Ratcheting combination wrench; what's your preference?

[HanShotFirst]

So if you were going to buy one, and only one style; which would it be?

1 - Standard non-reversible
2 - Flex non-reversible
3 - Reversible

I have a set of standard non-reversible; generally not real impressed with them. So I picked up a set of reversible and I'm generally pretty happy with them.

I've never owned the flex head type of non-reversable, so I'm kinda wondering if I'm somehow missing out?

I went with the reversible because I tend to use them as a regular combination wrench.

What are your thoughts? Am I missing out or did I make the right call.

The reason I ask is...I don't have any ratcheting wrenches for my English/SAE, so I'm wondering if I should be choosing something different?

What say you???

 

[gdocktor3]

I have a set of each. Each has its time and place of use. Flex non reversible are nice because you can get around obstacles and holding it at an angle makes ratcheting quicker and easier. Reversible flex is awesome.

 

[Sam'sAutoParts]

I have a set of reversible, use them all the time. I also have a set of regular non-reversible that I rarely use. I do plan on picking up a set of flex ratcheting wrenches when I have the extra money and they are on sale.

 

[toolmutt]

This is Garage Journal. You NEED all three!

 

[toolmutt]

I prefer and most often use reversibles. But I have flex for when needed.

 

[928'er]

They all have their place. I find it's more important to have the right size than whether it's reversible, non-reversible, or flex.

Sets that skip frequently used sizes such as 13, 15, 17, or 19mm really frustrate me.

 

[HanShotFirst]

This is Garage Journal. You NEED all three!

Now that's a proper enabler!!! Yes, I do NEED all three (and then some). But for now, I need to pick which will get me the most mileage until it's time to buy the 3rd set.

 

[SoDoodoo]

I have the non reversible flex head ones, and they are really good. There hasn't been a situation where i couldn't use the flex head ones, and a lot of times where the flex has saved so much time. I think they are overall the best ones. Other than the fact that you need to be careful that you might back it so much that your wrench gets stuck against the frame or something. But i'm sure you're probably used to that since you have the regular ones.

 

[Cope]

Mine are GearWrench reversible. My DBE ratcheting are Matco and Snap-on.

 

[mlum6969]

you need one of each set.. sometimes there isn't enough clearance for a ratcheting wrench.. double box end wrenches are also great, they give much more leverage. I'd get the normal combo wrenches.

 

[willjogervais]

reversible is probably the most used, if you were going to get a second set I would go with flex non-reversibles. Personally I have reversible gear wrench and double box flex. I rarely use the flex wrenches but when I do, they are a huge timesaver.

 

[L.Cheapo]

I have the non reversible gear wrench metric and standard sets. Bought them in the 90s. Rarely use them, but the chrome is flaking off. Received a metric set of non reversible Craftsman flex heads in the early 2000s. Have never used them, as the heads are so bulky there are limited opportunities to do so.

Probably wont be buying any more.

 

[cja245]

I just use the regular non reversable ones. The flex ones come in handy occasionally, but I find them to be a pain in the *** most of the time because the flex joint causes the wrench to fall off the fastener to easily. They would be way more useful if they were able to lock in position. Most that I have used do not. I'd like to get a nice set of reversable ones.

 

[Ign]

I've got 'em all too but still prefer basic, offset reversible for 90% of what I do.

 

[B.S.A. (ret.)]

I always used to use a standard combination wrench or if needed, I had a metric & SAE set of double box end ratcheting wrenches. About a year or so ago, I got a great deal on metric and SAE Blue-Point offset, reversible wrenches. I have sold off the old Craftsman double end ratchets and have been using either the standard combos or the Blue-Points since. I WILL NOT however, ever give up my offset DBE wrenches. They have gotten me out of a jam more often than I care to remember.

 

[Finky198]

I have reversible flex stubbies, and long 0* DBE ratcheting that covers most everything. I should pick up the std length reversible flex and finish out the range. Blue point and snap on's. No complaints the BPs are a little bulky but very robust. The snap ons are super thin and smooth.

 

[Whchua]

I have all reversible, standard, flex and flex stubby. The standard get used everytime.

 

[PureLeaf]

I have all 3. SK X-Frames for flat, Proto USA for the offset, and Gearwrench for the flex head.

If you were only going to buy 1 type, I guess the flex head would offer the most flexibility for all situations, but be annoying in many too.

 

[67King]

Reversible.

 

[countryroad82]

I have them all. Use 0 degree offset nonreversible more than anything. REALLY like my SKs!

 

[nbpt100]

I have a set of Cman and a gear wrench set. Both flex and non reversible.

I like the Craftsman beter as it has the ability to lock the head angle in place. This is nice as I find that when I am going fast the flex head angle can move. This allows you to not have to be so cautious when working a bolt or nut.
Both are good quality.

 

[redvalkyrie]

Here's another vote for having as many Gearwrenches as possible. I have the standards, the flex-heads, the stubbies all in both SAE and metric.

However, I do not have the reversible models that have the levers. Those levers always seemed a little redundant to me.

 

[nbpt100]

Here's another vote for having as many Gearwrenches as possible. I have the standards, the flex-heads, the stubbies all in both SAE and metric.

However, I do not have the reversible models that have the levers. Those levers always seemed a little redundant to me.

The lever is not redundant if you have the style with the 15 degree offset.

If you have the flat style or a flex head style, then yes, it adds complexity where it is not needed.

 

[Finky198]

Being able to back things out without removing and flipping the wrench in a crappy location is the plus side of the reversible feature on any style. As well they rarely get trapped. Like some can.

 

[nbpt100]

Being able to back things out without removing and flipping the wrench in a crappy location is the plus side of the reversible feature on any style. As well they rarely get trapped. Like some can.

Good point!

 

[KMdef9]

Being able to back things out without removing and flipping the wrench in a crappy location is the plus side of the reversible feature on any style.

This rarely needs to happen, as most of the time, you're either tightening a bolt or loosening one. Not needing to do both so often on one fastener that it justifies needing reversible.


So, flex non reverse would be the best as I've found out of the OPs choices. I've had more reversible ones fail than non too. The only thing I don't like about the flex heads is under higher torque, they require more balance to keep steady.

 

[Finky198]

Everytool has its ups and downs. It just depends on the job. The flex can be a pain yes, but it can do much more than a fixed wrench. I have beat the **** out of my reversibles BP never broken or skipped.

Maybe it's a brand or use issues you've had.

Should a ratcheting wrench be used to crack tons of bolt probably not. If you want them to last long In general. That's just me... use a std box end or socket to breakem loose. Rather then your ratcheting wrenches.

-----


In general. Out of all the hand drive tools, Ratcheting wrenches seem to be the most abused and missused. Followed by the most complaining on how they ****. I just find it funny.

It's about tool USE. Not tool ABUSE

 

[JoJoSnap]

I own flex head ratcheting kobalt sae and craftsman industrial flexhead Metric both with locking mechansim.

Dewalt reversible ratcheting wrench both sae/metric

Craftsman Industrial cross force reversible wrench both sets for heavier tightening and better grip






Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Empty Pockets]

I have non-flex reversible and flex non-reversible. both have their place. When the budget allows, I'll be buying SK X-Frames

 

[ScottsGT]

I went with the non-reversible flex heads from Gear Wrench. Couldn't be happier. I always laughed at those things (after trying some of the very early Craftsman's) until I found a need. One hit of that crack pipe and I was hooked!

 

[jimmy-ray]

I have this set, i use them constantly. Mine had a 1/4 also. i use the 1/4" a lot for bit driving it really comes in handy. They only problem is they dont reverse so they get stuck sometimes in tight areas and i have to fight them out.

my cowoker has this set, i borrow them all the time, i love them

I ordered this set, hopefully they will be close to my friends set

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002N7P7LA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[mopar_johnny]

The flex heads are great when you need to get at something at a weird angle. I have Gearwrench and they have worked well and are easy to warranty if needed. My local Napa actually sells them along side their Carlyle stuff and will warranty them.

 

[VRStrickland]

I have Blackhawk 15 degree stubby reversible in SAE and metric. Most used wrenches in my box. Gearwrench non reverse straight in SAE and metric. Almost never use them. Full length 15 degree SO reversible in SAE and metric. Second most used wrenches. I do use them to break bolts loose. Never had a problem. Don't consider it abuse, they are wrenches, that is what they are for. Test drove a set of Gearwrench flex head non reverse. Didn't care for them. Gave them to a new tech just starting out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[nbpt100]

I have Blackhawk 15 degree stubby reversible in SAE and metric. Most used wrenches in my box. Gearwrench non reverse straight in SAE and metric. Almost never use them. Full length 15 degree SO reversible in SAE and metric. Second most used wrenches. I do use them to break bolts loose. Never had a problem. Don't consider it abuse, they are wrenches, that is what they are for. Test drove a set of Gearwrench flex head non reverse. Didn't care for them. Gave them to a new tech just starting out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Everything is relative to what you are use to but it would be good to know what you did not like about the Gearwrench flex heads?

This is a good thread. Just about everything I have read I can relate to.
As someone said there is a trade off between the flex head and the non. Those that are flat and those with the 15 degree offset....etc.
I agree it is not abuse to break a bolt loose with them......As long as you are not using a 2 foot cheater bar or a hammer on them.
But.... it sure is safer and smarter to used your conventional box wrench.

 

[skruft]

I have some of each, and rarely use them when I should, because I am old and in the habit of reaching first for regular wrenches or ratchets and sockets when they can be fit in.

I probably use the straight nonreversible by far the most.

I have some Mac offset reversible ones that someone else got flooded and I fixed, so they are very ugly, but they work and I think they would be fine if I would try to use them more.

 

[Dobbin]

Reversible offset Facoms are the first choice by far as often working against panels. Flex heads were stolen and can't say I was too bothered. Non reversible. Come in now and again. I like the look of the Proto spline wrenches as they are longer than many.

 

[nbpt100]

I forgot I had this set of GearWrenches which I bought about 15 years ago to help me with a water pump on a Ford 3.8L. I dont even recall where I bought them. Maybe HD or Sears.
This is a set of 5 SAE and 5 Metric Ratcheting box wrenches. They have a 5 Deg arc which I believe is a 72 tooth mechanism. Far from a complete set but decent for the home owner or tradesman who does not have to deal with a wide range of nut and bolt sizes.
As they are straight they may be tough to use in some situations like in panels.

The plastic case is a bit bulky for what it is but it is better than no case.
Because I keep my flex heads out and they are cover a wider range of sizes, I never any longer need to reach for these. I should probably sell them. They would be a nice starter set for someone.

 

[MikeF2316]

The ones I use most are my reversible 15° offset combinations. If I was going to do it over, I'd get double box ends, I've already got so many open ends that never get used. The flex non-reversible are the ones I use next most often, but as others have mentioned, with the non-reversible ones, you can get trapped.