Affordable made in U.S.A. metric hex bit socket set

[ninjamunky85]

So I'm looking to buy a metric hex bit socket set for work and I'd prefer American made. I work in a machine shop and it just feels wrong to be making parts all day and then picking up a foreign made tool to get a job done.

I was looking at this set from SK but I was a little shocked when I saw the price. I already have a couple of their socket sets and really like them. I could justify the cost though knowing the quality and that they should be easy to warranty if needed.

Then I thought that I had found a more affordable set when I saw this one by Blackhawk, but it appears that it's made in Taiwan.

I also saw this Lisle set, which is almost HF cheap, but they ain't very pretty and some of the reviews aren't very good. Also I don't know how good their "limited" lifetime warranty is.

So I'm just wondering what other brands you guys might recommend, or if there are any good deals out there right now. The SK set is at the top of my list even with the price and I'm probably going to order this SK ratchet as well but it's not that big of a deal if the sockets are from another brand.

So let me know whatcha got.

 

[fivespdcat]

I'm not sure what is really considered affordable, but I've been eying the Bondhus ones. They run around $60 for a set.

 

[MattPersman]

Some Wiha stuff is made in USA however the bits aren't warrantable. 71996 is the metric set. No mention of COO. I had bought a long Torx from them and it was stamped USA. Quality is good price is around $45 for that metric hex set.

 

[panknuckshovel]

PM sent. Also if you have Sears Outlet stores by you, stop in. The three by me all have the six piece USA set for $7.99-$9.99. Not as complete as you are looking for, but a start.

 

[Askme42]

I'd go with the SK or hunt down an old usa craftsman set.

Go armstrong for the ratchet.

 

[stage20]

I'd go with the SK or hunt down an old usa craftsman set.

Go armstrong for the ratchet.

There was a thread in hot deals for sk bits

 

[oldldh]

I just looked in my Apex Tool Group catalog...

All these are made in Taiwan, which is not what you asked for, but they are very good quality, and priced exceedingly well, for what you get...

And---GearWrench has 1/2" drive Metric Set # 80720 (6,8,10,12,14,17, and 19mm) for about $ 35.00 on line...the 3/8" drive set (2,2.5,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11, an 12mm) for less than $45.00 on line...

Their 84 tooth, 3/8" drive flex head ratchet, is 13" long and GW# 81215F is less than $30.00...the 120 tooth version, which I have, is really nice, and goes under GW#81215P, and is a little over $30.00...the 84 tooth, 1/2" drive flex head ratchet #81306F, is a little over $30.00...the 120 tooth version, is GW#81306P, for less than $40.00...

I would have bought USA made tools, but, as a retired DIY'er, I couldn't justify the cost...

At least these, will give you a comparison point in your search...

 

[Kaane]

Check this one out. I bought a set, made in usa, great quality.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Proto-Tool-...605?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d1be82985

 

[AndrewV]

What about Lisle?

 

[ninjamunky85]

I'm not sure what is really considered affordable, but I've been eying the Bondhus ones. They run around $60 for a set.

Those look really nice but the extra length would actually be a bad thing in some situations.

PM sent.

There was a thread in hot deals for sk bits

Yeah I saw that set too. It's a good deal but unfortunately not the metric ones I need.

I'd go with the SK or hunt down an old usa craftsman set.

Go armstrong for the ratchet.

Hmmm, yeah this comparable ratchet by Armstrong is actually a little less expensive. I really like the look of that SK one though, so I don't know.

 

[Askme42]

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000I1WG26/?tag=atomicindus08-20

More what I was thinking. I'm also biased in that I love their locking flex head design.

 

[panknuckshovel]

Those look really nice but the extra length would actually be a bad thing in some situations.





Yeah I saw that set too. It's a good deal but unfortunately not the metric ones I need.



Hmmm, yeah this comparable ratchet by Armstrong is actually a little less expensive. I really like the look of that SK one though, so I don't know.

Yep, didn't even try to pay attention to the metric thing.

 

[ninjamunky85]

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000I1WG26/?tag=atomicindus08-20

More what I was thinking. I'm also biased in that I love their locking flex head design.

I know that those ratchets are popular around here and I'm sure they're really nice but I actually prefer a non locking flex head for my application. Right now I'm borrowing one of the other guys old Blackhawk flex head ratchets when I need it and I wanted to get something similar for myself.

 

[Farmall450]

Cripe has SAE Allen bit sockets for around $12, they might have Metric too if you run a search.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Cripe has SAE Allen bit sockets for around $12, they might have Metric too if you run a search.

Was just checking Cripe, since that's where I got my USA Kobalt/Armstrong mix in SAE and Metric. Looks like they're all out of those sets (it's been a few years), but I did come across a nice SAE (1/8"-3/8") & Metric (4mm-10mm) USA Armstrong set for $50

http://www.cripedistributing.com/armstrong-13-pc-hex-socket-set-eliminator-16-290-5mh40.html
EDIT: Didn't know the set I linked was made for Armstrong's "Pass Through" style system.

 

[Askme42]

Was just checking Cripe, since that's where I got my USA Kobalt/Armstrong mix in SAE and Metric. Looks like they're all out of those sets (it's been a few years), but I did come across a nice SAE (1/8"-3/8") & Metric (4mm-10mm) USA Armstrong set for $50

http://www.cripedistributing.com/armstrong-13-pc-hex-socket-set-eliminator-16-290-5mh40.html

Man I like that set. Might pick myself up a set.

 

[Farmall450]

Was just checking Cripe, since that's where I got my USA Kobalt/Armstrong mix in SAE and Metric. Looks like they're all out of those sets (it's been a few years), but I did come across a nice SAE (1/8"-3/8") & Metric (4mm-10mm) USA Armstrong set for $50

http://www.cripedistributing.com/armstrong-13-pc-hex-socket-set-eliminator-16-290-5mh40.html

I had passed them up because I was looking for metric myself. That Armstrong Set is really nice, might have to bookmark that one. Don't really have room for another case as nice as it is though.

 

[SCscoutguy]

Was just checking Cripe, since that's where I got my USA Kobalt/Armstrong mix in SAE and Metric. Looks like they're all out of those sets (it's been a few years), but I did come across a nice SAE (1/8"-3/8") & Metric (4mm-10mm) USA Armstrong set for $50

http://www.cripedistributing.com/armstrong-13-pc-hex-socket-set-eliminator-16-290-5mh40.html

Those are special Armstrong Eliminator sockets that only work with other Eliminator tools and Matco Special Forces tools. You can't use them with your regular 3/8" tools.

 

[RV77]

I agree with you on wanting USA made tools but I dont see why your complaining about the price.I assume you live in the US and make a decent wage.

Yea there are times when I cringe at the price of USA items but I would rather buy items from a american company so other folks can enjoy a decent wage as I do.

Readers please dont turn this into a debate.

 

[ChrisPace]

I have Lisle and couldn't be happier. Made in Calarenda Iowa. Never heard a compliant about bit quality


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[SCscoutguy]

I have Lisle and couldn't be happier. Made in Calarenda Iowa. Never heard a compliant about bit quality


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I have never had good luck with Lisle torx bits. I have broken to many to count. It seems to be a common thing among GJ members.

 

[dede2897234]

I have never had good luck with Lisle torx bits. I have broken to many to count. It seems to be a common thing among GJ members.

I am sure "SCscoutguy" is referring to the one piece Lisle torx bits that can be purchased on Amazon here: LINK. I too would not recommend them. From what I read on GJ, someone referred to them as "cheese whiz". In other words, these Lisle sockets are very brittle.

These Lisle metric hex bit sockets (with 2 piece construction; 3-8mm, 10mm) are more solid but still not the best according to the reviews: LINK.

I would recommend the above SK or Proto metric hex bit socket sets. They initially cost somewhat more but well worth it in the long run in avoiding user frustration and to increase productivity.


Dave

 

[ninjamunky85]

I agree with you on wanting USA made tools but I dont see why your complaining about the price.I assume you live in the US and make a decent wage.

I wasn't really complaining and of course I expect to pay more for a quality American made tool. Prices for bit sockets sets were just a little higher than I expected so I thought I'd see what options were out there.

I'm just out of community college and have only been at the job for a few months. Pay isn't that great right now but I know that the opportunity is there if I stick around for a few years. I don't have any of my own tools at work yet and have just been borrowing tools from the other guys there.

I like the work and am planning on staying there for a while so I'm looking at buying an old Kennedy box and some tools from a friend of the boss that is retiring. Since it comes mostly with measuring instruments I was looking to add some tools that I'll need to it.

 

[Greasymofo]

Ive got a proto standard set . as heavy duty as you could imagine. Ten sockets in a hard case for 100 bucks. Not cheap but amazing quality. Got it brand new from a guy on cl. They go for.much more than that new

 

[RV77]

I wasn't really complaining and of course I expect to pay more for a quality American made tool. Prices for bit sockets sets were just a little higher than I expected so I thought I'd see what options were out there.

I'm just out of community college and have only been at the job for a few months. Pay isn't that great right now but I know that the opportunity is there if I stick around for a few years. I don't have any of my own tools at work yet and have just been borrowing tools from the other guys there.

I like the work and am planning on staying there for a while so I'm looking at buying an old Kennedy box and some tools from a friend of the boss that is retiring. Since it comes mostly with measuring instruments I was looking to add some tools that I'll need to it.

Since your just out of school then I would recommend finding used USA stuff on ebay or CL if you can be patient they will show up.

 

[ninjamunky85]

Since your just out of school then I would recommend finding used USA stuff on ebay or CL if you can be patient they will show up.

Already received a PM about a NOS Blackhawk set so if I get em I'll be sure to post pics.

 

[Bigblue&Goldie]

I was recently in the market for a hex bit set and I did quite a bit of research before pulling the trigger. From what I gathered, Snappy made the best bits, Proto were well regarded, SK were hit and miss, and Craftsman/Danaher USA were ****. Bondhus is well regarded, but there wasn't a whole lot of first hand reviews of their bit sockets. One brand that kept coming up with all positive reviews was VIM (made in Taiwan). VIM is the OEM for Mac and Cornwell, which also speaks too their quality. Ultimately, I ended up with the VIM set (HMS26) due to it's price and completeness. When compared to my Blackhawk USA, Kobalt USA, and Proto bit sockets, the socket isnt finished as nice, but the bit is as good or better. I always try to buy USA made tools, but in this case I felt the Taiwanese product was better for my needs. If made in USA is essential, I would go with Bondhus as their hex keys, t-handles, and hex screwdrivers have treated me well. Proto would be my second choice if you are willing to spend the money.

 

[chogan]

http://www.bondhus.com/bondhus_products/tool_categories/socket_bits/index.html
http://www.bondhus.com/bondhus_products/features/lifetime-warranty.html

 

[ihateminimumwage]

Those are special Armstrong Eliminator sockets that only work with other Eliminator tools and Matco Special Forces tools. You can't use them with your regular 3/8" tools.

Damn, that's too bad to hear. I was wondering what the "Eliminator" thing in the title was...

 

[sonvolt]

Look at a cripe and then SK or Proto. I have the Lisle set and the ball detent is pretty non existent and the socket comes off pretty easy

 

[stage20]

Pass on lisle. I've never used their allen but star bits are way soft. I have better luck with china. Those armstrongs for 50 look like the ticket.

 

[defektes]

I have never had good luck with Lisle torx bits. I have broken to many to count. It seems to be a common thing among GJ members.

Depends, the single piece style **** big time, like you have stripped out many of the torx.. but the two piece ones are great.

 

[John in OH]

Another "moderately" priced set is the USA-made Wright #353. Sizes 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10mm in 3/8" drive for $80 from HJE: http://store.harryepstein.com/cp/38drsets/353.html

 

[rayh91]

I have a 6pc set of USA Craftsman. The smaller sizes are horrible. I think I broke one just by looking at it. I use the number 10 a lot and it has held up though.

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

The smaller sizes are horrible. I think I broke one just by looking at it..

agree, I had small torx screwdriver and it was pretty bad.

 

[Wamsutta]

Another vote for Proto.

 

[ADSR]

Another "moderately" priced set is the USA-made Wright #353. Sizes 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10mm in 3/8" drive for $80 from HJE: http://store.harryepstein.com/cp/38drsets/353.html

those look nice!

 

[zcbauer89]

Wright hex sockets are great, I also like SK hex sockets. Both really great companies to deal with too.

 

[nicksnothereman]

So I'm looking to buy a metric hex bit socket set for work and I'd prefer American made. I work in a machine shop and it just feels wrong to be making parts all day and then picking up a foreign made tool to get a job done.

I was looking at this set from SK but I was a little shocked when I saw the price. I already have a couple of their socket sets and really like them. I could justify the cost though knowing the quality and that they should be easy to warranty if needed.

Then I thought that I had found a more affordable set when I saw this one by Blackhawk, but it appears that it's made in Taiwan.

I also saw this Lisle set, which is almost HF cheap, but they ain't very pretty and some of the reviews aren't very good. Also I don't know how good their "limited" lifetime warranty is.

So I'm just wondering what other brands you guys might recommend, or if there are any good deals out there right now. The SK set is at the top of my list even with the price and I'm probably going to order this SK ratchet as well but it's not that big of a deal if the sockets are from another brand.

So let me know whatcha got.

Where are the vim ones made? Might be taiwan now but always in high regard especially the one piece (if hex is available; I know they exist in torx). Price might be too high though.

 

[XxToolAholicxX]

S-K Tools, Proto or Wright. If not in a hurry go to your local flea market or go on eBay for nice used ones.
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