Craftsman Mach T handle 1/4 or 3/8?

[ajchien]

I'm looking at adding a craftsman Mach t handle to my toolbox. You know, that spinner tool. Not sure if the 1/4 or the 3/8 is the better tool.

As far as I'm concerned, I think I'd pretty much use it for 8 and 10mm fasteners, so either would "work". I figure the 1/4" would be lighter and easier to handle, yet the 3/8" would feel beefier and may spin with more momentum.

Anyone have both and can compare the two for me?

 

[vjquan]

The GJ crowd would say BOTH! For fasteners that small, I'd say the 1/4". The 3/8" would be too bulky.

 

[zkling]

I like the 3/8", unfortunately they are both the same overall size, just the 3/8" has a larger shaft diameter. It spins better due to the greater weight and has less flex in bending and torsion. With a 3/8 to 1/4" and 3/8 to 1/2" adapter it can do the widest variety without being too large or too small. Thank you SYW surprise points!

I'll add, if you primarily work with 1/4" sized sockets that are straight walled on the outside, the 1/4" version can shine as it will get deep into a recess and you won't have to worry about clearance as the largest point will be the socket instead of an adapter.