reversible vs non/ no offset?

[Indy125]

Hi All,

Any suggestions about reversible ratchet wrenches vs non? Upon my searching, I see that non reversible have zero offset in the box end, while the reversibles do. Is this more advantageous? Not to mention non reversible are much cheaper.

My question is, how important is reversible option, along with how important is having an offset box end? Considering I can only get one with the other.

Thanks for any thoughts!

 

[u2slow]

Depends on your use. It's a speed/convenience tool IMHO, not a crucial one. I have the non-reversing which is fine for me.

Mine are the type where the ratchet end is hinged. This is nice in theory, and the first few tight spaces. After some good tight pulls though, the hinge gets floppy and tool becomes a PITA to use overhead. Some brands may have a better-built hinge though.

 

[Mr_B]

reversible offset is technically best tool in general use followed by the flex head non reversible as flex head gives you extra capabilities and can be flat or any offset desired .
Is one of those tools where quality makes a difference and usable warranty might actually be a real benefit .
Facom are nice in all types, ICON reversible are nice.
final choice going be down to what your use/benefit idea is from owning them, is it just speed or you want something that may help in different access scenarios as a tool to save the day .
bulky heads on some of these ratchet wrenches along with awful back drag and on flex head style sloppy pin makes them either useless or a pain in the **** at best so buy wise .

 

[honcho]

I prefer reversible. Another thing to look at which may only be found on Gearwrench. I have a set of Gearwrench reversible which have a "lip" in the ratcheting end that only allows engagement with the fastener from one side. It usually isn't a problem but once in a rare while I'd like to be able to use either side to engage the fastener. In a few instances, the lip provides some benefit as the wrench won't slip down and off the fastener. All in all it's a mixed bag of utility and limits. I'm glad I have other sets of non-reversible and reversible ratcheting wrenches, Armstrong and Craftsman, to choose from.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Zero offset, with ratcheting on one end, is king in tight areas and for suspension work. Reversable is a whole different set of uses, two different applications.

 

[Indy125]

Thanks guys, only one solution. Get both! I pulled the trigger and got both sets that I was interested in, why not..

 

[ajchien]

I’ve got reversible, regular, flex, indexing and the extra long types. They’re all better than regular wrenches if you have the clearance to make them fit. Each has a slight annoyance.

The reversible type, sometimes my hand accidentally flips the lever and I’m going the wrong way without knowing it. that never happens with a non reversible.

the non reversible, just watch out for potentially backing yourself against an obstruction and getting everything stuck.

 

[Ton ton]

Non reversible for me. I have not tried the reversible yet so I don't know what I am missing.

 

[Kscardsfan]

Non reversible for me. I have not tried the reversible yet so I don't know what I am missing.

I backed myself into a corner with non reversible while standing on a ladder once. I’m a convert now.

 

[RichieP_MechE]

I typically grab the reversible offset first, having clearance for your knuckles is useful with back and forth ratcheting action. But there are also situations where the non-offset head it useful. You made the right decision getting both!

 

[Ricky Joe]

I backed myself into a corner with non reversible while standing on a ladder once. I’m a convert now.

Reminds me of a 1962 Buick I had with no reverse. Really had to watch where you parked! I paid $50 for it, put a universal joint in it, and sold it for $110. Off topic, but emphasizes you have to be careful with non reversible.

 

[dscheidt]

Non reversible for me. I have not tried the reversible yet so I don't know what I am missing.

I backed myself into a corner with non reversible while standing on a ladder once. I’m a convert now.

My big problem with non-reversing wrenches is that I can't tell which way they're going to work without looking at them. yes, some of them have bumps or whatever to tell you. Doesn't matter. I understand reversing levers. The trapping your wrench because you can't reverse, and busting knuckles because there's no offset to give clearance are secondary.

 

[VolvoRyan]

Flex-head non-reversible have been my favorites. They can get in places that'll shave hours off book-time for flat-rate. That said: be damned careful not to back yourself into a corner!

-Ryan

 

[Ton ton]

My non reversible are flexible head, thankfully. I should expand my limited wrench selection someday.

 

[javyLSU]

I backed myself into a corner with non reversible while standing on a ladder once. I’m a convert now.

I only own reversibles now (aside from my stubbys). Backed a bolt into a frame rail and wound up having to spend much more time cutting the bolt off…

 

[bonneyman]

Is this a trick question, OP? You buy ALL available options - because you might need them someday!

 

[Kscardsfan]

I only own reversibles now (aside from my stubbys). Backed a bolt into a frame rail and wound up having to spend much more time cutting the bolt off…

I can’t remember how I got it fixed, but I remember not having to cut anything off. I might have disassembled a fair amount of it or something.

 

[Firebrick43]

I have screwed my self with a non reversible. Flanged bolt down in between a inner fender and a motor mount if I remember correctly. No more no reversible for me. I personally like snap on ratcheting wrenches, the handle long and the offset just right so you don't catch your knuckles on every thing. Armstrongs where quite good to but alas they are no more. Don't care for the proto ones.