Large 1/2" Universal type Adapters - Application?

[The Rider]

I picked up these two universal type sockets at a garage sale.

They are made by Helm Tools. A google search has revealed nothing.

They are mahoosive - the large one weighs a full 16oz!

The smaller one pivots the angle of rotation by 45degrees, the larger, jointed one allows for access to a fastener from variety of angles.

Whilst undoubtedly useful, their size & heft render them redundant in my toolbox vs a standard universal adapter.

What application would require such heavy duty adapters?

 

[scott37300]

My guess would be for impact use. They look similar to a right angle drill adapter.

 

[mrholeshot]

I can see the use

 

[The Rider]

I can see the use

Well they definitely have utility, and they are tremendous fun to play with - especially the big one.

Twist one end and watch as the other end spins in perfect synch while you pivot the joint through 360 degrees. Marvelous!

But they are engineered like a tank and fully serviceable. There had to a particular use these bad boys were designed for...

 

[Wakefield]

The top one looks like it would be useful for using a torque wrench where there has to be a bend in the drivetrain-where you have to use a regular universal or swivel. I think you lose some torque-as in installing a spark plug into part of an engine that is recessed under the windshield cowl.(Unless you figure out a way to get the head of the torque wrench poked under the cowl close to the spark plug getter). It looks like someone would have to hold the body of the joint(with Channelocks or something) while someone else cranked the torque wrench.