I think I'm gonna buy a Tekton chrome socket set..

[kctyphoon]

Putting together some tools to leave in a tool cart, that I plan on storing in a small Rubbermaid storage container in my driveway. (Like the size you would buy to keep garbage cans in) the idea is to have just about anything I would need for upcoming projects on my old truck that hasn't moved in 3 years. I have an old Husky USA mechanics tool set that I dedicated to working on the cars, but it's not very extensive, esp in the deep socket department. I don't think it even has an deep metrics since it's so old..

So I've been looking around trying to find "the most for my money" as far as covering as many sizes in shallow and deep in the 1/4" and 3/8" drive department. Basically most of your choices are kits that don't have everything, or have a bunch of junk thrown in to up the piece count. So that results in a bigger set with wrenches, and drivers I don't want or need, that I still need to pay for.. It's like you can't even come close without spending $150, and the most complete kit I've found is a dewalt that cost almost $300.. (It does include 1/2" too though)
{the 204 piece Dewalt kit that's discontinued has a great set of sockets, but very $$$$,, over $350 0n Amazon now}

So this is the best solution I've found. I think I'm gonna order these to leave in the tool cart.. Everything I want in a small package. No wasted space, no doubles of sockets in both 6 and 12 point, no wrenches, no drivers.. And for a very good price IMO too.. Check out the Tekton sets..

Complete 1/4" drive set for $39.99 -
http://www.homedepot.com/p/TEKTON-1-4-in-Drive-Socket-Set-51-Piece-13001/205820709

Complete 3/8" drive set for $48.99 -
http://www.homedepot.com/p/TEKTON-3-8-in-Drive-Socket-Set-45-Piece-13101/205820710

 

[malykaii]

Another great deal is the Stanley Sets on Amazon.com. First hand, the stuff really is nice for the price.

Also, you could spend a bit more and get Gearwrench sets. Not far from pro grade and only a couple dollars more.

 

[winlinmac]

Tekton takes pride in their Lifetime Warranty. I'd give them a try rather than driving over to Harbor Freight. That's my take. Most sockets are Made in Taiwan, quality is a bang for the buck. Best part about the two companies is that you can buy such socket sets as you go. The only downside is purchasing individual sockets if you ever misplace them.

 

[FOCUS.FREAK]

Tekton is a great company they stand behind their warranty. I have had nothing but great service from them. Their warranty is so simple send an email to them from their website with a picture and you literally get the replacement 1-2 days later. Best thing is they come in cases. So you don't have to dig through a bad full of sockets.

Jordan


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[MrGiggles]

As said, it's Harbor Freight quality, at a higher price. I don't know how HD is about their warranty either. HF will grab a new set off the shelf and hand you whatever was broken. Unless you have a phobia, you'll save money just getting them from HF.

That being said, the Tekton set is more complete than what HF offers, and doesn't skip sizes. I've been very happy with my Tekton tools, with the exception of their locking pliers.

 

[BMack37]

I've bought a few things from Tekton that were made in China and NONE were mistakable for HF, Tekton's were much better quality...not Snap-on obviously but not the typical Chinese stuff either. My Chinese-made Tekton hex wrenches are better(stronger and better finished) than Allen or Eklind, which are made in the USA.

Personally, my next socket purchase will be Toptul. I think that is the best bang for the buck.

 

[woody6904]

The Tekton 1/2 inch metric 12 pt shallow chrome sockets I got are suprising in quality, look really nice sitting next to the Wright 1/2 inch sae 12 pt shallow chrome sockets in the drawer. I had one of the Tektons on a long breaker bar with a pipe the other day trying to break a caliper bolt loose and the socket held up fine.

 

[nh_yota]

I own a few different Tekton tools and I've been quite happy with them. All of the Tekton tools I own were made in Taiwan and not China like HF.

 

[48548]

I will put up a vote for toptul as well.

 

[Astro_Pneumatic_Tools]

Alot of Tekton stuff is made in the same plant as Harbor Freight. .

Since I wish more people would clear up this type of info about our brand, I'll go ahead and say as someone who's on the manufacturing end of things and has physically stood inside plants making Tekton tools, unless you have old items or a fringe tool set that you're thinking of, this is simply untrue.

This is how a lot of truthiness gets spread around. If you don't know there's nothing wrong with that. It's the extra step taken when not knowing to trying to educate people that I just don't understand.
__________
Chris
Product Manager

 

[gungatim]

I posted before they keep clearancing out the old tekton all over the place by me (the are HQ'd in GR MIch.), I've bought a few things, but can definitely say while the older stuff is HF quality, the new stuff they redesigned recently is IMO higher quality by far. more like Husky/Kobalt which I consider higher than HF. at any rate, I like them better than Chinese craftsman...

 

[malykaii]

I posted before they keep clearancing out the old tekton all over the place by me (the are HQ'd in GR MIch.), I've bought a few things, but can definitely say while the older stuff is HF quality, the new stuff they redesigned recently is IMO higher quality by far. more like Husky/Kobalt which I consider higher than HF. at any rate, I like them better than Chinese craftsman...

Since I wish more people would clear up this type of info about our brand, I'll go ahead and say as someone who's on the manufacturing end of things and has physically stood inside plants making Tekton tools, unless you have old items or a fringe tool set that you're thinking of, this is simply untrue. [/IMG]

My apologies gentlemen! I was thinking of the older stuff. I took a quick Google and see their offerings differ from what I remember. Some of the stuff I've seen was literally the same as h.f. in the past.

Thanks!

 

[Sam'sAutoParts]

I say go for it, I have been very pleased all the Tekton tools I own.

 

[George in Rancho Cordova]

Be sure to have moisture control in the shed.
I found some anti-rust toolbox drawer liner on Amazon.
So far, so good for the box that rides in my truck.

 

[gungatim]

Since I wish more people would clear up this type of info about our brand, I'll go ahead and say as someone who's on the manufacturing end of things and has physically stood inside plants making Tekton tools, unless you have old items or a fringe tool set that you're thinking of, this is simply untrue.

This is how a lot of truthiness gets spread around. If you don't know there's nothing wrong with that. It's the extra step taken when not knowing to trying to educate people that I just don't understand.
__________
Chris
Product Manager

I agree. while I haven't been in tool factory's, I have stood in many Asian factorys that in some cases make the same products for multiple brands, and in other cases, they are simply inferior knock-off's. quality can be better than, as good as, or much less than US or name brand. it's all in what Is spec'd and whether you have your own people in QC. it is impossible to know for sure unless you've been there, or are the company itself. Waaay too many assumptions and ignorance when it comes to Asian manufacturing and outsourcing.

 

[JVB]

I would go with this kd/gear wrench set below. I ordered one months ago and am very happy with them. 3/8 set with a free 1/4" set - 104.83$



http://www.ntxtools.com/network-tool-warehouse/KDT-80550F.html

 

[T45]

I don't really see the point of "complete" sets of junk tools. If you want disposable tools for one project, you don't need complete sets of sae and metric do you?

why not buy a decent set specific to your project?

edit: this isn't directed at Tekton specifically, but my once increase the budget and open up options by focusing on a more limited application.

 

[onarant]

I would have no problem with the Tekton the way you plan to use them. I have many of their chrome sockets for the same purpose. I can't find anything to complain about.

 

[Gmonkee]

Long time user of Asian tools here as well as some of the rest. Choose the better ones and they are lifetime tools just like better domestic stuff.

I do strive to have full sets of European tools too but availability is limited.

 

[bigjeff94]

While I don't own any Tekton chrome sockets I have some of their impacts and their awesome. Also have their stubby wrenches. From what i've seen of there sockets they are nice, real similar to Kobalt without the laser etching which I think is better. Realtoolreviews on youtube did a nice review on their sets, and I thought they looked real nice for the price.

 

[FigureItOut]

I don't really see the point of "complete" sets of junk tools. If you want disposable tools for one project, you don't need complete sets of sae and metric do you?

I see the point, not "junk", but cheaper decent stuff. Get a full set of mid quality affordable stuff, and spend your money on high quality for high use stuff as you figure out what you need. That way, you've got all your bases covered for the occasional odd fastener and don't overuse your cheaper stuff, and have reliable tools for everyday hard work.


Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337Z using Tapatalk

 

[kctyphoon]

I don't really see the point of "complete" sets of junk tools. If you want disposable tools for one project, you don't need complete sets of sae and metric do you?

why not buy a decent set specific to your project?

edit: this isn't directed at Tekton specifically, but my once increase the budget and open up options by focusing on a more limited application.

Can you please elaborate on what exactly makes them "junk" and "disposable"? I own 5 sets of their impact sockets.. I'll go out on a limb and say you probably don't own any?? - if the tool trucks equivalents thread has tought anyone anything, it's that people are willing to pay more than double for the same products simply because they "assume" a high dollar name associated with them somehow means they are superior to the same tools that cost less under a different brand. Some Tekton pliers are made by Wilde - are those junk too? Cost and performance are not directly related is every case. Many people will swear up and down that craftsman sockets are horrible, but yet I've have the same set for over 25 years and I've only broken one socket (because I hammered it onto a wheel lock, and left it on there for 13 years). I simply don't NEED to spend more money for the use they will see, and I think a page full of people with positive things to say about them reinforces that.

All that said - that's a great deal on the gearwrench set that was posted up.. The free 1/4" set makes that a viable alternative now. I did look at them before but w/o the promo it's more than I'd wanna spend just to have the convience of another socket set and save a a few trips inside to the toolbox.

 

[chipss36]

My take.
I have used Asian imports most of my life, and as of late began to upgrade, some upgrades have been night day differences, wrenches, torque wrenches, screwdrivers, others not so much, like sockets, my biggest letdown, I just do not see the value in my SK sockets with inconsistent finish inside the sockets and brooching tearout on a few vrs my Asian imports. I went SK because of the way my very old SK sockets have worn over the years, they still look great , the newer ones are just not built up to the old standard. I say with sockets ....go for it. I will more than likely do the same.

 

[John in OH]

Can you please elaborate on what exactly makes them "junk" and "disposable"? I own 5 sets of their impact sockets.. I'll go out on a limb and say you probably don't own any?? - if the tool trucks equivalents thread has tought anyone anything, it's that people are willing to pay more than double for the same products simply because they "assume" a high dollar name associated with them somehow means they are superior to the same tools that cost less under a different brand. Some Tekton pliers are made by Wilde - are those junk too? Cost and performance are not directly related is every case. Many people will swear up and down that craftsman sockets are horrible, but yet I've have the same set for over 25 years and I've only broken one socket (because I hammered it onto a wheel lock, and left it on there for 13 years). I simply don't NEED to spend more money for the use they will see, and I think a page full of people with positive things to say about them reinforces that.

All that said - that's a great deal on the gearwrench set that was posted up.. The free 1/4" set makes that a viable alternative now. I did look at them before but w/o the promo it's more than I'd wanna spend just to have the convience of another socket set and save a a few trips inside to the toolbox.

+1 !! For only about $100 either the Tekton or Gearwrench sets should put you in great shape for the tools you need. It's ridiculous to spend tons of money for truck brands if you are just a shade tree mechanic. Too many guys here on GJ get hung up on the "name" on their tools and sweat the warranty concerns.

I tend to the Wright/Armstrong/Proto tools, but that's just me. Although I was less than happy with the cosmetic quality of a set of Tekton angle wrenches I bought, they've worked OK so far. No experience with Tekton sockets or ratchets, but they seem to get good reviews from most GJ guys.

I'm opposed to Chinese tools for US vs. China geo-economic reasons but have no problem with Taiwan manufactured items. I'd find out if either of the Tekton or Gearwrench sets are Taiwan (maybe both are) and go with that brand. Skip the China tools.

 

[GasNSteering]

I recently bought a variety of Tekton stuff and found their fit and finish to be very impressive. Haven't had them long enough to speak to their durability.

 

[oldldh]

I'm a Tekton aficionado...

However...

I'd buy mine from Amazon...

No taxes...Free freight...

And...

The 3/8" Drive Set is $ 5.00 cheaper, at $ 43.99!!!

 

[lightning02]

iv bought some tekton sockets in singles. very nice stuff. id buy again.

taiwan made. great fit and finish.

 

[kctyphoon]

I think the better buy would be that gearwrench deal.. It's only a few more dollars.. If that promo is still alive when I wanna spend the money, I'll probably go for it. If not, then Tekton it is..

 

[BMack37]

I think the better buy would be that gearwrench deal.. It's only a few more dollars.. If that promo is still alive when I wanna spend the money, I'll probably go for it. If not, then Tekton it is..

It's at several places but I think that link is the cheapest. Saw one for $10 more when searching in Google. With the ratchets included, this is really a no brainer for the price. It would cost you like $80 for just the ratchets.

 

[kctyphoon]

The 1/4" set alone is listed on eBay for what you can both for.. I have seriously spent way too much $$$ on tools, esp since they don't see a lot of use these days, but the tax return is on its way and I might regret it if I don't jump on that soon. I really just like the convenience of having things so I don't get pissed off and struggle when I get around to stuff..

 

[redvalkyrie]

Repeating what has been said, Tekton is quite nice. Really well made. The chrome is such that I can spot a Tekton in my sockets draw without knowing what sizes are Tekton are...

I don't have but a few Tekton sockets but I am happy thus far. I thonk only Beta and Nepros have prettier chrome.

 

[kctyphoon]

I would go with this kd/gear wrench set below. I ordered one months ago and am very happy with them. 3/8 set with a free 1/4" set - 104.83$



http://www.ntxtools.com/network-tool-warehouse/KDT-80550F.html

Thanks for posting this.. I ordered one (like you couldn't tell that was coming from a mile away)

 

[JVB]

Thanks for posting this.. I ordered one (like you couldn't tell that was coming from a mile away)

No problem. I have owned both sets for over a year and have no complaints at all.

 

[winlinmac]

Toptul, anyone?

 

[T45]

I think the better buy would be that gearwrench deal.. It's only a few more dollars.. If that promo is still alive when I wanna spend the money, I'll probably go for it. If not, then Tekton it is..

GW deal seems to fit this applicatoin in terms of completness, and those ratchets are likely a decent upgrade from a lot of lesser competitors.

There's just a point in my mind where if you are truly looking at complete index sets you are really looking at a long-term, multi-project type investment and it makes sense to thing of the tools that way.

The first post I may have read wrong but it seemed like this was more for a limited use. I think there is also a BOGO on semi-deeps for them so you can expand that set down the road as well.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=5538382&postcount=32

The rest of my thought on ths subject are similar to many expressed here, I don't think there is a fundamental dis-agreement.

 

[kctyphoon]

I just wanted to expand the amount and types of sockets on the portable kit I have dedicated just to use with the cars. I have a BIG socket set to fall back on in my basment toolbox, another Husky black set just to use INSIDE the house on clean stuff, another kept in the bed of my pickup, and a really small one in the Honda. The previous "cars only" set is a 20+ year old Husky USA set that doesn't include ANY deep metric sockets, and just has doubles of all the shallow 6 points in 12 points too... I've found myself having to go inside, or reach into a socket set just for basic things, and I wanted to try and eliminate that since I'm putting together a tool cart to store the tools in outside.

It just happens I didn't want a mechanics kit that came with a bunch of stuff like screwdrivers/nutdrivers/Allan keys/or combo wrenches. I just wanted sockets, and I don't need 12 points.. The gearwrench deal was just "the most" or "the best" for the money... Beyond that - any of the above brands would have done just fine for me. I shouldnt have any reason to expand beyond what comes in those 2 kits. Any 1/2" sockets I might need (if ever) will come from the four 1/2" impacts sets I have, or worst case I walk down a flight of stairs to reach into the big set.

 

[jt777]

+1 on the gearwrench i own multiple 1/4 and 3/8 sockets and ratchets along with double box wrenches and for the money they are quite comparable to my snap on tools and i have not regretted buying them. Can't comment on tekton as i own nothing from them. I stick with gearwrench because i trust them and have had great warranty service.

 

[Jeremy77]

I have the Tekton 3/8" drive set you mentioned and love it. For the $ you can't go wrong with it. The ratchet appears to be identical to my Kobalt 72 tooth. It doesn't skip sizes and has no filler tools. The only issue I had was that the swivel joint was missing the detent ball when I received the kit from UPS. I emailed them and actually spoke with Dave, who is a member here. A new joint showed up 3 days later. I've used this set extensively around the house and shop and have nothing but good to say about the tools.

 

[winlinmac]

I wish I would have gone Tekton for most of the ratchets and impact sockets purchased from Harbor Freight last year. Why? Because who wants to drive 15 miles to warranty a $5 socket? Also, why should I have to keep dozens of receipts (includes e-receipt lookup) to show proof of purchase? Not that Harbor Freight consistently requires a receipt for a warranty exchange, but entering that store is plain nuisance. Let's be straight here, Tekton for the Win.

 

[kctyphoon]

I get all of your points... Just for conversations sake - I've never gotten so much as a question when I've gone to warranty anything at HF. Also, I've never had anything actually break on its own.. I've "helped" a few things just cause they were so beat up it was time to replace them- but I can't say anything bad about the HF sockets or ratchets.
I'm looking forward to the gearwrwench ratchets though..