Stanbroil Universal 8-Inch Gas Valve Fireplace Key, Fits 1/4 and 5/16 Turn Ball Valve, Polished Chrome

I got this key to replace a long one that just stuck out too far. This is a perfect size, since my valve is just inside the wall. The bronze goes with the fire pit block color, although the chrome versions would look good too. Its made of metal, and very sturdy. Reviews and questions on other keys asked about dimensions, so here are some photos with rulers and notes. The key is 3 inches from the tip to before the handle. The handle is 1 inch, so the full length is 4 inches. (The camera angle makes it look a little longer than 4). But, the important distances are from where the valve stem lands inside the key tip, to the handle. This is the farthest it will reach and still work. That is, if your valve is 3 inside the wall, this will just touch it, but wont grab it. So its more like 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 maximum reach. I have a 1/4 valve, so this key works great. It has a solid feel, gets onto the valve the full 1/2 depth, and feels correct turning it on and off. The 5/16 valve is a little bit dicier. The depth is only 3/16, so youll definitely need to reach the valve and get the key on it as much as possible. Even then, thats not a lot to grip, so it may tend to roll off. For 1/4 valves, I played some games with my socket set: One person had a valve where the key didnt quite reach it, so it would roll instead of gripping. You could add a 1/4 drive socket extension to it, and make it as long as you need. This works well, but the key wont hold the extension like a socket wrench, so it can pull off. The little 1 extension is cute, but if its inside, it could get left in there when the key is pulled out. For me, the 2 extension stuck out of the wall a little, so I could grab it if the key came off it. Finally, before the key arrived, I had made my own out of a few socket parts. A metric 18 mm socket did well as a handle grip, and I probably never used it for anything else. Add a 1/4 to 3/8 adapter, the 2 extension, and I had a great little key! Granted, it had a low WAF, so we bought this official one. (Edit: I edited a couple words, and added a zoomed image of the dimensions.)

Arrived as ordered, quality product

This gas key fits the valve stem and operates it, but it doesnt fit very tightly at all. My other gas keys are a much better fit. This might be a consequence of the universal design which aims to fit both 1/4 and 5/16 valves. You may want to avoid the floppy fit by buying a valve key thats sized exactly for your valve.

I bought 2 different ones at the same time. I really preferred this one over the Amazons choice chrome one. Seemed like better fit quality key for just a little more money.

When remodeling pushed the wall out 4 more inches, the old valve opener was too short. This item provides a positive lock to natural gas valve. Can enjoy the fireplace again.

Ok

This product works great! The key is durable and functional.

Exactly what I needed for my fireplace

Its a good value, kind of flimsy but strong enough to last at least a while if not abused. Mine is already slightly bend but works.

Great