Flex head ratchets

[BBQguy]

I am looking for a set of flex head ratchets. 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4".
Uses are everything from automotive to working on machinery at work.
I have zero interest in truck brands. Due to my lurking here mostly i am interested in the pro brands such as SK, Proto, and the like. I am not opposed to other brands. I buy once and cry once within reason.
I like the idea of a slim head as most likely I will use these in confined spaces. I also like a easy to use warranty if necessary. I dont need a locking flex head but a nice positive detent would be awesome.
Not fond of buying from Fleabay. To many bad experiences.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Gearwrench makes what you like, thinner head than a snap-on dual 80. I prefer the lower back-drag of the dual 80 mechanism, but the GW will absolutely reach a bolt SO cannot. My GW have a nice detent ball, I have all the sizes, only used a few snap-on flex but didn't care for them. Awkward locking mechanism, and otherwise no detent. I really wish my 12-inch long 1/4 snap on ratchet had a detent sometimes. I bought a similar length fixed head 90-tooth proto hoping to use the flex only when I need to. IMO the 84 tooth mechanism for GW is worlds better than the 120XP, which is thicker and has more back drag.

SK has the round head ratchets, all the sizes you want. No detents just like the snap ons; it seems like my SKs get wobbly much less often than snap-ons. SK uses a torx bolt on the 1/4 and 3/8, not sure about 1/2. SK is obviously going to have the biggest head, there are some places it will not fit. The new ones have a dual-pawl 72 tooth option which makes them better in tight areas.

 

[Mr_B]

Tekton perhaps, slim, has detents, easy warranty .
https://www.tekton.com/flex-ratchets

 

[BBQguy]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5G7LU/ref=psdc_553424_t1_B00BTEXQP2

That seems to be the best deal i can find, currently.

The 120T set looks interesting.

 

[BBQguy]

Tekton perhaps, slim, has detents, easy warranty .
https://www.tekton.com/flex-ratchets

They do have an easy warranty system.
My guys at work destroyed a torque wrench somehow. A quick picture and email sent to Tekton. 7 days later a new wrench showed up.

Does anyone have a picture with a Tekton flex head and Gearwrench together for ease of comparison?

 

[Tonyuk]

Gearwrench 84 or 120,

I have the 84 tooth set, very good for the money. Their 1/4 ratchets are longer and thinner than most.

 

[paulsomlo]

I am looking for a set of flex head ratchets. 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4".
Uses are everything from automotive to working on machinery at work.
I have zero interest in truck brands. Due to my lurking here mostly i am interested in the pro brands such as SK, Proto, and the like. I am not opposed to other brands. I buy once and cry once within reason.
I like the idea of a slim head as most likely I will use these in confined spaces. I also like a easy to use warranty if necessary. I dont need a locking flex head but a nice positive detent would be awesome.
Not fond of buying from Fleabay. To many bad experiences.

You didn't say whether you prefer round head or teardrop, quick release or not. SK is not exactly what I would call a "slim head". If you're not opposed to RH and can deal with the lack of QR, look at Wright; the head is thinner than SK and the 3/8 and 1/2 are dual pawl, which gives something like 90 teeth, while the 1/4 is 45 teeth. Their contour grip handle is really nice.

You might also look at Carlyle from Napa - they're Taiwan made but have a good rep around here. If you have a Napa near you, easy to get, easy to warranty, and a good selection.

If you're adverse to ebay, you're probably going to buy new, otherwise it's CL.

Here's a link to Epstein's Hardware, a good place to buy Wright: https://www.harryepstein.com/index.php/tool-brand/wright-tool/wright-ratchets.html

For Carlyle, just go to napaonline.com and search on "carlyle".

 

[Iluvbeer]

These will be my next purchase
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5G7LU/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[plinker]

These will be my next purchase
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5G7LU/?tag=atomicindus08-20

^ I have the 81215F (long 3/8 60tooth version), pretty nice overall & the detents work well enough. It got moved to the truck box after picking up a Armstrong Locking flex. It is my most used size/style ratchet.

 

[Yarpo]

I bought the 81230F linked above about a month ago, still made in taiwan (Not to my surprise, but there are some COO doubters) and the ratchets are as good as any I've ever used. I've had their 1/4" 84T flex and used it extensively without issue, so picked up the rest of the set.

 

[Mgdoug3]

It would be hard to beat the 4 piece 84T or 120XP from Gearwrench. I have the 120XP set and I'm happy with them for the price. They're not perfect but worth the money. I use mostly SK RHs but if space is limited, I'll grab a GW.

If you want SK, I would recommend buying used off Ebay and buying a DT mechanism except for the 1/4 drive. It's perfect just the way it is. The 3/8 in a 1/4 body is extremely handy.

 

[Tallpilot]

The 4 piece 84T Gearwrench set is tried and true. Tekton has better customer service and their 90 tooth mechanism looks like a winner but only time will tell. I'd pick up one of each and see which one feels the best to you before committing to a set.

I do prefer the screwed in backing plate of the Tekton to the snap ring on the 84T Gearwrench. Hopefully somebody has both and can take a comparison picture. I only have a stubby 84T and a non flex new Tekton in 3/8 at the moment.

 

[mcmtech]

Another vote for the 84 tooth gearwrench set. I’ve used them professionally along side my snap on and Cornwells and they’ve held up great. The detent works great and the heads are super thin

 

[Wamsutta]

I have zero interest in truck brands.

It's a good thing I caught that.

 

[JBH]

I don't think they have a flex 1/4", but the Facom/USAG extendable flex heads in 3/8" drive and 1/2" drive are very versatile. Ultimate Garage has them with USAG branding at a reasonable price. Maybe pair with the 1/4" drive "FUP" (Facom design, USAG make, Proto branded) flex head.

 

[WittHay]

I have the GearWrench 84T 1/4 to 1/2 flex ratchets. Few years old now and have stood up well to working on machinery. No complaints

 

[M6erfan]

The most compact ratchet heads I know of are the Carlyle 72t teardrop ratchets. Offered in both locking and non locking flex. Made in Taiwan.

The 3/8" ratchet head is 26.5mm wide x 26.5mm high (including anvil & selector)

I use them and they are excellent. If you have a Napa nearby super easy warranty (not that I've had a problem). Buy them on sale, pretty pricey at list.

If you don't like comfort grips look at the Powerbuilt Pro Tech ratchets. Exact same thing but with a unique handle, and a lot less expensive than Napa. Ease of warranty though, I have no idea...

For non-truck USA brands, SK is your best bet as far as easy warranty goes.

GL

 

[shockwave]

For general use you cannot beat gearwrench ratchets and warranty is easy anywhere there 84t or 120xp I know a lot love sk but for any fine tooth these are best bang for your buck broken numerous snap on dual 80 and these remain strong

 

[M6erfan]

For general use you cannot beat gearwrench ratchets and warranty is easy anywhere there 84t or 120xp I know a lot love sk but for any fine tooth these are best bang for your buck broken numerous snap on dual 80 and these remain strong

With AAP getting rid of GW, warranty may not be that easy. There are posts that warranting GW isn't great through Apex. I have no direct experience with it, I don't own any GW.

 

[PassnThru]

I bought the 81230F linked above about a month ago, still made in taiwan (Not to my surprise, but there are some COO doubters) and the ratchets are as good as any I've ever used.

I picked up the 120XP version (81230P) a few weeks ago when it went to $75. It was also made in Taiwan.

 

[BBQguy]

I am probably going to roll with a GW set.

The recommendations for them are many. They seem to be easy to find. Reasonably priced.

Thank you for help folks.

PS I will pop into a NAPA and take a look at they have to offer tomorrow.

 

[M6erfan]

I am probably going to roll with a GW set.

The recommendations for them are many. They seem to be easy to find. Reasonably priced.

Thank you for help folks.

PS I will pop into a NAPA and take a look at they have to offer tomorrow.

The Carlyle blow away GW imo, and meet your criteria better (Small head, easy warranty), but just my opinion...

GW ratchets get a ton of love, but not from me. However, if you do go the GW route I recommend the 84t over the 120xp...

 

[d.mcfarland]

The Carlyle blow away GW imo, and meet your criteria better (Small head, easy warranty), but just my opinion...

GW ratchets get a ton of love, but not from me. However, if you do go the GW route I recommend the 84t over the 120xp...

If I was paying Carlyle, I'd have the tool truck guarantee behind it. All that said I'm a huge fan of Napa, just not going to shell out that kind of cash when there are alternatives for much less. Tekton might be the route to go in this case.

Also, Gearwrench 84 or 120 for sure!

 

[protegeV]

I'm a snapon snob when it comes to ratchets. I can take or leave some of their other overpriced stuff. Sockets, wrenches, etc.
But their ratchets are the ****!!!

 

[M6erfan]

If I was paying Carlyle, I'd have the tool truck guarantee behind it. All that said I'm a huge fan of Napa, just not going to shell out that kind of cash when there are alternatives for much less. Tekton might be the route to go in this case.

Also, Gearwrench 84 or 120 for sure!

No one actually pays list price for Carlyle. Wait...do they?

The 3/8" flex ratchet goes on sale several times a year for about $48...

 

[Mr Ratchet]

I recommend the 84 T GW but, in the locking heads. You can tighten the screws and leave them unlocked so then can move freely. Lock them so they are like a fixed head when cranking down on them. My locking flex's are my go to ratchets in 3/8" and 1/2" drive.

 

[Fedwrench]

Powerbuilt Pro tech flex head ratchets.

https://www.powerbuilt.com/collections/pro-tech-ratchets-accessories?page=1#33EmMaezrU5zhHL8.97

Thin head with quick release, crisp ratcheting action, various lengths from normal to extra long. comfortable all metal handle. shop ebay for the best deal.

 

[Yarpo]

No one actually pays list price for Carlyle. Wait...do they?

The 3/8" flex ratchet goes on sale several times a year for about $48...

Might as well buy Snap On's for 30 dollars more at that point

I also don't see it on sale for 48 in the real deal flyer at the moment either. I like Carlyle stuff, but also think its rather pricey and its not that much nicer than any of the other nice Taiwan made Ratchets I've used.

 

[paulsomlo]

Powerbuilt Pro tech flex head ratchets.

https://www.powerbuilt.com/collections/pro-tech-ratchets-accessories?page=1#33EmMaezrU5zhHL8.97

Thin head with quick release, crisp ratcheting action, various lengths from normal to extra long. comfortable all metal handle. shop ebay for the best deal.

How do you disassemble these? I've looked at pictures and can't tell if it's a conventional circlip, or what.

 

[M6erfan]

Might as well buy Snap On's for 30 dollars more at that point

I also don't see it on sale for 48 in the real deal flyer at the moment either. I like Carlyle stuff, but also think its rather pricey and its not that much nicer than any of the other nice Taiwan made Ratchets I've used.

Least expensive flex head from S-o is about $140... Math?

What's your point? I don't see that ratchet at all in the current real deal flyer

 

[Yarpo]

Least expensive flex head from S-o is about $140... Math?

What's your point? I don't see that ratchet at all in the current real deal flyer

No one actually pays list for Snap-On. Wait...do they?

80 - 48 = 32.

Quick mafs.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Snap-o...h=item442220eb9a:g:J-kAAOSwK-ZbPnpW:rk:1:pf:0

So whats the price of a Carlyle 3/8th flex head? Nobody's paying list price for it and its not in the real deal flyer, where can us peasants (or OP) get one for its extra special on sale price? If its not on sale in the real deal flyer, its more expensive and as such OP should get something else...no?

 

[ChrisLS8]

You can also look at Williams as well. Reasonably priced and made in US. I'd suggest SK for the LP90s but they dropped the ball on the flex. I have a regular 3/8 and I really want it in flex

 

[General Geoff]

No flex head ratchet arsenal is complete without one of these:

https://www.harborfreight.com/14-in-38-in-drive-long-reach-dual-flex-head-ratchet-67994.html

Has 1/4" and 3/8" drive heads on opposite sides of a single, long handle. Both ratchet heads are less than 1/2" thick. Both are quick-release. Back drag is a little high, but I've found this tool indispensable for tight spots. Had mine for several years, it holds up very well to the extreme torque it can be subjected to given the long handle.

For $22.40 with 20% off coupon, you'd be crazy not to have one.

 

[Fedwrench]

How do you disassemble these? I've looked at pictures and can't tell if it's a conventional circlip, or what.

There is a small plastic cover at the base of the ratchet gear, remove it with a pick and you will see the legs of a retaining ring. Compress the legs of the ring, and the drive gear will come out. Then you can remove the pawl gear, pintle, spring, & direction switch. The ratchet head appears to be the same as the Carlyle quick release flex head version.

 

[M6erfan]

No one actually pays list for Snap-On. Wait...do they?

80 - 48 = 32.

Quick mafs.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Snap-o...h=item442220eb9a:g:J-kAAOSwK-ZbPnpW:rk:1:pf:0

So whats the price of a Carlyle 3/8th flex head? Nobody's paying list price for it and its not in the real deal flyer, where can us peasants (or OP) get one for its extra special on sale price? If its not on sale in the real deal flyer, its more expensive and as such OP should get something else...no?

Yarpo, take a look at the OP. He states quite clearly that he has no interest in truck brands and wants a slim head. Carlyle fits that bill, no? Snap-on doesn't, right? But go ahead and keep beating on Carlyle if you wish.

Anyway...as far as Carlyle on sale, I got mine during their summer sale about a year and a half ago. Don't know what to tell you about it not being in this quarter's RD flyer...

Edit: So many of these threads go off the rails, but try to keep in mind the context of the OP... For this thread, Carlyle simply beats S-o. A) not a truck brand B) more compact head than the dual 80. Price wasn't mentioned in the OP but since you brought it up...the Carlyle less expensive, like it or not.

 

[Yarpo]

Yarpo, take a look at the OP. He states quite clearly that he has no interest in truck brands and wants a slim head. Carlyle fits that bill, no? Snap-on doesn't, right? But go ahead and keep beating on Carlyle if you wish.

Anyway...as far as Carlyle on sale, I got mine during their summer sale about a year and a half ago. Don't know what to tell you about it not being in this quarter's RD flyer...

Edit: So many of these threads go off the rails, but try to keep in mind the context of the OP... For this thread, Carlyle simply beats S-o. A) not a truck brand B) more compact head than the dual 80. Price wasn't mentioned in the OP but since you brought it up...the Carlyle less expensive, like it or not.

I'm not beating on them, simply responding to a chain of comments that relate to the price of Carlyle, and for 30 dollars more having that service and truck guarantee stand behind you is nice, as mentioned by D. More expensive when the Carlyle ratchet is on sale, off sale it looks to be damn near the same price as the Snap on Ratchet I linked. Is it a good ratchet? Yes? Is it not Snap-on? Yes. Will it fit OPs Needs? Yes. Are there other cheaper alternatives that also fit OPs needs? Yes.

 

[M6erfan]

I'm not beating on them, simply responding to a chain of comments that relate to the price of Carlyle, and for 30 dollars more having that service and truck guarantee stand behind you is nice, as mentioned by D. More expensive when the Carlyle ratchet is on sale, off sale it looks to be damn near the same price as the Snap on Ratchet I linked. Is it a good ratchet? Yes? Is it not Snap-on? Yes. Will it fit OPs Needs? Yes. Are there other cheaper alternatives that also fit OPs needs? Yes.

Yes. That's why I mentioned in my original post about Carlyle that they are pricey at list price, and I offered a like alternative. I've never bought a Carlyle tool "off sale". That's just silly. I'm just glad I don't have to dig around on eBay to find one.

Another point made by the OP was ease of warranty. Buy a S-o from eBay and you're rolling the dice there. Versus walk in to your local Napa store. Mines even open on Sunday... (Wonder if I could track down a truck on Sunday?)

 

[Tonyuk]

Remember that with a tool truck brand the warranty relies on you either finding a driver willing to exchange it there and then, or mailing it off to be warrantied.

Both options are a real pain compared to just walking into a shop, getting a new one from the shelf and walking out, 10 minute job.

Mailing it away etc.. can take around a week, finding a helpful driver for the DIY can be challenging.

Stick with good shop brands.

 

[paulsomlo]

There is a small plastic cover at the base of the ratchet gear...

Ahh.. so that's what I'm seeing - thanks Fed

 

[kb1982]

I went with the Gearwrench 120 flexheads for work. They dont see heavy use at work, but do get used daily unfortunately. In the garage I have snap on in 1/4 and 3/8 drive along with alot of the older SK Tuff one round head ratchets. Also in the mix is a 25 inch Tone 1/2 drive. All have served me well. The Tuff Ones are finicky if not set right, but on par with the snap on once lubed and adjusted. As for preference, i usually just pick one out of the drawer. Even the old Indestro flexhead gets its fair share of use, and is as good as any of them.

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