Helped a coworker with a flat tire the other day. Discovered that the 19mm Snap-On impact socket that I had in my Jeep had gone completely missing; I found only a bare breaker bar but fortunately there was a backup 4-way lug wrench (note to self: get it back; I think it may have been my grandfather's) in the cargo area as well. There aren't any S-O loosies on the 'bay for less than retail prices now.
The next day I went to Harbor Freight thinking I'd see if they had anything suitable but the prices there are eye watering! The four piece lug nut socket set that was $20 or thereabouts 10 years ago is now $55. They didn't have any of the "Pittsburgh Pro" impacts at all and the chrome sockets were priced higher than I remember Craftsman being last time I looked at tools (admittedly a long time ago, but still.)
So, question - is there an affordable deep socket set that is good for occasional emergency use? Would like engraved/stamped size markings not printed like most less expensive impact sockets, although I don't really care impact or chrome. Also want the hex broached at least "semi deep" not nut depth like my old Craftsman sockets because those tend to tear up stainless capped lug nuts, if I have to help someone with same (the Heep had all its lug nuts replaced with McGard for this reason.) Bonus would be if it is available at Lowe's or an auto parts store, but I'm not averse to ordering online either. Not averse to buying a set of "flip sockets" as well so I would have multiple common sizes, I'd just have to get a cheap 1/2" drive extension, but as I said, HF's prices are insane these days.
The reason I'm posting is it does appear that most of the budget/Taiwan impacts have printed sizes and also it is hard to tell from online listings how deep the broach is.
any advice appreciated...
capritools.com
