More complete wrench set?

[Bennylava]

I am needing to buy a new wrench set. My old set is just cobbled together from years of... well I don't know what. Hand me downs? Lousy walmart sets? Anyway its kind of lousy, and its incomplete. I'm always running into a situation where I'm needing a wrench I don't have. I just snapped the head off a Greatneck brand crescent wrench, and that's the last straw. I'm buying a new set.

I can't really afford Snap-On, SK, Armstrong, etc at this stage. But I can afford Gearwrench. If you've got another brand recommendation in that price range, that will be fine too. But it doesn't actually look like most sets that are being sold these days, are really going to remedy my problem. Take this one for example:


http://www.ebay.com/itm/GearWrench-...919636?hash=item3d2764c194:g:u-IAAOSwPCVX8MLM

Right now I am in need of a 21mm wrench. No 21mm in that set. It stops at 17mm. Or if I bought them separate, and went with this metric set. Still no 21mm.


http://www.ebay.com/itm/GearWrench-...:g:PQoAAOSwepJXZ-AG&item=331886625864&vxp=mtr


And that's something I've noticed for a while now. Doesn't anyone sell a more complete set of wrenches? Its a bit annoying that they just think that their lacking set is everything you'll need. I'd like it to go from about 6mm to 28mm. Same for standard side of things.

 

[sberry]

Does the HF pro or the new Sears premium have it? My Sears have 21.

 

[gdocktor3]

I'd look for used truck brand on eBay. Alternatively, I purchased a couple jumbo metric sets by Sunex from ToolDiscounter.com and they're very nice, cheap and work well. You can get 8mm all the way up to 32mm for under $100 and come with lifetime warranty. Just a thought...

The two large sets are the one's I own and they are really nice. No 28 or 31 in that large set, but for that price.....

8-19mm http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemD...3fZx5b7-R6OXjus8Qb4uid6HmnfTXE7Fe0xoCIFvw_wcB

20-24 https://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemDisplay.cfm?lookup=SNX9918M

25-32 http://www.tooldiscounter.com/ItemD...g2uG-y6WZtR9s0xOA-uaAYjzytRj1hLtMfRoCt5bw_wcB

 

[sberry]

That is reasonable.

 

[stang2007]

I bought the HF Pro sets and I infill with tekton from amazon.

 

[derosa]

Gearwrench does have an 8-24mm set that skips only 23. I have both an extra long set and a flex head set. These can be found for about 100-110 and 120-130 respectively. If you really search you can find them with the "free" SAE 12 piece sets. However they gave the sets that come with a "free" set a different part number and those are always priced 40-60.00 higher then the sets without the free sets. I suspect the slightly different part number lets them deceptively charge you for the free set while being legal. Either way you'll have 28 full sized ratchet wrenches in fairly complete runs for under 200.

 

[BajaBound]

Williams USA

 

[bob15]

Have you looked at used wrench sets? better quality at a lower price

 

[four.cycle]

I am needing to buy a new wrench set.

(emphasis added)

so.... do they have to be brand new?

8-22mm + 24mm / used / Gearwrench ratcheting set / used /
$20 + shipping now. auction ends next Friday.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/GearWrench-...538927?hash=item43fb65742f:g:Od8AAOSw5cNYVMNw

 

[Bennylava]

Why do you have to buy it all separately? Shouldn't all the companies have offerings for complete sets? This 21mm nut that I need to turn, is just on the sway bar link on a Chevy Trailblazer. Not even on a 1 ton truck, just a mom mobile. Imo, that makes my point for me.

 

[Fedwrench]

Why do you have to buy it all separately? Shouldn't all the companies have offerings for complete sets? This 21mm nut that I need to turn, is just on the sway bar link on a Chevy Trailblazer. Not even on a 1 ton truck, just a mom mobile. Imo, that makes my point for me.

Just use your 13/16

Are we looking for ratcheting wrenches or regular combination wrenches?

Have you looked at Tekton?

There are lots of sets out there that go over 19mm, you just have to be willing to spend a little more to get more.

 

[ken w.]

I would buy a 21mm wrench to get by and look around for what you really need. I personally would look at the Gearwrench. I have SO and truck wrenches up to 2" and 42mm. It's rare for me to use a wrench over 1 5/16" or 22mm. If I had to do it again I would go Gearwrench.

 

[WWheeler]

13pc metric 8-22mm set of Craftsman raised panels (only skipped size is 9mm)
currently $50
http://www.sears.com/craftsman-13-piece-metric-combination-wrench-set/p-00949825000P

Here's a nicer 22pc set of GearWrench full polish from 6-24, 27, 30, & 32mm currently $95
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003L1ZZVY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[btdobie]

The Craftsman set in my profile pic is complete on the SAE side and up to 22 mm in metric (41432 a few of the smaller ones are in a drawer). The quality is decent, but I'm pretty sure I got one of the last sets made in the USA. I don't know about how the quality has held up to the move since I have basically quit buying CM tools.

My biggest complaint is that they are a little thick which causes me headaches in certain double nut applications.

 

[oldldh]

Tekton #18792 8 - 22mm with no skips...

From Amazon for $40.99...

Warranted forever...email them a photo of the broken tool, and they'll FedEx you a new one...

 

[ryan20021982]

+1 for Tekton

 

[Bennylava]

Alright thanks for the recommendations everyone. Much appreciated. Went with a gearwrench set, and I'll just fill in what is missing by buying them individually.


But now I have a few questions regarding all the different variations. In regards to flex head, non flex head, ratcheting, open face, stubby, etc.


Is there a "best" overall type? To me, it seems like ideally, you'd want a complete set of open face on one end, and ratcheting flex head on the other end. If you have that, do you really need the any of the other types? Would you sometimes run into a situation where you'd say "Dang, if only this flex head was not a flex head. But still ratcheted".

Or would there ever be a time when you'd say "If only I had the old style closed face, that didn't ratchet".

I'm trying to figure out the best way I can cover the most ground.

 

[gdocktor3]

Flex head is your best bet, reversible flex head is the perfect combo though. While I've never encountered a problem, it is possible to use a non reversible wrench to loosen a fastener 90% of the way off, but then because of clearance issues get stuck and unable to remove the wrench. Then, without the option of reversing the wrench, you cannot tighten it back down to get the wrench out. In the long run, you will most likely end up like many of us and own 4-5 different types of the same size ratchet wrench. (stubby, 0* offset, flex, reversible, XL double box end)

 

[kythri]

I bought this set in 2011:

https://www.toolsource.com/sets-c-1...sqtid=602582&zenid=qiqp40uia5ubbahaihrjj2d8h1

GREAT stuff. Have really enjoyed using it, zero issues. I've continually been impressed with everything GearWrench that I've purchased.

 

[jerseykat1]

I am needing to buy a new wrench set. My old set is just cobbled together from years of... well I don't know what. Hand me downs? Lousy walmart sets? Anyway its kind of lousy, and its incomplete. I'm always running into a situation where I'm needing a wrench I don't have. I just snapped the head off a Greatneck brand crescent wrench, and that's the last straw. I'm buying a new set.

I can't really afford Snap-On, SK, Armstrong, etc at this stage. But I can afford Gearwrench. If you've got another brand recommendation in that price range, that will be fine too. But it doesn't actually look like most sets that are being sold these days, are really going to remedy my problem. Take this one for example:


http://www.ebay.com/itm/GearWrench-...919636?hash=item3d2764c194:g:u-IAAOSwPCVX8MLM

Right now I am in need of a 21mm wrench. No 21mm in that set. It stops at 17mm. Or if I bought them separate, and went with this metric set. Still no 21mm.


http://www.ebay.com/itm/GearWrench-...:g:PQoAAOSwepJXZ-AG&item=331886625864&vxp=mtr


And that's something I've noticed for a while now. Doesn't anyone sell a more complete set of wrenches? Its a bit annoying that they just think that their lacking set is everything you'll need. I'd like it to go from about 6mm to 28mm. Same for standard side of things.

i just purchased this set a couple of weeks ago. It is FANTASTIC!.. The open end fits fasteners VERY well, the ratcheting end is smaller than the standard GearWrench ratcheting wrenches so it will fit into tighter places. I have yet to do a Full review of my own but it's coming. Click the picture for more info. I paid $214.00 for them on Amazon they were originally 365 when they first came out. You can get the set that includes 21mm as well.

 

[popparoach]

these are better than the flex.i sold my set of flex after i got these.

 

[sberry]

I would use 13/16 or find something and get it done, doesn't sound like this will be pressed in to daily service as a suspension specialist. Made it this far without it already, invest in a better adjustable.
21 is fairly popular but I use a simple combo wrench and not something I need in every flavor and don't have it in flex. The man needs to turn 1 fargin bolt. Doesn't own a common combo wrench can be had for a dollar or 2, do we really think he needs some fancy shate for this?

 

[T45]

To me, it seems like ideally, you'd want a complete set of open face on one end, and ratcheting flex head on the other end. If you have that, do you really need the any of the other types? Would you sometimes run into a situation where you'd say "Dang, if only this flex head was not a flex head. But still ratcheted".

Or would there ever be a time when you'd say "If only I had the old style closed face, that didn't ratchet".

The honest answer to these questions is that 'yes it matters', but only in context of what else you have to work with, what $$ compensation system looks like, what your time value of money looks like, etc.

So, in a mobile toolkit, I say avoid ratcheting/open end combo if thats the only thing you have. There is a high risk of two bad things happening--1) breaking a ratchet and/or 2) either spreading the jaw. This can happen for inability to get the oversized box end on the fastener, forcing you to use the jaw; or it could happen because you broke with the ratchet first and it lost the battle.

In that case, a double box/ratchet (eg, armstrong, xdh, or gw gearbox type) gives you more safe options Open ends are rarely needed and usually a ajdustable/pierswrench/or plier in a pinch will do the job. Non of those will typicically break a recessed hex that is really on there (they are all vastly more bulky).

The one type of tool approach that might sqeak out of a couple jams is FD+ type open ends (proto asd,facom, sk, snap on...etc all similar). But you are paying truck prices (150+up for sets). But this is also sub-optimal as these systems in normal use tend to mark/damage fittings--especially in at the limit use which is the only time they are useful.

The rest of it is about saving time...and for some people time is money. For others its not really worth hundres to save 15% on a speed test for a 45 minute oil change. But if your job is dong 40 such procedures a week, the 15% payraise is maybe worth (50 weeks a years...etc).

There is also to simpler zen / less tools mantra of not having to assemble, disassemble, put away, etc small 1/4 drive sockets all day (and tool control all those 8 or 10mm droppers ).

so this is why in general the context matters, and as your own ambitions or experience grow you will develop your own list of tools that critically simplify or make more convenient thing that otherwise may be labeled as "brain damage"...

 

[four.cycle]

I can't really afford Snap-On, SK, Armstrong, etc at this stage. But I can afford Gearwrench.

low-budget partial set:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gear-Wrench...364712?hash=item2cb7bfd9e8:g:Ws8AAOSwnHZYXqsp

 

[drew03cmc]

I bought Sunex SAE wrenches from tooltopia up to 2" for a total of around $120. The metric wrenches are next for me. Spend $75 and shipping is free.

 

[sberry]

low-budget partial set:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Gear-Wrench...364712?hash=item2cb7bfd9e8:g:Ws8AAOSwnHZYXqsp

The 10 and the 15 are what I would be after in that set.

 

[sberry]

It would be interesting to find out if Benny would have a use for a 2 inch wrench. I wonder if he has another job in sight for the 21 he is short on now? Evidently he can get on it with an adjustable.
The box end of any consumer grade combo wrench is way better than it needs to be for this job.

 

[sberry]

He is a poster child for economy tools, needs it on occasion and that stuff is strong, no amateur will break it, seen them well proven years old by oilfield roughnecks and beat on with 4 pound hammers way more than once.
Also doubt speed and time are real issues here.

 

[MrGiggles]

Alright thanks for the recommendations everyone. Much appreciated. Went with a gearwrench set, and I'll just fill in what is missing by buying them individually.


But now I have a few questions regarding all the different variations. In regards to flex head, non flex head, ratcheting, open face, stubby, etc.


Is there a "best" overall type? To me, it seems like ideally, you'd want a complete set of open face on one end, and ratcheting flex head on the other end. If you have that, do you really need the any of the other types? Would you sometimes run into a situation where you'd say "Dang, if only this flex head was not a flex head. But still ratcheted".

Or would there ever be a time when you'd say "If only I had the old style closed face, that didn't ratchet".

I'm trying to figure out the best way I can cover the most ground.

The only type that will work all the time is a regular combination wrench. That's where you need to start.

Ratcheting wrenches are a convenience. The larger box end will often not fit in confined areas, and the ratchet is not that strong. Flex head and reversible offset wrenches mitigate that some, but the head is still larger.

IMO, the best do all is something like the Gearwrench gearbox (closed 12pt on one end, ratcheting 12pt on the other), since you seldom need an open end. They're expensive though.

 

[Gmonkee]

Open end wrenches are still valid tools. I use them all the time.

I got basic DOE sets and added used stuff to get up to 22mm. It's the range I need at work. Actually the old mutts added in are better users than the set despite them being decades old. I use the generic Euro design stuff when I can with good results.

 

[Tom.C]

Sunex.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0096PRWQU/?tag=atomicindus08-20

EDIT: I now see you mean "ratcheting wrenches"

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LQEW3E/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[sberry]

I'm trying to figure out the best way I can cover the most ground.

The only type that will work all the time is a regular combination wrench. That's where you need to start.

Ratcheting wrenches are a convenience. The larger box end will often not fit in confined areas, and the ratchet is not that strong. Flex head and reversible offset wrenches mitigate that some, but the head is still larger

This would be the correct answer to the question and good professional advice.

 

[WWheeler]

^ +1

 

[stage20]

Does the HF pro or the new Sears premium have it? My Sears have 21.

info on the sears premium?

 

[rapid robert]

I have purchased all of my SK combo wrenches used on eBay. The superchrome go for about 1/2 retail and can be found in like new condition, in six or twelve point, long pattern or standard, metric or SAE, to meet your needs. Most recently bought a metric long pattern six point set that goes from 7-22mm with no skips for about $125...Set was like new and came with the wrench holder for storage.

 

[johndeereman]

I have so many set's of wrench's (this site and lack of self control i guess) they all have gotten used, but my go to set's have to be.

gearwrench 44 piece reg combo's
gearwrench GEARBOX both mm / sae

 

[no704]

My local (AZ) auto quest has gearwrench sets at %50 off.

 

[Bennylava]

Flex head is your best bet, reversible flex head is the perfect combo though.

Could you elaborate a bit on the "reversible" part? I'm afraid my knowledge of that is very little. Are you talking about the ones that have a little flip switch on the closed end, where you can just flick that and start tightening the nut instead of loosening it? Have a feeling you are, but just want to be sure.

 

[jrockford]

Menards' Masterforce line is worth a look.

Unlike Gearwrench, they are US made and roughly the same cost.

 

[derosa]

It would be interesting to find out if Benny would have a use for a 2 inch wrench. I wonder if he has another job in sight for the 21 he is short on now? Evidently he can get on it with an adjustable.
The box end of any consumer grade combo wrench is way better than it needs to be for this job.

Removing a large hitch ball can get around there, tried to take my parent's off but my largest socket was 36mm which is almost 1 1/2 and it wasn't close to big enough, they ended up buying the HF set to get the right size.
Why judge what he feels he needs, I just discovered a great way to get old bottom brackets out of frames using a nut and bolt, suddenly the bicycle clinic needs a 22mm wrench and socket to do a job that is done on a regular basis, previously we were damaging bb wrenches trying to get the part out or just tossing an otherwise good frame.