Armstrong 11-994 VS Snap-On FX80

[Strouty]

When the snap on ratchets lock, they feel like a non flex. I will agree that the mechanism is too easy to engage when it is bumped by just about anything. I own both versions of most ratchets and I look at the locking flex head as just plain adjustable and only reach for them when the regular flex head is not working for me.

 

[Loscaldazar]

How well does the locking mechanism lock the head on the SO? I've never held a SO locking flex ratchet to compare to the Armstrong/Matco.

The SO lock very well, but the locking mechanism on the Armstrong is better. Less likely to be bumped while in use.

Based on owning both matco and Snap on, they are a horse a piece overall. All matco I own have the same jamming issue when trying to switch direction one handed. The pawl has to be rocked slightly to shift. That one thing I will give the edge to SO. Strength wise, I'd say equal.

Try stretching the spring every so slightly in the Matco ratchets. The spring they used for years was either too short or not strong enough (or both). They fixed it when they switched to AJM to make the ratchets (finally).

 

[stage20]

*Formerly made by Armstrong*

Now AJ manufacturing does the Matco ones, and Armstrong is being shut down.

The ones made by AJ manufacturing are identical to the armstrong ones as far as I can tell sans a stiffer spring on the pawl and better stamping on the AJ units.

correct, but you know what i mean. one says matco so its got to be better.....

 

[stage20]

Based on owning both matco and Snap on, they are a horse a piece overall. All matco I own have the same jamming issue when trying to switch direction one handed. The pawl has to be rocked slightly to shift. That one thing I will give the edge to SO. Strength wise, I'd say equal.

yep gotta hold the socket and flip the lever. pain in the *** sometimes. i dont use it often, but i got it cheap and its in my drawer. its actually a nice ratchet other than that.