brands
- Steel is softer, prone to rounding over time
This 12-piece set from Magnusson is the entry-level standard for UK DIYers. It includes all the common sizes from 8mm up to 19mm, skipping the less used 9mm, 11mm, and 18mm sizes to keep the cost down. The spanners are made from chrome vanadium steel with a polished chrome finish that offers basic corrosion protection.
Owner reviews on retailer sites consistently note that these spanners are fine for light tasks like assembling flat-pack furniture or tightening a lawnmower blade. However, the jaw fit is noticeably looser than on a Bahco or Sealey set, which can lead to rounding of softer bolts if too much torque is applied. For the price, they are a good starter set, but they are not built for daily professional use.
Magnusson 6-22mm Combination Spanner Set (14-Piece)
Best RangePros
- Includes smaller 6mm and 7mm sizes
- Good for small engine work
- Low cost per spanner
Cons
- 22mm spanner is bulky and less useful
- Same quality concerns as the 12-piece set
This larger set extends the range to include 6mm, 7mm, and 22mm spanners. It is a better choice if you work on small engines like those found in lawnmowers or motorcycles, where smaller fasteners are common. The 22mm spanner is useful for larger suspension components or wheel nuts on some vehicles.
While the wider range is welcome, the quality of the steel and the precision of the jaw cut remain the same as the smaller set. Owners report that the 6mm and 7mm spanners are particularly prone to slipping on tight bolts due to the looser fit. This set is best viewed as a comprehensive budget kit for light duties rather than a professional tool set.
Magnusson Double Open Ended Spanner Set (8-19mm)
Best for Tight SpacesPros
- Good for accessing nuts in tight spots
- Each spanner has two different size ends
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Only 6 spanners covering 8 sizes
- Open ends are more prone to slipping
Double open-ended spanners are designed for speed and access in confined spaces where a ratchet or combination spanner cannot fit. This Magnusson set includes six spanners that cover sizes from 8mm to 19mm, with each spanner having a different size at each end (e.g., 8x10mm, 11x13mm).
These are useful for plumbers and mechanics working in tight engine bays. However, the open-end design inherently offers less grip than a box-end or combination spanner, and the Magnusson versions have a slightly wider jaw gap than premium alternatives. Owners advise using them carefully to avoid rounding bolt heads.
Magnusson Ratchet Spanner Set (8-19mm)
Best for SpeedPros
- Faster than standard spanners
- Useful for repetitive tasks
- Compact storage in a roll
Cons
- Ratchet mechanism can feel gritty
- Not as durable as professional ratchet spanners
Ratchet spanners allow you to turn a fastener without removing the tool, making them much faster for jobs like changing a car battery or assembling furniture. This Magnusson set includes the most common sizes from 8mm to 19mm, with a 72-tooth ratchet mechanism that provides a 5-degree swing arc.
Owner reviews note that the ratchet action is functional but not smooth. Some users report that the mechanism can feel gritty or skip under heavy load. The chrome vanadium steel is adequate for the task, but the ratchet internals are a common failure point on budget sets. They are a good upgrade from standard spanners for speed but are not for heavy-duty use.
Magnusson 3-Piece Stubby Spanner Set
Best for Confined SpacesPros
- Very short length for tight access
- Covers the three most common sizes
- Inexpensive addition to a tool kit
Cons
- Limited to only three sizes
- Short handle reduces torque leverage
Stubby spanners are essential for working in tight engine bays, under sinks, or inside machinery where a standard length tool will not fit. This Magnusson set includes the three most common metric sizes: 10mm, 13mm, and 17mm. Each spanner is a combination type with an open end and a box end.
The short handle means you cannot apply as much torque, which is actually a safety feature to prevent over-tightening. Owners find them useful for specific tasks like removing a car battery terminal or tightening a hose clamp. The quality is consistent with the rest of the Magnusson range: adequate for occasional use, but the steel is softer than professional brands.
Who is the Magnusson Spanner Set For?
Magnusson spanner sets are designed for the home DIYer and occasional user. They are an excellent choice for someone building a first tool kit on a budget, or for use around the house for tasks like assembling flat-pack furniture, tightening bicycle components, or basic car maintenance like changing a battery or air filter. They are not intended for professional mechanics or heavy industrial use.
Performance and Build Quality
The spanners are forged from chrome vanadium steel, which is a standard material in this price bracket. The chrome plating offers a basic level of rust resistance, though owners report that it can chip or flake over time with heavy use. The main criticism from aggregated owner reviews is the fit of the jaws. The open ends are often reported to have a slightly loose fit on standard metric bolts, which can increase the risk of rounding the bolt head, especially on softer or corroded fasteners.
The box end (ring) is generally more secure, but the 12-point design can also be prone to slipping on rounded bolts compared to a 6-point design. The overall finish is functional but not polished to the same standard as brands like Bahco or Snap-on. For the price, the build quality is acceptable, but users should manage their expectations regarding durability and precision.
Alternatives to Consider
If you need a more durable set for regular use, consider the Bahco 8-19mm Combination Spanner Set. Bahco spanners are made from higher-grade steel with a more precise jaw fit and a longer warranty. They are a significant step up in quality. Another strong alternative is the Sealey 8-19mm Combination Spanner Set, which offers a good balance of quality and value for the home mechanic. For the absolute best in precision and durability, the Wera Joker or Facom sets are industry leaders, but they come at a much higher price point.
What to Check Before Buying a Spanner Set
Before purchasing, consider the size range you need. Most DIY tasks require 8mm to 19mm, but check if you need smaller or larger sizes. Look at the jaw design: a 12-point box end is common but a 6-point is better for high torque. Check the material specification; chrome vanadium steel is standard, but chrome molybdenum is stronger. Finally, consider the storage; a roll or case keeps the set organized and prevents loss.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Spanners
A common mistake is buying a set that is too large or too small for your typical tasks. A 6-22mm set might include sizes you never use. Another mistake is assuming all chrome vanadium steel is the same; the heat treatment and forging process vary greatly between brands. Finally, do not ignore the jaw fit. A cheap spanner that slips can damage expensive fasteners, costing more in the long run than buying a better set initially.
FAQs
Are Magnusson spanner sets any good?
They are a good budget option for light DIY and occasional use, but they lack the precision and durability of professional brands like Bahco or Sealey.
What sizes do Magnusson spanner sets come in?
Common sets range from 6mm to 22mm, with the most popular 12-piece set covering 8mm to 19mm.
Are Magnusson spanners made from chrome vanadium steel?
Yes, most Magnusson spanner sets are made from chrome vanadium steel with a chrome-plated finish.
Where are Magnusson tools made?
Magnusson is a brand owned by B&Q (Kingfisher plc) and their tools are typically manufactured in China or Taiwan to a budget specification.
What is the warranty on Magnusson spanners?
Magnusson tools usually come with a 1-year or 2-year warranty, which is shorter than the lifetime warranties offered by premium brands.
Are Magnusson spanners good for car maintenance?
They are suitable for basic car maintenance like changing a battery or air filter, but not recommended for heavy engine work or high-torque applications.
What is the difference between combination and double open-ended spanners?
Combination spanners have an open end and a box end, while double open-ended spanners have two open ends, each of a different size.
Are ratchet spanners worth the extra money?
Ratchet spanners are faster for repetitive tasks, but the mechanisms on budget sets like Magnusson can be less smooth and durable than standard spanners.
Can Magnusson spanners be used on plumbing?
Yes, they can be used on plumbing fittings, but care must be taken as the open end can slip on brass or chrome fittings, potentially causing damage.
What is a stubby spanner used for?
A stubby spanner is used in confined spaces where a standard length spanner will not fit, such as inside an engine bay or under a sink.
Our verdict
The Magnusson spanner set is a competent budget choice for the occasional DIYer. For the best overall value, the 8-19mm 12-piece combination set covers the most common sizes at a low price. However, if you work on your car regularly or need a tool that will last for years, investing in a Bahco or Sealey set is a better long-term decision.