Favorite ratchet and why?

[Numbnuts]

I really like the Stanley ratchet handle profile but the mechanism inside is so far below the strength of GearWrench I can't do it. I do like Crescent as a close second and a bit less expensive.

What's your pick and why? Is there another alternative I haven't thought of?

 

[AreYaSerious]

I love my flexhead gearwrench with the comfort grip, but like most everyone has different ratchets for different things.

 

[impactims]

Lots of different ratchets for lots of different situations.

1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4 inch drive.

Different lengths.

Different tooth counts.

Flex head, straight head.

Different handle and grip types.

Different finishes.

.....and then some.....

There are so many different types of ratchets for so many different kinds of tasks that there really can be no favorite, unless you mean from a sentimental standpoint. And if that's the case, then my favorites are 60s and 70s era snap on ratchets, standard length, straight head, hard grip, straight handle, low tooth count.

Favorite ratchet from a performance or functionality perspective....there is no good answer. Too many variables. It's pointless to ask.

 

[Yarpo]

http://www.gearwrench.com/ratchets-...ve-84-tooth-flex-head-teardrop-ratchet-7.html

https://store.snapon.com/Dual-80-17...0-Technology-Long-Handle-Ratchet-P646910.aspx

Toss up between these two. I've owned the Gearwrench significantly longer and have used it so much and never once had a complaint. Flex head is just firm enough, the 84T mechanism is great and its cheap. I own three of them "just in case" lol.

The TL72 is great, I also use my TLL72 a lot but the TL72 has been good to me. It's a snap on, not much to say about it. I don't think its anything insane and honestly really do not mind my Gearwrench ratchets, but it is a great ratchet that functions and is also a joy to use day in and day out.

Outside of 1/4" ratchets, most my work is done with an M12 ratchet or some variation of M18 impact.

 

[Wamsutta]

The TL72 is great, I also use my TLL72 a lot but the TL72 has been good to me.

Let my ask you a question: Do you think it's possible to over torque an oil filter with your TL72? You'd have to use a 1/4 to 3/8 adapter and a cup wrench, but it can be done. The reason why I ask is because I've got the TL830 version and I'm thinking about making it my oil filter tightening ratchet.

 

[warrens]

The handle of Snap On FH80 is easy on my hands.

 

[Tonyuk]

Let my ask you a question: Do you think it's possible to over torque an oil filter with your TL72? You'd have to use a 1/4 to 3/8 adapter and a cup wrench, but it can be done. The reason why I ask is because I've got the TL830 version and I'm thinking about making it my oil filter tightening ratchet.

Just tighten them by hand?

My favourite ratchets are,

1/2" - Gearwrench flex head

3/8 - Facom sealed head OR a long Tone flex head

1/4" - Gearwrench flex head.

 

[Yarpo]

Let my ask you a question: Do you think it's possible to over torque an oil filter with your TL72? You'd have to use a 1/4 to 3/8 adapter and a cup wrench, but it can be done. The reason why I ask is because I've got the TL830 version and I'm thinking about making it my oil filter tightening ratchet.

Like a screw on filter, or a canister style filter that has various size top in the plastic? Either way I think you could probably over torque both of them with an adapter and a TL72, tho you'd need to put a small amount of effort fourth. Filters don't need to be much tighter than hand tight (Many even say hand tight only) but a small ratchet like that would be pretty good and keep one from going over board I suppose.

 

[Elvie84]

1/2 Stanley ratchet S-K 1/2 and crescent 3/4 they seem like great ratchets

 

[Iluvbeer]

Probably my GW 120xp flex head. It’s butter smooth.

 

[k1rodeoboater]

My harbor freight ratchets are by and far my favorites. As for why...

-cheap
-my one warranty exchange was the most painless I've had to deal with
-they fit my hand well and the mechanisms are smooth

Full disclosure I'm an above average DIY guy, not a pro, and only have some vintage Craftsman, SK and assorted other hand me down tools from my father and grandfather as a comparison. For my uses they are perfect, as a pro I might be inclined to go a different route....but then again maybe not.

 

[Wamsutta]

Like a screw on filter, or a canister style filter that has various size top in the plastic? Either way I think you could probably over torque both of them with an adapter and a TL72, tho you'd need to put a small amount of effort fourth. Filters don't need to be much tighter than hand tight (Many even say hand tight only) but a small ratchet like that would be pretty good and keep one from going over board I suppose.

Yes I meant the spin-on type oil filter. Being that the TL72 has such a skinny handle, it might help to provide a better feel to prevent over tightening - is what I was thinking.

 

[sweet victory]

I use a Snap On THR72 (1/4" drive with quick release) as my go to ratchet. I prefer it over my THRLX72. (1/4" drive, quick release, locking flex head, slightly longer than the non flex head)

I like it for it's small size. I typically always use an extension, so the quick release ensures I'm pulling the socket off just the extension, and not accidentally taking everything off the ratchet.

 

[seber]

Armstrong 3/8 80 tooth pear head on an older Snap-on long flex handle. If they don't make what you want, fix it yourself.

 

[b7labelle]

Probably my GW 120xp flex head. It’s butter smooth.

********. Have you READ all about the bAcKdRag those have?

I had a 3/8 120xp, I liked it until the guts fell on the floor lol. I need to get around to ordering a replacement kit, or dig around under the toolboxes to find all the little pieces.



My favorite ratchet is probably my 1/2" Wright, the finish is amazing, the grip is so comfy with no hot spots, and the sucker is easy to use. Got a 3/8" from HJE on the way too!

 

[Mgdoug3]

I must have gotten really luck because my GW 120xp ratchets have low back drag. My favorite ratchet though is a SK 3870 with a DT80 mechanism. I like how I can break loose a bolt then use it like a screwdriver. Second favorite is another SK 42470 with DT100 mechanism. It just feels good in your hands. I have a few Dual 80's but I usually reach for my SK ratchets first.

 

[LXCam]

My favorite isn’t the smoothest or the most comfortable or a half other various things. It doesn’t break loose or tighten stuff up work a damn. Maybe it’s just the fact I’ve had it for far too many years. But when I’ve got a bunch of spinning to do, this paired with a 18” extension is the ticket for me and it’s out just about anytime I’m wrenching.

 

[Danglerb]

Most often in my hand, HF roto head 1/4 drive. Maybe not my favorite, but often the best for the job at hand.

Or are you talking about ratcheting screwdrivers? I like the Stanley, but I don't beat on it, I have other tools for more force.

 

[Snapped-off]

This with a quick-release head swapped onto it. Don't think I've ever taken a picture of it.

 

[BarryWells]

if i had to keep one brand ??? Hard call. Matco 88 most likely

 

[Jtels85]

I prefer my Craftsman thin profile 60 tooth ratchets, Taiwan made, stamped L-AA. I bought them from Sears in 2011 I believe. They’re smoother than my “KZ” USA made 60 tooth ratchet set and don’t seem to jam or switch like my L-AF 84 tooth models. Comfortable feel, well balanced and gets the job done. They’re my go-to’s.

 

[uncwstudent]

Gearwrench 84T, SK roundheads, and Matco 88t's. I like em smooth and strong.

 

[theluke]

An old Williams B 52 superratchet. Got it for cheap at a yard sale. Love how it feels in the hand. Smoothest ratchet I own.