Dumb question... about an indexing ratchet.

[48548]

What is an indexing ratchet used for? I was looking at a snap on ebay and forgot to put in a snipe.... Then I noticed on this site toptul, and seeing how I want to get a few of there tools to test out and to cover when I don't have or use a lot, I was curious if I should get an indexing ratchet, but don't know what they are used for, thanks. I could only come up with an angle that a regular ratchet might not fit it, but other than that, I knew I would just ask you guys, the "tool gods".

 

[wrenchr]

I have never needed one, I had a proto one and ended up selling it.

 

[48548]

I guess that is what I was thinking my father and I have never needed one, so I was wondering where it fit in?

 

[dxdexter]

They are basically a ratchet that has re-positionable handle to aid in using in areas where obstructions exist and in tight areas. I have never used one and think my flex head does a somewhat similar task.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

Like said before, the reach around obstructions. Seldom used, but invaluable when needed.

I'm looking for a Snap-on 3/8", just for the sake of having one. The push-pull ratcheting is also quite handy in tight spaces.

 

[Uncle Buck]

I have a couple of cheap ones, but I have never used either one.

 

[Crasen]

I used to use them all the time with a crowfoot wrench to take hydraulic lines off. I have one in my tool box but I do not use it very often anymore.