Gearwrench metric socket and ratchet set- 80559

I think that by now, everybody knows that I'm a big fan of GearWrench products. They make high quality, inexpensive, and innovative tools that are perfect for the occasional mechanic.

I own several sets of their ratcheting wrenches, their XL pass through system, ratcheting screwdriver system, and now I'm a proud owner of one of their 3/8" drive ratchet/socket sets. The set I'm referring to is their 24 piece 3/8" drive, metric deep/shallow set. It's a mixture of 6 and 12 point sockets. The shallow sockets are 12 point, and the deep are 6. It includes deep socket in sizes from 10-18mm, and the shallow sockets are from 8-19mm. I would have rather had all 6 point sockets, but I purchased this kit simply as a full socket set that I could keep at all times in my Subaru WRX. For that purpose, I can live with some 12 point sockets. It also includes a 3", and 6" extension, and it all comes packaged in a very nice blow mold case.

I purchased it from Amazon.com for $54.52 with free shipping. It can be found here:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5EGC2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Pros:

- A very comprehensive portable socket set, great as a in-car kit that can be carried around at all times.
- Ratchet uses a fine 60 teeth drive gear.
- Fully pollished finish makes for easy cleanup.
- Slightly longer handle than average, which makes for better leverage and torque capacity.

Cons:

- Shallow sockets are 12 point.
- Doesn't have a quick release button.
- Will inspire you to purchase more of GearWrench's fine tools.

Anyways, I highly recommend this kit to anybody who is need of a portable, high quality, inexpensive, comprehensive 3/8" drive socket/ratchet set. For the money, you simply can't go wrong.

Nice review and pictures. I agree with you all the gearwrench stuff I have used / owned is pretty solid and with a lifetime guarantee you can't go wrong.

Got a set of sae & metric ratchet wrenches for my birthday two years ago. Laid in my box over a year til one day a grabbed one for something or other. Now I'm hooked on them, I really like how easy the finish wipes clean when your done with it. Never tried any of the other stuff but the locking flex head wrench set looks like it will go on the wish list.

jhn9840
John

I usually try to buy domestic when I can, but I too have been won over by most Gearwrench products. I am still not 100% on their sockets though since I feel other brands domestically made are more to my likeing. With all that said I really would have to agree that on the whole GW offers great products for the price. Thanks for your review.

Who warranties gear wrench stuff ??? My 1/2 ratcheting wrench hardly ever ratchets !!!!! but I am afraid to send it in any other ideas ??

MXRACER said:

Who warranties gear wrench stuff ??? My 1/2 ratcheting wrench hardly ever ratchets !!!!! but I am afraid to send it in any other ideas ??

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Sears!!!!!!

Visit the gearwrench website. There's a section on warranty claims there. I think you take it to Sears or Napa for replacement. Good luck and let us know how it goes.

OP, which wrench do you like better; the Craftsman 80th Anniversary or the GearWrench polished?

I prefer the Craftsman ratchet because of the shape of the handle, and the fact that it has a quick release button.

I have a question. How would you say the sockets in this kit compare to Craftsman sockets quality wise? I know the sockets that came with the ratcheting screwdriver seemed to be a little on the thin/weak side. I doubt they would ever break if they were only being used with the screwdriver I'm just wondering if the sockets in this kit have the same design.

I used these sockets to wrench on my truck with no ill effects. Buildwise they seem to be right on par with my Craftsman sockets, and would have no issues with putting them through the same type of torture. Hell, if one breaks, it's still covered by the same lifetime warranty.

Well I ordered one and got it today. You are making me a believer. lol I have to agree the quality is right with the Craftsman stuff. I'm really liking the ratchet as well. Very smooth and feels strong. I think I'm going to order the flex-head ratchet set they have on amazon. Thanks for the feel back.