i have a fair amount of time with big dawgs. the hard handle versions are some of my favorites. i have 8 of them. 5 hard handles and 3 knurled versions
they were notorious for the screws breaking or coming loose. the screws are nearly impossible to replace and if they happen to fall apart the spring and pin are easily lost or damaged. i doubt if you could damage the pawl or gear if you wanted to. if the screws are kept tight they are pretty trouble free. lock tite or slightly knurling the threads does the trick.
the 3/8 and 1/2 drive are the better. 1/4 is just not as smooth but i still like them. be aware that proto no longer supports them and rebuild kits are scarce as hen's teeth. fortunately i stocked up when grainger cleared them out. i have a lifetime supply and have only ever used one kit.
