What brands do the professional mechanics use?

[Holyroller125]

This question has another side:

1. I have some KLEIN screwdrivers. These Klein screwdrivers are well-made, made in the USA, have chrome finish, tips are well-machined, and are very durable screwdrivers (in Lineman, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC trades). Do professional auto mechanics ever use Klein screwdrivers? For instance, union mechanics working for Dodge, Ford, or Chevy, etc.? Would you ever use Klein screwdrivers in auto mechanics?

2. I have some KLEIN pliers. I have looked at Snap-On, Matco, and Craftsman, in my opinion, Klein pliers are made the best. Just look at the cutting blades on their side-cutters and diagonal-cutting pliers. Look at how well the grooves are machined on Klein pliers. Klein pliers look like they have been well-machined and tool forged. I am quite disappointed with what I saw in Cman, Matco, and Snappy I think it would be rediculous to spend an extra $20 on the same tool that I believe is made much better by Klein. Now, do professional auto mechanics ever use Klein pliers from their toolboxes?

3. What about Channellock Pliers? They are also well-made and made in the USA. Do professional mechanics ever use Channellock's? I have heard some of the reviews by pros on Channellocks. I would like to hear your opinion on the Channellock brand of pliers?

4. Okay, for Snap-On again, if I was getting a set of screwdrivers for getting greasy, would the hard-handle instinct line be better than the soft-grip? What makes the other better than the other? How would these screwdrivers compare to my Klein screwdrivers?

Thank You Much for all your help, guidance, and suggestions,
Greg Norton (Holyroller125)

 

[Murphy4570]

Klein isn't really a well known brand for mechanics. It isn't really marketed towards that industry. I don't own any of their stuff myself.

Channellock is a known brand, perhaps the best at what they make. I own some of their stuff, as well as Rigid pipe wrenches, etc.

For Snap-On screwdrivers, I prefer the hard handle stuff. The soft handles are too small for my hands.

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

please use "advanced search" function.

all those q's had been covered many times.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/search.php?searchid=9757455

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/search.php?searchid=9757462

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/search.php?searchid=9757465

 

[rusty65]

I find Klein flat blades a little soft for prying so maybe not to good for auto mechanics. And snap on screwdrivers that are soft grip seem to fail when you get brake clean and solvents on the handles so if your hands are good i would stick to a hard handle.

 

[Zeke]

Ah, the search police are out. You know, I have never seen this discussion before. Did I need to figure out a question I've not seen the answer for and then search it out?

Or do I get to just peruse the forums and learn about things?

To the OP: I wonder if soft grip and insulated handles stand up over time to getting greasy and cleaned with things like brake cleaner over and over. I know I can do this with Channellocks and I assume the black square handled Snap On screwdrivers could be left in the solvent tank. I know brake cleaner doesn't bother them. Acetone, a little.

 

[Conductor562]

1. I've never seen a mechanic using Klein screwdrivers. I have at least 20 of them, they are good screwdrivers, but they aren't designed for mechanics. That's not to say they couldn't be, just not designed for it. Most tradesmen that deal in greasy or oily environments would much rather have a hard handled screwdriver. They're a lot easier to clean and more resistant to metal shavings, etc.

2. See answer #3

3. Channellock pliers IMO are the best pliers for your money. They haven't been around for decades turning a profit by making primarily 1 type of tools by putting out 2nd rate stuff. I have a ton of Channellock pliers, everything from the 420 T&G's to to lock nut pliers, and everything in between, and I've yet to get a pair that wasn't top notch. I've had Kleins, Protos, and Knipex, but I'll take the Channellock's any day.

4. See answer # 1

 

[Holyroller125]

I find Klein flat blades a little soft for prying so maybe not to good for auto mechanics. And snap on screwdrivers that are soft grip seem to fail when you get brake clean and solvents on the handles so if your hands are good i would stick to a hard handle.

I have been using tools for 16-years and have never used a screwdriver for prying. However, I know that Snap-on, Stanley, and even Vaughan make very good pry bars, wrecking bars, and nail pullers.

Thank You Much

 

[Holyroller125]

Klein isn't really a well known brand for mechanics. It isn't really marketed towards that industry. I don't own any of their stuff myself.

Channellock is a known brand, perhaps the best at what they make. I own some of their stuff, as well as Rigid pipe wrenches, etc.

For Snap-On screwdrivers, I prefer the hard handle stuff. The soft handles are too small for my hands.

Yes, that was good, I have big hands. The handles have got to hold up in a lot of grease. Remodeling cars from 50's and 60's, demolition derby cars (grease monkey heaven), fixing heavy duty trucks and semi's, and working on general automotive work.
Again Thank YOu

 

[Holyroller125]

1. I've never seen a mechanic using Klein screwdrivers. I have at least 20 of them, they are good screwdrivers, but they aren't designed for mechanics. That's not to say they couldn't be, just not designed for it. Most tradesmen that deal in greasy or oily environments would much rather have a hard handled screwdriver. They're a lot easier to clean and more resistant to metal shavings, etc.

2. See answer #3

3. Channellock pliers IMO are the best pliers for your money. They haven't been around for decades turning a profit by making primarily 1 type of tools by putting out 2nd rate stuff. I have a ton of Channellock pliers, everything from the 420 T&G's to to lock nut pliers, and everything in between, and I've yet to get a pair that wasn't top notch. I've had Kleins, Protos, and Knipex, but I'll take the Channellock's any day.

4. See answer # 1

Yes, I know that Klein makes very good screwdrivers and pliers. My concern for them is that their comfort grips may not hold up in all the greasy environments that I have started working (remodeling 50's and 60's, heavy duty trucks, semi's, demolition derby car preparation, etc. etc.). These take a lot of grease.

And, I have started buying some channellocks to complement my Klein's. Yes, I do strongly concur that Channellock makes some very good pliers for auto mechanics as well as for electrical/plumbing/HVAC trades. I have also compared Channellock to Snap On and Matco pliers. In my honest opinion, I believe the Channellock Pliers are made better. Just look at the forging, how the cutters are put together, how sharp the pliers are for gripping, etc etc. I am very disappointed in Snap On and Matco in their "lack of craftsmanship" compared to Channellock and even Klein. Unfortunately, men spend about $20 or more dollars for the Snap On or Matco when the Channellocks and Kleins are made much much better. Anyway, thank you much for your insight. If you find out anything else, please let me know.

 

[bobcatdan]

It is really all about marketing. Tool companies all kinda go towards one thing. SO, Mac, Matco, Cornwell all go pretty hard auto and truck. Proto, Armstrong and Wright all go industral. Rigid is plumbing and Klein is electrial. Channellocks is an example of a pretty well rounded brand. They are easy to get and a great starter home or pro use pliers. You can find channellock pretty easy where ever there are tool users. Channellock was or still is a oe for mac, matco and cornwell pliers, so a lot of auto mechanics are using channellock and may not know it. As for klein screwdrivers, never held one so I have no idea what they are like. I do like the few klein pliers I have.

 

[Conductor562]

A new pair of Channellock pliers are almost to pretty to use. Breaks your heart to see them hit the muck that first time

 

[d.mcfarland]

I have also compared Channellock to Snap On and Matco pliers. In my honest opinion, I believe the Channellock Pliers are made better. Just look at the forging, how the cutters are put together, how sharp the pliers are for gripping, etc etc.

The company is very good at what they do, and just like other have said, they are still in business for a reason. Fiercely made with American passion. IF you had a problem with them, there's no doubt in my mind that they would make things right. You really can't go wrong.

 

[jfcasey]

Where I work its Snap On, Ingersoll Rand, Mac, and then assorted apex/china brands after that.

Snap On and IR are most common for air tools, with a few Chicago Pneumatic and Aircat tools mixed in.

For ratchets and sockets its mostly snap on for the guys who can afford it, and Apex brands for those who cant.

Pliers and Screw drivers are snap on or SK for some reason. Everyone likes Channellock for pliers.

 

[CWP1616L]

Do professional auto mechanics ever use Klein screwdrivers?

Most mechanics out there probably have never heard of Klein. It's too bad because they're good screwdrivers.

 

[genevabuck]

In NE Ohio, it's mainly Snap on or MAC. Occasionally Matco or S&K.

 

[Humble Mechanic]

I swear by Klein screwdrivers, cutters and wire strippers.

The Klein screwdrivers I use are about 15 years old, 9 of them have been daily wrenching on VWs.

The Klein cutters I use I bought a few weeks after I started with VW. I switched back to a pair that is a few years older. I cut a bunch of things that side cutters are not meant to cut. They are still awesome. I also have several Snap-on pliers. Never really been impressed by them. Oh and their cutters are awful.

Channellock makes a great product. I use them too.

I like the Snap-on hard handled screw drivers. They are really great. You will be happy for sure.

 

[air]

My Brother in Law and a good friend of mine turn wrenches for a living, for them it's primarily Snap On. I know my BIL has some SK stuff.

My home box consists of just about everything and anything, most of it for working on my old car.

 

[Brownsfan]

I own primarily Channellock for pliers. I have some Cornwell(which is channellock even have the same model#s) and some Snap On. Channellock are the BEST for the money imho. I use Snap On screwdrivers including ratcheting. I have not found another brand that is as tough. I have used Klein when I was in the low voltage wiring industry. They are good but in particular the 11in1. I do not think the cushion grips would hold up. If you work on cars every day you will eventually use a screwdriver as a pry bar. Trust me you will.

 

[Holyroller125]

I swear by Klein screwdrivers, cutters and wire strippers.

The Klein screwdrivers I use are about 15 years old, 9 of them have been daily wrenching on VWs.

The Klein cutters I use I bought a few weeks after I started with VW. I switched back to a pair that is a few years older. I cut a bunch of things that side cutters are not meant to cut. They are still awesome. I also have several Snap-on pliers. Never really been impressed by them. Oh and their cutters are awful.

Channellock makes a great product. I use them too.

I like the Snap-on hard handled screw drivers. They are really great. You will be happy for sure.

Thank You, Perfect

I will get the Snap On hard handled screwdrivers for the real greasy/mechanical jobs, and I will also continue to use my Kleins for lineman/elecrical/plumbing/carpentry/and other mechanical jobs. And yes, I swear by Klein screwdrivers and nutdrivers.

Second, I will continue collecting Klein and Channellock pliers. Yes, I have Klein cutters and lineman's pliers. And yes, Snap on cutters and wire tools are terrible. I am sticking with my Kleins when it comes to wires and cutters.

Third, I still think that Snap On makes the better wrenches, sockets, ratchets, ratchet accessories, and torque wrenches. However, not Snap On adjustable wrenches, strap wrenches, or chain wrenches. I am disappointed in Snap On for their specialty wrenches. I even think the stuff that Snap On sells from GoodWrench (Ratchet Wrenches, combination ratcheting wrenches, t-handle ratcheting wrenches, etc etc) are lousy in craftsmanship. These are tools that some mechanics are going to throw aside and go back to using the "oldy but a goody." For adjustable wrenches, I have some Klein's. They are sharp and well-machined. You can tell some time and craftsmanship went into making them. The (6 in, 8 in, 10 in, 12 in, and 15 in) are all still made in USA. For the strap wrenches and chain wrenches, Ridgid makes the best of those two wrenches. I would not want to be caught dead without a Ridgid strap wrench or one of their chain wrenches. They are also made in the USA, and their craftsmanship is still very good.

Snap-On's pipe wrenches are also terrible. I am not wasting more money just to have ALL tools that say Snap On. I will buy Ridgid pipe wrenches and plumbing tools, and tubing cutters from Ridgid.

Hope This All Helps,
Thanks Again,
Greg

 

[jjoel]

i'm a fan of klein screwdrivers but they seem to be geared for more industrial electrical work.

 

[jamesc]

I bought a set of klien screwdrivers for use as an auto technican. they did not hold up well the comfort grips started to swell from atf, and brake cleaner and such. most of the tips broke or wore out after about a year. I do however have klien pliers and strippers and think very highly of them, I think channelocks are great pliers but I do prefer knipex. I have matco screw drivers and they are rebranded witte they hold up well to chemicals in an auto enviroment, I also have some hard handle instinict snap ons they also hold up well, the soft grip ones I have nothing good to say about.

 

[PeterT]

I have more then one Craftsman slotted screwdriver that was the only thing in reach, along with a hammer, that I've ruined. I tried grinding the edge, but they are pretty much worthless now.

 

[Altec]

I have been using tools for 16-years and have never used a screwdriver for prying. However, I know that Snap-on, Stanley, and even Vaughan make very good pry bars, wrecking bars, and nail pullers.

Thank You Much

Lol. That's funny. I'm third generation tool abuser. I remember barely being as tall as the old mans tool chest and him telling to grab a pry bar. So I grab a 24" bar, and he says "No, a screwdriver!"

I have one Klein screwdriver. A 3/8" straight. It's my go to beater. I never put it away, because I'm always using it. One second to loosen a hose clamp, the next to chisel, or pry something loose. Always comes back for more... The guy I work with laughes at me because I have at least a grand in screwdrivers... From Snap-on, high end imports, and a ton of vintage. Yet I always grab that Klein.

My favorite pliers are Snap-on. With a close second being Channel Lock. The bite my Snap-on pliers have just hasn't been matched for me. I can literally crumble the head of a screw with my Snap-on slip joints, and my needle nose grab when everything else slips. Now, I honestly prefer the older Snap-on dykes, but the new ones cut just fine for me. Never an issue. Even cutting materials like spring steel. On top of that, my Snap-on guy will warranty dull cutters. One other note able brand for pliers is Grip-on for locking pliers. It's good stuff!

If you want ease of cleaning, try to find a set of Snap-on hard handles, or similar. They wipe down easier. Otherwise some wet shop wipes will take most grease off instincts.

 

[greasemonkey44]

most guys i know prefer a tool truck brand screwdriver; they are warrantied on the spot even if abused
i have use klien screwdrivers; and i like the handles, they are really grippy
but at work i use husky pros
they are just cheaper

at the end of the day picking out a screwdriver is very personal, every one has specific wants and needs in one; go with what you like and feels comfortable

 

[ishiboo]

Klein is good stuff.

Do realize they're shifting production of much of their tools to Taiwan, including screwdrivers.

 

[yost69]

I have about a dozen klein screwdrivers, but I don't have a single one of them in my toolbox at the shop. They are in my tool bag for doing residential stuff.

I do however have wiha's 1000v insulated screwdrivers in my box at work, for some reason I just like the feel of them.

 

[Davefr]

Klein is the worst screwdriver I've ever used. Tips are as soft as warm butter. One cam out and they're shot.

However I'd put Klein needle nose pliers up against anything else made!!

 

[woody 73]

From my understanding Most electricians use Klein tools, I don't see many in the auto industry using the klein screwdrivers. I see a lot of Mac,snap on,some cornwell and a few wright tools. But then again if push comes to shove I am sure all brands are put to use in a shop. Same goes for Greenlee tools most electricians again are using them but I don't see many mechanics using them.

 

[Conductor562]

Klein is good stuff.

Do realize they're shifting production of much of their tools to Taiwan, including screwdrivers.

Yea, I noticed this a few months back when I bought a stubby multi-bit cushion grip at HD. As I was throwing the package away I noticed "MADE IN CHINA" on the back of the package. I emailed them about it and got a ******** reply about how "The great advances in asian manufacturing processes has afforded Klein the opportunity to provide their products to their customers at a lower price point while still maintaining the level of quality professional users demand" followed by "Klein tools has never closed a US manufacturing facility". Maybe it's just me, but I never noticed Klein stuff dropping in price. Broke my heart

 

[johnachak]

NO, that stinks.

 

[vga]

My old orange handle Mac"s.

 

[RedOak]

I spent many years on the electrical side of aircraft maintenance and testing organizations and Klein was consistently the tool of choice. When it comes to electrical work, I can't think of a brand that's any better overall.

Although I've also turned many a wrench since the 70s, I'm not a professional auto tech. When it comes to exposing tools to cleaning solvents and the like, they are much better qualified to make a recommendation. In other words, I still reach for my Klein screwdrivers, nutdrivers and (especially) their strippers when I'm doing automotive and heavy equipment wiring jobs, but that doesn't expose them to the solvents that an auto tech routinely comes in contact with.

Specifically, the last set of Klein screwdrivers I purchased is about nine years old -- and I haven't had to replace any of them. The last set of Klein nutdrivers I invested in is a year older than the screwdrivers and they, too, have help up beautifully. Lastly, I've owned many Klein strippers and I can't think of one pair that failed me until they were used improperly ... and, even then, it was blade edge damage only.

If it's true, however, that they're supporting the industrialization of the PRoC, I won't be adding any new Klein products to my tool bags or pouches.

 

[jeffmoss26]

I use primarily Klein and Channellock...not a mechanic either, I do computer work/low voltage wiring. I love my SO hard handles though!

 

[housey]

Klein tools are more geared towards electricians I think, I have heard pretty good things about most of their stuff except for the screwdrivers. Head over to a electrical forum like electriciantalk.com, and you will see tonnes of guys complaining about the tips being too soft on their new screwdrivers.

 

[AZ_Catskinner]

I picked up a Klein 5/16" nutdriver a couple of weeks ago and it was USA, as have been all the pliers and "standard" drivers I've purchased over the years.

I believe the multi-bit type drivers have been imported for some time now. I seem to recall one of mine showing Taiwan on the packaging.

That said, I try to reserve my Klein drivers for "clean" jobs, without the grease and garbage to clobber the handles.

 

[jetmech09]

I dont like kelin screwdrivers. Tips seem to cam out a lot, and I don't like the handles. I use snappy hard handle, mostly because I don't like the handles on matco (wiha). Pliers, I'm all snappy and knipex. Another factor to take into consideration is that I can get the tools I use replaced off the truck.

 

[SantaAna12]

I have a Klein canvas bag full of Klein pliers and screwdrivers for the clean stuff and around the house. I like Klein nut drivers too....and their small flush cutters are excellent. I have some older Channellocks.....I wouldn't let them go....but I think the Klein are better as far as 9 inch linemans and sidecutters go. Use a set of 9 inch Kleins once compared to the 8 inch Channellocks.....you wont go back. Better leverage. But mostly I reach for the Knipex these days because they work the best for me. One exception, as previously mentioned, is the regular sized Klein needlenose. A great set of pliers.

 

[Conductor562]

I have a Klein canvas bag full of Klein pliers and screwdrivers for the clean stuff and around the house. I like Klein nut drivers too....and their small flush cutters are excellent. I have some older Channellocks.....I wouldn't let them go....but I think the Klein are better as far as 9 inch linemans and sidecutters go. Use a set of 9 inch Kleins once compared to the 8 inch Channellocks.....you wont go back. Better leverage. But mostly I reach for the Knipex these days because they work the best for me. One exception, as previously mentioned, is the regular sized Klein needlenose. A great set of pliers.

Channellock offers linemans longer than 8". I wouldn't take $50 for my 9.5" High Leverage 369's if I couldn't get another pair.

 

[fatfillup]

Klein screwdrivers are great for electricians. The torque load electricians put on a screwdriver is less then a mechanic would apply to his drivers. Klein grips are quite comfy as long as they are kept from solvents.

As far as pliers, I have used them all and I like SO for needle nose hands down. As far as Channel lock, they make a very good product across the board but I do prefer Knipex for the water pump style pliers.

don't know that I have used Klein dykes but I wouldn't kick them out of bed. Channelock dykes have served me well as have SO and Cornwell.

As far as screwdrivers, I like the older SO hard handles but the German made Witte's are quite nice also. Excellent tips on the Wittes.

 

[Holyroller125]

Klein screwdrivers are great for electricians. The torque load electricians put on a screwdriver is less then a mechanic would apply to his drivers. Klein grips are quite comfy as long as they are kept from solvents.

As far as pliers, I have used them all and I like SO for needle nose hands down. As far as Channel lock, they make a very good product across the board but I do prefer Knipex for the water pump style pliers.

don't know that I have used Klein dykes but I wouldn't kick them out of bed. Channelock dykes have served me well as have SO and Cornwell.

As far as screwdrivers, I like the older SO hard handles but the German made Witte's are quite nice also. Excellent tips on the Wittes.

Are you saying that the new Snap-On screwdrivers are really German made by the Witte's company?

It would be a shame that SO would market their screwdrivers made in USA like Craftsman, but really be made outside the country. More companies are trying to get around it these days.

Thank You,
Greg