1/2" socket sets...fishing for opinions.

[ColdDuckTime]

In my current project to upgrade my hand tools...99% a bunch of Craftsman stuff I bought in the mid 1970's...I was thinking about 1/2 sockets...

What I would like is a short/long set w/breaker+ratchet and a couple of extensions and a wobble deal...one metric, one SAE....in a box (I'm making a fetish out of having containers for tools with lots of rolling-away and losing-them bits).

Any opinion on Snap On vs. Proto vs. SK vs. Mac vs. Matco for new stuff? I'm not seeing anything from the tool truck guys that's packaged in a case with a lid...and I'm not sure if the Proto or SK sets are really much of an upgrade from what I've already got.

You know, for that matter, a person could probably get by with a good sized set of 1/2" impact sockets for that size drive...I'm trying to remember how often I've hit nasty clearance issues on the bigger socket sizes.....

In general, what I'm after, is highest quality but not a lot of stuff. Heck, for all I know, the best answer is to buy something 50 years old.

 

[jimvannoy]

I've got a full set of Snap On 1/2 drive 6 points I bought new 25 years ago. I use them almost daily and have never had a single problem with them. Also have a set of Craftsman 12 points about the same age that have been going along fine although some of them have peeling chrome. Have a set of 6 or 7 Snap On extensions, ratchet, and breaker bar that are also about 25 years old. Ratchet has been rebuilt a couple times but everything else is fine. Back in the 80's my Snap On man would let me trade in my Craftsman stuff and give me the current catalog price on it towards Snap On stuff.

 

[tweety652]

ive been real happy with my armstrong set, it also came with a metal case.

 

[SteveU]

What I did along this line was to buy both the Grey Pneumatic regular & deep impact sockets. You get heavy duty 6 pt sockets that you won't break with hand tools, get 10-36mm in the metric with no sizes missing, they come in plastic cases so it is convienent to take them to the job & you know if any are missing. If & when you get impact tools you don't have to go out & buy another set. Going thru the toolwarehouse you'll have less than 200 for both sets. I have been using impact sockets for about everything since getting them & haven't run into a clearance problem so far.

 

[Jeeper]

What I did along this line was to buy both the Grey Pneumatic regular & deep impact sockets. You get heavy duty 6 pt sockets that you won't break with hand tools, get 10-36mm in the metric with no sizes missing, they come in plastic cases so it is convienent to take them to the job & you know if any are missing. If & when you get impact tools you don't have to go out & buy another set. Going thru the toolwarehouse you'll have less than 200 for both sets. I have been using impact sockets for about everything since getting them & haven't run into a clearance problem so far.

How do you like those gray pneumatics?

 

[ColdDuckTime]

What I did along this line was to buy both the Grey Pneumatic regular & deep impact sockets. You get heavy duty 6 pt sockets that you won't break with hand tools, get 10-36mm in the metric with no sizes missing, they come in plastic cases so it is convienent to take them to the job & you know if any are missing. If & when you get impact tools you don't have to go out & buy another set. Going thru the toolwarehouse you'll have less than 200 for both sets. I have been using impact sockets for about everything since getting them & haven't run into a clearance problem so far.

You know, that's a pretty darned good notion. It's a shame that those sets don't come with a decent industrial finish ratchet. I sort of buy into the idea that there's not a lot of point in having shiny 1/2 sockets if you already own a massive impact set. I'll think about it.

 

[jimmycrackcorn]

I sort of buy into the idea that there's not a lot of point in having shiny 1/2 sockets if you already own a massive impact set. I'll think about it.

You know once in a blue moon the thick wall of a impact socket won't grab a nut thats recessed in the most convenient time.

 

[kartracer55]

SK impact sockets come in a nice molded plastic case. Snap on Makes 1/2 drive "kits" like your after.

Jim

 

[ColdDuckTime]

You know once in a blue moon the thick wall of a impact socket won't grab a nut thats recessed in the most convenient time.

Yeah, I suppose so. I'm just trying to avoid the combinatorial explosion when you get:

3 x drive size (1/4,3/8,1/2)
2 x heights (shallow/deep)
2 x styles (impact/non impact)
15 x sizes (or so)
2 more styles (wobble vs. non wobble)
------
360 sockets

90% of which are hardly (if ever) used.

 

[jimvannoy]

You know once in a blue moon the thick wall of a impact socket won't grab a nut thats recessed in the most convenient time.

And sometimes you need a deep well to fit over a stud, and sometimes you need a flex head because a regular socket on a universal is too tall to fit in the spot, and sometimes you need a 3/8 drive and not a 1/2 because it won't fit in the spot, and sometimes you need a 1/4, etc, etc, etc. I have pretty much every type of socket in every drive size standard and metric and I have used them all at different times. If you just stick to one type of socket at some point or another you won't have the right socket for the job and you will have to go buy it or borrow it.

 

[Uncle Buck]

And sometimes you need a deep well to fit over a stud, and sometimes you need a flex head because a regular socket on a universal is too tall to fit in the spot, and sometimes you need a 3/8 drive and not a 1/2 because it won't fit in the spot, and sometimes you need a 1/4, etc, etc, etc. I have pretty much every type of socket in every drive size standard and metric and I have used them all at different times. If you just stick to one type of socket at some point or another you won't have the right socket for the job and you will have to go buy it or borrow it.

You slobbered a bib full there Bubba!

 

[MAD]

I would:

1- Figure out what kind of ratchet you like the best and buy one.

2- Get ANY decent brand/brands of 1/2" sockets. (Proto, SK, Craftsman, etc...)

3-Put it all in a Metal box like this one:
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=495&group_ID=51

IMHO plastic cases just **** for socket sets. Sockets are heavy and plastic is primarily composed of plastic and plastic by-products. Most of those plastic cases that hold the sockets on their sides do not keep the sockets in their little spaces worth a ****, especially if you open the case the wrong way. When you find that you need a few more sockets or something that did not come with the kit you are screwed because there is no place to put them. Every one that I have owned has broken. Perhaps they break for me because it gets cold here. Perhaps the reason they break is that I tend to open the case in order to make use of the contents from time to time.

 

[Detroit Diesel Man]

I have 2 sets of the Grey Pneumatic Sockets 6pt Impact both Metric and Std. set 3/8 Drive..the tool warehouse is right on my way to work..the sockets are lifetime warranty and are thinner walled than the Craftsman sockets and a bout the same as SO sockets...for the price and lifetime warranty..you cant beat it...I love the 3/8 drive sets I have..they get into spots so much easier...I've had mine for awhile now and no problems at all..I just picked up a set of 3/4Drives for doing wheel service on Heavy Trucks..altho the first thing I do is toss the plastic boxes away and use steel rails to hold them. check out their website at http://gpsocket.com/
you'll be able to contact them for dealers near you..Hope this helped.

DDM

 

[eschoendorff]

I would:

1- Figure out what kind of ratchet you like the best and buy one.

2- Get ANY decent brand/brands of 1/2" sockets. (Proto, SK, Craftsman, etc...)

3-Put it all in a Metal box like this one:
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=495&group_ID=51

Here's you answer. I have never had a problem with Craftsman 1/2" drive sockets... they seem to be identical to my Armstrong sockets. I would go with Cman sockets and then any drive tools taht you like....


ps: I use my impact sockets more than anything else in 1/2" drive. Rarely, if ever, has there been a situation where clearance with an impact sockets was an issue in 1/2" drive. If it's that big of a deal, I just switch to 3/8"

 

[cweagle]

I would:

3-Put it all in a Metal box like this one:
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=495&group_ID=51

I've been admiring these sorts of cases for a while now, but can't really justify the price. Their fit & finish are probably overkill for my useage anyway. Does anybody else make similar things? My father's old Craftsman sockets from the late 60's came in similar trapezoidal metal trays, I'd love to find a good place to get those too (for a reasonable price). I've even considered bending up my own...

 

[ImportTuner]

I've been admiring these sorts of cases for a while now, but can't really justify the price. Their fit & finish are probably overkill for my useage anyway. Does anybody else make similar things? My father's old Craftsman sockets from the late 60's came in similar trapezoidal metal trays, I'd love to find a good place to get those too (for a reasonable price). I've even considered bending up my own...

Those trays are alot nicer than the crappy plastic ones that they now give you. I still have two of those old Craftsman trays ... getting pretty beat up over the years ..

 

[ColdDuckTime]

I've been admiring these sorts of cases for a while now, but can't really justify the price. Their fit & finish are probably overkill for my useage anyway. Does anybody else make similar things? My father's old Craftsman sockets from the late 60's came in similar trapezoidal metal trays, I'd love to find a good place to get those too (for a reasonable price). I've even considered bending up my own...

http://cgi.ebay.com/SEARS-CRAFTSMAN...ryZ42363QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

 

[Uncle Buck]

http://cgi.ebay.com/SEARS-CRAFTSMAN...ryZ42363QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

That is the old 3/4" drive Craftsman tool box.

 

[cweagle]

Those trays are alot nicer than the crappy plastic ones that they now give you. I still have two of those old Craftsman trays ... getting pretty beat up over the years ..

Are those plastic trays (the ones with plastic strap and tab to keep them 'closed') even intended to be anything but a fancy sales-case? I can't imagine that anybody keeps the sockets in them after getting them home.

Maybe this is a good reason to get a power-coating kit and rivet gun - bend up some boxes out of steel steel and coat them red, nice and thick.

 

[MAD]

I've been admiring these sorts of cases for a while now, but can't really justify the price. Their fit & finish are probably overkill for my useage anyway. Does anybody else make similar things? My father's old Craftsman sockets from the late 60's came in similar trapezoidal metal trays, I'd love to find a good place to get those too (for a reasonable price). I've even considered bending up my own...

Proto has some listed on their site. I don't know about price but you could search the part #s. Most of the ones I have including the Snap-on general service kit case I linked to were from other peoples trash.

Link to Proto set boxes:
http://www.stanleyproto.com/default.asp?TYPE=CATEGORY&CATEGORY=SET+BOXES&strSiteName=PROTO&strDefaultCatalog=PROTO

 

[ColdDuckTime]

Are those plastic trays (the ones with plastic strap and tab to keep them 'closed') even intended to be anything but a fancy sales-case? I can't imagine that anybody keeps the sockets in them after getting them home.

Maybe this is a good reason to get a power-coating kit and rivet gun - bend up some boxes out of steel steel and coat them red, nice and thick.

I think I'm in the pro-plastic camp. There's a lot to be said for a deformable case that doesn't scratch the **** out of other things. What they are lacking is decent hinges and latches. It wouldn't suprise me if you couldn't build a superior roll-away (using metal drawer slides and latches) to a steel one...it would just be harder to get $5k for it.

Heck, if you want to be traditional, demand wood boxes.

 

[cweagle]

Proto has some listed on their site. I don't know about price but you could search the part #s. Most of the ones I have including the Snap-on general service kit case I linked to were from other peoples trash.

Link to Proto set boxes:
http://www.stanleyproto.com/default.asp?TYPE=CATEGORY&CATEGORY=SET+BOXES&strSiteName=PROTO&strDefaultCatalog=PROTO

Well, Proto sells lots of stuff direct, but not these. However, I found them at MSC for good prices. For example. #J5496 (~19x6x4" with socket divider) is about $22.

Hmm, actually, that seems to be the only one MSC has...

 

[Coach James]

Look about a third way down this page.

http://www.protoolsdirect.com/dept.asp?dept_id=687

Coach

 

[SteveU]

How do you like those gray pneumatics?

I like them a lot. They work well for anything i have used them for, don't think you can beat them for the price.

 

[TNToy]

I haven't really built my at-home tools up much. I'm still lugging stuff home from work most of the time.

My plan for the house is the G.P. impact set that was mentioned in the second post, and everything else will probably be Chrome Craftsman stuff to start off.

Then eventually, a set of impact swivel sockets from 8-19mm in 3/8" drive, sunex-brand 1/4" impact swivels, and a set of shallow & deep 3/8" impact sockets... Then...

See? You need them ALL, and there's nothing you can really do about it, except have a crappy selection of tools.

Oh, and that doesn't cover any SAE, triple-square, hex, or torx, either.

Tools cost money. Just be glad you don't need 2 sets like those of us who're stuck doing it for a living.

 

[seattlemart]

I was looking for a good 1/2 socket set for votech and I came across this http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SK-41476.html What do you all think. Any other suggestions? Thanks

 

[goodfellow]

I was looking for a good 1/2 socket set for votech and I came across this http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SK-41476.html What do you all think. Any other suggestions? Thanks

I have that set; bought it new over 30 years ago. It's held up better than my MAC stuff. However, I did have one problem, the 18 mm and 19mm sockets each broke at one time. I didn't abuse them and never used an impact, but since they are thin wall sockets, that batch must have been quirky. That said, two warranties on sockets in 30 years; that's a pretty good record.

 

[seattlemart]

I have that set; bought it new over 30 years ago. It's held up better than my MAC stuff. However, I did have one problem, the 18 mm and 19mm sockets each broke at one time. I didn't abuse them and never used an impact, but since they are thin wall sockets, that batch must have been quirky. That said, two warranties on sockets in 30 years; that's a pretty good record.

Thank you for your advice goodfellow. SK is at the top of my list right now. Craftsman is about the same price. I want to get mac, matco, or snap on but even with my votech discount it will be about 3X more. What do you all think. I most likely will be using the tools 40 hours a week. When will I need 12 point? THANKS

 

[Treeman]

I'm in the pro plastic camp also and have good luck with these plastic ones from Sears:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_...ge+&+Tool+Storage&sName=Handboxes+&+Portables

They come in three sizes, have "real" hinges on both the back cover and the latches.

I made my own holders/organizers in the boxes with over the counter components.

My tool storage is "modular" in that I can grab "groups" out of my tool cabinet to take out to the field, barn, etc.. You don't want the box to get too big because the weight/portability becomes an issue.

 

[kartracer55]

Seattlemart, Votech programs preach using 1/2 inch drive chrome tools, but to be totally honest with you, working 40+ hours a week in the summer and 20-25 during the school week for almost 2 years, I have NEVER needed to use a chrome 1/2 socket. Literally everything I have done with 1/2 inch drive has been with impact sockets and a gun or a long breaker bar. I have used a regular 1/2 inch drive ratchet maybe 3 times in about 2 years at work.

I think the sizes in that set are a complete waste to... You WILL NOT need a 1/2 drive tool to turn a 10mm head bolt and if you do, something is wrong. Id say the smallest sockets I actually use with 1/2 drive are 17mm, so really you have three useful sizes and a huge void, not to mention tons of wasted space in your box. I rarely use SAE, aside from larger sized impact sockets.

My recommendation would be to invest in some impact sockets from 17-24mm in deep and shallow, then a set of axle nut sockets (30-36mm in deep, Usually sold as a set, SK has them for like 130) With the trucks, there is no incentive to buy a set because it costs the exact same in the end. Go for a 24 inch breaker bar, an impact swivel and a decent impact and your set. Then save your pennies for impact swivels

Jim

 

[dxdexter]

I think the sizes in that set are a complete waste to... You WILL NOT need a 1/2 drive tool to turn a 10mm head bolt and if you do, something is wrong. Id say the smallest sockets I actually use with 1/2 drive are 17mm, so really you have three useful sizes and a huge void, not to mention tons of wasted space in your box. I rarely use SAE, aside from larger sized impact sockets.

My recommendation would be to invest in some impact sockets from 17-24mm in deep and shallow, then a set of axle nut sockets (30-36mm in deep, Usually sold as a set, SK has them for like 130) With the trucks, there is no incentive to buy a set because it costs the exact same in the end. Go for a 24 inch breaker bar, an impact swivel and a decent impact and your set. Then save your pennies for impact swivels

Jim

This is great practical advice especially for those just starting in the trade, but as we all know once you get started buying tools you will "need" every socket size manufactured no matter how many overlaps you have in the various drives.

I think no matter which of the manufacturers you go with, be it S-K, Proto, MAC, Snap-on, Craftsman, etc., you will have a great tool. While a 3/8 drive set should be adequet for every thing up to 3/4" or 19mm, I think a good set of 1/2" drive should go from 1/2" to 1 1/16" for SAE and 13mm to 24mm for metric.

If money is no object (and it usually is) then buy the tools you actually want and will be happy with, so you don't feel the need to re-purchase in the future. Many will purchase a brand, but are never happy because they always aspire to have something else (read Snap-on).

I personally have always maintained that a first socket set should be 12 point because I find it more versatile especially in tight areas with a breaker bar and with 12 point capscrews, but others have the exact opposite opinion and feel the reduced rounding of corners makes 6 point the way to go. Its personal preference I guess. In the end you will more than likely own a set of each.

 

[seattlemart]

So does anyone know a better deal than this SK set http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SK-41476.html for 1/2" besides Craftsman? Anybody have any experience with KD http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/KD-80700.html These will be used at school full time and eventually full time in a professional setting (Independant Auto Shop Sponsor). Everyones input will be greatly appreciated!! THANKS

 

[Fedwrench]

So does anyone know a better deal than this SK set http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SK-41476.html for 1/2" besides Craftsman? Anybody have any experience with KD http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/KD-80700.html These will be used at school full time and eventually full time in a professional setting (Independant Auto Shop Sponsor). Everyones input will be greatly appreciated!! THANKS

The KD set is actually the Gearwrench brand and made in Taiwan. I have their 1/4 and 3/8 sets and they're ok. I'm not sure how easy it would be to warranty the Gearwrench sockets or if they stand up to sustained hard daily use.
I've used alot of SK over the years with few complaints. However, if this is for school why not use the school discount program through one of the tool truck brands? For overall cost and ease of warranty, you can't beat Craftsman for entry level tools.

 

[eschoendorff]

The KD set is actually the Gearwrench brand and made in Taiwan. I have their 1/4 and 3/8 sets and they're ok. I'm not sure how easy it would be to warranty the Gearwrench sockets or if they stand up to sustained hard daily use.
I've used alot of SK over the years with few complaints. However, if this is for school why not use the school discount program through one of the tool truck brands? For overall cost and ease of warranty, you can't beat Craftsman for entry level tools.

There's your answer. Now go buy some tools!

 

[kartracer55]

Id honestly skip those sets, Its a total waste of valuable space you wont have in your tool box....