Favorite 1/4" ratchet.

[JradM]

Since this thread is STILL going, I might as well post too.

How about 1/4" Proto Premium pear head?


I love my Proto classic pear heads as much as anybody, but the premium pear head is my pick. It's awesome looking - I realize taste is personal, but I love the high-polish rounded look with all the edges rounded over, plus the knurling accents and the tapering handle.

The head on the 1/4" is tiny. Hard to gauge from the photo without something for scale - but consider the diameter of the handle for comparison. It works great, its strong.

I know you mentioned roto-head ratchets. I went through a phase where I was 100% roto, 100% of the time. If I need the flex aspect these days though, I reach for this:



Yeah, another Proto. Sorry, can't help myself. This time it's a round-head flex though.

If you want a budget roto, I have the Husky and it's not that different from everything else I've tried. Handle slipped off mine eventually, but I could have exchanged it. Instead I just put some better glue on, slipped on the handle and put it back into action. I was actually thinking of re-handling.



It's cheap, easy to find and has a lifetime warranty.

I know someone mentioned the Laser roto. That thing is cool. It's actually sold by a few different brands - probably all made in the same factory. If I spot it or a clone on sale, I'll probably pick it up too. This is also sold by Wurth.



Wera Zyklop is neat too. I've come very close to getting one, but Wera's handle just doesn't work for me as well as others.

Also, no matter what, you owe it to yourself to pick up a Titan micro swivel ratchet:



These are TINY - and still 90t too. They make it with a 1/4" hex end for insert bits too. It comes in anodized aluminum in different colors and a chrome-vanadium version.



These won't be your go-to ratchets, they're too small. But they're neat and handy.

 

[Old Donn]

Bought Snap-On 1/4 and 3/8 ratchets a few years back just because. As an amateur, I probably don't use them enough to justify the expense, but oh well.

 

[javyLSU]

Hi,
Thanks for the reply.

I did call Snap-on. After being on hold for a while a nice guy answered and ended up helping me.
I actually have 3 tools that need parts/repair, two ratchets and a multi-position pry bar.

For the pry bar he is sending parts/repair kit.
A small pearhead ratchet from (I think the 1950s) and this swivel head he said were too old and they don’t have parts for them. So he wants me to send in the originals and they will exchange.

Now I’m torn. I like that the rotohead has a metal selector switch - that looks like maybe zinc?
I am sure the new one will be plastic. Also I don’t know how big the new version will be.

Anyone know what I should expect?
Any good reason to favor the older one (probably from the 1980s)? Smaller size, all metal parts, etc.?

Regardless of my anxieties, I have to say I’m impressed. It looks like Snap-on is handling things.
Sometimes you get what you pay for.
Even if it’s 40 years later.

The new 1/4” swivel heads still have a metal switch. The 3/8” are plastic.

 

[four.cycle]

"I realize taste is personal..."

.... which is, in the end, the determining factor.

I have two of those Proto models at the top of your post above. Fit, finish, and workmanship is flawless. I thought I was buying a tool - I wasn't expecting jewelry. They're almost too pretty to use.
Maybe it's just because I'm used to something different, but I didn't care for it much in use because of the weight - it is considerably heavier than either the little Snap-on or Indestro models I usually grab first.

The second one - the Italian-made unit - is a real piece of work. I didn't get a swivel head like yours - mine is the conventional type. I was greatly disappointed when I first got it, until I opened it up and put some lubricant into it. Curiously, it came from the factory bone dry.
A few drops of oil is all it took to turn it into a race car.

I don't own any of those other models you've shown and cannot speak to them.

As to "personal taste", unfortunately all too often it's actually something else.

 

[bwringer]

Also, no matter what, you owe it to yourself to pick up a Titan micro swivel ratchet:



These are TINY - and still 90t too. They make it with a 1/4" hex end for insert bits too. It comes in anodized aluminum in different colors and a chrome-vanadium version.



These won't be your go-to ratchets, they're too small. But they're neat and handy.

I love these silly little things. They're so CUUUUUUUUUUUTE!

And when you need then to turn the formerly unreachable, instead of just lying there in the drawer looking adorable, they do indeed work quite well.

They're usually on the shelf at O'Reilly Auto Parts. YMMV -- I didn't see them last time I wandered into an O'R.

 

[ShadowBoxer]

The new 1/4” swivel heads still have a metal switch. The 3/8” are plastic.

Thank you. I really appreciate your help with this.
I think I figured out that my TM738 is 32 teeth. I just counted a quarter rotation and multiplied by four.

The new one is 72 I believe. Now you tell me the switch is still metal.
I guess there really is no rational reason to hang on to the old one.

By the way, does anyone have any experience/ opinion on their FNF 100 (3/8 swivel head)?
If you have it, do you notice a difference from the previous version?

I found some offered for sale but I am only going to buy one or the other. Of course the FNF 100 is more expensive. I am trying to figure out if it is worth the up charge or what would be a reasonable difference. Do you think it would be worth $40, $50, or $60 more?

Apologies for the 3/8 tangent.
Thanks again for any guidance, amusing anecdotes, words of warning…

 

[JradM]

.... which is, in the end, the determining factor.

I have two of those Proto models at the top of your post above. Fit, finish, and workmanship is flawless. I thought I was buying a tool - I wasn't expecting jewelry. They're almost too pretty to use.
Maybe it's just because I'm used to something different, but I didn't care for it much in use because of the weight - it is considerably heavier than either the little Snap-on or Indestro models I usually grab first.

The second one - the Italian-made unit - is a real piece of work. I didn't get a swivel head like yours - mine is the conventional type. I was greatly disappointed when I first got it, until I opened it up and put some lubricant into it. Curiously, it came from the factory bone dry.
A few drops of oil is all it took to turn it into a race car.

I don't own any of those other models you've shown and cannot speak to them.

As to "personal taste", unfortunately all too often it's actually something else.

You might like Williams - the USA stuff. Finishing... leaves something to be desired.

They don't bother polishing in the crevices, the knurling is real knurling, but it ain't fancy. Yet, I tip my hat to them. My B52a for example probably has the lowest back drag of all my ratchets. I keep a couple even though they're not my overall favorites.

Good value too. Not near as expensive as other USA options.

The Williams Taiwan ratchets aren't bad either. They have much, much nicer finishing and complicated but comfy grips. I'm on the fence though because one of mine has quite different ratcheting characteristics ratcheting one way versus the other. It bugs me and makes me wonder about the QC.

I think ratchets are awesome. For $20-150, your ordinary sockets can get a major upgrade.

Am I the only person in danger of having more ratchets than sockets?

 

[javyLSU]

Thank you. I really appreciate your help with this.
I think I figured out that my TM738 is 32 teeth. I just counted a quarter rotation and multiplied by four.

The new one is 72 I believe. Now you tell me the switch is still metal.
I guess there really is no rational reason to hang on to the old one.

By the way, does anyone have any experience/ opinion on their FNF 100 (3/8 swivel head)?
If you have it, do you notice a difference from the previous version?

I found some offered for sale but I am only going to buy one or the other. Of course the FNF 100 is more expensive. I am trying to figure out if it is worth the up charge or what would be a reasonable difference. Do you think it would be worth $40, $50, or $60 more?

Apologies for the 3/8 tangent.
Thanks again for any guidance, amusing anecdotes, words of warning…

I also own the FHNF100 - I like it because it’s longer than most of the other swivel/roto head 3/8” ratchets on the market. Funny thing was I was afraid of how the plastic selector switch would feel, but it’s got more of a “click” when changing directions than my 1/4” THNF72 does. It’s built like a tank, no complaints from me, and I would definitely buy it again. This was from the day I got it off the truck:

 

[ShadowBoxer]

Hi javyLSU,
That is what I was thinking too; it looks longer than others. I am looking at the regular steel handle.
I think the other manufactures try to fit their 3/8 ratchet lengths in between 1/4 and 1/2 drives length and end up around 8 or 9 inches long.
I would prefer a 1/4 and 1/2 but I noticed that the Snap-on 3/8 swivel head is a bit longer and kind of bridges the gap to the 1/2 drive’s standard of about twelve inches. I do like that and it got me looking again.

Rationally speaking I REALLY don’t need another 3/8 ratchet though…
I go back and forth between I want it and it’s not an emergency, I can always get it later.

That will work for awhile.
Ask me in about a year how I like it and I’m sure I’ll have an answer by then. : )
Cheers.

 

[bonneyman]

I love these silly little things. They're so CUUUUUUUUUUUTE!

And when you need then to turn the formerly unreachable, instead of just lying there in the drawer looking adorable, they do indeed work quite well.

They're usually on the shelf at O'Reilly Auto Parts. YMMV -- I didn't see them last time I wandered into an O'R.

That's one of the reasons I hate going into O'Reilly's. They have that tool display pedestal right up near the front counter, so while you're waiting in line to pay for your motor oil you can drool over the tools. Dang tool crack!

 

[four.cycle]

Proto 4749XLQR 1/4" drive ratchet

Proto J4752F 1/4" drive ratchet (made in Italy)

These are the two I mentioned in my post above.
The 4749XLQR is a significant improvement over Proto's old 4749. Some members have made less than favorable comments about the selector lever, which is tiny. As I mentioned, it's a bit heavier than what I am used to using.

The J4752F model is the Italian-made unit which has an amazingly fine mechanism. It's a slick little puppy when it's properly lubricated.

If you try enough different flavors, you'll find they all have their advantages and disadvantages.

 

[redragoon]

I just got a Tone swivel ratchet from Amazon.jp. Not 1/4", but the roto-head design.
I really like the feel and finish. Very good quality for the price.
The locking swivel and push button release work well.
I may get their 1/4" ratchet in the future as well.

 

[JradM]

Proto 4749XLQR 1/4" drive ratchet

Proto J4752F 1/4" drive ratchet (made in Italy)

These are the two I mentioned in my post above.
The 4749XLQR is a significant improvement over Proto's old 4749. Some members have made less than favorable comments about the selector lever, which is tiny. As I mentioned, it's a bit heavier than what I am used to using.

The J4752F model is the Italian-made unit which has an amazingly fine mechanism. It's a slick little puppy when it's properly lubricated.

If you try enough different flavors, you'll find they all have their advantages and disadvantages.

Beautiful. Makes me want to run out to the shop and caress my ratchets.

I've got the 5249XL without the quick release. In 3/8ths though, I have both versions, as well as the long-handle without QR. I usually prefer QR, but I must say I prefer the these without it - admittedly, it might just be because the way the smooth uninterrupted head glints in the sunshine and feels in my hand.

There is the ancillary benefit of a lower overall height on an already small ratchet head. Perhaps not the best if you're working around a lot of grease.


Nothing wrong with Proto's black-oxide finish either, but if you're spending the money on these ratchets, you really ought to spring for the chrome so you can truly appreciate the finishing efforts.

Edit:

BTW. That is an impressive 1/4" ratchet selection. Especially since they are all regular-length round heads (and I presume you have more in other flavors). Well done.

 

[JradM]

I just got a Tone swivel ratchet from Amazon.jp. Not 1/4", but the roto-head design.
I really like the feel and finish. Very good quality for the price.
The locking swivel and push button release work well.
I may get their 1/4" ratchet in the future as well.

Interesting idea, putting a hex there in the middle. I presume that's so you can use it in vertical mode with a wrench - turning it into a ratcheting extension of sorts.

Not sure I need that when extensions are available - but interesting concept nonetheless.

 

[four.cycle]

"... I presume you have more..."

Oh yeah... too many. Those are just the photos I have on file at the moment.
There are several more photo images in another thread but that's still only part of them. The rest are scattered all over the place.

 

[tez929rr]

This thread is costing me money.

 

[Ton ton]

I use mostly 3/8" and 1/2" drive. I'm a little clueless when it comes to 1/4" drive. Thank you for the contributions, everyone.

 

[Flared Base]

Nothing wrong with Proto's black-oxide finish either, but if you're spending the money on these ratchets, you really ought to spring for the chrome so you can truly appreciate the finishing efforts.

I have a couple of Protos with the black oxide finish that I specifically use for oily jobs because it gets less slippery than a chrome finish ratchet. I do agree that the chrome finish does look great on these ratchets.

 

[AirMech#406]

SK LP-90 all day long. Its the tool I use the most and just love it

 

[four.cycle]

I use mostly 3/8" and 1/2" drive. I'm a little clueless when it comes to 1/4" drive.

maybe you should try one.

you don't need a shotgun to kill flies.

Tekton 9-pc SAE or metric socket set on rail $10 bucks incl. shipping

Pardon Our Interruption...

Tekton 1/4" drive ratchet - very nice little unit - $22 bucks incl. shipping

Pardon Our Interruption...

www.ebay.com

are they worth a ****?

yeah... I thought they were very nicely made. the ratchet mechanism is like butter. they've definitely upped their game.

 

[lardy1]

SK LP-90 all day long. Its the tool I use the most and just love it

I can't get mine to stop binding in both directions. SK sent me a rebuild but it still does it. I love my 3/8 and 1/2 drives. I may ask for a replacement and see what happens.

 

[AirMech#406]

I can't get mine to stop binding in both directions. SK sent me a rebuild but it still does it. I love my 3/8 and 1/2 drives. I may ask for a replacement and see what happens.

Yeah definietly get that sucker replaced. I'm guessing you already tried a little lube? mine would also bind but after I put a dab of MS grease on the pawl and switch it has gotten much better.

 

[bonneyman]

This thread is costing me money.

Tool crack. it's a deadly disease, I tell ya!

 

[Handyandy23]

Gearwrench 120XP flex head is my go-to 1/4" ratchet. I have the Tekton roto head as well, but I tend to grab the 120XP first.

 

[bsaint]

Added a pic

 

[kelpaso1]

Added a pic

I hate big screwdriver handles on ratchets, especially 1/4 inch when space where you would use it is often limited. Kinda what's the point then making a small ratchet and sticking a big handle on it to get into tight spaces?

 

[javyLSU]

Your hand is bigger than the handle, how do you plan on operating the ratchet, with pliers?

 

[bsaint]

I hate big screwdriver handles on ratchets, especially 1/4 inch when space where you would use it is often limited. Kinda what's the point then making a small ratchet and sticking a big handle on it to get into tight spaces?

It's not that big. Maybe 3" max. I think its the focal length of my camera lens

 

[cliftonbros89]

My Snap On roto I really like. But I like my other Snap On 1/4”. I don’t like Snap On for everything. But I do like their ratchets. But I have no problem with a classic SK ratchet either. I’ve got an Armstrong & Matco (obviously the same ratchet) but sometimes they skip a bit.

 

[tez929rr]

I love these silly little things. They're so CUUUUUUUUUUUTE!

And when you need then to turn the formerly unreachable, instead of just lying there in the drawer looking adorable, they do indeed work quite well.

They're usually on the shelf at O'Reilly Auto Parts. YMMV -- I didn't see them last time I wandered into an O'R.

I’m up to three of these now. The reason why I said this thread is costing me $$$. But I’m happy about it.

 

[demarpaint]

Gearwrench 120XP flex head is my go-to 1/4" ratchet. I have the Tekton roto head as well, but I tend to grab the 120XP first.

My go to as well, and I have SO, Proto, SK, Craftsman, and a few others.

 

[Handyandy23]

My go to as well, and I have SO, Proto, SK, Craftsman, and a few others.

I've read a lot of people complain about the 120XP ratchets having a lot of back-drag, so I figured I'd grab one in the 1/4" to test it out (since the smaller gear should have more back drag issues of any of the sizes), got it from Amazon so I could return it if it was terrible. Put a couple drops of 3-in-1 oil in it and I've loved it.

 

[TJohn]

No single favorite yet, but I have three in contention for favorite 1/4 inch ratchet, in no particular order: Williams M-52 EHFA, Gearwrench 81016T and Napa Carlyle R14LFQR.

 

[demarpaint]

I've read a lot of people complain about the 120XP ratchets having a lot of back-drag, so I figured I'd grab one in the 1/4" to test it out (since the smaller gear should have more back drag issues of any of the sizes), got it from Amazon so I could return it if it was terrible. Put a couple drops of 3-in-1 oil in it and I've loved it.

I lubed mine with Permatex 81950 when I got it, and it has been great. I have zero complaints which is probably why I keep using it.

 

[Handyandy23]

I lubed mine with Permatex 81950 when I got it, and it has been great. I have zero complaints which is probably why I keep using it.

I've used that in ratchets too. Super Lube worked great in some of my older low-tooth-count ratchets, but completely screwed up my 90T Tekton ratchets. Had to clean it all out and use something thinner. Super Lube being very thick, Permatex 81950 being thinner, and 3-in-1 being thinnest I believe? Since it was a 120 tooth I went with the 3-in-1, but that was just an arbitrary choice.

Honestly the 120XP wasn't bad when I got it, I just have the habit of lubing any ratchet I get new.

 

[BTJHP]

I can't buy the 1/4" ratchet I really want in the US, so I've settled for these.

 

[demarpaint]

I've used that in ratchets too. Super Lube worked great in some of my older low-tooth-count ratchets, but completely screwed up my 90T Tekton ratchets. Had to clean it all out and use something thinner. Super Lube being very thick, Permatex 81950 being thinner, and 3-in-1 being thinnest I believe? Since it was a 120 tooth I went with the 3-in-1, but that was just an arbitrary choice.

Honestly the 120XP wasn't bad when I got it, I just have the habit of lubing any ratchet I get new.

You have the viscosity of the three products correct. My go to is Super Lube, but with the small 1/4" high tooth ratchet I thought 81950 was a better choice. Truth be told 3 in 1, or Mobil 1 0W30, 5W30, 10W30, etc. would have worked too.

I have the same habit of taking them apart cleaning and lubing them when new as well.

 

[kelpaso1]

I can't buy the 1/4" ratchet I really want in the US, so I've settled for these.

Great picture but lousy post when you don't say what brand they are.

 

[AirMech#406]

Great picture but lousy post when you don't say what brand they are.

The black handled one is Tekton rotating head... not sure what the other is.

 

[RTM]

Proto 4749XLQR 1/4" drive ratchet

Hey all, under-informed question for you all. My buddy has one of these, but it's 7.5" long. Really enjoyed borrowing it for a project, so I'd like to buy one. The model number only brings up the ~6" version. Any clues on the correct model number?

He's on vacation now, so I can't ask him.



Thanks