Show your new tool arrivals

[JradM]

My new baby Proto:


It's the J5248S. 3/8" drive square in the 1/4" ratchet body.


Interesting this little bit by the selector switch doesn't get 100% polished. I'm not objecting - it actually looks kind of neat.

Nice bit of knurling.


I really like it. I have the SK roundhead version of a 3/8 In 1/4 too. That has much finer teeth and is arguably a better tool - but I couldn't resist this little Proto.

Nice thin and small head, low backdrag (clicks are very "clicky" so I bet a spring mod could reduce it even further). Feels and looks great to me. Only 24 teeth though, so a modern fine tooth this is not.

I just like Proto ratchets though. Plus my 3/8ths sockets go all the way down to 5.5mm so I use them where others might just use 1/4". I expect to make many memories.

Edit: Bonus profile view.



I need a better camera for this - because I promise it looks awesome in person. Chrome looks flawless and the ratchet feels awesome. I admit I'm just a fan of Proto ratchets though, so definitely not an impartial observer.

Edit #2 - Com'on Stanley, a little lube wouldn't hurt.

 

[JradM]

Me again. Delivery truck just dropped these off. Pure impulse buy for me - they appeared in Amazon Warehouse deals and I watched the price drop, and drop, and drop to about $10 each - at which point I couldn't resist any longer.

Pictured next to my ratchet, just for context.

 

[rshadd]

Picked up some C.H. Hanson spring clamps from HJE. Made in the USA. I didn't care much for the barcodes, but they wiped-off easily with some Goof-off. Very nice clamps.

 

[German Satin]

Hazet 1/4 bit holder, shown next to 3/8. They are super nice and hold the bit very securely.
Edit: notice how thick the collars are on these bit holders ... makes a big difference when it comes to holding bits. I've tried loads over the years and these are the best I've come across. The Koken 3/8 is a close second but their 1/4 version is poor.

 

[DemoFly]

That's gotta be the best polishing I've ever seen Proto give to one of those old pear heads.

 

[KnurledNut]

New wheel-lock key...

 

[PelicanPines]

Adjustable wrench thats THIN

 

[JradM]

Adjustable wrench thats THIN

What's the quality like? I considered the Channellock - it would never have occurred to me to check AmazonBasics.

 

[PelicanPines]

What's the quality like? I considered the Channellock - it would never have occurred to me to check AmazonBasics.

It rolls smooth... there are some burrrs that I will file. On a scale of German made down to HF... its right there at HF... but for $8... it's worth it.

 

[48548]

Thought I would post some kokens and proto.... last ratchets I ever use...... too corse in the teeth... but I do like the 1/2......

 

[matlok]

Finally spoiled myself and bought some new Snap-On ratchets to go with my little T72. 3/8” and 1/4” locking-flex in HiViz.

FHXD80AHV
THLXD72HV

 

[javyLSU]

Love the hi-viz hard handles! My Snap-on locking flex heads are my favorite ratchets - I’m probably going to sell or trade my regular flex heads because I never use them anymore…

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

Love the hi-viz hard handles! My Snap-on locking flex heads are my favorite ratchets - I’m probably going to sell or trade my regular flex heads because I never use them anymore…

Do you find that the switch for the lock gets in the way when working on engines or anything like that? That’s what everyone tells me and tells me they break off when they catch on things which is often. I do prefer the design of my Matco locking flex heads but I don’t have any experience with the Snap-on ones so I was just wondering your thoughts.

 

[javyLSU]

Nope - I’ve never had the switch get in the way. To the contrary, I used to have Matco locking flex head ratchets and hated how hard it was to change the angle if I already had the ratchet on a fastener The Snap-on is easy to adjust on the fly - with the Matco I found myself pulling the ratchet off, readjusting the angle, and them going back on to the fastener.

If you can’t get the width of the Snap-on ratchet shaft with the switch in there, how are you going to get the ratchet head with a socket into the same space? I think people don’t like the Snap-on locking flex because it’s ugly. But it sure is functional.

 

[f121]

Do you find that the switch for the lock gets in the way when working on engines or anything like that? That’s what everyone tells me and tells me they break off when they catch on things which is often. I do prefer the design of my Matco locking flex heads but I don’t have any experience with the Snap-on ones so I was just wondering your thoughts.

The switch for the flex has never got in the way, and I've not smashed it off yet (in 3 years of use). The only complaint I have is that it's easy to knock out of the unlocked position. The locking flex is my favourite 3/8 ratchet, nice extra leverage over the f80 and great for stuff like brake calipers

 

[German Satin]

Finally spoiled myself and bought some new Snap-On ratchets to go with my little T72. 3/8” and 1/4” locking-flex in HiViz.

FHXD80AHV
THLXD72HV

Lurvly ....

 

[German Satin]

Arrived today ... didn't have any punches / chisels of any description so went for this 3-pc set as a start. Also upgrading screwdrivers with decent ones so T20 it was from PB.

 

[German Satin]

Do you find that the switch for the lock gets in the way when working on engines or anything like that? That’s what everyone tells me and tells me they break off when they catch on things which is often. I do prefer the design of my Matco locking flex heads but I don’t have any experience with the Snap-on ones so I was just wondering your thoughts.

locking is a must with flex heads

 

[German Satin]

What's the quality like? I considered the Channellock - it would never have occurred to me to check AmazonBasics.

Amazon basics tools ain't too shabby you know ...

 

[German Satin]

My new baby Proto:


It's the J5248S. 3/8" drive square in the 1/4" ratchet body.


Interesting this little bit by the selector switch doesn't get 100% polished. I'm not objecting - it actually looks kind of neat.

Nice bit of knurling.


I really like it. I have the SK roundhead version of a 3/8 In 1/4 too. That has much finer teeth and is arguably a better tool - but I couldn't resist this little Proto.

Nice thin and small head, low backdrag (clicks are very "clicky" so I bet a spring mod could reduce it even further). Feels and looks great to me. Only 24 teeth though, so a modern fine tooth this is not.

I just like Proto ratchets though. Plus my 3/8ths sockets go all the way down to 5.5mm so I use them where others might just use 1/4". I expect to make many memories.

Edit: Bonus profile view.



I need a better camera for this - because I promise it looks awesome in person. Chrome looks flawless and the ratchet feels awesome. I admit I'm just a fan of Proto ratchets though, so definitely not an impartial observer.

Edit #2 - Com'on Stanley, a little lube wouldn't hurt.

Lovely little ratchet that ... will last a lifetime.

 

[German Satin]

Not shiny and new. Utica 1300-8 pliers. Starting to help dad downsize. He’s had these, and a -6 for 50+ years. I can’t decide if I’ll use them, or if they’ll be decorative.

In nice condition by the looks. I'd leave as is ...

 

[JradM]

Amazon basics tools ain't too shabby you know ...

I have an open mind about them, but I have a different impression of them than I do for most brands. I.e. you buy some Knipex or Channellock pliers and you can expect good quality regardless of model. I.e. the brand name stands in as a shortcut for assessing quality because those brands don't sell junk.

Amazon's business model is different. They have an advantage because they can monitor their competitor's sales and jump into a market where they see profit. E.g. some upstart company comes out with some screwdrivers, Amazon sees they are selling well, they can connect with the Chinese manufacturer to sell the same product themselves AND even put their own product ad right on their competitor's listing.

Although this probably weeds out junk products, because Amazon can monitor for bad reviews or returns before deciding to copy something, it is based on profitability rather than a standard of quality associated with a brand name.

Again, this doesn't mean AmazonBasics is junk - I just expect the products with this brand name to be more variable because they were selected for profitability not a performance standard.

I'd still buy something from that brand - but I want someone to evaluate it first and tell me how it is.

 

[German Satin]

I have an open mind about them, but I have a different impression of them than I do for most brands. I.e. you buy some Knipex or Channellock pliers and you can expect good quality regardless of model. I.e. the brand name stands in as a shortcut for assessing quality because those brands don't sell junk.

Amazon's business model is different. They have an advantage because they can monitor their competitor's sales and jump into a market where they see profit. E.g. some upstart company comes out with some screwdrivers, Amazon sees they are selling well, they can connect with the Chinese manufacturer to sell the same product themselves AND even put their own product ad right on their competitor's listing.

Although this probably weeds out junk products, because Amazon can monitor for bad reviews or returns before deciding to copy something, it is based on profitability rather than a standard of quality associated with a brand name.

Again, this doesn't mean AmazonBasics is junk - I just expect the products with this brand name to be more variable because they were selected for profitability not a performance standard.

I'd still buy something from that brand - but I want someone to evaluate it first and tell me how it is.

Yes I agree that Amazon actively see a ship sail and jump on it ... but they also seem to put their own little twist on things perhaps getting a different finish or a unique grip or something ... to distinguish it from other tools. They have so much clout and buying power they can afford to do this and undercut the competition as well by ordering in bulk. I'd happily buy a pliers set or something like that off them to use hard and not be too bothered if they break. They'd hold up just fine more than likely!

 

[German Satin]

Thought I would post some kokens and proto.... last ratchets I ever use...... too corse in the teeth... but I do like the 1/2......

Are you saying you don't like coarse teeth ratchets except the 1/2"?

 

[48548]

Are you saying you don't like coarse teeth ratchets except the 1/2"?

Yes..... I like current technology, not 1930s ratchet technology. I have lots of plombs and proto but choose to not use them.

 

[German Satin]

6.5" Carlyle pliers.

Those look the business. The cross hatch teeth should provide excellent grip, not for jewellers though eh?! ...

 

[German Satin]

Yes..... I like current technology, not 1930s ratchet technology. I have lots of plombs and proto but choose to not use them.

I'm with you ... nice if ratchet works well in confined spaces. Less teeth = less versatility I guess.

 

[zmotorsports]

Some new tools today since we now have Snap-on Monday instead of Thursday. The master rethreading set is on sale still so I got a good deal. Actually got it for less than sale price. Then since I wanted another ratchet I got this one it’s a purple I originally thought it was dark blue but that’s ok I like purple too. Then I got my 15mm socket from the pawn shop replaced with the warranty. Same with the screwdriver tip too. Dealer said he doesn’t care cause he still gets credit either way. And I made a $100 payment today.

You will really like that thread chasing set. I have the exact same one and has been used heavily in the past 25+ years.

 

[German Satin]

Finally picked up some new wire wheels for my third block grinder:



These are Weiler, .0118" brass and .014" steel, both stamped "Made in USA". Brass one wasn't cheap, but it's the real deal. They seem to run well balanced and don't fling wires out like the cheapies. Very happy with these so far.

Next up, I finally splurged on a new garage broom:



Really nice Gordon Brush branded, US-made w/polypropylene bristles and all steel handle. Again, not cheap but top-notch quality and will probably be the last one I buy for the garage for a very long time.

You'll paint the hous' in no time with that thing ...

 

[German Satin]

TL72, TLL72, TRLL72, TLLF72

That's 4 more snap on ratchets than I've got

 

[wreckdiver1321]

My newest hand tool upgrade arrived. I was doing an electrical project recently and was pissed about how my wire cutters appeared to be blunt instruments. I think I got them out of the bargain bin at Ace six years ago. So I treated myself to something nice. Something red. Something German.







Excellent quality right out of the box. They all operate smooth and the handles are wider and flatter near the tail end, giving you better purchase and more comfort. Overall, extremely pleased.

 

[zmotorsports]

My newest hand tool upgrade arrived. I was doing an electrical project recently and was pissed about how my wire cutters appeared to be blunt instruments. I think I got them out of the bargain bin at Ace six years ago. So I treated myself to something nice. Something red. Something German.







Excellent quality right out of the box. They all operate smooth and the handles are wider and flatter near the tail end, giving you better purchase and more comfort. Overall, extremely pleased.

I have two pair of Knipex side cutters and love them. They're the ones I reach for almost instinctively now. I recently purchased the small pair of flush cuts also and they are just as nice as the larger ones.

 

[wreckdiver1321]

I have two pair of Knipex side cutters and love them. They're the ones I reach for almost instinctively now. I recently purchased the small pair of flush cuts also and they are just as nice as the larger ones.

I'm very impressed so far. I need some flush cuts and various other pliers, so I'm sure Knipex will be getting more of my money.

 

[PelicanPines]

I have two pair of Knipex side cutters and love them. They're the ones I reach for almost instinctively now. I recently purchased the small pair of flush cuts also and they are just as nice as the larger ones.

Don't loan the small flush cutters to your wife when she asks for a pair of wire cutters. She will try and fail to cut 1/8" STEEL botanical wire. Which will crack/snap the whole tip off like a circumcision. When asked why did you pick the small ones... she will tell you... "they are the cutest and fit well in my hand"

 

[wreckdiver1321]

Don't loan the small flush cutters to your wife when she asks for a pair of wire cutters. She will try and fail to cut 1/8" STEEL botanical wire. Which will crack/snap the whole tip off like a circumcision. When asked why did you pick the small ones... she will tell you... "they are the cutest and fit well in my hand"

That's oddly specific Pines.

 

[PelicanPines]

That's oddly specific Pines.

My closing thoughts to that convo was... well ... at least I'm the cutest but needs two hands to hold.

 

[TJMtl]

Latest arrivals:

1/4" SAE sockets standard and deep from Gray tools
3/8" chrome SAE sockets shallow and deep Gray Tools
1/4 round head ratchet Snap-On
Blue Point set of tap holders

 

[BuffettFan]

I needed a couple 48" bar clamps.
Hit Blowes, nothing over 24".
Hit the hammer store, theirs went from 36" to 60".
So, a pair of hammer store 60" bar clamps.
Very light, I'm sure they would self-destruck under heavy use.
For my needs, So far, so good!
Especially at ~$17 apiece!

 

[dalepres]

Latest arrivals:

1/4" SAE sockets standard and deep from Gray tools
3/8" chrome SAE sockets shallow and deep Gray Tools
1/4 round head ratchet Snap-On
Blue Point set of tap holders

I'd never heard of Gray Tools so I looked them up. Apparently they don't want to sell in the US. There Where To Buy page doesn't show any distribution in the US. It has Canada and International and neither of those options indicate any US sales. Odd that they'd choose to bypass their nearest neighbor.

 

[dalepres]

Don't loan the small flush cutters to your wife when she asks for a pair of wire cutters. She will try and fail to cut 1/8" STEEL botanical wire. Which will crack/snap the whole tip off like a circumcision. When asked why did you pick the small ones... she will tell you... "they are the cutest and fit well in my hand"

I bought my wife this set of double-action pliers for her flower work. Do you know she won't loan them to me when I need something stronger? Go figure.