Looking to round out my sockets

[c5greg]

Hi All, long time lurker first time poser.

I can usually find answers here by searching, but i have a question that searching couldn't answer.

I currently do not have 1/2" 6pt metric sockets. My budget is around $200 and i would like to get as complete of a set as i can. I have narrowed it down to the following:

Snap On- i currently have some Snap On tools and like them. They are the most expensive and since i am not a pro, i don't know if the cost is worth it. I can get a limited 13 (12-24mm) pc set for about $230. Although limited, its probably complete enough for my needs.

Nepros - I really like these, they are beautiful (something don't normally say about tools) but they don't offer a complete set and are not that much cheaper than Snap On. I can get the set for about $220 shipped but there are a lot of sizes missing. No 23,25,26,28,29 or 31mm. The advantage is that these are sold individually and i can eliminate some to reduce the price.

Proto - This is the best value and the most complete set, 10-32mm no skips. I can get a full set for about $180. Made in the USA and the cheapest by quite a bit. Per piece, these are not quite 1/2 of the Nepros and less than 1/2 of the Snap On.

Beta - Almost a complete set, only missing one socket vs. Proto (no 31mm). Not the cheapest at $250. Per piece they are between the Proto and Nepros. I have some European tools and like them quite a bit, but nothing from Beta.

Thoughts and Suggestions?

 

[designer485]

I think the Proto set is the way to go at that price point and if you are not trying to match a complete set of other sockets of one brand. USA made, nice chrome, and a very complete set.

 

[Fedwrench]

Proto is an excellent choice

However, I'm cheap so, this Tekton set would be my choice.
https://www.tekton.com/1-2-in-dr-6-pt-skt-sets-3-8-1-1-2-in-10-38-mm?quantity=1&set-range=10-38-mm

On a side note, I really don't use the large sizes over 27 mm or rarely use the smaller sizes under 13 mm in 1/2 drive chrome.

Have you thought about just running with 1/2 drive impact sockets? Sunex would be a great choice for a wide range of metric Impact sockets along with Proto.

 

[jshillin]

Out of what you listed, the best bang for the buck is definitely Proto... I will agree with Fedwrench though, Tekton is hard to beat for the money. I have Several Snap-on sets, some Proto, Mac, USA Craftsman, Gearwrench and Tekton. More often than not on Chrome sockets, I grab the Gearwrench Mid length sockets or the Tekton shallows out of the toolbox first.

 

[ssdave]

I have both Proto and Snap-on, metric and SAE, all drive sizes, so I have a good basis for comparison. I have a preference for the Proto, except in 1/4" drive. In 1/2" drive, I have a strong preference for Proto, less so in 3/8".

I like the design, the large lettering, the chrome, and the overall shape/finish of the Proto.

Nothing wrong with Snap-on, I had them before the Proto, and they work well and are nice sockets. Both remove bolts about equally well, the Proto just are nicer design and finish.

 

[Snapped-off]

You can get the Snap-ons under the Williams name, identical sockets. Just make sure you get the USA set. If there is any difference between them, it would be something like the heat treatment, as they look 100% identical. (excluding the stamp)

 

[JiminAZ]

Proto plus a Zoro coupon. Best value and great sockets.

With that said I do like FedWrench said for 6 points. Use my 1/2 impacts.

 

[drtyler]

The Williams USA are not available 6-point metric 1/2” drive. Only available in 12 point.

I would consider an SK set as well. You could join the paid SK club and build up a 12mm-24mm set over a year (skipping 20mm) using the “free” socket of the month for $50 total.

Another option is this Facom set from Ultimate Garage. 22 sockets from 8mm-32mm (only skips 20mm, 25mm, & 31mm) for $163.20 plus shipping:
https://www.ultimategarage.com/shop/part.php?cPath=35_100_219&products_id=9285

You can get the Snap-ons under the Williams name, identical sockets. Just make sure you get the USA set. If there is any difference between them, it would be something like the heat treatment, as they look 100% identical. (excluding the stamp)

 

[nelstomlinson]

Proto is very good. Does Wright have what you need? I have both, and both are excellent.

 

[Snapped-off]

The Williams USA are not available 6-point metric 1/2” drive. Only available in 12 point.

You're right! I completely skipped over his 6 pt request.

In this case I'd recommend Proto out of your selected brands. They're all high quality though.

 

[lardy1]

I have both SK and Tekton in 1/2" I had mostly SK but, like you, felt my collection was incomplete because I didn't have 1/2" drive metrics.

One day I was in Meijer's and they were running an unadvertised 40% off sale on all Tekton. I bought a bunch of stuff including 1/2" drive metric sockets. I don't use metric much so I thought they would work for me and they do. I've had the 22MM on rusty lug nuts on my 98 Chevy beater truck with me standing on a 24" breaker bar. It never even whimpered. It made me confident enough in their socketry to buy more. I even bought q 22MM in 3/4" drive so I don't have to stress that socket like that anymore.

Make no mistake......I support buying domestic tools and I try to when I can. All the US made sockets mentioned by the OP are good choices as are the other posters recommendations.

I've never been a mechanic so I'm kinda going out on a limb here with personal, non professional opinions. But I think most of the sockets on the market are probably very usable. Spending less on sockets let me buy nicer ratchets, screwdrivers and other tools with the savings.

I do love retirement but my retirement income limits some of my tool choices. I hate that.

 

[Ton ton]

Welcome to garage journal.

 

[toddmorr]

OP what's your use case? if you're just collecting, get the 29 piece Tekton set and be done with it. if you're working on passenger cars for example, you're going to use very few sizes above 24mm. Just get a no skip 3/8 set and selectively buy the bigger sizes as needed.

 

[m6z]

All of my chrome 1/2" are 12pt. I went with Sunex for 6pt impact sockets. I didn't see a need for 1/2" 6pt chrome as I rarely use the 1/2" chrome stuff I've got.

 

[Dave455]

With metric, most of the standards currently in use only use a very limited range of sizes above about 22mm. 24, 27 and 30 will probably do about 90%. Think the Japanese JIS might use a couple of others, but that’s about all.

Personally, I’d pay up and get the Snap On. You like ‘em, you know they work, and it’s job done! I’ve done precisely that, I have a set, then a few individual sockets in the larger sizes I use. You’re probably going to be using metric sockets for the rest of your life, so I reckon it’s money well spent!

Nepros are nice. Very nice. Maybe even the best. If you wanted them, the lack of some sizes wouldn’t bother me. I like choosing which sizes I need (such as 32mm) and not wasting money on those I don’t. This isn’t really an issue below 19mm, where you seem to need most sizes sooner or later, but it is relevant in the larger sizes.

Don’t even think about the Beta at that price. I have some, and it’s o.k. but nothing like Snap On or Nepros quality. It sells in the U.K. on price alone as it’s usually the cheapest “Non Taiwan” option.

 

[c5greg]

Wow! Thank you all for your insightful suggestions. I was expecting "just by Snap-On they are the best" answers but your replies were all very helpful and gave me some good ideas.

I am surprised at all the love Proto is getting. The fact that it is the cheapest and most complete set has it now as my number 1 choice.

SSDAVE - Since you have both the Proto and Snap-On and prefer Proto was helpful

DRTYLER - Great ideas! I have SK tools (love their torque wrenches) and Facom Ratchets so both suggestions were welcome. My hesitation with SK is that the prce point is high and some postings on this board have brought up quality issues.

FedWrench- I am currently using my impacts I find myself reaching for them most of the time, which is why i decided to get the chrome 6pt. set. I currently have a12pt set but much prefer the 6pt.

Dave455 - Thanks for the insight on the Nepros and Beta. Looks like the Beta sockets are not worth te premium over the Proto. Also, you are likely correct that the Snap On set will probably serve me well even though it is limited.

In all transparency, i was about to buy the Beta set but Chads Toolbox coupon code didn't work so I pushed it off and decided to ask the group here. Glad I Did.

 

[Ralf11]

Snap-on FDX are worth it if you have any rusty/stuck fasteners on your vehicles - several people tell me they work when others don't.

but the FDX are too new to get used (I don't have any myself as I've taken apart every nut & bolt on my older cars over the years and they are fine now)

Hazet makes a great socket - check out the knurling

Ko-ken nut-grabbers are so useful I bought them as extras

I got a few Nepros which I use as low profile sockets - only have one low profile Snappy - a 15mm which lets me do one repeated job on one car.

everybody has flank drive now, but I am still very happy with my used Snap-On flank drive...

I bought a single Tekton socket to fill a hole in one toolbox - it's fine but not great

I'd stick with Snappy, Ko-ken, Nepros, Hazet - at least for most used sizes (which is DIN sizes for me)

 

[Ralf11]

BTW, DIN is 10, 13, 15, 17, 19mm - that's what I concentrate on but have smaller 1/4" drive (7, 8mm are common) and bigger in 1/2".

old BMW (wah... I sold my 2002) uses 14mm a lot

 

[username2]

Looking back, I'd probably have just bought a big honkin' set of 1/2 metric impact and called it good. I've got a really big set of Apex but those really aren't practical to buy...maybe just a better Taiwanese brand and be done with it.

 

[M6erfan]

(wah... I sold my 2002)

You're banned!

 

[Dave455]

Dave455 - Thanks for the insight on the Nepros and Beta. Looks like the Beta sockets are not worth te premium over the Proto. Also, you are likely correct that the Snap On set will probably serve me well even though it is limited.

In all transparency, i was about to buy the Beta set but Chads Toolbox coupon code didn't work so I pushed it off and decided to ask the group here. Glad I Did.

No, definitely not!

I’ve got a few Proto sockets and they’re way better than Beta. I do find them a bit variable though.

The old adage of “you get what you pay for” doesn’t always apply when things have come a long way. I bought my entire 3/4 drive Beta set (including ratchet, sliding T, extensions and some big sockets) for about $250, admittedly a couple of years back.

Ralf11 mentioned Hazet and KoKen. Yes, if you want decent euro tools they’re Hazet. I believe they’re costly in the U.S. though. KoKen are awesome. I have quite a bit and they’re superb value.

 

[ssdave]

If you're looking at the proto, Zoro is the place to get them, and I'd wait for a 20% off coupon, or at the least 15% off. They're under $180 at full price, so at 20% off you'd be at $140 or so.

If you register on their site, they'll send you promotional offers fairly often, and 20% off happens every few weeks. If you add the item to your cart after registering, and wait a few days, they'll send you a 15% off "sweeten the deal to complete the sale" offer.

https://www.zoro.com/proto-socket-set-metric-12-in-dr-23-pc-j54209/i/G0356063/

 

[Ralf11]

You're banned!

But I have a nice old Pooschey 911 instead...

BTW, I think it was you who put me onto the hazet sockets - so, Thanks!

 

[c5greg]

I think i am sold on the Proto set. I took SSDAVE's suggestion and registered for an account on Zoro. I'm not in a hurry so ill wait until they send me a coupon.

What a great community! I'm glad I joined, you were all very helpful.

Next up, 3/8: flex head long handle ratchet...Proto, Williams USA or Koken

Thanks to everyone who replied.

 

[designer485]

I think i am sold on the Proto set. I took SSDAVE's suggestion and registered for an account on Zoro. I'm not in a hurry so ill wait until they send me a coupon.

What a great community! I'm glad I joined, you were all very helpful.

Next up, 3/8: flex head long handle ratchet...Proto, Williams USA or Koken

Thanks to everyone who replied.

Williams if you are ok with 36 tooth (Basically a Snap-On 936 series ratchet and they are a great value).

If you want a higher tooth count, I would pop on at least one dual 80 Snap-On. I have a the long flex dual 80 and it is awesome. I bought mine used and put a brand new hard handle on it.

 

[Ralf11]

3/8" flex head long handle ratchet - agree with Snap-On Dual 80

get the locking version & buy used

 

[FuzzyTiger]

I just received some Nepros stuff and after working with it, my conclusion is that I'll gradually be replacing all my sockets with Nepros. They're just so nice to work with. They are a luxury good though. They work as well as any other decent sockets they're just nicer to work with.

If you do decide to go down the Nepros or Snap-On route - get some cheap sockets too. Nepros at the very least is too nice to beat on and I really wouldn't want to use them for some of those really messy jobs either.

 

[Negen]

The "buy snap on " guys are busy working triple to avoid their tools being repo'd.


For me I have mostly koken and proto and sk. The koken zeal sockets are great but at times cannot be used. The koken "extra" are about the tightest sockets I have seen the 10mm measures something like 10.08 or maybe even tighter. The sk socket's I have both new and old have an in finished broching or something inside like it never hit the final machining process or something. The proto sockets are probably the best value I have and can be used as a general use socket as they have decent enough depth and clearance but may not be as low profile as some others.

As far as gear wrench I have only torx bits from them and by no means are they quality bits. But I do not own any of their normal sockets. If I were to go with a China/Taiwan brand I feel tekton is the best in terms of customer service. Many other brands are just that a brand maybe some of the stuff is even all the same or at least same manufacturing plants but Tekton seems to actually have real people standing behind their products.

Napa Carlyle brand and the auto zone brand seem decent enough too.

I mainly use 4,5,5.5 ,7,10, 32 mm and 1/4,1/2 and a few odd 32ndth something or other but I need to work fast and have volumes to account for. Ft lb is rarely above 100 for me so mainly hand tools are used. 3/8th is my main drive that I use sometimes 1/4 drive.

One more thing is it seems the zeal doesn't like higher torque. A few of mine are starting to show signs of being stretched out.

Wow! Thank you all for your insightful suggestions. I was expecting "just by Snap-On they are the best" answers but your replies were all very helpful and gave me some good ideas.

I am surprised at all the love Proto is getting. The fact that it is the cheapest and most complete set has it now as my number 1 choice.

SSDAVE - Since you have both the Proto and Snap-On and prefer Proto was helpful

DRTYLER - Great ideas! I have SK tools (love their torque wrenches) and Facom Ratchets so both suggestions were welcome. My hesitation with SK is that the prce point is high and some postings on this board have brought up quality issues.

FedWrench- I am currently using my impacts [emoji481] I find myself reaching for them most of the time, which is why i decided to get the chrome 6pt. set. I currently have a12pt set but much prefer the 6pt.

Dave455 - Thanks for the insight on the Nepros and Beta. Looks like the Beta sockets are not worth te premium over the Proto. Also, you are likely correct that the Snap On set will probably serve me well even though it is limited.

In all transparency, i was about to buy the Beta set but Chads Toolbox coupon code didn't work so I pushed it off and decided to ask the group here. Glad I Did.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[ssdave]

Williams if you are ok with 36 tooth (Basically a Snap-On 936 series ratchet and they are a great value).

If you want a higher tooth count, I would pop on at least one dual 80 Snap-On. I have a the long flex dual 80 and it is awesome. I bought mine used and put a brand new hard handle on it.

That is the exact ratchet I have in 3/8" flex, (have a shorter, bent one also). One of my most useful ratchets. I had to warranty it for peeling chrome, I had the pearl blue handle replaced by a hi viz yellow instead, the pearl blue looked bad real quickly.

Except for the cost, there are no drawbacks to that ratchet.

From the most favored (yellow F80) to the Least (round head proto), here are my flex 3/8" ratchets:

 

[BrandoJames]

Next up, 3/8: flex head long handle ratchet...Proto, Williams USA or Koken

You might also check out the Matco BFR128LF locking flex, that’s a nice fine-tooth (88 tooth) ratchet. I picked up a used one on eBay for $80.

If you go Williams or Koken, I think those ratchets are both coarse tooth (36 tooth). Take care.

 

[Verg]

Doubt you can go wrong with the ratchets your considering. Used the 36 tooth snap on(same as Williams?) very smooth ratchet, but underperformed in daily use compared to its higher tooth replacement. Personally very much like a lot of 36 tooth buttery smooth 1/4 ratchets. Picked up the mac/proto 3/8 flexes and round head facom. The 3/8 precision 90/axis is simply an amazing ratchet, extremely tight action, and fast contender as my favorite ratchet. For the facom round head proto, good for the price (mine was $32), but sloppy on the flex(adding lock washer under the spring made made it perfect) the mechanism is not half as nice(still good)as the axis/precision models. Just an amazing selection of ratchets to pick from, it’s finding the one that works for you.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[FuzzyTiger]

The "buy snap on " guys are busy working triple to avoid their tools being repo'd.

OP mentioned that they aren't a pro. And I know a lot of people would see that as even more of a reason not to buy snapon/nepros/other high end brands but with their budget and the stuff they're looking at, I get the feeling they are just treating themselves to something nice rather than trying to get the best value for money.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

Pretty much any chrome sockets are good especially the Proto ones I am a professional mechanic and have a lot of Proto they work absolutely amazing also have a lot of SK and Kobalt as well which are very nice and Gearwrench and Tekton are nice too and believe it or not Duralast from AutoZone are amazing too I have yet to break one. And Carlyle from Napa any of those brands should be ok the SK is USA made the rest is Taiwan except the Gearwrench they are now all China production unfortunately.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[Negen]

Lol just joking I just said that because he thanked people for not just saying but snap on.

OP mentioned that they aren't a pro. And I know a lot of people would see that as even more of a reason not to buy snapon/nepros/other high end brands but with their budget and the stuff they're looking at, I get the feeling they are just treating themselves to something nice rather than trying to get the best value for money.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6013 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[visionguru]

I think i am sold on the Proto set. I took SSDAVE's suggestion and registered for an account on Zoro. I'm not in a hurry so ill wait until they send me a coupon.

What a great community! I'm glad I joined, you were all very helpful.

Next up, 3/8: flex head long handle ratchet...Proto, Williams USA or Koken ...

You have interesting priorities. 3/8" flex head ratchet is after 1/2" chrome sockets, which are rarely useful these days.

 

[toddmorr]

You have interesting priorities. 3/8" flex head ratchet is after 1/2" chrome sockets, which are rarely useful these days.

think OP is a collector.

 

[c5greg]

You have interesting priorities. 3/8" flex head ratchet is after 1/2" chrome sockets, which are rarely useful these days.

Curious as to why you feel that 1/2" Chrome sockets are rarely useful. I tend to use them all the time, especially for brakes and suspension work. In fact I just used them last weekend to replace the brakes & end links on my SUV. It is is what got me looking at a set to augment my tools. I find myself reaching for my 1/2" 6pt impacts all the time over my 12pt chrome sockets, so why not add some?

I have other ratchets as well including SO, Facom, SK and others. I just would like to add a longer reach 3/8" flex.

To TODDMORR's point, I buy tools because I want not because I need. I am not a pro, just a guy that likes to work on cars and enjoys nice tools. Isn't what this board is all about?

 

[m6z]

A lot of us have realized that having a nice complete set of 1/2" impacts will accomplish 99% of the work we need a 1/2" drive socket to do. There's noting wrong with having chrome 1/2" stuff, it's just that most of us reaching for a 1/2" socket are also reaching for an impact wrench.

As I stated earlier, I've got a a decent amount of half inch 12pt chrome stuff. It just doesn't get much use now that I've got a complete set of impacts.

 

[quadrcr87]

When I read the title of this thread my first thought was that rounding out is the last thing I want my sockets to do.

 

[Ton ton]

I use 1/2" chrome sockets. I do have impact sockets too.