Bit by bit...

[LordPsychon]

Here's a general question: is there a reason for me to purchase a bit socket set (meaning driver bits that are fitted into a socket) if I have a 1/4" bit adaptor for driver bits? I was looking at the Husky set at HD for around $25 and they seem decent but do I need it?

 

[d.mcfarland]

Depends what you work on.

 

[mossyboy6]

They just save a bit of time. (pun intended)

They are also more clearly marked and easier to find, and generally the socket has a thinner profile compared to the universal bit socket.

 

[Adam.C]

So, using a ratchet to drive a phillips bit for example?

I have blue point bit sockets. There are 2 versions, one like the Lisle set where it is all piece. The other is a proper bit socket. I don't really use or care for either. Cheap bit sockets are often soft. I use these things when I feel I need more torque than a screwdriver can provide. So fundamentally, I guess my answer is no, you don't need them. When you need a ratchet, it's either because you have no space for a screw driver or because you need more torq than a screwdriver can provide. In which case, you need a bit socket of greater than normal hardness. The Snap Ons are good enough. Blue point, craftsman, lisle are all not good enough in my experience.

 

[LordPsychon]

So, using a ratchet to drive a phillips bit for example?

I have blue point bit sockets. There are 2 versions, one like the Lisle set where it is all piece. The other is a proper bit socket. I don't really use or care for either. Cheap bit sockets are often soft. I use these things when I feel I need more torque than a screwdriver can provide. So fundamentally, I guess my answer is no, you don't need them. When you need a ratchet, it's either because you have no space for a screw driver or because you need more torq than a screwdriver can provide. In which case, you need a bit socket of greater than normal hardness. The Snap Ons are good enough. Blue point, craftsman, lisle are all not good enough in my experience.

Awesome, thanks! I felt like maybe I was missing something since these things are available but now I can save my money for more wrenches/ratchets which I actually use.

 

[Wizzard]

When talking about the phillips/flat head versions I don't think they work efficiently on the end of a ratchet. I'd rather use a good screwdriver. Now the hex and star bit sockets can get used frequently on bolts, especially on import vehicles.

 

[Adam.C]

I may not have understood the question. I really like my ratcheting screwdrivers. So I use the 1/4 hex bits pretty frequently especially t20 Phillips 2 and pozi 2. My favorite screwdriver is the stubby soft grip snap on with the (long) 9" shank. And I have a little socket that is 1/4 square to 1/4 hex, but like I said, it's not great for high torque. I do use it with my speed wrench, which is old school.

I guess I feel pretty strongly about bit sockets. I really prefer snap on, and the gold ones specifically. On cars, socket head screws are often used in space restricted areas and high torque applications. So fundamentally, I want bit sockets that aren't going to break or strip the screw head.

Of all the tools I would recommend buying from snap on, i think the biggest life changers are flare nut wrenches and bit sockets. I like other snap on tools, don't I don't think they are as mission critical as the two afore mentioned.