Does anybody else like the HF composite ratchets?

[The Metric System]

I've been working in industry for ~25 years, and have used (and currently own) ratchets from most/all of the big name US and international brands.

Still, the most-used ratchets I own are these plastic Pittsburgh ones from Harbor freight:

https://www.harborfreight.com/38-in-drive-composite-quick-release-ratchet-70165.html

The chunky offset plastic handle is comfortable to hold, they don't get hot/cold when working outdoors, don't conduct heat or electricity, and the soft plastic casing won't mar or chip surfaces like a metallic one can. Plus the ratchet mechanism is strong/smooth enough for any work I've ever done, and they're cheap enough to have one in every car and in all my traveling work bags.

The only real downside is that they are chunky, so I switch to smaller all-steel ratchets for real close/awkward work but for the other ~95% of my uses they really are my favorite option.

I was previously concerned with how well the handle materials would hold up to grease and solvents, but it doesn't seem to be an issue after 10+ years of use.

 

[dnschmidt]

I like them too.

 

[finn]

I like to dig mine out in the winter.

They don’t transfer heat out of your fingers like a steel ratchet does.

 

[CGarage]

I have these but made under a brand Hazet owns.

I like them a lot!

There is slightly too much play in the anvil, but this can sometimes be an advantage.

They feel great in the hand and the soft finish is good for working near delicate materials.

 

[rust in the eye]

No. I gave away mine for precisely the reason, chunky, some like it. Aside that it was a decent enough ratchet for the $$.

 

[ecotec]

I prefer this style to the chunky handle ones.