1/4" roto for household repair/construction help needed

[AEAdam]

Friends.
I'm working on my new Packout boxes. (see the beginnings of my set-up here) I want to make a box of BASIC mechanical tools for my home build. So far I've got screwdrivers and pliers, ancient Craftsman 1/4" deep and shallow sockets in metric and SAE, allen keys, etc

Purpose of this kit is to service my woodworking tools, do whatever HVAC type work I have ahead of me. Probably stuff like removing access panels etc etc. I WON'T use these tools for automotive repair EVER. I don't need big stuff for deck lags or structural work. This kit will stay with the house in the utility room for those tasks we all very occasionally need tools for.

What I want is a decent 1/4" ratchet. I'm think a roto, but my mind is open, and I specifically don't want Snap on! I'd like it to be longer than a T72 and preferably with a handle. Brace for impact: I'm thinking Icon's roto.

What do you recommend I buy for this need? I think there are Gearwrench models out there, and others I've never heard of or paid attention to.

 

[manwithtools]

I like the Wera Zyklop.




More expensive than Icon or Gearwrench though.

 

[swsman]

Look into Olsa ratchets. Honestly even Pitsburgh Pro line is good for that type of ratchet - recently sampled 1/4 and 3/8 drive sizes at my nearby HF store.

My garage is attached, when working on the house I just cycle the tools as needed. Later it all goes back into its location.

 

[Fedwrench]

Gearwrench & Crescent offered a two piece set that could be had for cheap from closeout peeps on Ebay. You could also get the same ratchet in NAPA or older Carlyle trim. You might be able to get the Icon model on sale.

81224 1/4" Drive 72-Tooth Dual Material Roto Ratchet 6-3/4" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81224 1/4" Drive 72-Tooth Dual Material Roto Ratchet 6-3/4" here.

www.gearwrench.com

If you want a longer handle but not too long, I'd recommend this regular flexhead:

81009T 1/4" Drive 90-Tooth Dual Material Flex Head Teardrop Ratchet 8" - Gearwrench

Count on GEARWRENCH to get the job done. Get the 81009T 1/4" Drive 90-Tooth Dual Material Flex Head Teardrop Ratchet 8" here.

www.gearwrench.com

 

[CoThG]

Friends.
I'm working on my new Packout boxes. (see the beginnings of my set-up here) I want to make a box of BASIC mechanical tools for my home build. So far I've got screwdrivers and pliers, ancient Craftsman 1/4" deep and shallow sockets in metric and SAE, allen keys, etc

Purpose of this kit is to service my woodworking tools, do whatever HVAC type work I have ahead of me. Probably stuff like removing access panels etc etc. I WON'T use these tools for automotive repair EVER. I don't need big stuff for deck lags or structural work. This kit will stay with the house in the utility room for those tasks we all very occasionally need tools for.

What I want is a decent 1/4" ratchet. I'm think a roto, but my mind is open, and I specifically don't want Snap on! I'd like it to be longer than a T72 and preferably with a handle. Brace for impact: I'm thinking Icon's roto.

What do you recommend I buy for this need? I think there are Gearwrench models out there, and others I've never heard of or paid attention to.

Why don't you want Snap-On?

 

[Nobody-named-Olli]

I suggest handling the Wera in person before buying it, if it ends up makng the list. Their heads are bulky and “oddly” V shaped. Not a ratchet I would ever use.

The one thing they have going for them is the spinner sleeve/ handle.

Kind regards,
Olli

 

[Professor Gascan]

I have the Pittsburgh 1/4 roto that's seen a fair amount of use and has never given me any reason to doubt it. I did swap the handle for an acetate screwdriver style and the end result is roughly 7.25" long. I've got no complaints for the money spent.

 

[AEAdam]

Why don't you want Snap-On?

I just don't need that sort of quality for this application. I have the plastic Pittsburgh in this box now. The head is kinda loose and the reverse lever goes the wrong way and I'm too old to adapt. But it is literally good enough for what I'm doing with these tools.

I've been posting on GJ for a long time and I think I'd like to just take advice and try something you all like that is NOT Snap on (which I already have).

 

[tyyost]

I have the Pittsburgh 1/4 roto, and while I look at others from time to time it seems like a waste to upgrade. Mine has the cheap red soft handle, I think they are green now, but it does everything I ask of a roto ratchet. I would consider one a little longer than the 6-7” this one is, for the times I orient it as a nutdriver.

I have a Kobalt 3/8 soft handle one I think of the same way. I like having it, use it frequently enough but until it gives me a reason I hesitate to upgrade. Would I like a nice snap-on one? Sure, but not sure the juice is worth the squeeze in this space.

 

[mikey03]

What about the new icon meme tool that comes with 1/4 sockets all in the one case. It’s only flex head not roto but for a small kit it’s nice and takes up less space in your pack out.

also how about the pack Out work top on your cart?

 

[AEAdam]

What about the new icon meme tool that comes with 1/4 sockets all in the one case. It’s only flex head not roto but for a small kit it’s nice and takes up less space in your pack out.

also how about the pack Out work top on your cart?

Yeah, I feel like I have to make that. And make it over hang a little so I can clamp stuff on it. You can buy the little 3D printed cleats. Trying to figure out the latch.

 

[terrific]

Why don't you want Snap-On?

No quick-release model

 

[Hakeem]

I have the icon and like it a lot, it’s been strong and reliable and the ratchet action feels good in the hand. Never tried the Snapon version to compare. Backdrag is a common complaint, mine is a little stiff but overall it’s an enjoyable tool to use

 

[shoggoth80]

So I had a Pittsburgh Pro roto that I used at work for years until I changed positions. Used it a lot, abused it quite a bit too. It took it. When I changed positions, it came back home, and got gifted on. For the price, you couldn't beat it.

I wouldn't bat an eye at picking up the Icon. I've been pleased with the other Icon stuff I've bought. The Snap 1/4 roto is a fine ratchet, and it's my go to in that drive size. Between price point and tailoring to the job... I get why you wouldn't necessarily want that amount of coin sitting in a box for a who knows how long between jobs (that it's probably over-built) for.

 

[Dakotadadv8]

I just don't need that sort of quality for this application. I have the plastic Pittsburgh in this box now. The head is kinda loose and the reverse lever goes the wrong way and I'm too old to adapt. But it is literally good enough for what I'm doing with these tools.

I've been posting on GJ for a long time and I think I'd like to just take advice and try something you all like that is NOT Snap on (which I already have).

Off topic how do you like the VW GTI? Always wanted one but could only afford the Golf back then 5 speed manual new. Too old for it now.

 

[CoThG]

No quick-release model

Why would you want a quick release in a 1/4" ratchet? The sockets are easy enough to remove that a QR isn't needed.

 

[T45]

I have the plastic Pittsburgh in this box now.

I bough the same tool for the same application, and agree...it kinda *****. I honestly now just use an old metal round head (like old sk, but husky). In 1/4 drive and its fine.

A couple comments on adjacent tools that might influence how you setup your 1/4 dr kit.

I've been using a surge m12 to deal with spinning off fasteners. I think this is really worth considering vs using a roto-head.

 

[Dave455]

I get where you are coming from here.

I ended up favouring a roto head ratchet for a lot of my ”non mechanical” tasks, and it works really well. I’ve got the leverage if I need it, or I can use it like a ratcheting screwdriver, or anything in between as required.

I often need to work with bigger coach screws (lag screws) with larger heads, so opted for the 3/8“ drive KoKen below - far right. As can be seen, it’s a big tool, but very versatile and I find that for 90% of my property maintenance needs I just need this and a rail of sockets.


Totally understand the need for a 1/4” drive. I find that myself sometimes, especially installing 6mm hex head screws in awkward places. I tend to use this Wera set, which I use for setting up woodworking tools too, although I like a set of hex keys also.

The Wera work me for because they are about the right grade of tool for the task. Reasonable quality, without being too costly. I don’t know if I would advise Wera in the U.S. as I suspect they lose the price advantage after they have travelled.


Yes, I think a 1/4” roto head would be a great idea. I don’t favour the Wera roto head as I really don’t like those handles. Some folks don’t like the shape. I don’t mind that, but I hate the materials they are made from.

The soft inserts are totally impractical in my experience. They pick up dirt and dust, are impossible to clean, and make the tool unpleasant to use. And that‘s before they start to degrade, which they do.

I must admit the choice is a bit limited, and a lot of manufacturers who offer very nice 3/8 drive roto’s (KoKen, KTC etc) don’t offer anything in 1/4”.

The only ones I can really think of are the various tools that I believe all use the same Taiwanese ratchet mechanism, but with different handles.

The “Tone” version would probably be my choice, though the handle isn't the longest.


Mac used to offer a roto head with a similar ratcheting mechanism and a longer handle, but I don’t think they are currently listed.

There’s also a Wurth tool with the same head and a slightly odd handle that converts to a T handle. Bit bulky I think.

Finally, there’s a Bahco tool as well.

But beware that won’t be a Snap On mechanism in there. Although one version of the Bahco uses a Dual 80 style mechanism (and has a polished finish) that’s only one tool, I think aimed at the U.S. market.

Most of the Bahco is aimed at the European market, where it’s mid grade / mid price, and that’s the case here.


If you like the Bahco watch the pricing stateside. The above ratchet, in a set with some reasonable quality sockets, can be had for the equivalent of $55 (before tax) this side of the pond. That’s good value.

 

[Union Delegate]

I get where you are coming from here.

I ended up favouring a roto head ratchet for a lot of my ”non mechanical” tasks, and it works really well. I’ve got the leverage if I need it, or I can use it like a ratcheting screwdriver, or anything in between as required.

I often need to work with bigger coach screws (lag screws) with larger heads, so opted for the 3/8“ drive KoKen below - far right. As can be seen, it’s a big tool, but very versatile and I find that for 90% of my property maintenance needs I just need this and a rail of sockets.


Totally understand the need for a 1/4” drive. I find that myself sometimes, especially installing 6mm hex head screws in awkward places. I tend to use this Wera set, which I use for setting up woodworking tools too, although I like a set of hex keys also.

The Wera work me for because they are about the right grade of tool for the task. Reasonable quality, without being too costly. I don’t know if I would advise Wera in the U.S. as I suspect they lose the price advantage after they have travelled.


Yes, I think a 1/4” roto head would be a great idea. I don’t favour the Wera roto head as I really don’t like those handles. Some folks don’t like the shape. I don’t mind that, but I hate the materials they are made from.

The soft inserts are totally impractical in my experience. They pick up dirt and dust, are impossible to clean, and make the tool unpleasant to use. And that‘s before they start to degrade, which they do.

I must admit the choice is a bit limited, and a lot of manufacturers who offer very nice 3/8 drive roto’s (KoKen, KTC etc) don’t offer anything in 1/4”.

The only ones I can really think of are the various tools that I believe all use the same Taiwanese ratchet mechanism, but with different handles.

The “Tone” version would probably be my choice, though the handle isn't the longest.


Mac used to offer a roto head with a similar ratcheting mechanism and a longer handle, but I don’t think they are currently listed.

There’s also a Wurth tool with the same head and a slightly odd handle that converts to a T handle. Bit bulky I think.

Finally, there’s a Bahco tool as well.

But beware that won’t be a Snap On mechanism in there. Although one version of the Bahco uses a Dual 80 style mechanism (and has a polished finish) that’s only one tool, I think aimed at the U.S. market.

Most of the Bahco is aimed at the European market, where it’s mid grade / mid price, and that’s the case here.


If you like the Bahco watch the pricing stateside. The above ratchet, in a set with some reasonable quality sockets, can be had for the equivalent of $55 (before tax) this side of the pond. That’s good value.

That TONE ratchet looks awesome

 

[T45]

I really like the look of that handle on the koken ratchet.

DIY, my vote is all metal handle, much better long term durability,
for household/handyman stuff thats important, more so than comfort.

Also, a piece of fuel/similar line works in a pinch for a soft-grip,
eg if you need to work oustide below freesing etc.

Importantly, you can clean/sanitize it better than rubber
(eg, doing plumbing, etc...and short of using brake-cleen indoors, etc)

 

[swsman]

^Agreed.

Just about all of my ratchets are metal handle, wipe them down after use and they are ready for the next time.

I typically work in gloves, never felt that I needed a comfort handle.

My wipe of choice is Tub O' Towels, it cleans all tools really well, including dirty hands.

 

[AEAdam]

Off topic how do you like the VW GTI? Always wanted one but could only afford the Golf back then 5 speed manual new. Too old for it now.

Can't seem to send you a PM, so quick answer to OT question:

I've had several GTIs and a GLI. They are somewhat unique in that they have near sports car dynamics, quickness, in a cheap, comfortable for every day package. I think the Mazda Cx5 is the only other car that I think is close in terms of fun to drive in this price range. I'd own another in a heart beat. If I fit in a Cayman, I'd probably prefer that, but I just don't and its not in the same sentence price wise.

The VW GTI also one of the few cars left to be offered with a manual transmission. My last one had the DSG ******, which I believe to be the single best automatic transmission on the market. (The technology, not necessarily the VW DSG version). I think it feels like driving a video game.

That's the good. The bad is a long list. Gotta swap the PCV to avoid it clogging and blowing out the rear main seal. The DSG service is difficult and expensive to have done. VW still has quality issues with some components, coil packs, and generally, they need maintenance like all German cars and the parts are expensive. The engines are all transverse mounted and not super fun to work on. I ended up routinely removing the passenger wheel and inner fender skin to access the front of the engine through the wheel well. I could never get my cars lifted high enough to be comfortable for me. I was always hunched over in my brake creeper. But my experience with the 5V engines was a positive one.

All said, life is short, and GTIs are not extravagant. Buy one. Just watch out that used models are sometimes abused by children or modded by 30-somethings. Assume if you buy a manual the clutch will be ruined. My kids destroyed my mk4. Ran it out of oil. And before that, trashed the running gear. Kids are tough. Mine have bent everything I own. Only thing they haven't destroyed yet is my bobcat because I don't let them operate it.

 

[Dave455]

I really like the look of that handle on the koken ratchet.

DIY, my vote is all metal handle, much better long term durability,
for household/handyman stuff thats important, more so than comfort.

Also, a piece of fuel/similar line works in a pinch for a soft-grip,
eg if you need to work oustide below freesing etc.

Importantly, you can clean/sanitize it better than rubber
(eg, doing plumbing, etc...and short of using brake-cleen indoors, etc)

Yes, they are nice.

That was the first KoKen ratchet I got with the knurled handle. Previously I had gone for the smooth ones, as I thought they would be easier to wipe down, which they are.

But the smooth handles don’t really work with roto heads as you might need to twist them like a screwdriver, so I went for the knurled version.

No regrets, it’s a grippy handle, but not in any way uncomfortable to use. It’s also a degree more substantial than the smooth handles, which can alter the feeling of the ratchet. I prefer this style of handle in 1/4” drive now.

 

[Dave455]

That TONE ratchet looks awesome

I don’t own one of those but I believe they are decent. I’ve used other Tone tools.

I think that Tone are imported into the U.S. now, so availability should not be an issue.

 

[finn]

Those Koken ratchets look to be very thick and heavy, which means they will have a high moment of inertia and be tough on the wrists.

I’m going this now working on my old Mustang. The Icon 1/4” flex head is noticeably easier to use than the other 1/4” drive I’m using and even more so than a 3/8 drive. This is my first Icon ratchet. I have SnapOn and many others but not here. My favorite has been a Matco, and I wonder if it’s because of the low inertia?

I’ve had ratchets for sixty years, and this is the first I ever noticed this.

Comments from the Koken crowd?

 

[theoldwizard1]

Purpose of this kit is to service my woodworking tools, do whatever HVAC type work I have ahead of me. Probably stuff like removing access panels etc etc. I WON'T use these tools for automotive repair EVER. I don't need big stuff for deck lags or structural work. This kit will stay with the house in the utility room for those tasks we all very occasionally need tools for.

I use my 1/4" sockets a lot, but I don't own a 1/4" ratchet, just a 1/4" breaker bar. Skip the ratchet and get

SKIL Rechargeable 4V Cordless Screwdriver Includes 45pcs Bit Set, USB Charging Cable, Carrying Case

Great for removing access panels more than 4 screws !

 

[MoonRise]

Calling @Astro_Pneumatic_Tools.

I've been generally quite happy with my Astro Pneumatic tools. Some air tools, some hand tools, the rechargeable light, etc.

See if they have anything that might fit your wants/needs. They do have some 1/4" drive stuff, ratchets and sockets included. They have a 10" long reach 1/4" drive Nano (aka TINY head size) Ratchet. I don't think that they have a roto ratchet, they do have some flex head ratchets.

And they have a presence here on GJ.