Quick Release ratchets

[SK-Mike]

Got my new Snap on ratchet (my 1st ever snap on) out to use for the first time the other day model FHLL80. The task involved some oily fluids and switching back and forth between different sized sockets. When it came time to remove the socket with my oily fingers, man that was tough. First time I really appreciated the Quick release button. Makes me second guess my purchase now. Love the ratchet, maybe time to look for the same one but only with a quick release button.

 

[gearhead1]

That has always been my only complaint with Snap On ratchets. It's good the socket won't fall off, but sometimes very difficult to remove with greasy hands. The head is thinner without the button so there are advantages. This is why I have more than one type ratchet. I do prefer quick release ratchets as a go to ratchet.

 

[mjoekingz28]

There was a recent thread about this. I thnk it involved 'detents' in the heading.

IIRC, the consensus was that, over time, it breaks-n and loosens up with use.

 

[SK-Mike]

Are there ever any situations where you would prefer a NON quick release ratchet over a QR version? Just wondering if they ever have any advantages.

If not I may sell my non quick release version and buy the QR version.

 

[egdede]

If I'm removing many bolts of the same size with an extension I like the socket to stay put.

 

[d.mcfarland]

Are there ever any situations where you would prefer a NON quick release ratchet over a QR version? Just wondering if they ever have any advantages.

If not I may sell my non quick release version and buy the QR version.

If you don't want the socket or extension falling off the ratchet the non QR ratchets are the way to go. They both have pros and cons and it's really a personal opinion.

 

[lightning02]

The non-quick release are known to have a stronger anvils. They don't break off as easy since there is no hole going thru it for the quick release. Plus they are thinner for tighter areas.

I use to always buy quick release ratchets but I fine myself buying alot more non-quick release nowadays

 

[martin666]

Have 2 Snap On quick release ratchets, older black handled and flex long soft handled dual 80, both are great ratchets but about the only time I use them is if I'm also using a locking extension, in tight cramped quarters where I dont want to drop anything. True or not Ive always thought they are weaker then a solid drive ratchet

 

[hautpot]

Quick release are little weaker because of the removed metal in the center. Wish snap-On had more quick release varities.

 

[purplezr2]

As another poster said they break in over time. I usually just keep a rag around to pull sockets off. I like it more than the QR ratchets as you don't have to worry about accidentally pushing the buttons and having the socket fall into the abyss.

 

[Skin]

Once they came out with QR dual 80s I sold my regulars switched over entirely. I wouldn't go back. The only real con is the head is made a little fatter from the button. I have never "bumped" the button and lost anything. With standard ratchets I have had rusty fasteners hold my socket while the detent of the ratchet is too weak to hold, no longer an issue. Locking ratchets and extensions are a good thing and the pros far outweigh the slightly fatter head, my opinion.

If you want to drop serious coin Nepros ratchets are also QR and integrate the button flush with the head. They feel very similar to a dual 80 and are about the same head thickness as a standard non-QR dual 80 too. Downside is they're extremely pricey and there is basically no warranty support. The latter shouldn't matter too much unless you plan on putting a pipe on your ratchets, worse case scenario you buy a $30 rebuild kit and keep it in your box.

 

[TheEuronater]

I love non QR ratchets. Ive had my hands COVERED in oil and am still able to get the socket off after the ratchet is broken in after a a little use. I was using a quick release RP and tried grabbing it off and remembered why I don't like them. I do have thinner fingers so I can kind of leverage sockets off of the ratchets though

 

[garthg]

I have several Snap On ratchets, including a QR I got inside a Kennedy box at a Pawnshop. The QR is my go-to ratchet in most circumstance. I think it's got a 1972 production date, and is a little looser than a new ratchet, but the QR is convenient.

 

[SK-Mike]

Maybe I will just keep my ratchet and add a Quick release to the lineup. LOL.

 

[Ad13]

I prefer QR ratchets. If you are worried about breaking the drive, you should be using the next size up anyways. And I've never bumped the button, but I have bumped the ratchet only to have the socket fall off the drive.

 

[zkling]

For general use I prefer the quick release, especially as you said when greasy gloves come into play. On the other hand there are times when a quick release button can become a hindrance, mostly when working on modern vehicles, clearance issues and or accidentally bumping the release. Ex, releasing a belt tensioner.

 

[KEH]

I've used QR ratchets since they first (AFIK) came out in the 60's. The only time they will lose a socket or extension is if you bump the pushbutton. Craftsman addressed this problem by recessing the pushbutton in the Low Profile ratchets, other brands may have also.

KEH

 

[stearn786]

My dual 80's are all hard to get the sockets off, at least with shallow chrome. Usually I just give the ratchet head a good whack on the edge of my service cart or the workbench. They pop right off.

Only downside is after 5 years the edge of my cart doesn't have a drop of paint left!

 

[lightning02]

My dual 80's are all hard to get the sockets off, at least with shallow chrome. Usually I just give the ratchet head a good whack on the edge of my service cart or the workbench. They pop right off.

Only downside is after 5 years the edge of my cart doesn't have a drop of paint left!

That's epic LOL