It's 2016; Best 3/8 Flex Head Ratchet

[msg4gsm]

Obviously I realize this is a well trodden subject, however, I rely on GJ when it comes to advice on buying new tools. Especially items as critical to my toolbox as a 3/8 ratchet. Interstingly, when I searched this topic earlier today I was redirected to a 2011 thread with very few recent posts. With all the changes in the industry the last 5 years, including new offerings by some of the most important brands herse at GJ (Proto, Wright, SK) etc, and so many companies changing their operations (Gearwrench, Williams, SO, etc), it seemed like an important issue that needs to be addressed.

Sooooo.... For someone looking to buy a new 3/8" Flex-Head Ratchet, today in 2016, where is the best place to spend their hard-earned money......

The reason I started this thread is because I am so confused as to where to turn.... Wright, Proto, S-K, Armstrong.... I bet a lot of other people are too.....

 

[mikegt4]

Welcome to the forum.

You make a good point. The tool world changes rapidly and deserves a near constant revision with all the consolidations and acquisitions. Coming from a corporate career background those words mean " let's buy an existing brand, cheapen it and sell it on it's former reputation". Craftsman is destine for this if, make that when, it gets spun off by Eddie Lambert.

I won't comment on current 3/8" drive ratchets as the newest one that I have is probably 15 years old, some closer to 45 (they are almost all Craftsman). I do have a more recent vintage Armstrong 1/2" ratchet that I really like.

 

[n8n]

IMHO a compelling argument has been made why the Snap-On Dual 80 is the best ratchet for almost any use.

If you don't like the eye watering price and the ****** warranty, a Williams B-52EHFA is pretty much the same thing but with a coarser ratchet mechanism and a more non-professional friendly warranty policy.

 

[Wes J]

Proto round head.

 

[a52-830]

while the flex head snapon dual 80 (FLF80) is a nice ratchet, i actually really like the FCF72. while it is only 72 tooth, it features a compact head.

if size is not an issue, the 120XP flex head from gearwrench (81215P) is a nice ratchet too.

i have all three, and you really can't go wrong with any of them.

 

[ChevyEFI]

Flex head is roto. SK 3870 is still solid when you can find one. The SnapOn 100 tooth roto is nice as well

Flex handle is those other ones I don't bother with, though it may be what you meant to say.