The good thing about the so is you can johnny cash it and get it a piece at a time buy your individual sets then buy the case I am workinf my way in that direction. When my driver has a set on his sale rack I pick it up. Some day I will order the case
1/4" set undecided
- Thread starter dowmace
- Start date
cgv69
Well-known member
For years I've had the MAC tools equivalent to the Snap On set you showed. It is a great set but didn't have all of the smaller metric sockets I would have preferred. If I was buying today and wanted the most complete set out there I would get the SK's 60pc Super Set (#91860) but I understand not everybody wants to spend that kind of money.
I also have the Gearwrench set you showed. Picked it up last year at Autozone for $30 and keep it as a spare set to leave in the truck or loan out to other people. For the money I paid (or even at normal retail) its decent set and if you don't use a 1/4" stuff all that often, its probably more then good enough.
I also have the Gearwrench set you showed. Picked it up last year at Autozone for $30 and keep it as a spare set to leave in the truck or loan out to other people. For the money I paid (or even at normal retail) its decent set and if you don't use a 1/4" stuff all that often, its probably more then good enough.
Dave455
Well-known member
The Snap On 1/4 drive is superb, no question. The problem is, when you're making top end tools, much of the cost is in the manufacturing process, so they work out relatively expensive!
To the OP, I would say that I'm using 1/4 drive more and more. Twenty years ago I was only using it for carbs, distributers and electric fuel pumps, all of which have pretty much vanished, but I'm using it more and more. Part of the time it's due to the acces constraints in modern engine bays, and the rest of the time I'm using it on screws, especially cap screws and Torx!
If you can't run to the Snap On, or simply can't justify it for the purpose (both perfectly valid) consider the HUGE range of mid price tools before rushing to the cheapest Taiwanese!
In the U.S. I know you've got makers such as Wright and Armstrong as well as S.K. any of which would be a far higher quality item than the Taiwanese stuff, for not much more money. My favourite here in the U.K. (omitting the European brands which are cheap here but probably priced at Snap On level in the U.S.) is probably KoKen (close to Snap On quality but a fraction of the price)!
Consider buying just the tools you want (the suggestions for a long flex head ratchet are sensible) and, assuming we are all fairly handy here, making up your own wooden case!
To the OP, I would say that I'm using 1/4 drive more and more. Twenty years ago I was only using it for carbs, distributers and electric fuel pumps, all of which have pretty much vanished, but I'm using it more and more. Part of the time it's due to the acces constraints in modern engine bays, and the rest of the time I'm using it on screws, especially cap screws and Torx!
If you can't run to the Snap On, or simply can't justify it for the purpose (both perfectly valid) consider the HUGE range of mid price tools before rushing to the cheapest Taiwanese!
In the U.S. I know you've got makers such as Wright and Armstrong as well as S.K. any of which would be a far higher quality item than the Taiwanese stuff, for not much more money. My favourite here in the U.K. (omitting the European brands which are cheap here but probably priced at Snap On level in the U.S.) is probably KoKen (close to Snap On quality but a fraction of the price)!
Consider buying just the tools you want (the suggestions for a long flex head ratchet are sensible) and, assuming we are all fairly handy here, making up your own wooden case!
Parrothead
Well-known member
I gues I am going to be the only one to say Tekton? I've been really impressed with the quality of their stuff lately. It's the Kobalt ratchet as you said and it's a complete set with case for $45. The stuff I have from Tekton is top notch, at least as good as Gearwrench (APEX) stuff I own. Their new full polish combination wrenches (Taiwan) are better than the Chinese made Kobalts. If it's a toss up between the two, I'd go Tekton. I get the Armstrong and SK side of it too...USA made and all.
theoldwizard1
Well-known member
I use my 1/4" set A LOT ! By far the most useful piece is the 1/4" screwdriver handle. Much more useful than a 1/4" ratchet. My screwdriver handle has a 1/4" female drive in the handle end so that it acts as an extension, and you can quickly/easily add a 1/4 breaker bar.
Check Craftsman.
Do NOT even think about 12 point 1/4" sockets and buy some Torx and Allen sockets.
Check Craftsman.
Do NOT even think about 12 point 1/4" sockets and buy some Torx and Allen sockets.
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Mr Ratchet
Well-known member
I'd get the Gearwrench set and then add pieces as you see fit. My second choice would be the Armstrong set Brownsfan linked. I have Armstrong, Gearwrench, and SO ratchets among others, and use the Armstrong's the most in other drive sizes. I also use 1/4" drive quite a bit around the house or in tight spots on cars. Long handle 8" Matco ratchet and Snap On 9" breaker bar are some of the tools I've added to my 1/4" drive set that goes up to 5/8" and 15mm.
Greasymofo
Well-known member
Yeah man I bought that same sk set at a pawnshop and it is badass!! Great quality and its all there.. Except a swivel .. Throw one in there.. There's a little storage place inside thats perfect for swivel. And yeah the one drawback is the ratchet switcher takes two hands. But its OK. Good luck
Bigblue&Goldie
Well-known member
I just came across this Armstrong set, which I would take over any of the other sets listed.
-Made in USA
-Great ratchet, better than the SK in my opnion (I've owned both)
-Swivel
-Extensions
$118 or best offer, shipped
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Armstrong-15-199-50-Piece-1-4-Dr-6-Pt-Socket-Set-SAE-Metric-Standard-Deep-/321803173244?hash=item4aecf6bd7c&item=321803173244&vxp=mtr
Edit: I see this set was previously posted. I think it's a great deal. Case looks solid as well.
-Made in USA
-Great ratchet, better than the SK in my opnion (I've owned both)
-Swivel
-Extensions
$118 or best offer, shipped
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Armstrong-15-199-50-Piece-1-4-Dr-6-Pt-Socket-Set-SAE-Metric-Standard-Deep-/321803173244?hash=item4aecf6bd7c&item=321803173244&vxp=mtr
Edit: I see this set was previously posted. I think it's a great deal. Case looks solid as well.
sonvolt
Well-known member
I have SK 1/4" drive sets for years with no issues. They get my vote.
cgv69
Well-known member
That would be the last set I would buy. I like Armstrong wrenches and their ratchets too but their sockets are the same crappy sockets Craftsman sells (or use to - not sure if those have gone Chinese yet?). They are literally the worst US made sockets I've ever seen. They are weak and the "chrome" on them *****. I'm not talking about them being pretty, I'm talking about them rusting. I have never had any other brand of chrome sockets break or rust on me other then Craftsman which are just re-branded Armstrongs.
I'm all for buying quality, made in US tools when possible and have other Armstrong products that I like but their sockets simply aren't very good quality IMO and I would rather have the better made, less expensive Taiwanese made Gearwrench sockets.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
I have said it before. I have the 3 Craftsman "module" sets in all 3 drive sizes similar piece counts to the Armstrongs. They came with the 60t low profile ratchets. I got them 3 or 4 years ago (USA made) and have had zero issues. They are in my home garage which is not climate controlled and they have no rust. I have not had one break. Now I don't use the 1/2 drive set very much but the others get used pretty hard. This has been my experience with them. Maybe I got a good set I don't know. But they have been great. I also bought my nephew the 1/4 and 3/8 set and he is a pro mechanic and uses them VERY hard and no issues . Im not sure if this makes a difference but these are NOT the dual marked versions. No laser etching
FWIW, My USA craftsman 1/4" are sloppy fitting. The extensions fit so loosely they double as wobbles. The ratchet is also loose and rattles and reverses under high load. I wouldn't say the craftsman USA sockets I used for years are the worst. But they may be the worst made in the USA.
cgv69
Well-known member
I think it does. I'm not CM expert but I know the dual-marked CM sockets are made by Armstrong and in my experience are not very good. Not sure who made the older CM sockets but they were better quality. Not sure when the cut off is/was or if maybe even if it was Armstrong back then too but if it was, I can tell you they aren't making them the same these days.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
Mine are pretty "normal " . Surely not loose. Now the standard craftsman ratchet I'm sure has issues. Couldn't tell you if mine do because I don't use them. I do however use the 60t thin profile USA made ratchets that came in the set all the time with no issues. Those should be the standard ratchet in sets not the current crappy ones. Lowe's and Home Depot both put better ratchets in their sets.
d.mcfarland
Well-known member
I believe the common rule of thumb is that the sockets that have a true detent are the "good" ones. The newer style where the socket detent on all four sides is just crimped is the "bad". The newer style almost looks like an 8 point socket on the bottom.
Bigblue&Goldie
Well-known member
I own both Armstrong and Craftsman USA and the Armstrong are nicer in fit and finish. I don't think the later year Craftsman USA stuff was the same as Armstrong. I think its more on the lines of Allen from what Ive seen. I still think Williams, Blackhawk USA are far nicer, but this Armstrong set is a bargain.
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SK. So the ratchet is small, that make it easier to get in close places Get a long handled flex ratchet if more leverage is needed. The SK thumbwheel is really good, I have both the 3/8 and the 1/4. There is no comparison to using a ratchet to run fastners down quickly or using the thumbwheel.
KEH
KEH
txvwnut
Well-known member
I have both the snap on set and the sk set. Both are nice sets I have an 88 tooth Matco ratchet in the sk set. If you are looking for a 1/4 drive set get the sk I don't think you'll be disappointed.
How do you feel those 3 ratchets compare?
txvwnut
Well-known member
I bought the SK used off of eBay for 90 bucks it came with the Matco ratchet so I can't compare it to the SK. My Snap On set is close to twenty years old and the ratchet in it is pretty much the coarse tooth ratchet Snap On made for years. The Matco is smooth and quiet and feels good in the hand. I would've replaced the SK ratchet even if it had come with the set as I don't like knurled handled ratchets, and that most likely would've been with an older SO ratchet as I have a spare in my box.
02camaro86
Well-known member
gear wrench, high tooth counts mean alot in tight spaces, which is where 1/4 will mainly be used. i cant stand round head ratchets, but if it really means somethin to you to have US made stuff, i would get the SK and ditch the ratchet and replace it with a snap-on
Bigblue&Goldie
Well-known member
I've had all three; sold the SK, but still have the T72's and the 88. The T72 is the smoothest action and has the least back drag followed by the 88. The SK wasn't bad, it just didn't feel as refined and it's not as easy to reverse. I would buy an Armstrong 88 on ebay for $30 long before I pay retail for a Snappy or Matco. With that said, I was able to score solid deals on ebay for my Snappy ratchets, and so I've got them in standard, long, and flex handles. My 88 is a locking flex.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
I have the ratchet that comes in the SK set. It's probably my most used ratchet in the shop. I do mostly interior work and it's small size comes in VERY handy. The ratchet in the Gearwrench set is not that much bigger. If I need leverage in 1/4" Dr I grab my craftsman premium ratchet. Or my extra long Kobalt flex head.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
Still a very good choice. Can't beat USA made. The ratchet is small yes but it is nice and strong. I would keep it in there and maybe throw a longer flex head in your tool bag. I have the Gearwrench set you listed and carry a longer flex head in my bag for when needed. Again good choice. It sounded like you were really leaning towards that set from the beginning.
If you want a tiny 1/4" ratchet, find one of the older Husky or JS 1/4" round head ratchets. Make the SK look huge in comparison. Pics in a bit.
Congratulations on the buying the SK set. 
If you want a tiny 1/4" ratchet, find one of the older Husky or JS 1/4" round head ratchets. Make the SK look huge in comparison. Pics in a bit.[/QUOTE
Speaking of tiny ratchets, I recently found a Titan micro ratchet -
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004WIWKZE/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Man that thing is small. Cost me about $4 grand though - lousy tenants left it (along with a lot of garbage and damage) after we kicked them out for non-payment. Most expensive ratchet I have.
Im gonna highly recommend this expert 1/4 impact sockets. I paid $200 for the whole set from my mac tools dealer and their warranted for life. All sizes deep and short 4mm-15mm 3/16-9/16. Use the set everyday on my 1/4 ridged impact. Come in an awesome locking tray. Not too great for mobile use buy you could always find another case for them.
Sent from my SM-G900P using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G900P using Tapatalk
HanShotFirst
Well-known member
I personally consider the 1/4" set to be the crown jewel of the SK line, that 1/4" ratchet is a gem, and their sockets are built "Ford Tough" (or insert your favorite brand). The SK ratchet has a tooth count that's "fine enough" yet it's coarse enough to be just brute strong. Still, the Snap On is a better ratchet in pretty much every conceivable way, but then you're going to spend a lot more. So the SK set is a VERY high quality set with not the best ratchet, but a damn decent ratchet. As for SK's sockets, I personally haven't found anyone's sockets to be better. They're my favorite because from what I've seen, and my personal experience, no one's sockets are significantly stronger, but many are more expensive.
I would immediately subsidize that set with a long handle flex head ratchet, and M A N Y extensions. Get what you can afford, if you can afford the Snap On then that's a no brainer; just get it! If you can't, the Harbor Freight/Pittsburgh Pro is a damn decent knock off of the Snap On and they're dirt cheap. If you want to stick with SK, then they make a very good flex handle ratchet as well.
Now on to extensions - This is the life blood of the 1/4" because you often choose the 1/4" because it can get into the nooks and crannies. Get the widest variety that you can afford, with 18-24" on the long side, and a couple inches on the short side. Make sure you have swivel adapters and some wobbly head extensions are just damn handy; wish I had more of those.
I would immediately subsidize that set with a long handle flex head ratchet, and M A N Y extensions. Get what you can afford, if you can afford the Snap On then that's a no brainer; just get it! If you can't, the Harbor Freight/Pittsburgh Pro is a damn decent knock off of the Snap On and they're dirt cheap. If you want to stick with SK, then they make a very good flex handle ratchet as well.
Now on to extensions - This is the life blood of the 1/4" because you often choose the 1/4" because it can get into the nooks and crannies. Get the widest variety that you can afford, with 18-24" on the long side, and a couple inches on the short side. Make sure you have swivel adapters and some wobbly head extensions are just damn handy; wish I had more of those.
Mike02vr6
Member
Been out of the loop on quality tools for mechanics but I have matco 1/4 set and I live them. I know they use to be less expensive than snap on. 2nd for me would be SK
txvwnut
Well-known member
You won't be disappointed with it. The actual reason I bought mine is it was on eBay and I won it on a cheap bid. The big plus was finding the metric sockets went to 15mm on both deep and shallow and that is the side I use most.