Proto premium 45t ratchets

[DTuck]

A lot of people hold them in high regard and use them every day. I was thinking the other day, at their price point why aren't they talked about more frequently especially on this site? One would think that for the money they would be incredibly hard to beat.

 

[Fedwrench]

I think they've been lost in the high tooth count competition.

I have three, one in 1/4, 3/8, and a long handled 1/2 drive versions. I've always wished Proto would release flex head versions. I like them. They're a little on the heavy side but, they feel good and have served me well.

They are definitely a bargain when compared to PROTO's precision 90 tooth series.

 

[AceofSpad3s]

Looks nice but if I got enough room for coarser tooth designs I am using proto 24t pears,SK/industro round heads, and if I really am tight on space 45t probably won't do the job. Handle design and length looks like something I would like though.

 

[AmishFury]

They are definitely a bargain when compared to PROTO's precision 90 tooth series.

i laugh every time i see the prices those go for given the fact that the MAC version is cheaper

 

[AceofSpad3s]

i laugh every time i see the prices those go for given the fact that the MAC version is cheaper

Why would they even do that? Surely you would think the two might communicate given they are owned by the same company, and re brand their tools.

Is the proto priced as such just to really squeeze the money out of industrial/government buyers since they know they won't look elsewhere?

 

[CR888]

In many cases the actual product itself has little to do with msrp price. Many examples of exact same tools being sold at completely different price points.

 

[Fedwrench]

Why would they even do that? Surely you would think the two might communicate given they are owned by the same company, and re brand their tools.

Is the proto priced as such just to really squeeze the money out of industrial/government buyers since they know they won't look elsewhere?

I don't think so. Most Government Agencies can get most Snap on items at 50% off list. MAC's government sales is more like 30% off.
I think it's price fixing not to be below MAC pricing. Maybe that nicer all metal handle with the two knurled bands cost more to make.
In the past, Proto versions of Mac ratchets were significantly lower like the Big Dawg and Spinflex series, I would also include the Proto branded, Italian made round head palm control ratchet that Facom made famous but, what's pretty funny is that MAC only sells this ratchet with comfort grips and Proto only sells their versions with all metal knurled handles.

 

[Wamsutta]

I had no idea PROTO was making a 90 tooth ratchet now.

 

[DTuck]

Looks nice but if I got enough room for coarser tooth designs I am using proto 24t pears,SK/industro round heads, and if I really am tight on space 45t probably won't do the job. Handle design and length looks like something I would like though.

The head on the 45T proto is VERY slim which would give anyone a good amount of clearance in tight spots, and the arc angle is 8 degrees so it's not terrible in that respect either. I'm looking at the 1/4 version right now it's 6 11/16" long and goes for $34.90 on amazon.

 

[DTuck]

I think they've been lost in the high tooth count competition.

I have three, one in 1/4, 3/8, and a long handled 1/2 drive versions. I've always wished Proto would release flex head versions. I like them. They're a little on the heavy side but, they feel good and have served me well.

They are definitely a bargain when compared to PROTO's precision 90 tooth series.

Are the three you have the non QR version? That's what I'm interested in and was wondering how these heads width compare to say a carlyle super 90 design or matco 88.

 

[kb1982]

The heads of the 1/4" Proto really shines among the other drive sizes. The 3/8" and 1/2" Proto heads are smaller than the Carlyle, but not by as much.

Sent from my Z962BL using Tapatalk

 

[xin]

The head on the 45T proto is VERY slim which would give anyone a good amount of clearance in tight spots, and the arc angle is 8 degrees so it's not terrible in that respect either. I'm looking at the 1/4 version right now it's 6 11/16" long and goes for $34.90 on amazon.

GREAT deal on that ratchet - Proto has excellent quality and to be honest with you workin on stuff rarely notice any difference in teeth. I have mid late 90's Snapon ratchets never had any issues with them and they are 36 teeth I believe.


I will give these Proto ones a try.

 

[JBH]

GREAT deal on that ratchet -

You think so? The 3/8" drive fixed head 72-tooth FUP (Facom-designed, USAG-built, Proto-branded) is currently just about $2 more.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003PSQOF4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007XZCJI6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's a lot nicer tool from the same brand for a marginal price difference.

I own a FUP in 1/4" drive and a 3/8" 45T one that that came in a socket set. I should sell the 45T one if other people like it, or see if anyone wants to trade it for a 3/8" drive FUP.

 

[Snaparxon]

You think so? The 3/8" drive fixed head 72-tooth FUP (Facom-designed, USAG-built, Proto-branded) is currently just about $2 more.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003PSQOF4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007XZCJI6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's a lot nicer tool from the same brand for a marginal price difference.

I own a FUP in 1/4" drive and a 3/8" 45T one that that came in a socket set. I should sell the 45T one if other people like it, or see if anyone wants to trade it for a 3/8" drive FUP.

Those FUP ratchets are nice but the thickness of the head due to the direction selector is a killer compared to the slimmer 45 tooth pear heads

 

[DTuck]

You think so? The 3/8" drive fixed head 72-tooth FUP (Facom-designed, USAG-built, Proto-branded) is currently just about $2 more.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003PSQOF4/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007XZCJI6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

That's a lot nicer tool from the same brand for a marginal price difference.

I own a FUP in 1/4" drive and a 3/8" 45T one that that came in a socket set. I should sell the 45T one if other people like it, or see if anyone wants to trade it for a 3/8" drive FUP.

Not speaking for anyone but myself however I hate roto head ratchets and will not use them. As the post above mine says you lose the advantage of a thin head going with the roto head over the pear head as well.

 

[Fedwrench]

You think so? The 3/8" drive fixed head 72-tooth FUP (Facom-designed, USAG-built, Proto-branded) is currently just about $2 more.

I own a FUP in 1/4" drive and a 3/8" 45T one that that came in a socket set. I should sell the 45T one if other people like it, or see if anyone wants to trade it for a 3/8" drive FUP.

I have to say I've never heard of the Palm control ratchet referred to as a FUP. Since all three brands are owned by Stanley, I guess it makes since.

I do know that owning both types in different versions, each has its place. As others have mentioned, the Palm control ratchet in 1/4 drive is fairly thick. I think in 3/8 & 1/2 drive standard length ratchet, the Palm control seems slightly lighter compared to the premium pear head. For those desiring a US made ratchet or a ratchet with a quick release the premium pear head would get the nod. One thing is certain though, either ratchet will serve you well.

 

[JBH]

Those FUP ratchets are nice but the thickness of the head due to the direction selector is a killer compared to the slimmer 45 tooth pear heads

Are they actually that much thicker? Proto doesn't publish head thickness specs to my knowledge.

 

[Snaparxon]

Are they actually that much thicker? Proto doesn't publish head thickness specs to my knowledge.

They probably don't publish it for good reason.

I had the Mac version in 1/4" drive, got rid of it due to the head thickness. I could use a Snap on pear head ratchet with a shallow socket that the Mac with a shallow socket was to thick to fit in the same space. Not to mention that the selector on the MAC would randomly switch direction when palm pressure was placed on it to rapidly remove the fastener. The MAC was almost twice as thick my Snap on TM739 round head IIRC.
I still have a Proto 1/2" flex ratchet that the head thickness seems proportionate to the size of the ratchet. The head thickness is 1.043" approx.

 

[Professional Tool User]

I've never really been a fan of Proto ratchets, at least the old models. The heads on the old designs are big enough to get in your way and the tooth count is pathetically low. Even cheap ratchets these days are often have 72 teeth.

 

[AmishFury]

well we aren't talking about the old 24t models... which BTW are some of the smoothest ratchets i've ever used

this thread is for the 45t which is a different animal

 

[Snaparxon]

I measured a couple of 1/2" ratchets today to compare to the Proto 1/2" FUP round head.

Proto round head thickness 1.043", just over 1"
Snap on Dual 80 pear head thickness 0.735 , just under 3/4"
Matco 60 tooth pear head thickness 0.625", right at 5/8"

Quite a difference, the Proto is over 3/8" thicker than the Matco.

 

[DTuck]

I measured a couple of 1/2" ratchets today to compare to the Proto 1/2" FUP round head.

Proto round head thickness 1.043", just over 1"
Snap on Dual 80 pear head thickness 0.735 , just under 3/4"
Matco 60 tooth pear head thickness 0.625", right at 5/8"

Quite a difference, the Proto is over 3/8" thicker than the Matco.

Thanks for the comparison. Now I wonder how the 45T 1/2 Proto premium stacks up in terms of the thickness of the head.

 

[Snaparxon]

Thanks for the comparison. Now I wonder how the 45T 1/2 Proto premium stacks up in terms of the thickness of the head.

Can't help you there, I sold the one I had. Seems like it was similar to the Dual 80

 

[paulsomlo]

I just got the 1/4" and 3/8" premium pear heads.

The 1/4" (non QR) has an extremely small head, 0.377" thick, 0.859" wide. It's a beautiful little ratchet and the handle feels really good, especially given the extra length.

The head on the 3/8" (QR) measures 0.560" thick (not including the QR button), and 1.301" wide. It's got some serious heft to it, being an inch and three quarters longer than my CM RP and with a fairly thick handle - you could really lay into a fastener with it.

 

[davethorik]

Can't help you there, I sold the one I had. Seems like it was similar to the Dual 80

My 5450XLBL is .730" thick

And FUP? Interesting name you came up with JBH but I will stick with what the rest of the world calls that ratchet- Palm Control.

 

[DTuck]

I just got the 1/4" and 3/8" premium pear heads.

The 1/4" (non QR) has an extremely small head, 0.377" thick, 0.859" wide. It's a beautiful little ratchet and the handle feels really good, especially given the extra length.

The head on the 3/8" (QR) measures 0.560" thick, and 1.301" wide. It's got some serious heft to it, being an inch and three quarters longer than my CM RP and with a fairly thick handle - you could really lay into a fastener with it.

Thank you for the info I'll be buying the 1/4" this week

 

[paulsomlo]

Thank you for the info I'll be buying the 1/4" this week

I just edited my post - the head thickness on the 3/8 doesn't include the QR button.

If you're not in a hurry, you might set up a search on ebay - I got my 1/4" Proto for $17 shipped, new condition.

 

[DTuck]

I just edited my post - the head thickness on the 3/8 doesn't include the QR button.

If you're not in a hurry, you might set up a search on ebay - I got my 1/4" Proto for $17 shipped, new condition.

I'll try that out

 

[Snaparxon]

I just got the 1/4" and 3/8" premium pear heads.

The 1/4" (non QR) has an extremely small head, 0.377" thick, 0.859" wide. It's a beautiful little ratchet and the handle feels really good, especially given the extra length.

The head on the 3/8" (QR) measures 0.560" thick (not including the QR button), and 1.301" wide. It's got some serious heft to it, being an inch and three quarters longer than my CM RP and with a fairly thick handle - you could really lay into a fastener with it.

Just for comparison on 1/4" dr. head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .377"
Snap on T72 72 tooth .430"
Matco 88t tooth .360"
MAC Axis 90 tooth .450"

3/8 dr. ratchet head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .560"
Snap on F80 80 tooth .560"
Matco 60 tooth .480"

 

[DTuck]

Just for comparison on 1/4" dr. head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .377"
Snap on T72 72 tooth .430"
Matco 88t tooth .360"
MAC Axis 90 tooth .450"

3/8 dr. ratchet head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .560"
Snap on F80 80 tooth .560"
Matco 60 tooth .480"

Unbelievable how thin the matco 88 tooth 1/4 is. I just ordered the proto 1/4 45t and while I was at it I decided to order the Schumacher SL360R light

 

[JBH]

Just for comparison on 1/4" dr. head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .377"
Snap on T72 72 tooth .430"
Matco 88t tooth .360"
MAC Axis 90 tooth .450"

3/8 dr. ratchet head thickness,

Proto 45 tooth .560"
Snap on F80 80 tooth .560"
Matco 60 tooth .480"

Thanks. My head thickness measurement on my 3/8" drive Proto 45T was a little higher than yours (0.617"). I suspect you didn't measure from the highest point, which is the selector switch.

Your point about FUP head thickness is well taken, though. I measured the head thickness of my FUP and some other 1/4" drive ratchets at their respective highest points:

FUP flex head: 0.683"
Toptul long-handle flex head: 0.629"
Felo QR: 0.516"
Koken: 0.473"

I did not expect that, perhaps because the shiny part draws the eye away from the ring. I have never noticed the FUP's thicker head in use. But it clearly is on the thick side.

 

[Snaparxon]

Thanks. My head thickness measurement on my 3/8" drive Proto 45T was a little higher than yours (0.617"). I suspect you didn't measure from the highest point, which is the selector switch.

Your point about FUP head thickness is well taken, though. I measured the head thickness of my FUP and some other 1/4" drive ratchets at their respective highest points:

FUP flex head: 0.683"
Toptul long-handle flex head: 0.629"
Felo QR: 0.516"
Koken: 0.473"

I did not expect that, perhaps because the shiny part draws the eye away from the ring. I have never noticed the FUP's thicker head in use. But it clearly is on the thick side.

The 3/8 Proto measurement I used was taken from the post I quoted from paulsomlo who measured his Proto ratchet.

All of my measurements do not include the selector either, unless it was a round head ratchet. Rarely if ever has a selector been the factor that makes my ratchet to tall to fit in a tight spot. Speaking from my experience only.

 

[paulsomlo]

The 3/8 Proto measurement I used was taken from the post I quoted from paulsomlo who measured his Proto ratchet.

All of my measurements do not include the selector either, unless it was a round head ratchet. Rarely if ever has a selector been the factor that makes my ratchet to tall to fit in a tight spot. Speaking from my experience only.

Nope, didn't include the selector lever in the thickness measurement.