A pinch bar is a tool used for prying, moving, rolling, or lifting heavy objects. This tool, which is also known as a pinch point bar or pinch point crow bar, allows users to move a heavy object by hand instead of relying on a piece of heavy equipment. Pinch bars are frequently used in the automotive industry as well as for many building and construction applications. Many households may have a pinch bar in the tool shed for general lifting or prying purposes.
The average pinch bar is forged from steel or a steel alloy for strength and durability. It has a long, straight shank similar to a crow bar, and often features built-in grips along the shank for easier and safer use. One end of the bar is tapered to a point, while the other end has a curved blade that can be forced under a heavy object like a boulder or piece of furniture for prying or lifting. Some double-ended pinch bars are also available, and can have a goose-neck curve or chiseled point to make the tool more versatile.
The tapered end of the pinch bar acts as a fulcrum for lever-type motions. Users slide this tapered end under the object being moved, then apply force to the opposite end of the bar. This allows a person with a relatively small amount of physical strength to move an object that would otherwise require a piece of construction equipment, such as a crane. When additional force or assistance is required, users can place a roller bar under the tapered end of the bar to help this end of the bar move more easily.
One of the biggest advantages to the pinch bar tool is its ease of use. It often takes the place of much larger or more expensive pieces of equipment, and is safer in many ways than a more complex tool or machine. Pinch bars are small and portable enough for most users, and can easily be stored in most tool sheds or even in a tool box. Little to no training is required for using these bars, and they perform a wide variety of tasks with a high level of efficiency.
Despite their many advantages, it's important to understand that the pinch bar may not always be the best tool for every project. Some physical strength is required to move heavy objects with these bars, and those without sufficient strength may have trouble using the bar correctly. Depending on the situation, it may also be safer to use a crane or lift rather than a pinch bar. For instance, if an object is dangerously heavy or is at risk of falling on the workers once it is moved, it may be safer to use a large piece of equipment for better handling and control.