Why I Buy Tekton

[whofan]

Our policy is always equal to or greater than. In the off chance we've moved away from a product, with no replacement, I find a way to make it right. Generally speaking we stay away from gimmicky in and out items. We've been in business over 40 years and have no intention of slowing down.

Dave

[email protected]

This is good to know Dave.
I have bought some Tekton tools and I think they are nice.
I am a fan of Craftsman as well. The major problem I had with Craftsman is their gimmicky tools. Most of these tools turn out to be junk. Few do find a break trough and go on to be a common tool. Extreme grip and Mach tools to think of a few.
I love the fact that Tekton sticks to no nonsense tools.
Another thing that annoys me is skips in tool sets. Some of the Tekton sets I seen on Amazon have no skipped sizes in the wrench sets I seen. Specially when a skip say in millimeters is a 10, 13 or 15 size. Thank you for your input here.

 

[Petesworld]

Well after doing some research online and reading the feedback from others in this community, including Dave's quick responses to others, I just invested in a bunch of Tekton tools to fill a new tool box. I received everything this week and have been spending way too much time organizing and reorganizing my toolbox with all the new goodies. I've not had the opportunity to put anything to the test yet, but fit and finish on everything is good. I love the screwdriver set. About the only thing I didn't get were the sockets, however that is probably next on the list. My current hit and miss set consist of an eclectic mix collected over the past 4 decades.

 

[Shelbylex]

I had a very positive experience with Tekton warranty. Dave R is definitely on top of everything and there is no nonsense of going to the post office to send a broken tool (like SK has). You just send the pictures and the description of what went wrong.
Even though I own more SO, SK and some other big brand tools, I would recommend paying close attention to Tekton. Given quality and great customer service I expect the company to go very far and become a very popular brand easily overtaking what Craftsman achieved in their good days

 

[motofool33]

for my RV box, i have Tekon Chrome Sockets, Impact sockets, torque wrenchs and a few other items. no complaints on any of them well made for the Price point. just actually looked to see if they have Swivel Impacts to buy. i would not be comparing these to HF tools i would say Gear Wrench/Apex would be a good competitor to use for comparison.

 

[Mr_B]

tekton do warranty well and some items good but lot of it too average, socketry and ratchets could be improved, expanded.

 

[Tanro]

I've been pretty happy with the tekton stuff I have. Amazing prices, good quality, good function.

 

[Lisamelting]

I did a friend a favor and accepted a job working for him part time doing equipment maintenance. Nothing too intense so I really just need basic metric tools, pliers, hammers etc. I was able to pick up combo wrenches, sockets (impact only since clearance shouldn't be an issue) and a 3 pack of dead blow hammers for cheap money through Amazon.

I can't see spending big money on tools when the Tekton ones I've been using have held up so well at my full time job.

 

[joebachor]

Tekton is my favorite inexpensive tool company because of their excellent combination of design, quality, price and warranty and I use some of their tools professionally in a harsh industrial environment, they hold up just fine.

 

[Tallpilot]

tekton do warranty well and some items good but lot of it too average, socketry and ratchets could be improved, expanded.

Now that the tariffs and raw material costs have caused them to raise prices a few bucks hopefully they will consider adding some of those higher end features. One issue could be warranty replacements not fitting in the original cases.

They keep expanding the lines. Reversible ratcheting wrenches last quarter, hex drivers coming. Lots of competition in this space but I think Tekton is the leader in the DIY / young (broke) entry level professional segment.

Like many have said before there is no one manufacturer/distributor that makes the best of everything not even Snap-on.

 

[Mr_B]

Warranty goes a long way, for instance. Titan is the OE of the long flex head ratchets with comfort grip handles and the warranty is limited. Mac sells the 1/2 that is made by titan just branded mac and it has a lifetime warranty. Granted you are paying a lot more from mac.

Titan is not the OE, they buy them from taiwan oem same as mac, premier,laser and other brands do .

 

[jonshonda]

Blains farm and fleet and Big R are the ones I know that stock tekton tools in store. Actually a whole isle full.

My local Blains doesn't! BASTARDS!!

 

[azchrisf]

We've moved on from the HF vs. truck tools debate to HF vs. Other Asian tools!

There was a debate on this? LOL...

 

[thwaller]

I have a good deal of the Tekton impact sockets. I have the sets for 3/8 drive metric and SAE both shallow and deep and the 1/2 drive metric and SAE deep. I am very happy with the quality of them. They have taken everything I have tossed at them without issue. All sets are 6 point.

I also own the 1/2 inch manual impact driver, the long 3/8 drive breaker bar, the 12 piece screwdriver set, 1/2 drive impact swivel, and the 3 piece set each of 3/8 and 1/2 drive impact extensions. I have no real complaints about any of them except that some of the products, like the extensions for example, do not have the Tekton name anywhere on them. Should one ever break, there is no real way to tell if it is a Tekton or some cheapo from the dollar bin.

I do not have the 1/2 drive shallow impact socket sets. The reason is sort of silly, but the metric set is missing the 16mm socket. I would be ok if the case had a spot for it and I could just buy it, but that is not the case. I like these sets for the side reason that I can toss them in my vehicle or whatever and have the whole set right there, aside from the extreme upper sizes. But in this case, it is just too easy to forget a separate 16mm, and using a 5/8 really is not the proper solution although it can/will work most times. I may end up just getting over it and getting them, but with my luck once I would do that, they would offer a complete one with the 16mm.... Oh, although the 16mm is missing from the shallow set, it is included in the deep set.

 

[hangfirew8]

Since last posting in this thread, I got a Tekton 14932 low profile, QR, 72 tooth, high polish ratchet. It has a nice low backdrag, and a very comfortable handle. After more than a year it is now a favorite, goto 3/8 ratchet. I bought it despite having no obvious COO, but turns out it is Taiwan.

It does have a ratchet selector position backwards from most US ratchets, but that doesn't bother me, as by habit I check the direction by spinning the socket, not feeling the selector.

I also have a Mastergrip/Taiwan super low profile, QR, 72 tooth ratchet. It gets the nod only when the ~ 4mm overall height difference matters. The selector position is US style. I would love it too but the backdrag is much higher than the Tekton. Also the handle is too thin for comfort, but since it is a super low profile it is acceptable as a specialty LoPro only ratchet, not something for daily regular use though.

-HF

 

[bonneyman]

I had a very positive experience with Tekton warranty. Dave R is definitely on top of everything and there is no nonsense of going to the post office to send a broken tool (like SK has). You just send the pictures and the description of what went wrong.
Even though I own more SO, SK and some other big brand tools, I would recommend paying close attention to Tekton. Given quality and great customer service I expect the company to go very far and become a very popular brand easily overtaking what Craftsman achieved in their good days

Definitely!

 

[BoulderGTI]

I wonder why they dropped the 149xx ratchets which were highly regarded, beautiful, and ergonomic.

 

[jasonphelps]

Hopefully there will be a Tekton locking flex head ratchet soon

 

[Tallpilot]

Hopefully there will be a Tekton locking flex head ratchet soon

I'm looking forward to the socket redesign. But in the meantime you can buy a hoodie.

 

[mowersplus84]

Toptul all the way. Other 2 don't even come close when it comes to sockets and wrenches.

Here is some of mine.

Toptul is hard to find and not widely available

 

[Rogers954]

I'm looking forward to the socket redesign. But in the meantime you can buy a hoodie.

Same here brought it up a while back and have been watching here and also there web sight for any updates. Anyone have a clue when to expect to see these????


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[JJ99SS]

I was reading some of these posts, Dave.R has to have some seriously thick skin and a bottle of something in his cubicle. Tough crowd in here, but they are chipping away and earning their reputation for service.

Nice job Dave! Forums are an awesome place for feedback, as long as you can sift the wheat from the chaff, and actually improve your product line.

 

[Shootinok]

This string has been going for 4 years !?
Guess I’ll put in my 2 cents too...
I’ve always tried to buy made in USA tools, but I’ve had to accept that some times they simply no longer make some things here.
With that, I still prefer to look for quality over price. I’ve been very happy with Tekton quality.
I have several impact socket sets, adjustable wrenches and just got an old school manual impact driver that works flawlessly.

Why I buy Tekton.... I like ‘em
For the last couple years, when selecting tools (available to the average guy through regular retail) I pick Tekton.


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[Jbullfrog]

I buy Tekton because their tools work and they replace the broken ones. I needed a set of standard and metric wrenches for our planting tractor. I bought the Tekton set. It skipped 15/16", the most common size fastener on a Kinze planter, but had all the rest. I called to get a 1/2" wrench dad broke warrantied and asked about a 15/16" to add to the set. They said they would just send one and thanked me for being a customer.

I just purchased their ratcheting double box flex wrenches for my service bag. They are awesome! I work on lift chairs and mobility scooters, usually in the client's home, so I try to limit what I have to carry.

 

[Tallpilot]

I buy Tekton because their tools work and they replace the broken ones. I needed a set of standard and metric wrenches for our planting tractor. I bought the Tekton set. It skipped 15/16", the most common size fastener on a Kinze planter, but had all the rest. I called to get a 1/2" wrench dad broke warrantied and asked about a 15/16" to add to the set. They said they would just send one and thanked me for being a customer.

I just purchased their ratcheting double box flex wrenches for my service bag. They are awesome! I work on lift chairs and mobility scooters, usually in the client's home, so I try to limit what I have to carry.

That is the key difference and one thing you are very unlikely to ever get at Harbor Freight. Their tools are mostly decent and some are gems but it is the customer service that sets them apart.

 

[Gurp]

Love that Dave R pops in to make things right for tekton. The quality care there is great. Good tools for tge money esp for a hobbyist.

 

[nbpt100]

If not for this board I probably would not have paid any attention to Tekton tools. I purchased a needle nose plyers last year and for the price I am very happy with it. Much better quality than HF. I just ordered a 1/2 drive impact deep socket set. I like how they don't skip sizes and it comes in a storage case for good organization. Looking forward to using them. I have never needed any customer service but it sure looks like they are on top of it from all of the positive comments here. I always try to keep an open mind but have a strong feeling I will be buying more of their tools as needs arise.

 

[markeric]

I just bought both Tekton and Pittsburgh Pro 6 point sets to compare the quality. It would not surprise me if these were made in the same factory. There are differences however. Biggest issue I would have with the Pittsburgh stuff is they change their tool lineup too often. If you break one of their chrome sockets, you'll likely end up with a Quinn or some other non matching socket. I just measured a 3/4 SAE shallow between the two sets. The Tekton is slightly thicker, the flank drive recesses are deeper on the Tektons. The Tekton ratchet is much nicer, from a fit and finish standpoint. If you look at the chrome around the reverse lever, you can see how bad the chrome is on the Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh set was made in Taiwan, not sure about the Tekton. Up until now, at least as far as chrome sockets, I've been using vintage Craftsman from the 1980s and a have a 6 point set of deeps from SK I bought at a yard sale. I have Snap On impacts, vintage Craftsman ratchets, 2 Snap on ratchets and a 1/2" SK. That Tekton racthet feels real nice, of course all my existing stuff I believe is 30 tooth. Im not a fan of quick release, but buying the set was the only way to get SAE shallow in 6 point. Same thing for Pittsburgh btw

 

[nbpt100]

Picked up my Tekton impact sockets today and I like what I see and feel. The only thing negative I could think about them is that they are not stamped. They do have a very nice large laser marking. I assume at some point it may wear off. It does say "permanent laser marked" but how permanent is the best laser marking on a socket?

 

[protegeV]

Picked up my Tekton impact sockets today and I like what I see and feel. The only thing negative I could think about them is that they are not stamped. They do have a very nice large laser marking. I assume at some point it may wear off. It does say "permanent laser marked" but how permanent is the best laser marking on a socket?

Usually not very permanent. Even my matco ADV sockets are like this. the numbering wears off pretty easy, but I have a good eye for the size so I usually don't even have to check.

 

[ggg71]

I'm thinking of moving forward with a purchase of Tekton tools based on price point, warranty, and feedback from this thread (and others).

My question is: I'm going to buy an SAE and Metric set of combo wrenches to replace my current sets. (Craftsman USA raised panel Metric and a set of horrible Chinese SAE I bought back when I was broke). I'm looking to add a set of ratcheting wrenches to go with the new combos. Would the long flex-head box end sets be a good choice? Seems like I could break the bolts with the combos and then use the flex heads the rest of the way. Seems like a good space saver option in the tool box?

Or would I be better off with a reversible ratcheting set? Or flex head ratcheting? If I get these, would I even need the regular combos? I'm sure any of these options would be ok, but just trying to see if there is a good argument for one over the other.

I'm a non-professional. Tools will get light use around the house for home repairs, hobbies and maybe a project car. I'm more of a woodworker then mechanic.

Cost (within reason) is not the issue, just looking for some recommendations to maximize my use/flexibility.

Thanks!

 

[Craftfab]

ggg71, I am just a hobbyist so from that view point I kept the Craftsman USA combination wrenches (which I would use to break free a fastener) and just added the long flex ratcheting box end wrenches from Tekton. Until I come across a situation where a standard combination wrench and the long flex ratcheting won't accomplish the task, I will stick with just these two sets. I have been tempted to get ratcheting combos but honestly, for what I do which is similar to what you have listed, I do not see how they fill a need at the moment, and I would rather save the space.

 

[Tallpilot]

I'm thinking of moving forward with a purchase of Tekton tools based on price point, warranty, and feedback from this thread (and others).

My question is: I'm going to buy an SAE and Metric set of combo wrenches to replace my current sets. (Craftsman USA raised panel Metric and a set of horrible Chinese SAE I bought back when I was broke). I'm looking to add a set of ratcheting wrenches to go with the new combos. Would the long flex-head box end sets be a good choice? Seems like I could break the bolts with the combos and then use the flex heads the rest of the way. Seems like a good space saver option in the tool box?

Or would I be better off with a reversible ratcheting set? Or flex head ratcheting? If I get these, would I even need the regular combos? I'm sure any of these options would be ok, but just trying to see if there is a good argument for one over the other.

I'm a non-professional. Tools will get light use around the house for home repairs, hobbies and maybe a project car. I'm more of a woodworker then mechanic.

Cost (within reason) is not the issue, just looking for some recommendations to maximize my use/flexibility.

Thanks!

Honestly the most useful are the offset reversible. They are of course a direct replacement for a normal combo wrench so don’t really bring any additional capability to the table besides speed. For the occasional fastener that is hard to impossible to get a socket on (for example the nuts holding the top of the front coil over in my Tacoma) the extra long flex are amazing unless they are too long to fit. So I actually recommend the short double box end flex first, they will add the most capability above the non ratcheting combos you already have.

 

[nbpt100]

IMHO I would go with the flex head ratcheting combo wrenches. It adds more possibilities in tight spaces and can save time. You have the conventional combos for difficult fasteners and I assume you have 6PT sockets and a breaker bar for most hard to loosen bolts/nuts.

 

[markeric]

As I wrote in my last post, I bought the Tekton 3/8" socket set. I'm also expecting delivery shortly of the master 1/2" socket set. I also ordered the SAE long double box ratcheting wrenches. I did not like them and sent them back. I found the beam edges too sharp and thin, and the box end edges were too sharp as well. The finishing of the wrench prior to chrome plating was poor in my opinion, polishing irregularities in the steel, small imperfections, ect. One of the ratchet ends on one of the wrenches was flopping loose. I think I paid $112 for that set on Amazon. I was disappointed relative to my positive experience with the chrome sockets/ratchets. I think the idea of these is good. I think they should make them here and charge more or tighten their quality control.

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[Semi-hole mechanic]

Just bought a set of 1/4 drive deep metric chrome sockets. Havent used them yet but quality looks as good as my USA made CM SAE set from the 90s. Bought them because of reviews on this site and Dave's responses to customer service issues. Found them at BigR for 9.99 for an 8 pc set. Hard to pass them up at that price.

 

[Starman2112]

I’m a DIYer, and I’ve been more than happy with my Tekton tools. One of the best bang-for-your-buck tool companies out there imo.

 

[doohan]

There warranty is top notch. Dave from Tekton took fantastic care of me when I had an issue with a reversible ratcheting wrench. Tekton customer service is top notch.

 

[bonneyman]

Usually not very permanent. Even my matco ADV sockets are like this. the numbering wears off pretty easy, but I have a good eye for the size so I usually don't even have to check.

My dad taught me how to do this when I was a teenager. But I could only do it with SAE - metric is too close to the next size for these old eyes of mine to be able to tell.

 

[AreYaSerious]

Bought some Tekton screwdrivers, they are amazing for the price.

 

[Gurp]

I buy Tekton bc its dam good bang for your buck. Atleast the Crv sockets and the wrenches. I bought a set of MIT(tekton) deep well 3/8 sockets probably 8 years ago ans they've served me very well. Bought a set of wrenches from them 7 years ago and through cheater wrenches being beat with a 3lb mini sledge they have held up great. Last summer i bought a new set of Tekton metric wrenches to replace a few that I lost over the years. Plan on buying more of their stuff tax time.