hex wrench sockets

[rweaver]

looking to buy a set of hex wrench sockets and trying to decide between standard and the ones with the ball on the end for slight angles (don't know if this is useful or needed) any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks Ron

 

[Tim37]

Snap on is the best I have found Mac and proto are good Stanley is ok kobalt *****. That's the ones I own/ownes. What are you going to be doing just around the house or working with them?

 

[rweaver]

mostly auto and tractor work

 

[gdocktor3]

Both, DUH!

Assuming you already have regular allen keys, go with the ball end for the sockets. I have Snap On and Proto hex sockets. Both work equally well.

 

[Wamsutta]

The ball end is only useful with super long shanks like 6-inch or longer.

 

[shawhite]

Standard have not found many times I needed a ball end.

 

[MrGiggles]

I have Stanley, Tekton, and HF. Have used them a bunch and haven't had a bit of trouble with any of them.

The HF set is the best for the money, IMO. 5-17mm

Ball is weaker, and I've never seen the need for them.

http://m.harborfreight.com/9-piece-...t-67880.html?utm_referrer=direct/not provided

 

[oldwino]

I've had good luck with Proto and use the straight ends about 90% of the time. For the rare times you need the ball end you can pick up a set of Ekland's for under $20 for a backup.

 

[Empty Pockets]

HJE has CM ball end hex drivers with a screwdriver handle on sale now

 

[bwringer]

The Pittsburgh Pro sets from HF are an outstanding value and very good tools. Made in Taiwan, and very strong. I've abused the hell out of mine.

As mentioned above, you won't need ball end that often, but when you do need it, you really really need it.

I use my ball ends most often on motorcycle work, but I don't encounter too many hex fasteners on cars,.

I'd get short and long sets in straight hex, and perhaps a long set in ball end.

 

[franzdom]

Don't think you can get by with just the ball end, they will snap off and then you won't have a back-up. You need the flat ones for starts then when you need the ball-end ones you will know.

TL/DR: Both is the real answer.

 

[rweaver]

Thanks for all the help I think ill get the short and long sets in Sae and metric and save ball end for when the need arrives

Thanks Ron

 

[mikebaker1129]

I have a few Proto hex sockets that are twisted in my box. I feel this is an item where Snap on/ Williams shines. I am not a huge SO fanboy, but there are some items they make that I prefer over the other brands.
If cost is an issue go with Williams.

 

[bob15]

Find a set(s) that uses a set screw to hold the bits in and don't buy the stepped socket bits (unless you like keeping extra bits handy).

With a set-screw, you can use a regular Allen key and make your own keys when needed. You can also make them longer or shorter if so desired. You cannot do that with the cheaper stepped-design bits.

 

[B_Bimmer]

I have proto and snap on. They are both very good.

 

[Farmall 1066]

I've got Proto in Standard and Cornwell in Metric.
No complaints thus far.

 

[vssjim]

SK Tools sets are very complete and are very strong USA made and VIM tools are also very good Taiwan. Both are S2 steel bits.

 

[mbshop]

Yup, I only had so or mac. Even my so and mac ball were easily broken. So ball are really for when the screw or bolt is already loosened. Just get a good basic set and as someone mentioned get the straight ones as they can be dressed up. Also in a pinch you can make a straight one into a ball with a grinder if in a bad spot. Again , get the straight socket kind pictured above.
,

 

[Fedwrench]

For regular hex bits, I really like the one piece stubby impact versions from Vim. They're made from S2 steel and because of their short length and one piece design, nothing twists.

Stay away from bits having a smaller diameter bit at its base than at the working end. Those twist like butter under load.