Ratchets

[bcradio]

It may look the same but material quality is something to consider.All the newer cheap Bahco S series stuff (the Snap On look alikes) seems to be made out of the same material as gum wrappers.These are not professional tools.All the older stuff, if you can find it, is not as good as Stahlwille or Snap On and is overpriced- at least over here in Finland it is.

You definitely must not get the same Bahco ratchets there that we do, because they are exactly the same. Only difference is the shape of the ratchet, but the ratchet portion is identical.

 

[bcradio]

Home use or home automotive use? For stuff around the house, you really don't need great ratchets. For automotive, you need the very specific models. Don't just get the standard models.

Start with a 3/8 drive flex head. These are longer than the regular version. The best models have fine tooth counts and friction flex mechanisms. They give you more leverage and more access. Snap On's model is exquisite. But there are plenty others available for much less money. I used to love my craftsman. It had a round hard black handle. But the flex detents were annoying, the ratchet was vague and sometimes skipped or reversed on me. But it was a great size and shape.

Next, I'd choose a 3/8 stubby. These just need to be decent. Fine tooth count isn't such a big advantage. Low back drag, the friction ratcheting the tool, is a big advantage. I had a craftsman stubby flex I loved. I now have the stubby Snap On. It's nice only if you have extra money. Stubbies are great for quick installations and removals of pre-loosened stuff.

A tiny 1/4 ratchet is next. 1/4 drive is stronger than people think, perfectly adequate for some engine work. The craftsman full polished model is pretty nice. Snap On T72 is nicer. Consider the industrial finish GT72. You can find these for $30 on ebay.

Last, get yourself the longest, strongest 1/2 flex head you can get. I love my Snap On 26" flex head with the cushion grip. Don't care if it gets dirty, it's a fantastic tool for removing stuck stuff. The dual 80 head means you can click it in very little space. But these are crazy money, even used. I bought mine here for $120. As that breaks the bank, see if you can find a good made in USA version.

If you have your heart set on a starter set and want quality, look for the industrial finish Snap On models on ebay. I think I bought mine for about $100. Look for GT72, GF80, GS80

GREAT advice here... you don't need a lot of ratchets, you need the right ratchets.

 

[sonvolt]

I have snap on, SK, armstrong, craftsman 84t, wright, and Gearwrench. For the $$ you want to spend get the gearwrench 84 or 120 teeth ratchets

 

[oldldh]

www.tooldiscounter.com

GearWrench #81206P 3pc 120 tooth Ratchet Set---$ 65.59...

Or...

GearWrench #81230P 4pc 120 tooth Flex Head Ratchet Set---$ 94.97...

The absolute mostest for the leastest!!!

 

[magicrat]

I would say snap on off ebay.....abot 1/3 of new price and lifetime warranty if ur on a budget I always reccomend lowes kobalt just bcuz its truly no questions asked....walk in with no reciept and walkout with a new tool.....awsome policy

 

[magicrat]

Also sears now logs tool sales under your phone number so u dont need the receipt.. So gearwrench would be a good choice also if u are anywhere near a sears