Ratcheting wrenches options

[AJHD]

Disclaimer: This is not so much about brand or price, this more about the actual ratcheting wrench designs and what you would opt for.
If it bothers you, consider Icon only being used as an example of the design.

That said, I know GJ response will be you need/buy all 3 sets and a half dozen others not covered here. But that's not in the budget.
I can't have every style wrench ever made, even if some of you do.

Anyway... It you had to pick from these 3 designs, what would you choose and why?
I've owned all 3 designs in the past, and they all have their pro's and con's.


#1. Reversible w/ offset head are great in tight spots when you can't get a straight line on the fastener. And if you get your wrench stuck, the direction switch can be flipped without having causing a bad day.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/anti-slip-grip-professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64840.html

#2. Flex head non-reversible are nice, but sometimes the flex head can be annoying, especially if it becomes floppy. Also, no direction switch, wrench has been flipped loosen or tighten.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/professional-flex-head-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-12-piece-56427.html

#3. The extra length is nice for leverage but can't be used in smaller spaces. It's also nice to have a non-ratcheting box end to break the fastener loose or for final tightening, and then flip over and use the ratcheting end for removal or install. Also, no open end on this design is protentional con, although I use box end 99% of the time.

Extra Long Professional Metric Double Box Ratcheting Wrench, 10 Piece

Amazing deals on this 10 Pc Met Double Ratcheting Box-End Set at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[lardy1]

As always, it will depend on application and user preference/budget. I have examples of the three you refer to (different brands) and use the reversable combination the most. By far.

 

[niget2002]

I've never had a flex head, so not sure how well they work. I do wish mine were reversible. I've almost gotten mine stuck by backing something out and not pulling the wrench out in time. I was able to push the wrench below the bolt head and use another open ended wrench to tighten the bolt until I could get the other wrench out.

 

[Ohio Andy]

My primary wrenches are just your standard box end combination wrenches. I wanted something longer so I settled on long handled double fixed head

13-Piece Long Flex Ratcheting Box End Wrench Set with Holder | TEKTON

Set Includes 1/4 - 13/16 inch (SAE), 6 - 19 mm (metric) long flex head 12-point ratcheting double box end wrenches. No skipped sizes. WRB96202.

www.tekton.com

I really like the reach and has been very nice for since of those tighter bolts.

I have been leaning towards adding some flex head wrenches just cuz I like the ratcheting action

34-Piece Flex Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set with Organizer | TEKTON

Set Includes 1/4 - 1 inch (SAE), 6 - 24 mm (metric) flex head 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches with modular wrench organizer. No skipped sizes. WRC95305.

www.tekton.com

But I would prefer that they are reversible....

34-Piece Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set with Organizer | TEKTON

Set includes 1/4 - 1 inch (SAE), 6 - 24 mm (metric) reversible 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches with modular wrench organizer. No skipped sizes. WRC94305.

www.tekton.com

I know Williams makes reversible flex head ratcheting wrenches. Taking time on my decision since usually I can just use a socket

Will be interested to see what you choose

 

[housewolf]

I’m only a “hobbiest” and I have to watch my tool budget, but I do have some high quality tools.

For #1 I have a SO set since they get used frequently

For #2 I have a very inexpensive Towallmark set I bought on Amazon for <$50 since they are rarely needed. I am impressed with the quality for such a low price and they’ve done their job when needed, but I don’t know how they’d hold up to daily use/abuse.

I don’t have a #3

 

[AJHD]

I’m only a “hobbiest” and I have to watch my tool budget, but I do have some high quality tools.

For #1 I have a SO set since they get used frequently

For #2 I have a very inexpensive Towallmark set I bought on Amazon for <$50 since they are rarely needed. I am impressed with the quality for such a low price and they’ve done their job when needed, but I don’t know how they’d hold up to daily use/abuse.

I don’t have a #3

As I've said before, I'm a "DIY" guy (aka "hobbyist"?) these days too and have been for over a year now.
Even with a truck account or buying used, I'm not spending $600 on a Snap On set. They are great tools, but I just don't have the budget to support that. My tools buying habits have changed.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

That said, I am leaning strongly towards #1, a standard-length reversible design with the offset and non-flex.
Right now, I'm looking at Icon and Tekton, unless there is a better option for the price.

14-Piece Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set | TEKTON

Set includes 6 - 19 mm (metric) reversible 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches. No skipped sizes. WRC94002.

www.tekton.com

An even cheaper option would be a straight non-reversible design with no offset or flex.
Something like this Gearwrench set that is sadly without a doubt made in China now.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002NYD1C?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Steel_Rain]

As I've said before, I'm a "DIY" guy (aka "hobbyist"?) these days too and have been for over a year now.
Even with a truck account or buying used, I'm not spending $600 on a Snap On set. They are great tools, but I just don't have the budget to support that. My tools buying habits have changed.

That said, I am leaning strongly towards #1, a standard-length reversible design with the offset and non-flex.
Right now, I'm looking at Icon and Tekton, unless there is a better option for the price.

14-Piece Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set | TEKTON

Set includes 6 - 19 mm (metric) reversible 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches. No skipped sizes. WRC94002.

www.tekton.com

AJ, honestly, I feel like this is your best option in that price range. I have many sets of switch paw reversible ratcheting wrenches (including the icon's you called out) and these are great value for someone in your position. Both Icon and Tekton have good warranty service and are made in Taiwan.

There are million no-name brand ratcheting wrench sets on Amazon these days (for cheap), but warranty is key if your using these often. Everyone says don't use a ratcheting wrenches to break free fasteners, but If we are being honest, that's not what's happening in the real world (unless you live the "manufacturers repair manual" Utopia).

 

[bassJAM]

I just have a stubby set (metric and SAE) and a flex head set, neither are reversible. I LOVE the flex head and the stubbies get used a decent amount as well.

I can't say that I've ever been in a situation where I've gotten stuck and needed them to be reversible. I don't think I'd have much of a use for the long ones either, I generally bust things loose with a regular combination wrench first because I don't like to stress the ratcheting mechanisms too much. All of mine are Gearwrench brand.

 

[M635_Guy]

I have no reason why I can put my finger on, but I I just don't use ratcheting wrenches for "normal" stuff.

I have both the Icon long non-flex and flex-double-box sets and while I consider the flex set a "lifesaver" tool, the straight ones are rarely used and mainly on the regular end to break stuff in tight spots. I don't trust non-reversible - I have only had two or so bad moments, but they've been a PITA. I have a stubby set of GearWrench flex-head ratcheting wrenches that I use occasionally. My regular-length Craftsman and Hazet ratcheting wrenches are barely-ever used.

Maybe I just wind up with sockets/ratchet in most of those situations - I have enough low-profile options that work I guess.

 

[mikey03]

I got some XL reversible flex head snap ons and they are great for reach. Leverage idk don’t really care about that hard to need so much leverage on a 10 mm tbh but for reach in a tight spot where a ratchet and socket would be too big it’s great.

i got some non reversible flex head wrenches in regular size for if a socket won’t fit but in those cases the wrench could get stuck so maybe it’s a bad idea tbh but I got non reversible since it’s smaller head design and didn’t see any reversible flex head smallish wrenches on market

the type 1 are the standard kind and honestly I don’t see much use for them because I think if they can fit then you can for a regular ratchet and socket usually

 

[Steel_Rain]

I don't trust non-reversible - I have only had two or so bad moments, but they've been a PITA.

We have all put ourselves in that black hole once or twice.

 

[AJHD]

AJ, honestly, I feel like this is your best option in that price range. I have many sets of switch paw reversible ratcheting wrenches (including the icon's you called out) and these are great value for someone in your position. Both Icon and Tekton have good warranty service and are made in Taiwan.

There are million no-name brand ratcheting wrench sets on Amazon these days (for cheap), but warranty is key if your using these often. Everyone says don't use a ratcheting wrenches to break free fasteners, but If we are being honest, that's not what's happening in the real world (unless you live the "manufacturers repair manual" Utopia).

The Tekton set bugs because I don't feel like I really need anything below 10mm. I feel like the set could be $50 cheaper and go 10mm-19mm like most other sets. Not a deal breaker, but something I've considered.

As for the Amazon brands and no-name whoever the **** it is, I'd like to avoid those and I'd like to avoid all the made in China brands if I'm being honest. Even Gearwrench for me I would hate to buy simply because of their business choice (most of their tools are made in China now).


/ Quick rant... /

I also prefer to buy tools, when or if possible, from local sources. Rather it be a tool truck, HD, HF or someone else. It may cost a bit more than Amazon, but I've found warranty and returns are easier and/or faster... The few things I've ordered from Amazon this year the shipping has been ******* me off and it took a week to return a wrong item they sent me (I did have the correct replacement next day however). I also hate waiting a week (or paying additional fees) for shipping from Tekton for example.

\ End rant \

 

[MongoTA]

I have tekton flex head ratchets. I do like them. As you've figured out each wrench configuration has certain advantages and disadvantages. The flex head allows additional access in some cases but it can limit you in others.

My main wrench sets, I have a set of standard combo wrenches. A set of flex head ratchets. And a set of stubby combo wrenches. Based on what I'm trying to do I'll pick what I think is the best wrench for that particular job. If I'm uncertain or if access is easy, I first go for the flex head ratchet. It may sound odd, but the flex heads took me a few times using them to get used to the ergonomics of how to use them.

 

[Snapped-off]

3, 1, and 2 is my order of preference from your list.

 

[M635_Guy]

We have all put ourselves in that black hole once or twice.

Honestly, that's good to hear. I objectively know it's a risk and something to avoid, and have been pretty purposeful about it...

...until I was working on an alternator with a really long friggin' bolt that made me mad enough to lose focus and forget about the reversing thing until whatever tool I was using was pinned against the rad, blocking my ability to reverse it. Similar thing with a control arm bolt on the family Mazda - I was pissed at something and got myself pinned against something else.

I can't recall how I got out of either of those situations cautious: ) but I'm triply-aware/careful these days. I guess that's why they call them hard lessons...

The Tekton set bugs because I don't feel like I really need anything below 10mm. I feel like the set could be $50 cheaper and go 10mm-19mm like most other sets. Not a deal breaker, but something I've considered.

As for the Amazon brands and no-name whoever the **** it is, I'd like to avoid those and I'd like to avoid all the made in China brands if I'm being honest. Even Gearwrench for me I would hate to buy simply because of their business choice (most of their tools are made in China now).


/ Quick rant... /

I also prefer to buy tools, when or if possible, from local sources. Rather it be a tool truck, HD, HF or someone else. It may cost a bit more than Amazon, but I've found warranty and returns are easier and/or faster... The few things I've ordered from Amazon this year the shipping has been ******* me off and it took a week to return a wrong item they sent me (I did have the correct replacement next day however). I also hate waiting a week (or paying additional fees) for shipping from Tekton for example.

\ End rant \

You just made an argument for HF Icon - MiT, (probably) local and easy for warranty, though I doubt you'll need it (in general)

I can't recall anyone saying Tekton charged them fees for shipping. The only time I've had to deal with a customer-service thing with them was when FedEx lost my torque wrench in shipment. I was sorta-hoping to get to the oil pan job over the weekend and when it was Wednesday the shipment seemed to stop in Memphis for a couple days, I called Tekton about it. The guy shipped a new one two-day even though I told him it wasn't a big deal if I had it the following week. My point is if you tell them you need it quick, I feel like they're likely to make that happen without extra cost. Maybe I'm wrong. That still isn't easier than walking into a HF and back out with a replacement.

 

[Wamsutta]

Being that I'm so sensitive to the sound a ratchet mechanism makes ( similar to the reason why people drive Harley-Davidson instead of Honda ) is why I would have buy a Snap-on.

 

[MJK]

I'd pick #1 and have absolutely no regrets.

 

[AJHD]

I'm not worried much about warranty. Things do break. Having a local warranty option is nice. But not a deal breaker either.
Speaking of which... In my albeit limited experience with buying directly from Tekton, their shipping takes 5 days, but yes it's free. Not sure if they even have faster shipping speed options like Amazon or other companies do.

Then again, Amazon is constantly late or your order goes missing. I ordered a pair of Knipex pliers with next day shipping, paid $10 for it too, sure enough the order went missing in shipping and they make you wait 3-5 days before issuing a refund after you cancel the order. If I don't have an active Prime account, I usually don't even pay for shipping and opt for their free 5-7 day shipping option instead because I know it will likely be late anyway or not show up... Just a few reasons I try to not buy from Amazon anymore. I said in another thread I have like 6 orders from Amazon in 2024. I average less than 1 item a month. Same story with last year, doubt I even placed 12 orders.

Anyway... I know it's blasphemy, but for needs and budget I'm becoming more of a HF guy. Although I generally don't buy anything without a sale or coupon as some of their stuff worth buying is overpriced in my opinion, but a coupon or sale it usually makes the decision easier. I've said it before, I still buy from Snap On but I only buy individual items here and there. Anything that comes in a set is ungodly expensive, individual items add up fast enough as it is.

 

[kbeefy]

I have 5 or 6 sets of gearwrenches.
I use them with almost every job.

I don't use any of the ones you listed regularly.

These are the ones I use most often. The non-flex ones are also non-reversible. I use them the most often bay far.

The XL flex reversible ones are the second most used.





I have combination ones like you listed, I only opt for them as a last resort because the above options are not available or clearance restricts their use.

I have found the stubby flex ratchet wrenches handy on a number of occasions, I use them more than any you listed.

 

[Etchase]

Proto is always my answer. Especially if you have a dealer.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IA4Y07M?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Drunkonunleaded]

I have the Williams reversible flex head wrenches. Can’t recommend them enough.

A lot of what I work on are tight areas, and these were the proverbial silver bullet there. Typically, I like to break torque with a standard wrench and send it home with the ratcheting ones.

 

[AEAdam]

Devil’s advocate:

I have a couple different types, no flex heads and honestly I don’t use them, don’t like them, and could easily live/work without them. I vote passing. Save your money for higher quality combos. If you have high quality combos, I’d get aerospace ”high performance“ wrenches before I bought ratchet wrenches.

Root reason, no ratchet is as strong as a fixed wrench and they are big and don’t fit everywhere. Agree when you have plenty of space they are convenient. But when I have plenty of space I use a ratchet.

Where I hear they shine is when you are wrenching on a racecar or lawn mower and know ahead of time all you need are your ratchet wrenches and it’s the only thing you bring to the vehicle. I have a friend who did that and he swore by his ratchet wrenches.

 

[Wrench97]

As I've said before, I'm a "DIY" guy (aka "hobbyist"?) these days too and have been for over a year now.
Even with a truck account or buying used, I'm not spending $600 on a Snap On set. They are great tools, but I just don't have the budget to support that. My tools buying habits have changed.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

That said, I am leaning strongly towards #1, a standard-length reversible design with the offset and non-flex.
Right now, I'm looking at Icon and Tekton, unless there is a better option for the price.

14-Piece Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set | TEKTON

Set includes 6 - 19 mm (metric) reversible 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches. No skipped sizes. WRC94002.

www.tekton.com

An even cheaper option would be a straight non-reversible design with no offset or flex.
Something like this Gearwrench set that is sadly without a doubt made in China now.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002NYD1C?tag=atomicindus08-20

Make sure you can flip them over if needed, I have a set of Gearwrench that the box end can only be used from one side, they're now in the bottom of my box at home as I never use them.

 

[bigfunwmu]

I have extra long, double box end, one end flex non-reverse ratchet other end fixed; Matco SRFBZLM102TA (damn, those got more expensive since I bought mine!).. Kinda combines your #2 and #3 above. I also have the Tekton set you linked: https://www.tekton.com/reversible-12-point-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-14-piece-wrc94002

I grab the Matco ones first usually. The Tekton ones work just fine, but I like the longer length and find myself using the fixed box end about as much as the ratchet end since I will use the fixed end to break stuff loose or back up an impact sometimes. The flex head is nice when swinging it with the long length to get around stuff and actually be able to use the ratchet end.

 

[richfinn]

I have a bunch of different designs but the two types I use all the time are.

1. Set of the Mountain/KABO XL flex-heads. (I like the depth/reach of "socket" ends, it's super useful for automotive work)

2. Facom short length flex-heads in 8/10/12/13/14mm (great quality and cheap enough)

I haven't used any of the others for years, if they aren't flex I'm not interested anymore. I don't like reverse levers either I like the KABO style push switch better

 

[ecotec]

I bought the 10-19mm reversible SUPERCOMBO metric ratcheting wrench set at the beginning of Covid.

If you can find them for a similar price, I would buy them.

You cannot really expand upon the set, though. Williams makes a 4pc larger set, but they are a different design. The larger ones look like my 22mm CAT ratcheting wrench. Obviously, you can expand the set… but they would not match.

 

[housewolf]

As I've said before, I'm a "DIY" guy (aka "hobbyist"?) these days too and have been for over a year now.
Even with a truck account or buying used, I'm not spending $600 on a Snap On set. They are great tools, but I just don't have the budget to support that. My tools buying habits have changed.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com

That said, I am leaning strongly towards #1, a standard-length reversible design with the offset and non-flex.
Right now, I'm looking at Icon and Tekton, unless there is a better option for the price.

14-Piece Reversible Ratcheting Wrench Set | TEKTON

Set includes 6 - 19 mm (metric) reversible 12-point ratcheting combination wrenches. No skipped sizes. WRC94002.

www.tekton.com

Yeah, I wouldn’t (didn’t) pay anywhere near $600 for mine. I likely bought them off eBay or a friend of mine got a deal for me off a truck. I’ve been pretty selective where I’ve spent a lot on tools. A few years ago I went through and filled in some gaps due to loss or breakage so lot of my SAE stuff is Tekton and I’ve not been disappointed in anything from them. Same with Icon but Tekton sells individual pieces then sets the hook on you with the 10% back deal

 

[BIGTOY44]

The Tekton set bugs because I don't feel like I really need anything below 10mm. I feel like the set could be $50 cheaper and go 10mm-19mm like most other sets. Not a deal breaker, but something I've considered.

As for the Amazon brands and no-name whoever the **** it is, I'd like to avoid those and I'd like to avoid all the made in China brands if I'm being honest. Even Gearwrench for me I would hate to buy simply because of their business choice (most of their tools are made in China now).


/ Quick rant... /

I also prefer to buy tools, when or if possible, from local sources. Rather it be a tool truck, HD, HF or someone else. It may cost a bit more than Amazon, but I've found warranty and returns are easier and/or faster... The few things I've ordered from Amazon this year the shipping has been ******* me off and it took a week to return a wrong item they sent me (I did have the correct replacement next day however). I also hate waiting a week (or paying additional fees) for shipping from Tekton for example.

\ End rant \

Why would you pay shipping for Tekton?

 

[Hakeem]

i think flex head wrenches offer the most advantages as they can can get into spots no socket + ratchet combo can reach.

Reversible wrenches are nice but in confined quarters where I have to choke up on the wrench, I find myself fat-********* the reverse lever.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

IMO the question 1st is, does one have another basic combo wrench set? If the answer is no, then one HAS to get a set with an open end, otherwise any work involving an open end would be precluded. IMO this then defines set 3 as a more supplementary set, needing a set of combos to function properly.

I don't like non-offset non-reversible. The lack of offset means the only time you can get on a fastener is in areas that the fastener is relatively flush with the drive surface. However the flex head profile of set 2 is inherently bulkier than the standard "combo wrench" design of set 1. So IMO while set 2 offers some versatility, it is inferior in most cases to set 1. Set 2 thrives in ergonomics, letting you change the angle of the handle as you turn the wrench. Very nice. I have a double-flex version of that set from Cornwell. It lives in my box, while a set similar to set 1 is in the cart, as is a set similar to set 3.


I don't really care what brand you buy, I'm just thinking conceptually about use.

I would preclude set 2, and focus on 1 and 3. FWIW 3 gives you way more inherent leverage, great for breaking things free. Since you're doing DIY, you're less likely to be in "dumb" situations where you need 12 sets of wrenches to fix a particular problem or situation.

There's also the question of wrenches versus sockets. Some of the ratcheting wrench set 1 tasks, many of them, can be substituted by a flex head ratchet and a stubby socket. IMO that's more of a personality thing, I don't believe there is a universally correct answer. If both fit, which do you grab? If your brain works in sockets 1st, tool out to maximize socket function, etc.

I think with a set of combos, and my mental process, I'd like set 3 next. The nice thing about set 1 is you can pick up a ****** set of those locally anytime if you absolutely must have them. Sort of like my concept for not carrying much/any SAE when I would move tools around. SAE is easily and cheaply available anywhere if I need it.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Make sure you can flip them over if needed, I have a set of Gearwrench that the box end can only be used from one side, they're now in the bottom of my box at home as I never use them.

What's supposed to be the point of that? So non-flanged hardware doesn't slip through the wrench while driving it?

 

[mikey03]

anyone use these from proto?

locking flex head so you get options and no extended protrusion so you can’t use it on recessed stuff but maybe that’s not what this is for maybe this is for real low access stuff

and best part is the open end is a high quality proto ASD like snap on FD but it is Taiwan so maybe as good as a US snap on

dont love black chrome and dont love spline but seems like an interesting idea for a wrench

honestly would be perfect if it came regular chrome and 12 point and double box end in this shorter design like this

 

[mikey03]

What's supposed to be the point of that? So non-flanged hardware doesn't slip through the wrench while driving it?

Maybe so can be used like a pass thru socket set?

 

[AJHD]

First, I have Snap On combination wrenches up to 24mm. Worry not. I also have Snap On angle wrenches up to 22mm. A ratcheting set is just to expand my capabilities.

That said, I went to HF on my way home from work and decided to buy some things.

#1. I bought the 10mm to 19mm Icon reversible ratcheting wrench set with anti-slip ("flank drive") open end and 15* degree offset. The ratchet mechanism feels good, solid engagement but no, they're not buttery smooth like Snap On because they're not Snap On.

Only possible concern I have is they are extended length, so they are longer than a standard combination wrench, especially the larger sizes. Remains to be seen if this will be a issue or not. Overall however, I'm happy with them upon 1st impression.

HF also sells an add on set up to 32mm I might have to buy later.

#2. I also bought the 3/8" Icon 10mm to 19mm impact wobble socket set I mentioned in another thread. Again, initial impressions are good. They feel solid. I like the roll stamping. Much slimmer than they look online. I think they will do the job just fine.

#3. I came across a 1/2" Icon metric hex set on clearance for $20. I don't need it, but I was looking around at larger hex sets recently and for $20 I wasn't going to pass these by. Completely unopened or touched by the way, NOT an open box return.

 

[mikey03]

HF also sells an add on set up to 32mm I might have to buy later.

at what point is the type 1 regular reversible combination offset ratcheting wrench too big to be considered useful? I was thinking maybe 24 mm?

with 27 and 32 the fastener is going to require so much torque I’m not sure if a ratcheting wrench can handle it your prob better off with a XL 1/2 drive ratchet if it can fit and if it can’t fit then what engineer designed a thing with a 32 mm bolt in such a tight space a socket won’t fit?

I think usually the bigger the fastener the more space they design in but I mostly work on 2000 to 2015 year cars tbh

 

[scooby074]

Flex head. Mine are Gearwrench brand. I do have some stubby GW that are rigid though.

 

[Fedwrench]

What's supposed to be the point of that? So non-flanged hardware doesn't slip through the wrench while driving it?

Capstop. It's a much hated (at least by me) feature the reversible Gearwrench sets sold on sale at Sears and other big box stores back in the day. The boxed end has a metal plate on the top of the ratchet 12 point that prevents the wrench from sliding past the fastener. Unfortunately, it also prevents you from using a reverse grip on the wrench should you need a different angle to avoid something. I believe the Capstop feature is no longer available. On OEM, Facom/USAG reversible ratcheting combination wrenches, they use a wire to act as a capstop but, you can push past it if needed.

Back to the subject at hand, I would run with standard length reversible combination ratcheting wrenches from Proto/Blackhawk/Dewalt. However, since the last thing I need is another wrench with an open end, my favorite ratcheting wrench is the Armstrong/Matco standard length Proswing wrench that has a fixed 15 degree boxed end on one side and a zero offset 72 ratcheting boxed end on the other side.
I also like these SP Tools locking flex head versions but, they lack an 18 mm.
https://sptoolsusa.com/collections/...g-gear-drive-wrench-sets-flex-head-metric-8pc

 

[dchawk81]

Disclaimer: This is not so much about brand or price, this more about the actual ratcheting wrench designs and what you would opt for.
If it bothers you, consider Icon only being used as an example of the design.

That said, I know GJ response will be you need/buy all 3 sets and a half dozen others not covered here. But that's not in the budget.
I can't have every style wrench ever made, even if some of you do.

Anyway... It you had to pick from these 3 designs, what would you choose and why?
I've owned all 3 designs in the past, and they all have their pro's and con's.


#1. Reversible w/ offset head are great in tight spots when you can't get a straight line on the fastener. And if you get your wrench stuck, the direction switch can be flipped without having causing a bad day.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/anti-slip-grip-professional-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-set-10-piece-64840.html

#2. Flex head non-reversible are nice, but sometimes the flex head can be annoying, especially if it becomes floppy. Also, no direction switch, wrench has been flipped loosen or tighten.

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/professional-flex-head-metric-ratcheting-combination-wrench-12-piece-56427.html

#3. The extra length is nice for leverage but can't be used in smaller spaces. It's also nice to have a non-ratcheting box end to break the fastener loose or for final tightening, and then flip over and use the ratcheting end for removal or install. Also, no open end on this design is protentional con, although I use box end 99% of the time.

Extra Long Professional Metric Double Box Ratcheting Wrench, 10 Piece

Amazing deals on this 10 Pc Met Double Ratcheting Box-End Set at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

If you can afford the best, get the best.

Cheaping out only makes sense for us tradetree goobers trying to squeeze Jack Daniel's from a turnip.

This from a recent convert to the tool truck brands.

I still say if you're broke AF get the cheaper stuff. But once you're advanced, don't waste your time on the lower end stuff.

 

[dchawk81]

@dnschmidt love ya baby.

 

[Wrench97]

What's supposed to be the point of that? So non-flanged hardware doesn't slip through the wrench while driving it?

I think they are trying to protect the switch lever?