Ratchet Qs

[Marauder470]

I have a couple questions about SHLF80

I was looking for a long handle wrench but didn't consider the flex head:

- how much weaker are these with the flex joint than a regular head wrench?
- what's the advantage to get a flex vs standard head wrench
- disadvantage?

 

[shotgunfatcat]

With snap-on, not too much weaker, it is a bit bulkier than a normal one. the advantage is the head flexes.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

I have an FLF80, don't even use my long-handled ratchet anymore.

Strength.. I've put a pipe on it in a pinch and it's taken everything i've thrown at it, never go easy on it and it doesn't show any wear. It just takes everything and asks for more.

 

[mrholeshot]

You don't have to worry about breaking the flex joint on a Snap-On ratchet. Both have advantages and disadvantages, The non flex long is a one handed ratchet but doesnt flex. The flex ratchet is a two handed (takes two hands in many cases) but the head angles to clear obstructions. One reason I like the roto-head Snap-On (invented by SK and now copied by everyone) is that it gives you both options. You can push a socket on in a tight space and it also flexes. You can adjust the tension of the head when needed. It's very rare when I need a conventional flex ratchet. I use the Roto-head Snap-On most of the time. my short Snap-On some of the time and if I have a bunch of bolts with nuts 5/8 or bigger I grab the long handle Snap-On (sorry I don't keep up with part numbers) I almust dispise a reg flex ratchet although I own quite a few.

 

[MattT]

IME the ratchet mechanism will give before the flex joint does on SO and Mac ratchets.

 

[SNAPON93]

Snap-On makes the best ratchets i've ever used. i've never had a prolem with them being too weak. the flex head is a nice thing at times but can be a pain when you are really pulling on it. sometimes when you pull hard the handle swings over. I just bought a FHX80 which is a locking flex head which is really nice. if i were to buy another ratchet it would deffinatly be a FHX80

 

[chadster1]

Very rarely do I have to warranty a SHLF80 for breakage at the flex joint.

 

[wafrederick]

Matco has them with the locking and Snap On has them too.I have a Cornwell that is my favorite and never have broken it yet although I have no dealer anymore.