Which tool is commonly used to break loose very tight nuts and bolts?

A breaker bar is an essential tool designed specifically for applying substantial torque to loosen tightly fastened nuts and bolts. It features a long handle that allows the user to leverage their strength effectively, providing increased mechanical advantage compared to standard wrenches. The length of the breaker bar generates more torque, making it easier to break loose stubborn fasteners, even those that may be rusted or corroded.

Using a socket wrench, though common, may lack the necessary leverage to loosen very tight fasteners effectively. A hinged handle is used to increase the angle of approach for certain fasteners but does not offer the same torque leverage as a breaker bar. Universal joints, while useful for facilitating access to fasteners in tight spaces, do not inherently provide loosening power like a breaker bar does. Thus, the breaker bar is recognized as the optimal choice for handling those particularly stubborn nuts and bolts.