A crowbar is a metal lever tool used for demolition and opening things. It has a curved end with a forked piece for pulling out nails and a chisel-shaped end for wedging. The term “crowbar” comes from the curved end resembling a crow’s foot. Crowbars are typically made of steel or iron and should be heavy and sturdy. Different sizes are available for different uses.
A crowbar is a metal tool designed to be used as a lever. It has a very simple design and humans have probably been using versions of this tool for centuries. It has a wide range of uses and is commonly used in demolition work, as it can be used to wedge things together, and is also used to open things, such as boxes that have been nailed shut. Many hardware stores stock crowbars and can also be ordered directly from their manufacturers.
A basic crowbar is simply a straight metal rod with a curved end. The curved end has a forked piece of metal which can be used as a latch to pull out nails and similar obstacles. The other end is often chisel-shaped; it is also possible to find crowbars equipped with handles in easy-grip materials, which make their use more comfortable. Those with a chisel end can be used as a very effective wedge by driving the chisel into a small gap and then turning the shaft of the tool.
The term “crowbar” has been around since the 1400s and is believed to be a reference to a crow’s foot, which the curved end of the instrument closely resembles. Originally, this tool was called a “pork bar”; at some point the word was composed, although it is not exactly clear when this happened. It’s also possible that the term comes from the Old French croc, meaning “hook.” Crowbars are also known as pry bars or levers, and are called jimmy or jemmy bars in some communities.
The most typical choice of material for these tools is steel or iron, because both of these materials are strong and highly durable. It is also possible to find crowbars made from titanium and other specialty materials. Some companies make versions that aren’t electrically conductive, which can be a distinct advantage; they are typically more expensive, because the materials used to make them are more expensive. For people who struggle with tool theft, crowbars in bright colors or with loud floral themes are also available, although the paint tends to wear off with use.
When selecting a crowbar, it pays to look for one that is heavy and very sturdy. A solid one will yield years of productive use, while cheaper versions can snap at inconvenient times. It can also be helpful to obtain several crowbar sizes, to ensure that shorter or longer levers are available as needed.
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