Looking for input on the Craftsman Universal tools that advertise taking on 6 different style heads with one tool... to me, being someone who is new to the tool world this seems prefect, I can limit the amount of tools I need to purchase by buying a few different of these sets.... What do you guys think? Input is welcome!
Craftsman Universal Tools
- Thread starter tecster
- Start date
thesilverone
Well-known member
nothing is universal
Stuey
Well-known member
If the choice is between cheap 12pt combination wrenches and universal wrenches, I might go for the universal wrenches. But good combo wrenches vs. universal? I'd go for the good combos. Good combo wrenches vs. good universal ones? Good question.
For consumer-aimed tools, "universal" patterns are largely gimmicky. Casual DIYers do not commonly come across E-Torx, 12pt, or spline fasteners. So the "6-in-1" argument becomes hollow really fast.
Someone new to the tool world would probably benefit from more standardized 12pt wrenches and 6pt sockets. Most customers that buy universal tools don't see any more advantages over traditional tools. Some universal tools do work slightly better on rounded fasteners, but not enough to justify a complete set of universal tools, in my opinion.
The Craftsman Universal tools are alright, but don't place too much emphasis on the "6-in-1" factor.
firebox40dash5
Well-known member
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- Mar 19, 2012
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How often do you encounter spline, 12 point, or square fasteners? Then consider that how well they work on the regular 6 point fasteners you encounter 99% of the time is inversely related to how many other kinds of fasteners it works on. 
KPSquared
Well-known member
What?!? Turn in your man card immediately.
But seriously,
Multi anything or universal anything generally do an average job of many things rather than one job very well. I'm a "right tool for the job" kinda guy so I stick to having as many tools as possible.
Like was said above though, maybe if the choice is a whole bunch of cheap tools vs. high quality universal tools then go with the universal. We are talking Craftsman here though. . .
Do the truck tools have many universal things?
I'm just gonna stick with 1 tool for 1 job.
Haha it's more of a budget thing... the whole, first house & vacation to Germany & Italy this fall... haha oh add impatients in there!
Loscaldazar
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- Feb 23, 2013
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- 2,385
"Jack of all Trades, Master of None"
My theory on universal tools. And seeing as how I've never come across a spline, 12 point, square, etc in my (short) years of working on cars and around the house, I've been very happy with 6 point sockets. If I did run into a spline or 12 point bolt, I would just buy the socket individually, as if you ever run into one, it would only be one or two sizes.
My theory on universal tools. And seeing as how I've never come across a spline, 12 point, square, etc in my (short) years of working on cars and around the house, I've been very happy with 6 point sockets. If I did run into a spline or 12 point bolt, I would just buy the socket individually, as if you ever run into one, it would only be one or two sizes.
joe_padavano
Well-known member
Exceller8
Well-known member
At first I really loved the universal tools, but after using them for a few projects I just can't recommend them. They slip off the fasteners too easily.
jakemac
Well-known member
Just remember, you will have a lifetime to acquire your tool hoard. Right now, just think in terms of "basic". This will let you discover what you like and don't like about the tools that you will be using. What brands you feel more comfortable with. And what tools will be helpful in your interests.
Speaking of which, your interests, and projects will change over time. The tools that you think you need now, may not be the tools you will need later.
My suggestion would be to get a basic set of tools for general use. Then, put together a small tool budget out of your paycheck each week to add to a tool fund, to use for picking up the tools that you will need as projects arise. This will let you build up your tool inventory on a basis of usefulness, rather than taking up money and space that may not be needed now. That doesn't mean you should pass up a good deal when it comes along, but a dedicated tool fund will make it easier to pull the trigger if you don't have to take the money from the mortgage payment.
ilovevocs
Well-known member
If you don't own anything this would be where I would start.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_...nics&AutoTools&sName=Mechanics Tool Setsmv=rr
Once your tool obsession is in full effect it will make a nice travel kit for your truck or car, cabin, motorhome, boat, airplane...what ever really.
Add a basic craftsman screwdriver set and your fairly well equipped for basic wrenching tasks. You will likely have to purchase tools for certain projects, but budget for it, in both time and money.
928'er
Well-known member
"Universal" tools are always a compromise - they don't do anything as well as the proper tool for the job.
Quijote
Well-known member
I got this set
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00931088000P?PDP_REDIRECT=false&s_tnt=39869:4:0
primarily because I wanted the maxx access part of it, even though I will seldom use it. I figured I might as well get the universal set just in case it comes handy.
It's short money (under $40) and covers the majority of the sizes I will need, so I thought it was worth it.
But universal wrenches? Nah.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00931088000P?PDP_REDIRECT=false&s_tnt=39869:4:0
primarily because I wanted the maxx access part of it, even though I will seldom use it. I figured I might as well get the universal set just in case it comes handy.
It's short money (under $40) and covers the majority of the sizes I will need, so I thought it was worth it.
But universal wrenches? Nah.
jjjrmx5
Well-known member
No.
You need to figure out what you need.
And will use.
Sponsored by the Dept. of Redundancy Department.
LOL.
But true.
Ign
Well-known member
I haven't looked closely at their "universal" stuff but SK has been claiming this for at least a decade w their G-pro stuff. I've got the reversible ratcheting SK's and they're awesome, altho maybe only once have I used them on square drive, and some of that can just be dumb luck 'cause a lot of 12pt will fit a square if the sizes happen to be right.
I'm not standing up for Craftsman but my point is that it can be done successfully. Or at least my SK's don't slip off standard hex heads.
I'm not standing up for Craftsman but my point is that it can be done successfully. Or at least my SK's don't slip off standard hex heads.
Farmall450
Well-known member
We've been using cman's 3/8" socket sets exclusively in the shop, they have indeed been "universal," firing everything and anything well and without marring.
Farmall450
Well-known member
'course they're Taiwanese now
Think they always have been.
Think they always have been.
I take it you are referring to the new Craftsman modular Bolt-On system?
http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/dap_10155_12602_DAP_Bolt+On
I have no input on it, but I don't think most know what you're referencing.
Farmall450
Well-known member
He's talkin about the universal sockets I believe.
No.
You need to figure out what you need.
And will use.
Sponsored by the Dept. of Redundancy Department.
LOL.
But true.
I need...
SAE - 1/4 to 1 1/2 : Wrenches & Sockets
Metric - 5mm - 25mm : Wrenches & Sockets
Screwdrivers - Flat & Phillips Various Sizes
Ratchets - Various Sizes
Air Compressor
Impact Gun
Impact Ratchet
Air Accessories (valves, nozzles, etc)
Electric Impact
HF 44" Tool Chest
Mig Welder
Welding Accessories
Drill Press for fabrication
Jackstands
Low Profile Jack
Fluid Line Flare Set
Tap & Die Set
I'm sure there is more I am forgetting.
ilovevocs
Well-known member
That will get you started! Maybe it's me but my tool wish list seems to grow longer and longer despite the fact that I'm always purchasing them. If your going to by a welder you'll need a grinder, welding table, torch, saw of some sort. Then you will find a need for a lathe and a mill, then a surface plate, measuring tools, then you'll start looking for Cnc machines, then a surface grinder.....I'm telling you it doesn't stop. The. Every time you purchase a large piece you have to rethink the organization of the shop.
Pumpman1968
Well-known member
It is a never ending pursuit.