Pleased with new Armstrong ratchet

[bchee]

Got a new Armstrong 1/2" drive, locking flex head ratchet from Amazon, in only 3 days, even though I chose standard shipping.
http://www.armstrongtools.com/brochures/P9-167.pdf

I only paid about $5.00 because I got some free Amazon gift certificates by filling out surveys (available through work).

I waited on getting this for a long time because I wanted the fine tooth MATCO ratchet with the same features (Danaher), except it has 60 tooths.
http://www.matcotools.com/Catalog/toolcatalog.jsp?cattype=T&cat=2407&page=3ꛟ

Before buying the Armstrong ratchet, I emailed several vendors, and they all told me it had 36 tooths. So I waited a long time trying to get a good deal on a MATCO 60 tooth ratchet.

When I get the Armstrong today, I noticed the ratcheting mechanism was much finer than I expected, so I counted the tooths, and it turns out it has 60!!

It is a heavy, sturdy, 17" ratchet. The chrome is pretty. I don't really like the handle. Like some of the other Danaher-made Kobalt ratchets, the handle looks like they didn't know what they wanted to do with it. At least the Matco handle appears more ergonomic.

I really like the locking flex head feature. I think I will be more confident when applying more torque. I'm surprised some don't find it useful (in another thread about a NAPA 3/8" drive locking flex head). Maybe it's not as useful on a 3/8" drive ratchet.

 

[bchee]

You can unlock the flex head, and it will function just like a regular flex head.

Also, I opened it, and it looks just like the Craftsman 60-tooth design. I tried searching for picts but couldn't find it. The gear is in contact with like 9 teeth or something like that.

 

[paramudduck]

On the locks I'm like it's another failure point. I like to be able to try different angles of attack on whim. If I get it in some of the weird spaces I work in and have to change the angle how hard will it be to even reach that button?

Very nice looking ratchet tho. That would be really nice with a bent shaft.

Have you tried it yet? Let us know how well it preforms.

 

[bchee]

Let me clarify - the head remains unlocked until you lock it. If you left the head unlocked for as long as you owned the ratchet, it would function exactly like a regular flex head for as long as you owned it.

If, one day, you happened to need the locking feature, it would be available to you.

If you NEVER locked the head, it would be like owning a regular, long-handle, 1/2" drive flex head ratchet.

I haven't had a chance to use it yet. I just got it today. The first thing I did was open it up to see the guts. It has a red o-ring.

 

[paramudduck]

I really like the ratchet. My only thing is, knowing me I would lock it. Then get it jammed somewhere. I have a talent for stupid stuff like this.

 

[Lightning]

A locking flex head could be very useful in certain situations. Hope you enjoy your new tool and good luck. I have a cheap Stanely locking flex head 3/8 inch drive ratchet. It is nice to have different types and size ratchets like stubby, long handle, flex head, locking flex head, high strength, high gear teeth etc. It can make your job easier and more productive.

 

[joenero]

Yes, the locking flex is great, IMO the matco locking 60 tooth thin flex head is one of the most versatile ratchets you can buy. Fine tooth, thin for great access, and able to flop around or lock if needed. It's not as durable as a snappy (broke one requiring complete replacement after 2 1/2 years professional use as my go-to ratchet) but worth it!

 

[eschoendorff]

Armstrong is an often overlooked alternative to Matco. Good call on the ratchet....

 

[64merc]

Nice ratchet man!! I'm keeping my eye on Armstrong as well for future purchases.

I have the locking flex head Matco ratchet, and I personally think it is a great feature to have just in case you need it one day. Also, I don't like the feeling of applying too much torque to a non-locking flex head.

 

[justinmc]

Looks like a good looking piece! I still think Armstrong is an excellent value in tools. Problem is most suppliers are industrial supply places (Grainger, etc) who charge a bit of a premium for them. I guess I'll have to start looking at Amazon.. gosh knows I need more ratchets!