Good locking extensions

[Chadwilliam1]

I have some craftsman locking extensions that are not very good. I would like to upgrade I am torn between Armstron and SK. I dont want to pay truck brand prices but I do want made in USA can anybody give me some useful recommendations. I am only looking for 1/4 and 3/8 at the moment.


Thanks.

 

[Spudland_Dave]

I got a set of MAC "Macsimizer Handled" extensions which I absolutely LOVE. Got em when they were BOGO, Price was reasonable.

 

[Givl Reggin]

What's your gripe about the Craftsman extensions? I have them and they seem to do what they're designed to do. I actually prefer them over the Snapon because the locking mechanism is less obtrusive.

 

[firebox40dash5]

I've had the Armstrong impacts for a couple months so far, and like them. A definite plus is they haven't had a socket stuck on them because the crappy plastic button broke off, like Craftsman. I think I paid ~$60 a set, got the 1/4s from cripe and the 3/8s from Amazon.

 

[Chadwilliam1]

like stated above the button broke off twice now. Are the Armstrong impact extensions bulky?

 

[mattmankow]

I have a 1/4 SK and 3/8 Sk set. I also have a matco 3/8 single. I much prefer the Matco. The Sk uses about the same mechanism, but the roll pin that holds the mechanism to the ext will get loose and fall out with use. Matco I have had longer and never had that problem. Don't have any Armstrong.

 

[devoncoolman]

Snappys are nice. They are now a one piece design. No longer have roll pins. I would go with either sk or armstong. Both good brands.

 

[firebox40dash5]

Matco I have had longer and never had that problem. Don't have any Armstrong.

Sure you do. Same thing, different stamp/etching.

The collar is a touch bulky on the impact ones, but it has yet to get in my way.

 

[Chadwilliam1]

looks like i cant go wrong either way. I will just keep an eye on them if one or the other goes on sale I will pick them up.

Thanks.

 

[mattmankow]

I got both SK stes off Ebay brand new. Keep an eye out on there also.

 

[Fedwrench]

Are the Armstrong impact extensions bulky?

No. they're the size of chrome versions. Armstrong locking impact extensions are rebadged by others such as Matco and Mac.
Another option would be PROTO. They have excellent chrome locking extensions that feature knurling on the shaft and if you have a discount code from Zoro, may be cheaper.