Low decibel air ratchet

[smoky]

This question may seem like a mythical unicorn. Does anyone make a 3/8 air ratchet that is emits noise under 84 decibels? Constantly buying earplugs and hassling with ear protection can slow me down when I want to finish a quick job. I want to be an efficient as possible when I’m repairing something, and an air ratchet helps. Wearing ear protection is just another time consuming step that slows me down when I’m doing a repair. My hearing isn’t worth degrading especially just to use an air ratchet.

 

[Farmrod]

Not sure on the decibels but my mac rebadged aircat is quiet and stout

 

[boogerboy72]

/agree with the above, i have one at my work shop, and when i use my Florida pneumatic the first couple times is always "damn thats loud"

 

[rlitman]

Aircat rates their 3/8" large ratchet at 82db.
I don't own their ratchet, but I find myself reaching for my Aircat 1/2" impact over my SO, simply because it is much quieter. My Aircat impact vents through a muffler in the handle, and the ratchet appears to do the same.
I agree with you, that I find myself avoiding the air ratchet, because of the noise factor. Still, it can be a huge time saver in certain situations.

 

[csargents1546]

X3 on the rebadget mac ratchet. Just got it last week, I am amazed at how loud my CH air ratchet is compared to this one.

 

[smoky]

thanks guys! I'm going check out the aircat, I've read a lot of positive reviews about it. my CH air rachet has been very handy, but it so damn loud.

 

[saundersdiesel]

I just wrap a small rag around the base of my 3/8. It takes all the harshness out of it. Probably not the best thing but air still passes through and it hasn't ever had a problem.

 

[shampoop]

I've done the rag trick to my super loud HF air ratchet, it does reduce the noise a ton, but also reduces the power quite significantly. Built in mufflers probably have a much more minimal effect on power.

 

[saundersdiesel]

Thats basically what I am talking about with a rag. At my old shop alit of the air tools had plastic sleeves going from the base of the tool down the hose about 12in. I do the same thing with just a rag. One day ill get off my **** and make a good one out of some good rubber.

 

[bad_idea]

i think a pair of ear muffs would be much cheaper. i know ear plugs are a nuisance, but you should be able to hang a pair of muffs on the side of your box. slip them on when you grab the air ratchet.