The One Snap On Ratchet You'd Choose

[G3TURPOPCORNRDY]

Hi all,

This is my first post on the forum. I've been referencing it for years, but I finally want to reach out with a specific question that I could use some help on. First, a little background. I'm a young guy that thoroughly enjoys wrenching on things in his spare time (cars, atvs, etc.). I've also inherited a tool addiction from my father and love collecting and using quality tools. I've inherited a lot of vintage craftsman ratchets and love to use them, however I've always dreamed of owning a snap on ratchet after seeing how they stack up in different comparisons on Youtube. I understand they are very expensive and its not practical for someone who doesn't turn wrenches for a living, but I still want to experience one for myself and I know that it will put a smile on my face to pull it out of the toolbox the rest of my life. Its hard to explain the feeling that comes from handling a quality tool, but I'm sure many on here can relate.

I want to purchase one 3/8" snap on ratchet as this is likely the most common drive size I will use. This will likely be the only 3/8 snap on ratchet I buy (may buy different drives in the future) so I want to make sure I get a version that will suit me well. So, what would be the one 3/8" Snap On ratchet that you would purchase? Fixed, Flex head, Locking Flex head? What grip? I'm very curious everyone's thoughts on a flex head as this is something I have never experienced. I wont be using it to make a living, but I look forward to learning from people who do.

Thank you

 

[MJK]

FLF80a

 

[Tools4Me]

For general everyday work like fixing a bicycle, working on a lawnmower, chainsaw, generator, washing machine, etc. I mainly use a FR80 ratchet. Regular length chrome handled quick release 3/8" drive. Easier to swing around for most jobs where long handled ratchets aren't necessary for torque or to reach hard to access fasteners. Quick release allows rapid switching of sockets even if my hands are slippery and the standard handle length works great for all the low/medium torque fasteners one encounters on most consumer items that need repair/maintenance. That being said, if you already have some vintage Craftsman ratchets, you likely already have one of their regular length quick release ratchets in your arsenal and it might even be fine toothed as well. As a result, I would probably recommend you instead buy my second most used ratchet, a FLF80A. A FLF80A is a long chrome handled 3/8" drive flex head 80 tooth ratchet. The "A" designation at the end means it's a little newer and it has a slightly beefed up flex joint compared to the otherwise identical "non-A" version. It's a great ratchet for working on modern cars that have tight engine compartments, and in general it works well in most of the situations where a regular length non-flex ratchet will struggle.

If it helps, if you keep an eye out on Ebay (and you are a little patient) you can often find lightly used Snap-on ratchets for 30-40% off (or even more sometimes) the new ratchet price. None of the Snap-on stuff I own was purchased new.

Good luck and welcome to GJ.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Look on eBay. That's where I got all of my Snappy ratchets (too many at this point) for 50% or less of retail.

I'm a quick release fan, so best 3/8 I could recommend would be FHRLF80 in either comfort or hard handle. Daily use at work and zero complaints.

 

[Snapped-off]

My favorite ratchet is the quick release bent handle. Had to buy a separate QR ratchet to swap the head over since snappy doesn't make it.


I'd probably start with a F80/FR80 (depending if you like quick release) or a FLF80

 

[CS454]

FBF80A, been using it for 10+ years without a rebuild kit.

 

[Neggy]

This has been my "go to" for close to 40 years.

FHFD80A

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

 

[f121]

If you are buying one, buy the snap on equivalent of the ratchet you use most.

For me it’s the FR80 - standard length, chrome handle, quick release. It’s brilliant to use, a nice upgrade over any of my other 3/8 ratchets. I also have the regular F80, but prefer the quick release version as it’s a touch easier to use.

Snap-on Store

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I must warn you, it’s hard to stop at one. I also love the locking flex 3/8 (FX80A) and the extra long comfort grip flex 3/8 (FHLLF80), buying again I would get the quick release versions.

 

[seber]

FLF80A. It's what I use 95% of the time.

 

[slowtwitch73]

Which ever costs the most so I could sell it to a nutter and buy a bunch of other tools.

 

[msharley]

FBF80A, been using it for 10+ years without a rebuild kit.

THIS!

I purchased my first on new in the '70's. (think? it was 72 teeth??)

Just "warranty/trade" to the SO guy for the 80 tooth (pictured in CS454'S post) last month....took me 40+yrs to wear it out...

My "go to"!

 

[Alpine4x4]

Hard handle version of the FLF80A. Its the one I tend to use the most. Close second is the FHD80G. I keep buying 3/8" ratchets because I'm a tool *****, but those two get 90% of the action.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

 

[charbar]

I'll probably be buried with a FLF80A in my hand.

 

[M635_Guy]

I waited until I was sorta old and had disposable income and a well-funded retirement before I started putting money in things like Snap On ratchets. With that lecture over, I wander between these three a lot:

Top - F80 | Middle - FH80 | Bottom - FL80

If I absolutely had to pick between the three it would probably be the FH-80 - long enough to generate some grunt but short enough to be useful almost everywhere the F80 plays. I do find the FL80 useful often, but I have several ratchets in this length and it shares time with them. The Icon roto plays a lot there too (for whatever reason, I don't love flex-head ratchets).

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

A FHLFD80 would be my choice. That’s my go to everyday. With a hard handle of course. I like hard handles if that is not available then I get the metal handle, no soft grip for me. Mine in this particular ratchet is dark purple but they have many different colors which is a plus.

 

[Raineman]

FHLFD80AR

(Blake has good taste in ratchets)

Snap-on Store

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[Mr Ratchet]

I usually go for a longer handle locking flex head for ratchets. I don't care for the SO in this type of ratchet. Looks like they do have a new locking design coming out that I would like much better. It works more similar to the Matco style which I like best. Other wise I'd go with a fixed longer handle in the FL80.

 

[Davegvg]

FL80.

 

[javyLSU]

FHX80A is my first grab and favorite ratchet.

 

[VolvoRyan]

What's your favorite length/style ratchet that you have now? Just replace that with the Snap-On equivalent. This is what I would consider to be a perfectly logical strategy.

Though, locking-flex is always nifty.

-Ryan

 

[m6z]

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

Probably something like this if I was going to spend the money.

 

[f121]

A FHLFD80 would be my choice. That’s my go to everyday. With a hard handle of course. I like hard handles if that is not available then I get the metal handle, no soft grip for me. Mine in this particular ratchet is dark purple but they have many different colors which is a plus.

What’s the deal with the hard handles? I’ve never owned one because I don’t get it.

Chrome is tough and easy to clean, soft grip is great for cold conditions and absorbs a bit of the impact when cracking stuff loose..hard handles are neither.

 

[82355]

Tie between these two.

Snap-on Store

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Snap-on Store

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Martin

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

What’s the deal with the hard handles? I’ve never owned one because I don’t get it.

Chrome is tough and easy to clean, soft grip is great for cold conditions and absorbs a bit of the impact when cracking stuff loose..hard handles are neither.

Just the feel. Nothing feels more natural to me than the shape of the hard handles. Plus the soft grips get all sticky and everything and I usually end up breaking off the end of the soft grips. Metal is ok but it’s a little small for my hands. The hard grip also is the right size for my hand. Plus the color choices which is a big deal for me.

 

[engineer2]

Well worn F752A from 34 years ago. it's still my daily driver (pun intended).

 

[ihateminimumwage]

What’s the deal with the hard handles? I’ve never owned one because I don’t get it.

Chrome is tough and easy to clean, soft grip is great for cold conditions and absorbs a bit of the impact when cracking stuff loose..hard handles are neither.

Work daily with hydraulic, oil, grease, or excessive brake cleaner and it makes a world of difference.

 

[Mgdoug3]

Just the feel. Nothing feels more natural to me than the shape of the hard handles. Plus the soft grips get all sticky and everything and I usually end up breaking off the end of the soft grips. Metal is ok but it’s a little small for my hands. The hard grip also is the right size for my hand. Plus the color choices which is a big deal for me.

This is exactly how I feel about the hard handles too. The soft grips are nice but impossible to keep clean. The hard grips just need a rag and the handle just fits my hand perfect. The chrome handles just don't have enough meat for me.

I have several Dual 80s and the hard grips are my preference. I have a stubby flex and long flex with hard handles and use them the most. I want to get a locking flex with hard handle but I already have enough 3/8 ratchets to last a lifetime. I have one in 1/4" drive and it's my go to 1/4".

Word of caution. It's hard to buy just one Dual 80 once you starting using one.

 

[DemoFly]

Add me to the long list of FLF80 lovers.

It's honestly the ratchet I use 95% of the time. My only regret was not buying a quick release.

If anyone has a FRLF80 and wants to do a head swap with me, send me a message.

 

[f121]

Just the feel. Nothing feels more natural to me than the shape of the hard handles. Plus the soft grips get all sticky and everything and I usually end up breaking off the end of the soft grips. Metal is ok but it’s a little small for my hands. The hard grip also is the right size for my hand. Plus the color choices which is a big deal for me.

Thanks! Maybe a hard handle needs to go on my shopping list next time I’ve paid my snap on balance off

 

[GTO]

FL80.

 

[richfinn]

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

I wouldn't pay that price though!!!

Not really a fan of soft handles or plastic grips on ratchets or breaker bars, just personal preference (they tend to melt with heat or go soggy with automotive chemicals)

 

[belvedere]

I’m in a similar situation as the OP. I don’t use my tools to make a living anymore, but still do plenty of work at home and like quality tools. Knowing that I would probably splurge on just one SO ratchet, at least for quite a while, I chose the FHF80A, and don’t regret it. (I found mine for sale in the classifieds here. It looked just like new.)

 

[purplezr2]

Like most here, an FL80 or FLF80

 

[sk farmer]

i would pick the most expensive one i could get, sell it as soon as possible and buy a nice ratchet.

in my defense, i have a dual 80 that i never use. i just don't like it and keep at as a good reminder to not waste any more money on them.

 

[Boogerman]

You say "I understand they are very expensive and its not practical for someone who doesn't turn wrenches for a living,"

Expensive relative; about same cost going out dinner twice or 2 nights drinking. Or month smoking. Very practical have nice things like & use; life not about using cheapest **** available everything.

Like many here say, long flex head configuration nice. I prefer chrome handle. I have most ratchets mentioned this thread, favorite long flex head, chrome handle. 2nd favorite choice standard length, non flex 1/4", plain chrome handle.

 

[G3TURPOPCORNRDY]

You guys are awesome. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts/experiences. After looking over the recommendations, I think either the FL80 or the FLF80A would be a good fit for what I'm looking for. I can definitely see the advantage of the longer length in both cases, but I'm still fighting to figure out whether or not I would enjoy a flex head. This will just take a little more thinking on my part. I understand I could get a locking flex, but after some research it seems that not too many are happy with the current locking mechanism. This could change however with the new version being released here shortly.

 

[71firebird400]

FHLFD80A

Dual 80 has a relatively thick head so it's not my preference for a shorter ratchet. Smooth mechanism, quite strong. My preference is flex-head (NON locking), with a hard handle on it.

 

[dlwilson]

I really like my FR80 ratchets. I have two that I got at yard sales and eBay. I use the quick-release button all the time. I have another SO ratchet with a flex head and no quick-release, and it's rare that I use it.

 

[MrPink]

FLF80(3/8") and the matching 1/4" are my go to. I need the 1/2" one again, it got stolen from me years ago.

 

[RJS]

If I was only going to have one, and had other styles of 3/8 ratchets from other brands to use as well? The FLF80. I also really like my FF80, but if I was only buying one I'd definitely get the long version.