Quick release ratchets?

[seagullplayer]

I see a lot of negative comments about these.

I was working on my brakes last week. My hands are covering in greasy grimy gopher guts and I need to change my socket. The ratchet I'm using is not quick release and I have a heck of a time getting the socket changed.

With my quick release I could have changed it out one handed.

So what is the downside to quick release?
Slightly thinner profile?

 

[measuredtwice]

I see a lot of negative comments about these.

I was working on my brakes last week. My hands are covering in greasy grimy gopher guts and I need to change my socket. The ratchet I'm using is not quick release and I have a heck of a time getting the socket changed.

With my quick release I could have changed it out one handed.

So what is the downside to quick release?
Slightly thinner profile?

The downsides are that the anvil is weaker since there's a hole through it (and the anvil is probably the most likely part to break on a ratchet)... sometimes the quick release sticks out, requiring more clearance (as you said)... and on some ratchets accidentally bumping the release might drop the socket.

Use whatever works for you.

 

[noid]

There are plenty of QR that are no thicker and have a recessed button.

Some will say that bumping the button may cause for an accidental detachment, but its completely overstated.

Given the choice, im grabbing a QR every time.

 

[qqzj]

QR is great. Ignore the naysayers.

There are plenty of QR that are no thicker and have a recessed button.

Some will say that bumping the button may cause for an accidental detachment, but its completely overstated.

Given the choice, im grabbing a QR every time.

Sent from my SM-G981U1 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Kscardsfan]

The disadvantages of them are pretty highly overstated. I grew up with them and now have a mix of QR and non QR ratchets in my box. Just do like a real addict and have two of the same ratchet with the same socket on it to justify all the duplicate or triplicate tools you own while you work.

 

[Mr_B]

QR is useful but amazing how many ratchets have over proud button and poor ball retention .
I not too bothered and generally prefer non QR but I don't use shiny smooth sockets, 99% of my chrome sockets are half satin or dual polished satin finish and have knurl and shouldered drive end that aids ergonomics, Polished straight sockets is poor ergonomics. Same with impacts the stepped and oring grooved style far better for handling .
extensions is another one that I don't buy unless knurl band or some textured finish rather than glass like chrome .

 

[lardy1]

My aggravation is that I've got such a mixed bag. I'm constantly fighting to remove the socket before I remember the QR. But I don't and didn't use ratchets as a way to pay the rent.

 

[joshmodelskidoo]

I have 1 non qr ratchet and it rarely gets used for the same reasons

 

[richfinn]

QR is useful but amazing how many ratchets have over proud button and poor ball retention .
I not too bothered and generally prefer non QR but I don't use shiny smooth sockets, 99% of my chrome sockets are half satin or dual polished satin finish and have knurl and shouldered drive end that aids ergonomics, Polished straight sockets is poor ergonomics. Same with impacts the stepped and oring grooved style far better for handling .
extensions is another one that I don't buy unless knurl band or some textured finish rather than glass like chrome .

My aggravation is that I've got such a mixed bag. I'm constantly fighting to remove the socket before I remember the QR. But I don't and didn't use ratchets as a way to pay the rent.

I see a lot of negative comments about these.

I was working on my brakes last week. My hands are covering in greasy grimy gopher guts and I need to change my socket. The ratchet I'm using is not quick release and I have a heck of a time getting the socket changed.

With my quick release I could have changed it out one handed.

So what is the downside to quick release?
Slightly thinner profile?

More moving parts, same thing as the locking flexhead ratchets. **** and grit gets into them and shortens the service life

I'm a minimalist though so don't take too much notice!!!

 

[rpcraft]

I see a lot of negative comments about these.

I was working on my brakes last week. My hands are covering in greasy grimy gopher guts and I need to change my socket. The ratchet I'm using is not quick release and I have a heck of a time getting the socket changed.

With my quick release I could have changed it out one handed.

So what is the downside to quick release?
Slightly thinner profile?

Next time you have an issue keep a red rag around. Usually even if they are greased up and funky they will offer a little better purchase on the socket when you try to pull them off.

 

[Professional Tool User]

The problem with quick releases is that they will still break loose on you when you are relying on it to not slip off, whether it be accidentally bumping the button or when you are applying a lot of force/got a heavy extension hooked up.

 

[Max]

I much prefer QR myself, but if someone doesn’t more power to them.

I agree that a QR ratchet is a bit weaker, but if you’re that close to busting it you should be using a larger wrench or a breaker bar anyway. Also, for me, I tend to use extensions a lot. With non QR I’ve had an extension or socket fall off, but with QR and a locking extension it is all good - always. As stated by the OP, I never have issues with greasy sockets not coming off as well.

 

[bonneyman]

What about that brand of ratchet that you pushed the selector knob in and two pins pushed the socket off the front? The anvil wouldn't have the hole in it and be weaker.

 

[DadsTools]

My Dad (30 years aircraft mechanic at the Phila. Navy Yard and in the European theater during WW2) taught me to always use an extension wherever possible, even if it's a short one. I've seen the wisdom in this over time, and so I am almost always using some length of extension bar. This makes the QR on the ratchet somewhat limited in value. I've tried QR extension bars but they're really a pain to use. I think the best idea was the QR extensions sold by Sears for a few years in the early 1970s where engaging the QR on the ratchet with its protruding pin also engaged the internal QR mech for the end of the extension, but they apparently did not sell well and the plastic collars where you could hold the bar onto the ratchet tended to break. (https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=455802&page=3 post #43) Almost all the QR mechs are designed after the original Sears Roberts 1964 patent with or without protruding stud pins. I've seen the one bonneyman mentions, but can't recall any details about it.

So I think in the end that the advantages or disadvantages amount to personal preference and what you want the ratchet to do for you. If I'm doing a job where I already have determined what size sockets I'll need, I might have multiple extensions handy, each with a different socket, and use the ratchet QR to swap them out easily.

 

[Legion Prime]

I've found the advantages of QR ratchets to be rather overstated as well. I've had some cobbled together contraptions involving multiple extensions, a u-joint or two and a hex socket taped into a crowsfoot before. A socket/extension coming loose from the ratchet was never anything I even conceived as a problem. Trying to pull off a socket in cramped quarters, remembering it was a "quick" release ratchet, backing out so I could get one hand on the button while holding the socket so it doesn't drop off & get lost, then having to work my way back into place? Yeah, some variation on that theme has happened. Nothing wrong with QR ratchets but the preference for such is purely personal and likely at least somewhat dependent on what you're working on. As for socket's/hands being slick/oily? Sure that happens, It's rare that it's been an issue though. On the rare occasions it does happen to be an issue I've got tubs of rags and am adding to them anytime a pair of socks/underwear, a tshirt or towel gets holes. No rag? You're wearing a shirt and/or pants right? If you need some ratchets buy one of each, see which you prefer and then buy any further ratchets accordingly.

 

[d.mcfarland]

What about that brand of ratchet that you pushed the selector knob in and two pins pushed the socket off the front? The anvil wouldn't have the hole in it and be weaker.

We had one of those when I was a kid and their mechanism was weak internally. We broke it doing a easy task if I remember correctly.

 

[Outahere]

I own both style ratchets. I prefer QR.

 

[californiaHank]

I've got a mix of QR and non-QR. If I was starting from scratch, I'd buy all or mostly QR ones. QR is a nice convenience, especially in 1/4 and 3/8 drive.

 

[Renegade1LI]

There is really such a thing as non QR ratchet? who knew

 

[Rabid Badger]

The advantage of QR ratchets is positive socket retention without having to use a screwdriver to pry them off.

A good QR ratchet will not release the socket unless the button is pressed.

 

[Ralf11]

There is really such a thing as non QR ratchet? who knew

old people

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

They both have their place. It really depends on the brand for me. Like most things some are better than others. I’ve been in situations where I was pulling the ratchet up and the button got depressed and lost the socket. Also they are weaker in the anvil usually because of the hollow anvil that the mechanism needs.


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[boom10ful]

My favorite quick release ratchet are the Nepros brand. Pricy but worth it.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I've never really had a problem with them, and the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. If I need a stronger tool for stubborn fasteners, I reach for the breaker bar. That said, I do have a few non QR ratchets, but those are low quality, which is probably the main reason I rarely use them.

 

[David0858]

I don't want a rathet that's not QR. If you're that close to it's breaking point, you're using the wrong ratchet or tool and I've never had one accidentally drop a socket.

 

[Iowafox]

For me I prefer Non QR but I don't mind them either. Hell I rather have a QR on a 1/4dr ratchet and non QR on 3/8dr and 1/2dr. The QR ratchets I love are the Harbor Freight 1/4dr roto heads. Those are some of the best ones I have ever used and I really enjoy using them. I find for 1/4dr stuff you won't be applying to much torque to break them most times. I think why most people don't like QR is because they grew up with the junk Craftsman Raised panel ratchets that never help the socket strong enough and was sensitive and always dropped the socket. That is why for many years I didn't like them but then I found some better quality ones that weren't bad.

 

[M6erfan]

I like quick release, especially on 1/4" drive. The only time I ever really truly broke a ratchet was a crappy C'man QR about 20 years ago. I haven't broken one since.

Using properly designed sockets almost negates the advantages of QR. Almost.

 

[nieuport17]

I think I’m the only person that doesn’t like QR on 1/4. I always end up hitting the button.
1/2 or 3/8, Im good with QR.

 

[Ralf11]

how do you properly design sockets to almost negate the advantages of QR?

a relief at the bottom? knurling?

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Not to ruffle feathers, but IME the only reason non-damaged sockets are super difficult to remove, is lack of use of the ratchet. I typically experience the stuck socket syndrome maybe once a year if I'm beyond soaked in slippery fluids and my tools are too. Having a small socket relative to drive size, like a shallow 12mm 3/8 drive, adds to the issue. A 19mm deepwell 3/8 drive has plenty of meat to grab onto. Ideally, you just swap gloves, and ideally, tools should be getting a quick wipe if they're that filthy. Now, if the socket has seen use as a 20 ton press-adapter, then they're usually a nightmare to get off anything.


Whenever I buy a ratchet, I douse the detent ball down with penetrating oil, then exercise it with some pliers, spraying more on the ball while depressed. This seems to prevent any sort of issues like that. Now, my home ratchets, those do occasionally stick. But again, proper maintenance of the detent ball fixes nearly all of that. You can even smear some grease on it and pop a socket on and off to work it in.



All the tool truck drivers say I'm weird. No comfort grips of any kind, no quick release unless that's the only way I can purchase the tool. Frankly I've used "regular" non-QR ratchets for so long, a QR can be a pain when I forget to hit the button.

 

[Iowafox]

Whenever I buy a ratchet, I douse the detent ball down with penetrating oil, then exercise it with some pliers, spraying more on the ball while depressed. This seems to prevent any sort of issues like that. Now, my home ratchets, those do occasionally stick. But again, proper maintenance of the detent ball fixes nearly all of that. You can even smear some grease on it and pop a socket on and off to work it in..

This right here is a hugely over looked thing for most people. I soak my ratchets in AFT for the first day after buying them then occasional soaks after just to keep it all working and well lubed.

 

[m151]

Love the QR's for oily engines. It was an invention waiting to happen. Thank you, Pete Roberts!

 

[Robbie B]

I’ve never had a preference. Honestly as long as I can break the bolt loose I don’t care. And I’ve never had a QR suddenly come detached from the socket unless the ball mechanism was stuck in.

 

[nbpt100]

It depends what you are use to. I own and use both types. To me, Nothing is worse than a socket falling off of your ratchet and you spend 5 minutes looking for it. I have never had that happen with a QR ratchet. The Non QR style, yes, it happens at times, when the ball detent is weaker combined with a worn socket.

 

[richfinn]

Not to ruffle feathers, but IME the only reason non-damaged sockets are super difficult to remove, is lack of use of the ratchet. I typically experience the stuck socket syndrome maybe once a year if I'm beyond soaked in slippery fluids and my tools are too. Having a small socket relative to drive size, like a shallow 12mm 3/8 drive, adds to the issue. A 19mm deepwell 3/8 drive has plenty of meat to grab onto. Ideally, you just swap gloves, and ideally, tools should be getting a quick wipe if they're that filthy. Now, if the socket has seen use as a 20 ton press-adapter, then they're usually a nightmare to get off anything.


Whenever I buy a ratchet, I douse the detent ball down with penetrating oil, then exercise it with some pliers, spraying more on the ball while depressed. This seems to prevent any sort of issues like that. Now, my home ratchets, those do occasionally stick. But again, proper maintenance of the detent ball fixes nearly all of that. You can even smear some grease on it and pop a socket on and off to work it in.



All the tool truck drivers say I'm weird. No comfort grips of any kind, no quick release unless that's the only way I can purchase the tool. Frankly I've used "regular" non-QR ratchets for so long, a QR can be a pain when I forget to hit the button.

Yep, me too I like the standard chrome handles and shun QR or locking flex, It needs to last my lifetime so no frills for me

 

[anavrinIV]

I prefer QR ratchets for ease of removing sockets. Personally I only own QR ratchets but use non-QR regularly and they're fine too. If I put my money in it I will get what I want but unless the whole tool is garbage anyway I'm not going to complain. My tools are for home use not in a shop, I won't worry about wearing them out for a very long time.

Clearly there is enough of a market for both that both are made in essentially the same designs from most companies and people have different prferences

 

[FuzzyTiger]

I used to be a QR only believer after being frustrated constantly by my non-QR ratchets... And then I started upgrading from basic China made tools and realized that a quality ratchet in either style is best. It's all about the tool being made to tight enough tolerances that sockets stay on without jamming and come off without a fuss when you want them to.

 

[seagullplayer]

I want to thank everyone for their input.

I heard pretty much what I thought I would.

I have both styles. I have come to prefer the QR. I won't be trashing any of mine, but I think going forward QR will be my preference.

I just bought a new Milwaukee 3/8 set with the flat sided sockets. I like everything about the set save maybe the ratchet. It is a nice one, but not QR. I will say the flat sided sockets do make it easier to get the socket off.

If I had to do it again, I would buy them again. I may just use a different ratchet.

 

[9eight7]

Originally I had a regular ratchet then bought a non-locking flexhead QR to do some exhaust work and to get into funky tight areas. This is the only ratchet I used for years unless I need to go big (impact/breaker) or small (1/4” ratchet or hex ratchet). I like knowing that my socket won’t go anywhere unless I want it to (push button then pull off socket).

 

[ike]

i don't really have a preference. i have some 60t craftsman thin profile qr ratchets and some very similar 88t armstrong ratchets and also some 88t armstrong flex head ratchets without qr. i use them all about the same amount. i do recall years back on this forum that pretty much everyone acted like qr ratchets were for noobs and searsaholics. i guess one good thing about sears going **** up is the anti-craftsman crowd has floated downstream with it.