What a pry bar does
A pry bar is a lever made from a strong steel bar. It is used to separate, lift or pull items apart by applying leverage. Typical uses include removing trim, lifting floorboards, pulling nails, and shifting heavy objects a short distance.
The purpose of a crowbar and a pry bar overlaps, and the names are often used loosely. Some people use “crowbar” for any long steel bar, while others treat it as a specific straight bar with a bent end.
Flat pry bars
Flat pry bars, often sold as “wonder bars” or similar names, are thin, flat pieces of steel with slightly curved ends and nail slots. Their thin profile slides under trim and boards, and the broad surface spreads pressure, which can reduce damage to the surrounding wood. They are widely used for trim, baseboards and flooring. Putting a thin scrap of wood under the bar can help protect the wall surface.
Wrecking and gooseneck bars
A wrecking bar is a heavier bar, usually with a curved gooseneck claw at one end for pulling large nails and a flatter chisel or prying end at the other. Is a wrecking bar a pry bar? Yes, it is a heavier-duty type of pry bar intended for demolition and framing. Its length provides more leverage than smaller bars.
Crowbars
A crowbar is generally a long, straight steel bar, often with a bent end and a chisel or pointed end. It is intended for heavy prying, lifting, and demolition work. Many people use the term crowbar to mean a wrecking bar or a similar heavy bar, so check the shape rather than relying on the name.
Pinch and rolling-head bars
A pinch bar is a straight bar with a pointed or angled end, used to lift or nudge heavy objects. Some versions have a rolling head, a rounded foot that acts as a fulcrum. These are used for moving heavy items such as pallets or equipment, and for aligning parts. Use caution when moving heavy loads, since they can shift or fall.
Mini and everyday-carry bars
Small pry bars are compact, light and often keychain size. An EDC (everyday carry) pry bar is for small jobs such as opening paint cans, lifting small trim, or separating tight items. They are convenient but are not designed for heavy leverage, and bending or breaking is a risk if you push beyond their limits.
Specialty bars
- Flooring bars have an offset shape that helps with pulling boards close to walls.
- Nail pullers or cat’s paw tools have a curved, pointed claw, and are driven under nail heads with a hammer.
- Molding or trim bars are small, thin bars made to avoid damaging finished surfaces.
- Alignment bars have a pointed end to line up holes when assembling heavy parts.
Choosing the right pry bar
| Job | Typical choice |
|---|---|
| Removing trim and baseboards | Flat pry bar |
| Light demolition and nail pulling | Wrecking or gooseneck bar |
| Heavy lifting and shifting | Crowbar or pinch bar |
| Small or tight tasks | Mini pry bar |
| Pulling nails with the head flush | Cat’s paw |
Pick a bar that is long enough to provide leverage, but short enough to control. For trim, a thinner bar with a protective piece of wood under it is gentler on walls.
Using a pry bar safely
- Wear eye protection and gloves.
- Make sure your footing is stable, because bars can slip suddenly.
- Pry gradually, and do not jerk the bar.
- Avoid pushing a bar beyond the manufacturer’s stated limits.
- Do not use cheater pipes on bars unless the tool is designed for it.
- Be aware of what is behind the surface, such as wiring and plumbing, before prying.
For driving the tool under a nail head or a tight gap, a hammer may be needed. Our guide to different types of hammers explains which hammer to pair with these tools.
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of a crowbar?
A crowbar is used for heavy prying, lifting and demolition by applying leverage.
What is an EDC pry bar for?
It is a small, portable bar for light jobs such as opening containers or lifting small trim.
Is a wrecking bar a pry bar?
Yes. It is a heavy-duty type of pry bar.
What is the purpose of a pry bar?
To provide leverage to separate, lift or pull items apart.