Lightweight & Tough 
Rigid has made the best pipe wrenches for decades. The Aluminum models are every bit as tough as their cast iron counterparts, only lighter. You do have to be more careful with aluminum if you are working around a torch, it can get heat damaged more easily. I have used this 18" wrench for over 15 years, building and disassembling chemical loading systems of galvanized pipe. Mine has a little less paint on it, but the jaws are still sharp. The jaws are replacable, but I've never had to do that. I have also used this wrench for home plumbing projects, but it is a little large when working in a sink cabinet. I use it mainly as a "holder" in that duty, turning the fittings with a 10" wrench.
Rigid wrenches will not fail you if you give them a little respect!
Durable and lightweight
Everyone know that Rigid makes excellent equipment. These 18" pipe wrenches are no exception. They are lightweight and durable. I was a field engineer working on industrial furnaces for a while and trying to carry all of the tools you need everywhere you go can be quite cumbersome to say the least. I have never had any problems with them (I own 2 of them) and have done just about everything with them. If you have to use them a lot it won't take long to notice how much easier it is to do a job when your tools aren't weighing you down. If you need 18" pipe wrenches give these some serious consideration.
pipe wrench
I like the light weight of this pipe wrench. The tool is plenty strong.
Top-notch and Light!
This wrench is just as good as any wrench made from a different material - the difference is this one is so much lighter than the others! It makes for easier carrying of tools, and easier leverage.
