Abstract: An adjustable wrench 10 comprises a body 12 including a stationary jaw 22, an adjustable jaw 32, a recess 28 and a handle 27. A knurl 30 including a worm 42 is rotatably mounted on an axle 38 within recess 28. The adjustable jaw 32 includes a plurality of teeth 52 that mesh with worm 42 for driving the adjustable jaw 32 towards or away from stationary jaw 22. The adjustable wrench 10 further includes a receiving channel 52 formed at an angle to the knurl 30 within body 12. A means for braking 54 is inserted within the receiving channel 54 for removably engaging directly with worm 42 thus restricting the worm 42 from rotating and preventing the adjustable jaw 32 from moving. A means for locking 70, 76 is mounted on body 12 and interfaces with the means for braking 54 for preventing the means for braking 54 from moving. One embodiment of the means for braking 54 comprises a thumbwheel 58 and friction stop 60.