Proto - a sleeper

[edl]

What do folks think of Proto - are they a "sleeper" in that they are the quality of a snap-on for less - or are they a runnerup and not really the same league? - thx! ED

 

[64merc]

The Proto stuff from a few decades back could have been a "sleeper", but unfortunately I would have to say this is not true of the newer stuff. Just comparing the fit and finish alone demonstrates this point. My $.02

 

[billymade]

The earlier production tools I find at the flea markets seem good quality; e.g. "dyna-ring" impact sockets, wrenches marked "proto professional" etc.; the sockets in particular, seem really well made IMHO; the stuff I am running into is probably pre 1980's however.

Proto "Dyna-Ring" impact sockets; they came out in 1960: mine I think are 70s vintage

Proto "pear head" design ratchet

Proto "professional" wrenches

Proto "500" series highly polished wrenches

I am not a fan of the design of their ratchets but many here like them; the "pear head" style has been around forever.
There are brand linkages to Plomb (the name used before 1948 as a result of this trademark dispute, Plomb was required to change the brand name marked on their tools, and chose "PROTO" (from "PROfessional TOols") as the new name)and Blackhawk, Challenger; so keep your eyes open for them as well. I like the fact that people don't recognize the brand, the definition of a "sleeper" tool and can be bought typically for next to nothing; at least in my areas flea markets/pawn shops. Just keep your eyes open for newer era tools as many of the "Blackhawk" branded tools are made in Taiwan.

 

[c130herc]

my only experience with proto are there 500 series polished wrenches , they have held up well and in my opinion feel more comfortable to hold then my snapons.

 

[jhn9840]

I found a full set of sae Proto prodessional combination wrenches exactly like the one in the fourth picture down in Billymades post, at a yard sale couple of years back. I think I paid 5 bucks for the whole set. I use them alot and have never had any type of slippage with them. They just feel good in the hand.

The set I have does appear to be older. There have been alot of negatives posted about the newer Proto stuff. Like everything else the quality has probably dropped off but their older tools are of good quality IMHO.

jhn9840
John

 

[Uncle Buck]

I have not given up on Proto just yet, I still count them as high quality despite the connection to Stanley. I must admit though all my Proto is older stuff.

 

[wrenchr]

Very good stuff even if you have to run around for warranty!!!