RbrtAWhyt
Well-known member
Another example of snap-on tools lack of a warranty...
Very dissapointed with Craftsman sockets
- Thread starter iandh
- Start date
Another example of snap-on tools lack of a warranty...
SnowBlaZeR2
Well-known member
Haha, I agree. I have a few Snap On pieces, but you will never catch me with a box full of it. I'd rather buy a new boat.
I wouldn't say the new sockets are junk, I just don't like them.
TangoFoxTrot
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jan 23, 2009
- Messages
- 1,961
You can thank the EPA.
One reason the chrome plating on newer tools is worse is the EPA has incredibly strict new rules regarding chrome plating, they don't allow domestic manufacturers to use the "good stuff" anymore. It has pretty much ended large-scale chrome plating in the US, it's almost exclusively done overseas.
http://articles.directorym.com/The_...Cucamonga_CA-r979574-Rancho_Cucamonga_CA.html
That's a big reason why an inexpensive chrome plated tools from Taiwan usually looks nicer than more expensive American ones.
One reason the chrome plating on newer tools is worse is the EPA has incredibly strict new rules regarding chrome plating, they don't allow domestic manufacturers to use the "good stuff" anymore. It has pretty much ended large-scale chrome plating in the US, it's almost exclusively done overseas.
http://articles.directorym.com/The_...Cucamonga_CA-r979574-Rancho_Cucamonga_CA.html
That's a big reason why an inexpensive chrome plated tools from Taiwan usually looks nicer than more expensive American ones.
Last edited:
Robertob
Banned
Yeah i've had a few bad ones but like someone else said for 50c a tool who cares? Just take it back...
I have c-man made from 1930s up until yesterday and quality varies all over the place, from crappy in the 30s to good now and vice versa.
I'd rather have a spotty quality US-made craftsman made by an american worker than a good quality China-made craftsman, but that's just me. Counter to my economic best interests and all that...
Also, a lot of the guys on this site seem to be professional techs and from my time as an apprentice I learned quickly that it's cool to talk smack on 'Crapsman' tools in the shop as a way to differentiate the professionals from backyard mechanics. Pros buy snap-on because of the truck but we all had to pat ourselves on the back by making fun of c-man tools (even though we all had at least a few).
I have c-man made from 1930s up until yesterday and quality varies all over the place, from crappy in the 30s to good now and vice versa.
I'd rather have a spotty quality US-made craftsman made by an american worker than a good quality China-made craftsman, but that's just me. Counter to my economic best interests and all that...
Also, a lot of the guys on this site seem to be professional techs and from my time as an apprentice I learned quickly that it's cool to talk smack on 'Crapsman' tools in the shop as a way to differentiate the professionals from backyard mechanics. Pros buy snap-on because of the truck but we all had to pat ourselves on the back by making fun of c-man tools (even though we all had at least a few).
JohnFreeman
Well-known member
I'm still using the set I bought in 1981. Havent lost a single socket and haven't broken a single ratchet or socket (or wrench).
Can't comment on the new ones, but the old ones have served me well. I don't use them daily, but I do use them weekly at least, on mechanic chores. That's 30 years without a failure. Have some lost chrome? Sure... but all will if they're scooted across concrete often enough. I don't call that a failure, just normal wear and tear. I don't baby tools, but I keep them clean and I don't abuse them. Neither do I consider them art objects.
The one ratchet I have broken was from abuse (taking off lugs in an emergency with a 3/8 drive snap on...the old triangular handle jobs) ... and was not a Craftsman. Other than in emergencies, if I need a breaker bar I get one. If I need a 1/2" drive rather than 3/8, I don't abuse the 3/8". Tools last a long time this way.
John
Can't comment on the new ones, but the old ones have served me well. I don't use them daily, but I do use them weekly at least, on mechanic chores. That's 30 years without a failure. Have some lost chrome? Sure... but all will if they're scooted across concrete often enough. I don't call that a failure, just normal wear and tear. I don't baby tools, but I keep them clean and I don't abuse them. Neither do I consider them art objects.
The one ratchet I have broken was from abuse (taking off lugs in an emergency with a 3/8 drive snap on...the old triangular handle jobs) ... and was not a Craftsman. Other than in emergencies, if I need a breaker bar I get one. If I need a 1/2" drive rather than 3/8, I don't abuse the 3/8". Tools last a long time this way.
John
Last edited:
Chrome quality is HUGE for me... I work almost exclusively on electronics and a single flake can take out an entire piece of equipment.
You'd think, well why not just buy the expensive sockets? Because I can buy Harbor Freight sockets with GREAT chrome. I also work in areas where theft is a high risk and I refuse to spend the big bucks on snap-on.
Don't call ******** on someone unless you know what you're talking about.
The way I normally stick sockets back onto the rail is to set it over the catch, and twist the socket until it lines up. With these new double detents, there's two places it can line up, so half the time you twist the socket and it aligns into place, it's off at a 45 degree angle.
The only way to get them on reliably without fumbling is to flip the rail over and actually look at the bottom of the socket as it aligns with the rail, which is a total pain in the *** because with traditional sockets, you can stick them back on the rail blindfolded... which really comes in handy underneath a dark car.
Also, this is the first Craftsman "bash" post I've made since I've been a member here. That means I really "love" bashing Crafstman, just because I got a **** set of sockets, and called it out for what it is... ****?
Last edited:
I bought that set 4 years ago it has never left the garage ...
I'd say there is rust on 25% of the set.
Be carfull saying its made in the USA. Most of crapsmans line is now "assembled In the USA" with chinese made componants ..
Because of this and thier, kmart headed warrenty program (stock no single items make customer pay for shiping of items to home or store) I've washed my hands with red handled tools
When mine break I head to lowes and replace them with, made in the US, Kobolt tools.
I'd say there is rust on 25% of the set.
Be carfull saying its made in the USA. Most of crapsmans line is now "assembled In the USA" with chinese made componants ..
Because of this and thier, kmart headed warrenty program (stock no single items make customer pay for shiping of items to home or store) I've washed my hands with red handled tools
When mine break I head to lowes and replace them with, made in the US, Kobolt tools.
JohnFreeman
Well-known member
"Chrome quality is HUGE for me... I work almost exclusively on electronics and a single flake can take out an entire piece of equip..."
Buy black oxide/industrial finish....
Buy black oxide/industrial finish....
JohnFreeman
Well-known member
"Pros buy snap-on because of the truck"
It would be fascinating to see what pros would buy if Craftsman came to shops with a truck full of tools , convenient credit, and the same warranty.
It would be fascinating to see what pros would buy if Craftsman came to shops with a truck full of tools , convenient credit, and the same warranty.
PassnThru
Well-known member
Or at least work on things without them plugged in. At least blow things off before you plug it back in to test it. Not that flaking is a huge problem with Craftsman sockets anyhow.
LincolnCont.
Well-known member
Don't settle. Take them back if they dont meet ur standards!!!!
SnowBlaZeR2
Well-known member
If Craftsman started making their tools a little bit better and charging way too much for them, "pros" would probably buy Craftsman as much as anything else.
I doubt many of you are going to go out and buy body armor and tactical gear like it's going out of style, because you don't need it. I do, so I buy the best I can buy. Same reason I don't buy Snap On, because I don't need it.
Snap On vs. Craftsman is way past repetitive.
Great point. Sometimes you have to give the store a chance to make it right. So maybe they can fix things before they happen to me!
It was with these Craftsman sockets... about 1/3 of them flaked badly.
When I was done taking all of them off the socket rails to put them back into the case to return, there was literally a pile of chrome flakes sitting on my bench.
I wish I would have taken a pic.
As far as the equipment, I work on microelectronics, so the flakes could be too small to see and if they drop into the wrong spot then they will activate the smoke releasing diodes.
Wouldn't a non-chrome finish be called for here?
Generally, yes, but then my "no expensive tools" rule tends to be broken.
Unfortunately the industrial finish tools tend to be even more expensive.
I know it seems like I'm trying to have my cake and eat it too, but all I want is an inexpensive, decent quality set of sockets... I'd think with the advances in tech and manufacturing that wouldn't be too much to ask.
3406C
Member
New guy here...I,ve had it with Craftsman, a few years back I did an in-frame on an older BC4 "Cumm-Along", using mostly Craftsman and some China 3/4 drive, and we barely got 887K out of it...clearly the "quality" of the chrome had something to do with it.
Either that, or the rented Snappy torque wrench.
I will not use Craftsman tools any more!...unless we have to do it outdoors in the yard again.
Either that, or the rented Snappy torque wrench.
I will not use Craftsman tools any more!...unless we have to do it outdoors in the yard again.
SnowBlaZeR2
Well-known member
Honestly, it sounds to me like you got a bad batch inspected by some one having a bad day at work. I've never had that problem with the ones I have.
Maybe they took all of the junk sockets, tossed them in a set and marked it half off?
It was the memorial day half-off sale, and I got a factory sealed tool set from my local sears; they had 6 in stock.
I definitely think I got a dud set, I know that Craftsman sockets are no snap-on, but I didn't think they could be THIS bad.
They very well could be the worst quality sockets I've ever seen.
The other reason I'm suspicious is because the appearance and finish quality of the ratchets, wrenches, and other parts was much better.
PassnThru
Well-known member
Ok - so let's investigate. We never want to let the 'magic smoke' out. When did you buy these sockets?
They were purchased on Tuesday at the Apple Valley, CA Sears. I paid for them online ($99 only good online), and selected in store pickup.
When I recieved the set, it was factory sealed and all of the pieces were still in the case in their factory packaging.
I'm thinking they were a dud production run, I just can explain the quality, or lack thereof, any other way. I'd have to try to make something this crappy.
FordToughF250
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 8, 2010
- Messages
- 79
I think alot of people think that because they have the best tools there are, that they are a better mechanic. I honestly know hillbilly mechanics with the crapiest tools available that are 4 times better than the mechanics with the huge snap on boxes. Im not sayin everyone thinks that but some probly do.
I agree.
I can deal with so-so looks, but when chrome starts flaking off into what I'm working on, then I draw the line.
I have everything from top of the line (snap-on, Knipex) to bottom of the line (HF, stanley) and they all work just fine. I don't care about the name brand on my tools, I care about the quality.
That's one of the reasons I was so surprised, I hear all kinds of people complain about the ratchets, but all kinds of people like the sockets.
PassnThru
Well-known member
OK - very recently apparently. What you were preaching before is not a known problem - I see that you are now saying that it might have been a bad run of product. That is no excuse for a good product of course, but then again no reason to condemn the entire line.
I bought the 299 piece set last time they had a 20% off sale and they are the laser etched design. All the sockets were consistent and look good ( I inspected every one). Quite a bit of use since and no flaking. the only problem i had is they gave me 2 of one socket and none of the size bigger. I have had very good luck with Cman and while I will do my homework before i buy their newer items, I will not hesitate to buy their older stuff.
nolatoolguy
Banned
I personally dont buy craftsman. For some homeowners and the weekend wrenchers they are reasonabbly price. However for me I just buy SK sockets. I look at it this way, you spend more on a set of sk then cman but there more relible. For my job when equitment is down ime loosing moeny and it needs to be repaired asap. Theres no time to go rummaging through the box looking for another socket walking back and fourth. Considering alot of the jobs are done in the field and climbing up an down an from undernieath machines every time I gotta go get another tool is moeny lost.
TireTracks
Well-known member
Uhh, kobalt and craftman are made in the exact same factory, and there is more imported kobalt tools, than craftsman( atleast when i looked around our local lowes.
I wont take up for Craftsmans quality, as it dont matter to me if they make a good tool or not. But to say they are an embarrassment to "American manufacturing capability" is foolish. If you have some way or some new manufacturing technology that could beat out Craftsman, you shouldn't be holding back. There would be millions to be made if you can make a tool that is better, cheaper, and still made here in the USA.
Merkava_4
Banned
Here's some GearWrench sockets ... Made In Taiwan 
What exactly do you expect for less than 49 cents a socket?
+1, not sure how great a tool can be for that price. I don't believe Sears is pushing these tools as Pro quality
nexum1919
Well-known member
If you have 1/4" drive easy-to-read double detent sockets, check your 5/16" and 8mm sockets. I bet $20 you have bad detents. The inner secondary notch was missing on all of my short/long 6pt-12pt 5/16" and 8 mm sockets. (The groove is machined all the way in) The ratchet still holds on to the socket, but it kinda slides in and out little bit, I noticed it while using my 8mm, then checked all of my sockets...
Also I have 1/2" drive metric regular 12pt easy-to-read socket set ranging from 9mm to 36mm (3 sets combined) double detent (some of them is what craftsman calls 'double marked'). Yep, you guessed it I have the inner detent completely missing on 9-11-12-13-14-15-16. The machined groove runs all the way into the drive end.the ratchet still holds on to it, but the positive 'snap' is not there, it just slides back and forth, especially with the extensions.
Also, strange enough, I have the inner detent machined way too far away from the outside detent (it was way too inside) on 23-24-25mm sizes. The inner detent is there, but it's far too deep. basically same symptom as the missing detent, the socket just wiggles around and slides in and out especially when used with extensions. (craftsman extensions that is)
So the people who have bad experiences with double detents should take a closer look inside the drive end. Maybe you got the ones with the missing inner detents, or maybe the ones that are machined at the incorrect depth.
I'm not even going into what the inside surface of those gun grey chromed double detent easy to read sockets look like... Makes HF pittsburgh sockets look like snap-on! They were all kinds of stuff that looks like bird droppings in there. You can literally cut your finger by just running it inside the socket... But I don't mind it, I see it as craftsman's new innovative idea: non-slip surface inside the socket so that it won't slip!!
Also I have 1/2" drive metric regular 12pt easy-to-read socket set ranging from 9mm to 36mm (3 sets combined) double detent (some of them is what craftsman calls 'double marked'). Yep, you guessed it I have the inner detent completely missing on 9-11-12-13-14-15-16. The machined groove runs all the way into the drive end.the ratchet still holds on to it, but the positive 'snap' is not there, it just slides back and forth, especially with the extensions.
Also, strange enough, I have the inner detent machined way too far away from the outside detent (it was way too inside) on 23-24-25mm sizes. The inner detent is there, but it's far too deep. basically same symptom as the missing detent, the socket just wiggles around and slides in and out especially when used with extensions. (craftsman extensions that is)
So the people who have bad experiences with double detents should take a closer look inside the drive end. Maybe you got the ones with the missing inner detents, or maybe the ones that are machined at the incorrect depth.
I'm not even going into what the inside surface of those gun grey chromed double detent easy to read sockets look like... Makes HF pittsburgh sockets look like snap-on! They were all kinds of stuff that looks like bird droppings in there. You can literally cut your finger by just running it inside the socket... But I don't mind it, I see it as craftsman's new innovative idea: non-slip surface inside the socket so that it won't slip!!
Last edited:
Here's some GearWrench sockets ... Made In Taiwan
See, now THAT is what the inside of a socket is supposed to look like.
The inside of the sockets is like they have weld spatter, or someone flicked a bunch of solder off the tip of a soldering iron into the socket and then just chromed right over the top of it.
I'm not even sure if I could make a surface that rough if I tried.
As for the gun grey chrome, I just don't get how the hell you do that... it's a shade of chrome I've seen nowhere else besides Craftsman sockets.
foul_ball
Well-known member
Merkava_4
Banned
Have you guys ever experienced a business that put out a great product but then changed ownership and slid down hill ever since? That's what today's Sears is. Keep in mind, Sears owns the brand name Craftsman and they can dictate the product's final configuration as they see fit. Craftsman hard line hand tools are made by Danaher, but Danaher, being a contractor manufacturer for Sears, is following the specifications that Sears sets forth; and today's Sears is specifying CHEAP.
nexum1919
Well-known member
Craftsman line is cutting corners, no doubt about it. They are cutting corners during manufacturing, little bit here and there. Maybe they stretch out the life of the cleaning solvents in the tanks, let the bits in the cutting tools run a little longer, less frequent calibration checks, etc.
I realize that the quality checking process costs more than actually producing th item itself. In other words, just the mere act of checking if it's done right actually is more costly than doing it. So, understandbly, they are cutting on quality checks. At least they are not cutting on the material. That means spotty performance. In the same set, you can have the most beatifully crafted laser etched socket sitting next to a one that just makes you want to throw up. In the store, just check everything the same way you shop at HF. And the good thing about shopping online is that you can have all the sale items with discounts. etc and always go to a store for and exchange or return in case you get a bad one.
But overall, I'm not complaining. I mean I 'd probably had to give up my two month's rent with a truck brand just to put up a metric set ranging from 9mm to 36... So, overall it's still not too bad.
But in terms of cut-backs they are pretty close to that infamous 'point of no return'. Little more push and they risk losing the brand trust...
I realize that the quality checking process costs more than actually producing th item itself. In other words, just the mere act of checking if it's done right actually is more costly than doing it. So, understandbly, they are cutting on quality checks. At least they are not cutting on the material. That means spotty performance. In the same set, you can have the most beatifully crafted laser etched socket sitting next to a one that just makes you want to throw up. In the store, just check everything the same way you shop at HF. And the good thing about shopping online is that you can have all the sale items with discounts. etc and always go to a store for and exchange or return in case you get a bad one.
But overall, I'm not complaining. I mean I 'd probably had to give up my two month's rent with a truck brand just to put up a metric set ranging from 9mm to 36... So, overall it's still not too bad.
But in terms of cut-backs they are pretty close to that infamous 'point of no return'. Little more push and they risk losing the brand trust...
I agree with all of this 100%, especially the last bit.