Astro Pneumatic Nano...3/8, 1/2 or both?

[NYBODYMAN]

After searching a bit, it seems I'm late to the party. I just saw the 3/8" version in this month's Hemmings and thought, hmm I need that. Then I saw that they also make a 1/2" version. I don't have any 3/8" impact sockets (which would mean I need to buy some tools ) Which version is everyone using and for what application? I already have a good IR heavy duty impact for lig nuts and stubborn bolts. This/these would be for tight quarters, suspension, undercar etc.

 

[PJNJ]

I've got the 1/2. It has come in handy twice already in tight quarters situations. I bought it before the 3/8 came out but I would probably still get the 1/2. My 1/2 impact sockets go down to 10mm and if I had to put an adapter on the 3/8 to use larger 1/2 impacts, it would lengthen the anvil and negate some of the size advantage plus it would lose some torque.

If I had the extra money, however, I would get both because, well, I can never have too many tools.

 

[kbeefy]

I have both. I've found the 1/2 w/ stubby sockets to be the most beneficial.
The 3/8 doesn't provide many advantages IMHO.

 

[Buckgnarly]

If torque is the same, go 3/8 for the smaller sockets.... of course I also have 3/8 impacts all the way up to 26mm, so that helps if you already have them.

 

[NYBODYMAN]

If I get the 3/8" I would have to get impact sockets as I don't own any in 3/8". I may just have to buy both AND some new 3/8" impact shallow sockets

 

[mcmtech]

I've got the 3/8 and love it, use it professionally. I believe they are both rated at the same torque. There's not many places it won't fit, it's not much bigger than my air ratchet. It really shines underhood taking stuff apart and brake/front end work. If I get a 1/2 stubby I may look at another brand that's rated for more torque.

 

[dsmnickk90]

I would love to get the 3/8. 3/8 drive sockets are quite a bit smaller in size especially 3/8 universal sockets

 

[dnschmidt]

The 3/8" is stronger than the 1/2" version since ASTRO removed some of the noise suppression from the 3/8" model that was build into the 1/2" version which they shipped first. I have both and the 3/8" model is both stronger (that's good) and louder (that's not so good).

A tool this size is greatly benefited by the smaller sockets. You buy it to get into tight spots why waste that advantage by using huge 1/2" drive sockets.

 

[bcradio]

Agreed with most others on here... definitely get the 3/8 for the smaller sockets.

 

[md21722]

Get both and let us know.

I tend to prefer the higher nut busting torque of the 1/2" over the 3/8" myself but see a use for each.

 

[anndel]

I have both and use the 1/2" more. For 3/8", I use the Astro 1128 impact ratchet almost always.

 

[wrenchr]

I have the 3/8 nano, just waiting on a tool company to step up and make supershort impact sockets.................Astro there you go!!!

 

[bcradio]

Get both and let us know.

I tend to prefer the higher nut busting torque of the 1/2" over the 3/8" myself but see a use for each.

Luckily with these they are the same exact torque.

 

[Loscaldazar]

I'd get the 3/8 Nano and get the m7 nc-4630q for 1/2 drive. The m7 is a little bit shorter (1/16 of an inch, so almost no difference) but a bit wider. More powerful too for 1/2 drive than the nano, which is appreciated.