3/8 flex head ratchet

[clown]

I'm looking for a 3/8 flex head ratchet. After reading a lot of threads on here, I think no detents/non-locking is the best for me.

I'm just a DIYer, and I prefer to buy new, so I can't justify Snap-On prices.

USA made is very important to me.

I'm still rocking USA Craftsman from the 90s (36 teeth) and want to upgrade to higher tooth/flex head.

I was looking at the Wright 3427 and 3428 here: https://www.harryepstein.com/3-8-drive-wright-flex-head-ratchet.html I've bought from them before, good experience.

Does anyone know if either of these have detents/locking mechanisms on the flex head?

Thanks.

 

[lardy1]

I still love my old standby SK round head flex handled ratchets. I've never used a Wright.

 

[Macneil]

I use gear wrench 120 flex head ratchets. I have one at home as well as work (pro wrench user and abuser). I’ll put that ratchet against any tool truck ratchet any day. I’ve had pipes on the end of it while breaking free 6L ford diesel head studs and it hasn’t skipped a beat.

You can get them in a kit I think. I’ve also got the 1/4” version and don’t do engine work without either of them by my side.

You can also get the older version (same tool, less teeth) for a little cheaper usually.

Here’s an Amazon link.

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00BTEXQP2/?tag=atomicindus04-20

Can also get them with cushion grips. That’s what I have and I quite enjoy them.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[ex-x-fire]

Look at Williams.

 

[Negen]

These are mine the proto is 1/4" no detents.
The wright is 3/8" and has detents 7 or 8 of them.
The Armstrong is 1/2" and has 3 once past 45° or so the detents are no longer being used.

That said I would look into tekton or maybe even new icon stuff (if they make flex heads). Koken is also great .

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[clown]

Thanks for the info Macneil.

I've heard great things about GW tools, but I'm looking for USA made.

I think my options for a "Made in USA" 3/8 flex head without detents/locking mechanism are limited.

 

[clown]

Thanks Negen,

That's the info I was looking for.

I think the Wright 3428 probably also has detents(can't find one review on it).

Maybe I'll just get the Wright fixed head?

 

[dsaabm]

I don't think SK lp90 flex has detents?

https://www.harryepstein.com/80290-sk-3-8-drive-90-tooth-teardrop-low-profile-flex-head-ratchet.html

 

[AE2]

I have a Wright 3428. It does not have any locks or detents.

 

[Negen]

Should have mentioned mind is a 3427

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[woody6904]

I'm not a big detent fan either but have the Wright 4430 and have been pleased. Think you will really Iike the 3/8 versions. Have several models in 1/2 drive and they are my favorite USA made ratchets.

And if you dont already have a Wright 3430 order one of them too, you won't regret it.

 

[VolvoRyan]

Regarding detents: Try a good import tool before you commit by buying something expensive. You won't know what you like until you give it a whirl.

I really like detents, and the 120XP does it well. I have the long-handle set.... with a stubby 3/8".

-Ryan

 

[clown]

Thanks for all the info, I really appreciate it.

OK...I'm a dumba$$

After further review, I think I found the info in this link here: https://aboloxtools.com/Wright-Tool-3428
and also on page 160 of the Wright Tool calalog, "seven place indexing flex head" including diagram.

According to the catalog, all of the current 3/8 flex heads have detents/indexes.

AE2: Did you buy your 3428 recently?

Thanks.

 

[tym]

SK might meet your price point and is good quality.

If you join their (free) SK Club, they frequently have discount codes. There's one out now for 15% off, in fact.

 

[The Fall]

I still love my old standby SK round head flex handled ratchets. I've never used a Wright.

That's my vote. I like the Snap-on 80-tooth ones too, but they're, uh, not cheap. SK has the quality, strength and is USA made. 40-tooth in that drive size if I'm not mistaken.

 

[zippster]

Cant go wrong with SK. I have a couple of round heads and they are as smooth as can be.

 

[richfinn]

This is one of those things that Snap On does so well worth every penny

I bought mine on ebay brand new a fair bit cheaper than list price

 

[anndel]

I have 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" and 3/4" flex head Snap-on ratchets and love them.

 

[ROBZ71LM7]

Gearwrench 120XP-have several and love them.

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

I agree with the above poster. This is one of those things that Snap On does really well. I love my FF80. I'm about as frugal as they come, but some things are just worth the money and this is one of them. I'd buy pony up for one if it was me, and just not worry about what it cost you.

As mentioned, you can also often find these for a fraction of the truck price on eBay. Used ones often go for about 50% off of the new price.

I saw Gear Wrench was mentioned above and I'll throw my thoughts in on it. To start off, I'm a big GW fan. I've been using a set of their ratchet wrenches for close to 20 years and I LOVE them, I've had great luck with their sockets for a reasonably priced option, etc. It doesn't meet your requirements of US made, but that doesn't personally concern me a ton. Anyway, I have several Gear Wrench ratchets, and I just don't think the quality is consistent. You may get an excellent one, or you may get one that's junk. The first GW ratchet I bought came in a set and it is awesome. I still use it to this day and it's one of my favorites. I've never had an issue, it's taken lots of abuse, it has a slimmer head than the SO, letting me get in tighter places. It's silky smooth. It's just great all around. This kit also came with a stubby ratchet which has also been great, although I don't use it nearly as much as I do the normal handle.

My positive experience with this ratchet led to me buying several more ratchets from them, and I've not had the same luck with those. I bought another stubby 3/8" ratchet and when you're ratcheting it back, it'll randomly switch the lever to opposite direction you're trying to turn it. This gets annoying and makes it very difficult to use. Especially in tight spots.

The next one is a 1/2" drive with the comfort grip. My first impression was that I was really going to like this ratchet. That is until I used it. Under load it likes to slip causing you to bust your knuckles. I need to send it in for warranty, but I've haven't thought much more about it as a I replaced it with a Snap On which has been excellent.

The warranty with Gear Wrench is also a pain. If you can't find one locally at Fastenal, which is usually the case for me. You have to pay to ship it back to them and wait for them to mail you another one. In this past this has been an extremely slow process for me.

IMO it's just not worth dealing with all of this. I now spend the extra money on Snap On ratchets (if you go on eBay, it's not that much extra). I know it's going to work, I don't worry about busted knuckles, their customer service is top notch, etc.

 

[jimmyin3D]

The wright, Gearwrench(minus the locking), and Koken all have detents. The Koken only has one detent so it’s not too bad though.

I think in some situations they don’t matter but if you don’t like them I would definitely go for a flex head without the detents. Having a joint that can be tightened down lets you have more flexibility in how the ratchet can be used. The detents can limit the range.

The Proto posted above is awesome, has great length and strength to back it up. What is your budget though?

One of the best is obviously the Snap On FLF80: it’s super dependable, length is great, and of course the strength to back it. They run about $60-$70 used on eBay.

Another choice is SK Tools regular flex 45183 or bent handle flex head 3770. There round head ratchets are proven tough and one of the better choices out there. Just like snap on warranty is a breeze. Used they run anywhere from $40-$60.

Also is the Williams B52EHFB it is basically the older snap on 36tooth design with a slightly different handle shape. Super tough. New goes for $45.

 

[belvedere]

This is one of those things that Snap On does so well worth every penny

I have to agree. I have a Dual 80 3/8" flex, and love it. Bought it from a member here, listed as used, but it was like new.

Snap On ratchets really are a cut above the competition.

 

[Wamsutta]

I like the Snap-on because it's easily disassembled with the removal of just two screws. It also has no detents in the flex joint to limit the movement and the handle grip is replaceable.

 

[Tallpilot]

Look at Williams.

Sadly US Williams still use the old Snap-on 36 tooth design. The high tooth count ones are made in Taiwan. I'm not sure why they haven't updated them; every other manufacturer has.

 

[kbeefy]

I have the GW 84 tooth locking flex head, got a set with 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2. I hate them.
The flex joint is loose and the lock often slips, on all 3 models.

I picked up a Mac XL 3/8 Flex head and love it, I use it more than any others now.
Out of the budget for home, but very nice for work.

MAC Link

 

[clown]

Thanks for the info kbeefy,

The MAC looks really nice, but it's pretty much Snappy prices.

I live in Germany, and I thought Hazet would have a 3/8 drive flex head with more than 30/36 teeth in 2020, but I thought wrong. They have a 1/2" (916HPL) 92 teeth non-flex head that seems good quality, but that's about it. They only make this product line in 1/4 and 1/2, no 3/8? WTF?

I haven't seen any positive reviews about the Stahlwille 452QR here: https://www.tbs-aachen.de/STAHLWILL...t_3/8undquot_ratchet_12261010_i3475_74459.htm Most people complain about the pin on the flex joint coming loose, or even falling out.

3/8 drive tools seem to be rare in Germany/France(Facom) and I'm not sure why. Many German made socket sets only available in 1/4" or 1/2" drive, especially Torx, ETorx, triple square.

Is it possible to get a NEW Snap-on 3/8 flex head non-locking/no detents for around $120?

Thanks for everyone's input/advice.

 

[Wamsutta]

Is it possible to get a NEW Snap-on 3/8 flex head non-locking/no detents for around $120?

Here's one on a bid auction. I try to stay with the Buy It Now listings, but you'd have a pretty good chance if you bid $120.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-On-To...g:rqUAAOSwADZeryxQ&LH_ItemCondition=1000|1500

 

[kbeefy]

Correction, I just checked and my GW ratchets are 84 tooth, not 120.

 

[nelstomlinson]

Don't know about detents, but I'm very happy with my Wright ratchets. They are excellent value.

 

[lardy1]

I have the GW 84 tooth locking flex head, got a set with 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2. I hate them.
The flex joint is loose and the lock often slips, on all 3 models.

I have the 84 tooth locking flex in 1/2" drive and I just can't make myself like that ratchet. It's chintzy feeling in the hands. I already warranted it once because the head was so sloppy and it locks up under load as the selector switch moves. The one they sent to replace it is just as sloppy and I can detect movement in the selector so I have little doubt it will eventually lock up too.

I hear a lot of praise for Gearwrench ratchets so I tried really hard to like that ratchet. But.....I just can't. It's an example of piss poor engineering and mass marketing. I'm sorry I bought it and won't be buying anymore Gearwrench tools.

The end of this story is me buying a new SK 1/2" drive flex round head ratchet. It's what I wanted when I bought the Gearwrench and I've learned another lesson about being a tightwad.

 

[Outwest]

Has anyone compared the flex head Proto 90 to an SK 90? Specifically 3/8”. I’m on the fence between the two. I know the price difference. I wasn’t sure if some were still having issues with The SK selectors or any other issues.

 

[AE2]

AE2: Did you buy your 3428 recently?

Thanks.

I did get it recently, but I got it 2nd hand. I'm not sure how old it is.

 

[bpjr]

Thanks for the info kbeefy,

The MAC looks really nice, but it's pretty much Snappy prices.

I live in Germany, and I thought Hazet would have a 3/8 drive flex head with more than 30/36 teeth in 2020, but I thought wrong. They have a 1/2" (916HPL) 92 teeth non-flex head that seems good quality, but that's about it. They only make this product line in 1/4 and 1/2, no 3/8? WTF?

I haven't seen any positive reviews about the Stahlwille 452QR here: https://www.tbs-aachen.de/STAHLWILL...t_3/8undquot_ratchet_12261010_i3475_74459.htm Most people complain about the pin on the flex joint coming loose, or even falling out.

3/8 drive tools seem to be rare in Germany/France(Facom) and I'm not sure why. Many German made socket sets only available in 1/4" or 1/2" drive, especially Torx, ETorx, triple square.

Is it possible to get a NEW Snap-on 3/8 flex head non-locking/no detents for around $120?

Thanks for everyone's input/advice.

I suggest trying a non detent before spending big bucks. I have one non detent and it moves around with heavy deep sockets on extensions. It doesn't tighten up or lock so its my last choice. All of my detent ratchets swing past 180 degrees and are my first choice every time. Different strokes for different folks but a non detent ratchet is a pass for me and I wish I knew better before buying one.

 

[clown]

Thanks for the info bpjr.

I think SK (45183) is the only DIYer choice for USA made flex head without detents...I just can't justify Snap-On/MAC/Matco prices as I'm not wrenching for a living.

I'm prolly gonna pull the trigger on the Wright (3428) with nitril grip and the Wright (3425) fixed head long handle contour grip.

I'll can probably get a 1/2" Wright metric shallow impact set with the money saved vs Snap-On/MAC.

Thanks for all of the info/inputs; this is a great forum!