What lengths of 1/2 drive ratchets are most beneficial. Snap On and Matco both make 10 inch as a "standard" size, but that seems kind of on the short side since they also make 3/8 ratchets in nearly that same size and longer. It seems like 1/2 drive should be at least 12 inches in length to be much better than the 3/8 drive ratchets. Does this make sense?
Is there any reason to buy a fixed head over a flex head 1/2 drive?
Lastly, I see that they make 24 inch ratchets, but that seems almost too long. Would it be better to buy a 1/2 drive or 3/4 inch drive 24/36 inch breaker bar?
24" RATCHETS actually,, toooo short for some work.... and a stubby would be tooo long for other tasks...... Long breaker bars and long flex-head ratchets are not always used because you need more torque, but to clear your hands of sharp objects... With folks working on everything from a 4hp lawnmower to a locomotive, there is going to be a vast difference in the tools used... Not everyone will share an opinion on which method is best to complete the job; either.... Some are more willing to take the risk of injury; while others will look for a safer way to get a bolt loosened..
Some are better equipped, and some have more experience..... The tool companies make tools for them all........ Many of the popular sized tools sold in sets have been carefully chosen to be included because of the practical and popular use for that size of tool....Those 10" ratchets are the "go to" for many tool users.. That 24" breaker bar may come in very handy when replacement of the blade on that 4hp lawnmower is due. The blade can be blocked with a block of wood, and your gloved hands can be kept out of harms way... It would also come in handy when you have a flat tire on the F250 out along the road... Those stubby and flex head ratchets will see use when the F250 and the lawn mower are due for a spark plug change.... Each one of us have a choice as to which tools to buy, how to use them, and what to use them on. My last ratchet purchase was a Craftsman 1/2" drive 15" long flex-head... USA made ratchet that I bought in August.... It sits along side three breaker bars, and is longer than my 1/2" drive Craftsman breaker bar!! but--it is a ratchet-- I will not use it for a breaker bar on a hard pull.... that is what I have the breaker bars for, especially that 24".... Beyond that, the 3/4" and 1" drive bars come out,,,,but,,,, I have THOSE because I work on allot of semi-trucks, and would not expect most folks to have a need nor desire to own those big boys... For 1/2" drive, two ratchets; a regular 10", and a longer flex-head, and two breaker bars; a regular length and a 24",,, should safely cover most tasks required on a 1/2" drive socket set.... The stubby and fine-tooth ratchets are great, but mine are 3/8" drive,,, but then,,,that is me,,,and,,,My needs and wishes,,,,,,,,and,,money!!
A tool box is like a Woman's Purse,, a personal thing to many women... Muggers beware!! That gal may be a TomBoy, and her purse may be filled with tools... When she starts swinging that ******, you had better run!!
The bottom drawer of many tool boxes is somewhat larger that the upper ones... The reason is: that is where you stuff the goons that knock your tool choices or borrow tools without permission...
