Metrinch 12 point universal SAE/Metric sockets

[AmateurMechanic]

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XM9VX52/?tag=atomicindus08-20

These seem to have an interesting design. Instead of the usual approach of using looser tolerances in order to make a socket fit both metric and SAE, these have a 12 point design with 6 of the points being used for metric and the other 6 points being used for SAE.

The only flaw I can see in these is that they lack off-corner engagement (presumably because these were made in the 1980s). However, does anyone know why this design never caught on? It seems like a good approach for making 1 socket fit 2 different sizes without compromising tolerances. If they made an updated version with off-corner engagement, these sockets should perform the same as a regular 12-point socket, but would save a lot of room in a mobile toolkit.

 

[Wakefield]

Do these have the same disadvantage of a 6 point socket-that is too many degrees if you have to take it off and put it back on to get more swing room?

 

[AmateurMechanic]

Do these have the same disadvantage of a 6 point socket-that is too many degrees if you have to take it off and put it back on to get more swing room?

Yes, they technically would.

But that's a moot point with today's 72, 80, and 120 tooth ratchets...

 

[Exceller8]

I don't know how well these would work for automotive use, but I bought a set for my inside the house toolbox and they're great for small projects.

You can pickup a 10 piece set on the bay for like $20 shipped for 3/8" drive and $32 shipped for 1/2" drive. A pretty good value for an American made product. Of course the price reflects them trying to get rid of the long outdated design which were replaced by the newer style many years ago.

 

[bonneyman]

The set of Metrinch sockets I've got going are 6 "point" off-corner engagement. The cross-over sizes are accommodated by a lobed broaching which can handle the sub-millimeter differences.
They work OK, trying to find the few size combos I'm missing.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Well, they may have their place for certain jobs.
They don't appear to be a number 1 seller.
Thinking I would place them on the gimmick tool list..
On a current day vehicle, I wouldn't care to be going through a best fit ceremony on every nut and bolt..

 

[franzdom]

It's a 12-point/6-point socket with none of the advantages of either

 

[Exceller8]

The set of Metrinch sockets I've got going are 6 "point" off-corner engagement. The cross-over sizes are accommodated by a lobed broaching which can handle the sub-millimeter differences.
They work OK, trying to find the few size combos I'm missing.

Those are the "newer" style. I wish I could buy a set without having to spend $249 for the 61 piece tool kit. They want like $12 a socket direct from Metrinch.

 

[APEowner]

Since I pretty much only use 12 pt sockets on 12 fasteners I think I'd find those rather frustrating.

 

[Shredwagon]

I have a set of the 1/4" 6-point style in my truck and use the **** out of them. Not gimmicky at all. If you're limited in space or weight (i.e. wheeling rig / moto / backpack) I would recommend them as you always have metric & sae on a modded 4x4. Never rounded a fastener. Even worked ok taking off a rounded nut after hammering one on.

Now, I wouldn't buy these for my home toolbox as I like having the proper tool and don't have any restrictions. I have no experience with the larger drive sizes or 12pt-style as I only carry 3/8 and 1/2" impact sockets in the truck. No need for chrome.

The 1/4" 6-point set with a roto-head is my perfect EDC tool, and in that regard have no competition.

 

[Exceller8]

I like the fact that you can just grab them and go. They'll probably never replace a proper tool, but they do have their place.