GW 81204P 120XP Review

[abvw]

So after 6 weeks of waiting, my 120XPs finally made it to the shop today!

First impression: something didn't feel quite right as soon as I picked up the ratchet from its foam tray. The balance was completely off, the ratchet felt much heavier than its predecessor (60T) that I've used daily for 6 months before I lost it. The head is noticeably thicker, and the handle feels a little smaller than it should.

That's about as much as I can provide today, I'll get back with more in-depth comparison tomorrow.

 

[trout]

isn't the 120xp just a 60t gear with 2 pawls? makes sense that it would be thicker and heavier to have the required strength.

 

[abvw]

I was under the impression that they split the 60T pawls in half, but I guess not.

 

[TwoInch]

since he does not have the 60t to compare it to, it might be a subconscious thing that makes it seem thicker.

i was under the impression they were all roughly the same, with the newer versions having rounded edges.

anyone confirm?

 

[abvw]

since he does not have the 60t to compare it to, it might be a subconscious thing that makes it seem thicker.

i was under the impression they were all roughly the same, with the newer versions having rounded edges.

anyone confirm?

I did have the 60T, I lost it 3 months ago and replaced it with 2 Dual80s, FHLF80 and FHL80.

I still have the nonflex 3/8" GW. I'll post some pictures tomorrow.

 

[CWP1616L]

That goes to show you that there's no substitute for the real thing.

GearWrench = silicone breast implants

 

[Ratsofftoya]

The 120 is a little thicker. I'll go out and grab a picture

 

[Ratsofftoya]

 

[TwoInch]

the 60t and 84t were pretty thin ratchets, as were the Cman thin profile which are the same.

im guessing the 120xp is in the area of a normal ratchet thickness then? isnt the dual 80 thicker than the matco.GW/armstrong ratchets?

 

[TwoInch]

those two pics are in different orders im assuming? which is which in the top pic?

 

[tweedlestan]

That goes to show you that there's no substitute for the real thing.

GearWrench = silicone breast implants

I know. Thank goodness for Matco!

 

[Skin]

im guessing the 120xp is in the area of a normal ratchet thickness then? isnt the dual 80 thicker than the matco.GW/armstrong ratchets?

Yes. The 1/4 Armstrong/Matco/GW are in a league of their own in terms of how "fat" they are. The 3/8" Armstrong/Matco/GW are the same thickness as a 1/4" T72. The 120XP is about as fat as a 80T 3/8" Snap-On. It is in no way unacceptably bulky unless the above mentioned thin ratchets are your only standard.

 

[Ratsofftoya]

those two pics are in different orders im assuming? which is which in the top pic?

Left- Duralast, Middle-120 tooth, Right- 60 tooth

 

[maetmpj]

since he does not have the 60t to compare it to

 

[TwoInch]

Left- Duralast, Middle-120 tooth, Right- 60 tooth

so, just barely thicker it seems.

still a damn thin ratchet if you ask me.

the soft handle does look a little skimpy though. probably figure that if you are needing a soft handle, you must have dainty hands....

 

[evandonald]

I am interested in buying some gearwrench ratchets mostly because of the price. Would you guys recommend the 60 tooth over the xp series? Thanks!

 

[03protege]

I measured some of the ratchets I have, the 120xp is about a tenth of and inch thicker and wider than the 60t Craftsman TP. The head just feels really off balance.

I am not happy with the 120xp I have, although I am sure it will be a fine ratchet. I just don't think the added weight, thickness, and lower strength are necessary tradeoffs to see the swing reduced from 4.2 to 3 degrees.