3/8 or 1/2 astro nano

[bowlofturtle]

Got a chance to get one of them, both priced close enough not to matter.

Originally I wanted the 3/8 because I thought it was a smaller version, but they are just different anvils. I have a full set of impact sockets with the 1/2 minus swivels. I don't have any impact sockets for 3/8 except a set of swivels. But plenty of chrome non impact sockets. Looks like I'll be buying sockets no matter what.

I'm a weekend warrior not a full time mechanic. I have an 2135ti in 1/2 to take care of most things, just want more clearance.

What do u guys think? Any pros or cons? I'm leaning towards 3/8 and getting more sockets vs 1/2 and getting swivels. I think power ratings are the same

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[Fedwrench]

To maximize the clearance offered by the nano, you may want to consider stubby 1/2 drive impact sockets. It really comes down what you work on and what size fasteners you routinely deal with. 3/8 is very versatile.

 

[MrGiggles]

Most 1/2" impact socket sets go down to 10 or 12mm. Because of that I don't think 3/8 is any more versatile than 1/2".

I'd go 1/2". 3/8 is becoming pretty common, but 1/2" accessories are still cheaper and easier to find.

 

[CobraRed]

According to users and mentioned by Astro, the 3/8" is currently more powerful in use than the 1/2" due to exhaust. Although I believe that's changing (pumping up the 1/2").

 

[theoldwizard1]

I have been hearing a lot of good things about the 3/8" Nano which puts me in a dilemma. Previously, I was saving up for a M12 Fuel 3/8", now ... ? Throw in the HF 3/8" Earthquake ratchet and I have way to many choices !

My son does not have the "tool bug" (Maybe that is good ? We share a lot of tools.), but if he did, he would have got a 3/8" Nano and a set of Sunex sockets today !

 

[PJNJ]

I have the 1/2 nano. I bought over the summer and used it a few times. I think I like it as a 1/2 better because if I am going for a hard to reach fastener such as a crank bolt or suspension piece I am going to primarily use it as a 1/2 gun. I know it loses a power with a 3/8 adapter but I don't know if I want 450+ ft. lbs. torque on any 3/8 fastener. I used it a few times. One time I put a 3/8 adapter, extension and socket on to take off rocker studs in aluminum heads. They wouldn't budge with a breaker bar (I later saw they were installed with thread locker) and I was afraid of damaging the heads. So I put it on lowest setting - 1 and it wouldn't move them but on 2 it zipped them out with no problems.

In an ideal world I would have both but for now 1/2 does it. Oldwizard - get the HF earthquake 1/2 ratchet also. I have it, used it a couple of times last summer, and it's nice to not worry about wrist snap and smacking my knuckles anymore. Get the extended warranty for peace of mind.

Merry Christmas to all.

 

[zkling]

3/8" since you have a good 1/2" gun.

 

[bowlofturtle]

3/8" since you have a good 1/2" gun.

Forgot to mention, I also have 3/8 m12 non fuel.

So either size will be my middle ground. But I'm leaning on the 3/8 model, almost never need it at full strength.

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[Wamsutta]

I'd get the 1/2 if it was me. That Nano is supposed to have to power of a 1/2 impact anyway. It sure looks powerful on the SMA channel.

 

[Buckgnarly]

3/8 sockets are always smaller than same sized 1/2.....get the 3/8 and get some sockets to go with it.

 

[jerseykat1]

looks like that HF earthquake impacting ratchet is made by sunex. I am going to pick one up tomorrow and if i have some time i will do a video comparison to my SO air ratchet, and my buddies new Matco air ratchet that has 100ft lbs..

looks like the Jet brand has a lifetime warranty on there impacting air ratchets. anyone ever deal with them?
http://www.cpooutlets.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-cpooutlets-Site/default/Search-Show?q=air%20impact%20ratchet

 

[PJNJ]

looks like that HF earthquake impacting ratchet is made by sunex. I am going to pick one up tomorrow and if i have some time i will do a video comparison to my SO air ratchet, and my buddies new Matco air ratchet that has 100ft lbs..

looks like the Jet brand has a lifetime warranty on there impacting air ratchets. anyone ever deal with them?
http://www.cpooutlets.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-cpooutlets-Site/default/Search-Show?q=air%20impact%20ratchet

The same ratchet is sold under the Husky brand by Home Depot. I bought the HF version because after the 20% coupon and even with the two year extended warranty it was the cheapest of the three.

 

[bowlofturtle]

I'd get the 1/2 if it was me. That Nano is supposed to have to power of a 1/2 impact anyway. It sure looks powerful on the SMA channel.

I saw one of the SMA video. There is no doubt on the power, its which size works best for me.

I'm 90% sure i'm pulling the trigger on the 3/8 and getting sockets to go with. Been shopping impact sockets right now.