1/4”dr shallow sockets chrome universals vs impact swivels
- Thread starter Coryc1
- Start date
For hand use one could use standard chrome sockets and universals. But I'd advise against using chrome sockets with an impact, as you'll probably get damaged broaching (as well as fastener damage) fairly quickly, and most probably chipped chrome. (This would be a dead give away to the dealer if you tried warrantying them).
The steel used in chromed sockets is different than that for impact sockets. Impacts are made to "flex" a little, to absorb the impact tools pounding and help prevent fastener rounding.
If I could only have one set of sockets I'd get impacts, as they can be used for both hand and impact use. I had a Bonney impact set of shallow 3/8" drive 6 point sockets and still kick myself for selling it.
The steel used in chromed sockets is different than that for impact sockets. Impacts are made to "flex" a little, to absorb the impact tools pounding and help prevent fastener rounding.
If I could only have one set of sockets I'd get impacts, as they can be used for both hand and impact use. I had a Bonney impact set of shallow 3/8" drive 6 point sockets and still kick myself for selling it.
Chrome universals generally get into tighter spots and flex further... but due to the nature of the rectangle shaped connection inside of the u joint setup, they aren’t balanced and rock back and forth as they turn... which causes them to go flying when used on a power tool.
So basically you need both.. although I don’t ever see the point myself in 1/4” impact swivels
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So basically you need both.. although I don’t ever see the point myself in 1/4” impact swivels
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2ndGearRubber
Well-known member
Chrome swivels have a greater range of motion, and are slimmer. Impact swivels have a smaller range of motion, but dont get as floppy. On impact drivers and air/electric ratchets I prefer impact swivels. For bending at 70 degrees, you gotta have chrome. Repeated use even on non impacting air ratchets will also make chrome swivels loose, so expect to need to replace or warranty them eventually.
BlakeTheCarGuy
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I use both. I never use the chrome universals on impacts though. They have the universals for impacts. For impacts I mostly use the type that already has the socket built on otherwise I’ve had them fly off.
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Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I have both and reach for my 1/4 drive impact swivel sockets more often. In fact, unless it's a weird spot when I'm using a Ko-Ken nut grip swivel, it's pretty much impact swivels most of the time.
I have a set of Matco 1/4 drive impact swivels that are pre pinless design but, they don't have a collar so, their range of motion and ability to fit into most areas is great. A fat collar on a 1/4 drive impact swivel just makes the socket a turd regardless of whose name is on it.
Back in the day before cordless stuff was commonplace, i used to use a screaming 1/4 drive air ratchet for light stuff like trim and upper engine work. It was a killer of truck brand chrome 1/4 drive universal sockets. The pins would vibrate and loosen after prolonged use. that's when i switched to impact swivel sockets.
I have a set of Matco 1/4 drive impact swivels that are pre pinless design but, they don't have a collar so, their range of motion and ability to fit into most areas is great. A fat collar on a 1/4 drive impact swivel just makes the socket a turd regardless of whose name is on it.
Back in the day before cordless stuff was commonplace, i used to use a screaming 1/4 drive air ratchet for light stuff like trim and upper engine work. It was a killer of truck brand chrome 1/4 drive universal sockets. The pins would vibrate and loosen after prolonged use. that's when i switched to impact swivel sockets.