Milwaukee 48-22-7118 18-Inch Steel Pipe Wrench Overbite Jaw Tether-Ready

The Milwaukee 48-22-7118 18" Steel Pipe Wrench is built for professional plumbing, utility, and maintenance work. The OVERBITE Jaw design provides the largest gripping surface of any Milwaukee pipe wrench, biting deeper into round stock for maximum grip with less slip. Through-hardened jaws deliver increased tooth durability and grip retention over the life of the tool. Dual coil springs provide maximum durability and consistent jaw return. The ergonomic handle is designed for comfort under high-torque use and won't dig into the palm. An ergonomic hook jaw design allows easy detachment from the workpiece. The tether-ready handle loop makes this wrench suitable for elevated work and tool tethering programs. Limited lifetime warranty.

Key Features

• OVERBITE Jaw — Largest gripping surface; bites deeper into pipe and round stock for maximum grip and reduced slip under torque
• Through-Hardened Jaws — Full hardening through the jaw body increases tooth durability and grip retention compared to surface-hardened alternatives
• Dual Coil Springs — Two-spring design for maximum durability and consistent jaw return during use
• Ergonomic Handle — Contoured handle form designed for maximum comfort; does not dig into the palm under high-torque applications
• Ergonomic Hook Jaw Design — Hook jaw geometry allows easy detachment from the workpiece without snagging
• Tether-Ready Handle Loop — Built-in loop for tool tethering; suitable for elevated jobsite work and drop-prevention programs
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

Specifications

• Brand: Milwaukee
• Model: 48-22-7118
• Length: 18"
• Jaw Capacity: 2.5"
• Construction: Steel
• Jaw Type: OVERBITE, through-hardened
• Springs: Dual coil
• Tether-Ready: Yes (handle loop)
• Dimensions: 22.9" W × 6.4" L × 1.7" H
• Weight: 6.725 lb
• Color: Black/Red
• Warranty: Limited lifetime
• UPC: 045242342365
• MPN: 48-22-7118

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the OVERBITE Jaw and how does it differ from a standard pipe wrench jaw?
A standard pipe wrench jaw contacts round pipe at two points on the lower jaw and one on the upper hook jaw. The OVERBITE design extends the upper jaw further forward so it wraps more deeply around the pipe, increasing the number of teeth in contact with the workpiece at any given angle. This larger contact surface distributes the gripping force across more teeth, improving grip on worn or corroded pipe and reducing the chance of the wrench slipping under high torque. The through-hardened jaw construction means the teeth maintain this grip advantage over the life of the tool rather than dulling quickly like surface-hardened alternatives.

What pipe sizes does a 2.5" jaw capacity cover?
A 2.5" jaw capacity on an 18" pipe wrench covers pipe from near-zero up to 2.5" outside diameter. In standard pipe sizing, this includes up to approximately 2" nominal pipe (which has a 2.375" OD) — covering the most common sizes used in plumbing, irrigation, and utility work. For larger nominal sizes (2.5" nominal = 2.875" OD and above), a larger wrench such as Milwaukee’s 24" model would be needed. Confirm the OD of your specific pipe before selecting wrench size.

What does tether-ready mean and is a tether included?
Tether-ready means the wrench has a built-in anchor point — in this case a handle loop — designed to accept a tool tether lanyard that connects the tool to the worker or a fixed anchor. No tether lanyard is included with the wrench. Tether lanyards and connectors are sold separately. Tool tethering is required or recommended on many elevated worksites to prevent tools from being dropped and causing injury or damage below. Verify that your selected tether’s weight rating exceeds the wrench’s 6.725 lb weight with a safety factor appropriate for your site’s requirements.

Is this wrench suitable for use on plastic (PVC or CPVC) pipe?
Pipe wrenches — including this model — are designed for use on metal pipe (steel, iron, copper, brass). The serrated through-hardened jaws that provide grip on metal will crush, crack, or deform plastic pipe under the torque required for most fitting work. For PVC and CPVC, use strap wrenches or strap-style pipe tools that grip without teeth. If you need a tool for both plastic and metal pipe work, a strap wrench for plastic and a pipe wrench for metal is the standard approach.