Any tool can break if it is used improperly or beyond its intended purpose. We have encountered new revolvers with nipples that were severely overtightened at the factory. When using the wrench, it is important to keep it squarely and fully seated on the nipple so that even pressure is applied to both sides while loosening it. We promptly sent the customer a replacement wrench.
The nipple wrench is designed to fit all replica revolvers and most originals. However, the original Colt Walker has unique nipple specifications. The wrench will fit replica Uberti Walker and Dragoon revolvers.
As stated in the product description, the wrench is designed to fit most—but not all—nipples. Some older nipples were manufactured in less common sizes. However, our wrench fits the vast majority of nipples and performs very well, as reflected in our customer reviews.
You are correct—this wrench will not fit the factory nipples on a Ruger Old Army, as clearly stated in the product description. However, it will fit our SliXshot replacement nipples for the Ruger Old Army.
We have encountered new revolvers with nipples that were overtightened at the factory. Make sure the wrench is seated squarely and fully on the nipple before applying additional torque. When installing the replacement nipples, apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads and tighten them only until lightly snug. The difficulty described appears to have resulted from the factory-installed nipples being overtightened rather than from the performance of the wrench.
We highly recommend applying a small amount of anti-seize compound to the nipple threads before installation to make future removal easier. The nipples should also be removed periodically for cleaning and reapplication of the anti-seize compound. Our wrench is designed to reduce the risk of damaging the nipples during removal. If the nipples are severely seized by rust or corrosion, apply a suitable penetrating lubricant and allow it to soak before attempting removal. Always follow the firearm manufacturer’s maintenance and safety instructions.
The SliX-Wrench is designed primarily for installing and removing SliXshot nipples after the factory nipples have been replaced.
Our nipple wrench is heat-treated to a Rockwell hardness of 48–52, which is sufficient for removing most stuck nipples. If the existing nipples are seized due to rust, corrosion, or overtightening, we strongly recommend applying a quality rust or thread penetrant and allowing it to soak for several days before trying again. As with any tool, using it beyond its intended limits can cause it to break.
Unfortunately, high quality and the lowest possible price rarely go together. Our products are manufactured in the USA using quality materials and skilled American labor, which is reflected in the price. Although overseas manufacturing could reduce the cost, we are not willing to compromise the quality and workmanship of our products.
Knock’er Loose Penetrating Lubricant works very well for removing stuck or rusted nipples. Applying a good penetrating lubricant beforehand will help make removal easier. Knock’er Loose Penetrating Lubricant can be found here.
There is no single nipple wrench that will fit every nipple. Ours was designed primarily to fit most—but not all—original revolver nipples, and it will fit all SliXprings nipples. However, it will not fit certain original Walker or Dragoon nipples or larger rifle nipples.
Thank you for your feedback. Our nipple wrench is heat-treated to a Rockwell hardness of 48–52 and is designed to remove most nipples without damaging them. Nipples that are severely seized by rust, corrosion, or overtightening should be treated with a quality penetrating lubricant and allowed to soak before removal. It is also important to keep the wrench squarely and fully seated on the nipple so that pressure is applied evenly to both sides.
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