1/4" set undecided

[dowmace]

I rarely use 1/4" drive, I use 3/8" for anything on the smaller side of my work usually it's 1/2" and 3/4" that gets used. But every now and then I need 1/4" for something tiny.

I really like this snap on set

But I don't like the price $625

It's part 144TMPB for anybody interested in dropping that kind of money, other guys at the shop have but I just can't see myself needing 1/4" drive that good since I only use it rarely.

I was looking at these three sets

Tekton 13001 Only $44.99

Gearwrench 80300 $62.49

And what is probably a forum favorite
S&K 91844 $145.88

The thing that worries me is that the SK ratchet looks like an older design and I'm not sure how good a ratchet it's going to be as far as easily switching direction one handed. I know the tekton ratchet will be very similar to the kobalts I have and I really like them, however I've been very impressed with my Gearwrench stuff.


Any suggestions fellas? A brand I haven't looked at thats similar. I'd really like to be under $100 for this one with the SK being the exception.

 

[stovebolt6]

I have the Gearwrench set and it kicks ***. Most of my socket tools are Gearwrench and I have absolutely no complaints. Second choice would be SK.

 

[The Toolest Guy]

Smaller sizes are more important than larger sizes. On a set budget you should buy a higher quality 1/4" set and skimp on a 1/2", rather than the other way.

 

[wyo george]

I'd go with the SK set without question, but I am partial to SK. I also have a round head SK 1/4" ratchet just like that one. I've been using it since the early 80's and it's one of my most used tools (motorcycle/ATV mechanic). Switching it isn't like flipping a lever on newer styles, but it's not the end of the world either.

 

[MattVette89]

I have the Gearwrench set and it kicks ***. Most of my socket tools are Gearwrench and I have absolutely no complaints.

Same here. I have that GW set and it's great. The thumbwheel is crappy, though. I have a nice SK thumbwheel that I use when I need it.

I have no personal experience with the Tekton or SK sets you posted so I can't comment on those.

 

[joel63]

If you like the Snap On set, check out Ebay.

 

[dowmace]

Smaller sizes are more important than larger sizes. On a set budget you should buy a higher quality 1/4" set and skimp on a 1/2", rather than the other way.

I work on large Gensets, so often I'm rebuilding a Cat 3412 or something of that size I use 1/2" drive constantly and 3/4" almost as much.

If I followed what you are saying I'd be buying cheaper tools on my most used tools.

 

[AceofSpad3s]

Those 1/4 sk rats are absolutely tiny, almost comically small. I rarely use mine because of that, changing direction is a bit more of a hassle compared to pear heads with direction switches but it is okay. Do you need deeps, because if you don't you could get those $5 metric and sae kobalt 1/4 sets and a pitts composite ratchet, I think the guts are the same as the kobalt 1/4 ratchets since I have both and the look pretty much the same. I love the composite since it feels beefy compared to other 1/4 ratchets. But from your choices I would go gear wrench if that set comes with the 84t ratchet, I have a 3/8 one and it is very nice plus gearwrench is very nice in general.

 

[dowmace]

Those 1/4 sk rats are absolutely tiny, almost comically small. I rarely use mine because of that, changing direction is a bit more of a hassle compared to pear heads with direction switches but it is okay. Do you need deeps, because if you don't you could get those $5 metric and sae kobalt 1/4 sets and a pitts composite ratchet, I think the guts are the same as the kobalt 1/4 ratchets since I have both and the look pretty much the same. I love the composite since it feels beefy compared to other 1/4 ratchets. But from your choices I would go gear wrench if that set comes with the 84t ratchet, I have a 3/8 one and it is very nice plus gearwrench is very nice in general.

This will be the only 1/4" set I'll have on my service truck so I need deeps and shallows and metric/sae and preferably all in one case so I can grab it and go.

Working out of a service truck makes me try and get everything in a consolidated case if I can.

 

[Brownsfan]

How about Armstrong with the 88t ratchet. 50pc set in the Napa real deals flyer for $119.
http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/C...ket-Set-Deep-Standard/_/R-AIT15199_0006556306

I actually have the Gearwrench set you posted. I use it in my service van tool set because the case is awesome for portability. If I would have seen the Armstrong set for 119 before I bought the Gearwrench I would have paid the extra, but that's just me. I will say the Gearwrench set has served me just fine and I cant complain with the price I paid. I got it for 39.99 at Advance Auto Parts on sale a few years back

 

[MJD1]

For whatever reason the 48 piece SK set is cheaper than the one shown. I believe 135$ on amazon.

 

[AceofSpad3s]

This will be the only 1/4" set I'll have on my service truck so I need deeps and shallows and metric/sae and preferably all in one case so I can grab it and go.

Working out of a service truck makes me try and get everything in a consolidated case if I can.

Then go gearwrench, sk is nice but the 84t ratchets are very nice plus the set costs a lot less.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I would go with the gearwrench. I like sk and that would be my second choice

 

[Jlarson]

I have the little bit bigger SK set on my truck, the one with adapters and universal. I like the sockets, the ratchet is tiny but I use my 1/4" flex head Armstrong most times.

 

[gagreen]

Go with blackhawk by proto sockets and track down a snap on t72 ratchet. You'll come out ahead. The blackhawk 1/4" sockets are the best value in sockets. They are made in the usa, stamped deep, and shiny shiny. There is always someone on here selling 1/4 ratchets. Or you could go with the Armstrong Maxx ratchet which is extremely nice as well.

 

[defektes]

SK, no brainer. The 1/4 SK is the jewel of the SK ratchets. I'd supplement it with a flex head ratchet from SK, which run about 30 bucks, give you more length. Those sockets are tough!

 

[Negen]

I kinda fell in love with koken. Kinda a reason I joined these forums. I bought the z-series full set which is 3/8th but is low profile and is said that it can almost replace 1/4". Out of the sets you posted I like SK the best.

http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644219056/
http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644213016/
http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644213498/
http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644213283/

 

[Bigblue&Goldie]

Go with blackhawk by proto sockets and track down a snap on t72 ratchet. You'll come out ahead. The blackhawk 1/4" sockets are the best value in sockets. They are made in the usa, stamped deep, and shiny shiny. There is always someone on here selling 1/4 ratchets. Or you could go with the Armstrong Maxx ratchet which is extremely nice as well.

This is actually my setup; Blackhawk sockets, Snap On T72's and an Armstrong Maxx 88 thrown in for giggles! For something in a case I would go with the SK and throw in a longer handle ratchet to go with it.

 

[Mohawk Dave]

I have the snap on set and the gw set. Of course the SO is top notch....but I think the GW is just as good.

The GW 84t rat is DEFINITELY nicer than the Snappy one.

I put all my SO set and GW rat in the GW case. The GW case is nicer than the Snappy.

I put the GW sockets and SO rat in the Snappy case and it's my backup.

I only have the SO kit because I got it for like $30 on a CL hunt one night.

My vote is for GW all day long. FULL DISCLOSURE: I must say, however, I do not like SK. I had a few ****** experiences and those couple rotten apples spoiled the whole SK basket for me. Maybe not fair or logical....

 

[Brownsfan]

I saw in one of the posts above the OP is going to be using this in the service van. I would go with the Gearwrench. The case is VERY durable and it wont sting as much if you lose a socket or heaven forbid the van gets broken into. I have my service van set up with the best value type of tools. Good quality at decent prices because its easy to ose tools on the road. But if I wanted a little bit better quality ratchet and sockets I would spend the extra on the Armstrong I posted. Still I cant say enough good things about the gearwrench set and how durable the case is. Also the sockets don't come loose in the case either.

 

[ajchien]

I'd go SK. Purely just because the 1/4" SK ratchet is one of my favorites. For me, that ratchet isn't for leverage or reach. It's for speed. The shorter handle, light weight is really easy to flip back and forth spinning stuff off quickly; almost like a palm or thumb wheel ratchet, but seemingly easier to maneuver. No, you can't switch directions with one hand, but you also don't accidentally switch directions either, especially if you palm the head.

 

[Flivver250]

I'd go with the SK set without question, but I am partial to SK. I also have a round head SK 1/4" ratchet just like that one. I've been using it since the early 80's and it's one of my most used tools (motorcycle/ATV mechanic). Switching it isn't like flipping a lever on newer styles, but it's not the end of the world either.

What he said ↑ SK is a great brand and if a ********* ever asks to borrow your 1/4 drive you don't have to suffer the profound embarrassment of producing Asian tools that are less than manly.

 

[jeopardy98]

Dewalt makes a nice smaller set. I have one of each size of those and they are great for throwing in a tool bag.

 

[JDon99]

I saw in one of the posts above the OP is going to be using this in the service van. I would go with the Gearwrench. The case is VERY durable and it wont sting as much if you lose a socket or heaven forbid the van gets broken into.

I agree 100%

 

[PJNJ]

Instead of the SK set you posted I would get this one. It has a universal joint and the thumbwheel ratchet. I have the SK 3/8 thumbwheel and it is excellent. I had cheap thumbwheels before and because they had a lot of backdrag, they were useless. And this SK set is cheaper than the one you posted (even though it has more pieces) -

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000MANQCW/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I have Gearwrench ratchets, the flex 120 with comfort grip in both 3/8 and 1/4 and the 1/4 roto. I also have the Husky 3/8 roto which I understand is really a Gearwrench rebadge. I have a 60's SK Wayne 1/4 ratchet. All the ratchets are very good. I have some SK sockets and Gearwrench mid-length metric in both 1/4 and 3/8. They are all very good also. I would say that the chrome finish seems to be better on the SK sockets, however. Both the SK and Gearwrench are both very good sets. I would lean toward the SK and get an additional ratchet, the Armstrong 1/4 Maxx -
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012WEOKC/?tag=atomicindus08-20

or go all the way and get the flex -
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012WHBYS/?tag=atomicindus08-20
If you got the flex just make sure it's the upgraded version with 88 teeth.


In the end though, it really comes down to your decision between the two.

 

[PJNJ]

How about Armstrong with the 88t ratchet. 50pc set in the Napa real deals flyer for $119.
http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/C...ket-Set-Deep-Standard/_/R-AIT15199_0006556306

I actually have the Gearwrench set you posted. I use it in my service van tool set because the case is awesome for portability. If I would have seen the Armstrong set for 119 before I bought the Gearwrench I would have paid the extra, but that's just me. I will say the Gearwrench set has served me just fine and I cant complain with the price I paid. I got it for 39.99 at Advance Auto Parts on sale a few years back

I just looked at the set Brownsfan posted. Though I am not overly impressed with the finish on the Armstrong's eras' Craftsman sockets, they have worked just fine for me and the addition of the 88 tooth ratchet would probably swing me to buy this set. Excellent ratchets.

 

[Youngguns]

I work on large Gensets, so often I'm rebuilding a Cat 3412 or something of that size I use 1/2" drive constantly and 3/4" almost as much.

If I followed what you are saying I'd be buying cheaper tools on my most used tools.

He's just saying that smaller tools are fundamentally weaker, it's easier to break a 1/4" drive than it is a 1/2" drive, etc. I think I would go Gearwrench in your situation, something pretty decent but affordable.

 

[Evilelroy]

SK is a good set. Also Proto. If you want Snap On I would look for a slightly used set.
Stick with USA good tools.

 

[zkling]

Armstrong or SK
Gearwrench for the savings, may even want to check out Kobalt.

As much as I like the basic SK ratchets, I agree they don't switch very easily.

 

[Wamsutta]

Snap-on quality, Williams price:

http://www.toolsdelivered.com/Willi...ools-1-4-Inch-Drive-Chrome-Metric-Socket-Sets

 

[oldldh]

Try GearWrench #80300P---

And you'll get the 120 tooth Ratchet!!!

Once you use it, you won't go back...

www.tooldiscounter.com $ 74.87

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My Gearwrench solution was #80314D 47pc SAE/Metric socket set...

And...

GearWrench #81230P 4pc Flex Handle Ratchet set with 120 "tooth" positions...

Price...................#81230P................$ 94.97
.........................#80314D..................38.50
Total...............................................$133.47

Let's see...

Fifteen bucks cheaper than the SK---

And...

You get a stubby 3/8", a standard 3/8" and a 1/2" flex handle 120 tooth ratchet...

For free!!!

Just saying...

The photos are of mine...and I'm very happy with them...

Three free ratchets would be the deal, if it was me...

The only things you would be missing are a couple of extensions and a universal joint...you can get them anywhere...

 

[engineer031]

I have had my Proto ratchet 25 years and over the years replaced lost sockets with craftsman. As long as you have a good ratchet that works smooth I think you can get away with less expensive sockets as your not going to use them for high torque

 

[92integra]

I'll just throw in grey pneumatic duo. As that's my go to choice for 1/4 but I have really been digging the gw. Midlenght in 1/4. The grey set has every single size and come in a nice carry case with a decent ratchet. Although the wobble extensions I have broke.

 

[The Toolest Guy]

He's just saying that smaller tools are fundamentally weaker, it's easier to break a 1/4" drive than it is a 1/2" drive, etc. I think I would go Gearwrench in your situation, something pretty decent but affordable.

While that is a very good point, the fact I was trying to state is that smaller bolts and nuts tend to be more sensitive to socket tolerances. If the factory only has the capacity to be accurate to 0.15mm, then this will be a problem for a 4mm socket. However you would not notice it at all on a 30mm socket.
I have found that cheap sockets in 1/4" drive tend to strip the bolt and nut heads. Cheap sockets I have seen in 3/4" drive tend to crack and break.

 

[AmishFury]

i say go with the SK but the 91848 instead of the 91844 or if you want to spend a bit more you can jump up to the 91860 and get even more sockets

 

[gsea]

i say go with the SK but the 91848 instead of the 91844 or if you want to spend a bit more you can jump up to the 91860 and get even more sockets

^^^ THIS ^^^

In my opinion this is hands-down the best value and most complete set out there, particularly in the very small sizes which is what you mentioned.

There's nothing more irritating than thinking you have a full "set" only to need a 4.5mm and realizing your "set" doesn't include it. It's also irritating when the "set" only includes a standard depth in the size you need but not the deep. Invariably, you'll need the deep.

Here's a link: http://www.amazon.com/SK-91860-4-inch-60-Piece-Socket/dp/B000FAPVTK

 

[Leoruiz]

Google this set. It might be handy for your type of environment
Hazet 856-1

 

[CD1]

Gearwrench

I bought the 1/4" set over a year a go on sale with the 60T ratchet from Advance Auto when on sale ($29.99 irrc).

Some stores may still have that set marked at clearance prices.

 

[Adam.C]

The problem with the sets is that they aren't optimized for any specific task, rather they are often optimized for price. So you can end up paying for tools that aren't as high quality or aren't as useful as they could be. (this is always teh case for sets of almost all types).

My advice is:

1) Get a decent set of sockets that will fit onto high quality extensions. My old USA Craftsman sockets lack the detent (size or position) that allows them to work with a Snap On extension. So they are out. Not good enough. Even if you don't have Snap On extensions now, wouldn't it be nice to have the opportunity to buy some (or Mac, which are excellent) in the future?

2) The Snap On deeps are almost too deep. Semi deep 1/4" drive is more usable. While I'm presently skeptical of new SK tools, their deeps are more like Snap On semi deeps in length, so maybe they would be a good alternative.

3) The key to taking advantage of 1/4" drive is twofold-
a) Some companies (like Snap On) make fairly large sizes in 1/4" drive. Metric sets include 15mm (some M10 bolts). SAE sets include 9/16" (3/8" bolt). This is a big advantage for obvious reasons. Look for these sizes.
b) Snap On (and possibly others) make ratchets strong enough to actually work with fasteners this large. If possible, check the specs for whatever ratchet you choose and select one that is good to close to 80+ftlbs. I think a T72 is good to 90+ftlbs. That probably lets out my old favorite Craftsman with the turned handle (looks a bit like a T72).

4) Choose a LONG ratchet handle. Dinky sockets + dinky ratchet handle= less utility. For your FIRST 1/4" ratchet, choose a long or long flex model. These are even better with a comfort handle. (I have THLFD72) You can do probably 80% of engine work (size and torque wise) with good quality 1/4" drive. Look also at TLL72 (and their equivalents by other makers). Get the shorty handles (standard size) later.

5) Don't skimp on extentions. Snap On wobble plus are what I use most often, but these are compromise tools that sacrifice strength for convenience. Whatever you choose, get a bunch of them in a range of sizes, with knurling that makes sense to you. And remember, structurally, you don't need high quality steel in a short extension. But you may in a long extension. If money is tight, only get truck tool quality in 6" lengths and above. And get one extension over 11" long.

If you take this advice you will "discover" 1/4" drive. Its a great and capable drive size that more mechanics should use. Many of us are spending money on specialty ratchets or low profile socket sets that are pretty comparable to the 1/4" drive tools we currently have in our boxes.

Last- in response to the blow molded cased 50pc sets, think about what will happen if you drop that case inside a vehicle, or on the side of the road. These cases are lightweight and sometimes slippery and don't always retain the sockets well when dropped. Instead, make your own out of a plastic small parts carrier, lining each compartment with foam or integrating mechanics time savers magnetic socket holders.

Attached picture is just a work in progress, but hopefully enough to give you an idea.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Sunex. http://www.tooltopia.com/sunex-tools-9144.aspx

Metric and SAE, ratchet, 2 extensions. Used it on the middle of a 60mph road to continuously re-time the distributor on a toyota straight 6 every 20-40 feet, as the timing chain was loose and it would jump and die.



$40, co-worker has it, and it's quite nice. I bought my father the 3/8 set for his garage, and he's happy with it.

It has a low tooth count ratchet, but the blow-molded case is quite thin, so just cut out a space for a gear-wrench ratchet if you must.