roto vs flex

[blackz26]

I don't like non locking flex head ratchets. But I used my new gear wrench 1/4 ratchet Roto head ratchet today and love it. Seems to me they essentially do the same job with the exception the roto can be used as a driver and is a bit more bulkier. I plan on buy the 3/8 and 1/2 soon enough.

Am i right to say they essentially do the same job?

 

[jmm]

Well, there are the obvious design differences: use a roto rat like a screwdriver and a flex like a speeder. I like flexes because they lock (I buy the ones that do, rather). I can crank down a lot harder on them. Rotos I don't lean as much on; they feel a bit more precarious under heavy load. I value my knuckles.

 

[blackz26]

Well, there are the obvious design differences: use a roto rat like a screwdriver and a flex like a speeder. I like flexes because they lock (I buy the ones that do, rather). I can crank down a lot harder on them. Rotos I don't lean as much on; they feel a bit more precarious under heavy load. I value my knuckles.

See to me its easier to use a Roto as a speeder. Granted I wouldn't crank on one even with a 1/2. And I still love my telescopic locking flex Stanley.

 

[blackz26]

Bump for more input

 

[blackz26]

Bump again because it didn't really bump...

 

[ilovevocs]

I too would like to hear some real world feedback on the subject. I have been skeptical of the roto ratchets as at first I felt that they were more of a gimmick. The more I look at them the more I think about buying one though.

 

[tjmonsen5]

This might be miniscule, but it seems the socket would be less likely to strip off of a bolt since on a roto head, the axis is directly in the center of the bolt.
On a flex head, the torque comes from the side of the bolt.


I use flex heads.

 

[blackz26]

Never though of it that way TJ. 3/8 is on the list for next bought tool.

 

[Rickster]

My Roto-head ratchets are always my first choice. If you can swing the price pick up the Snap-on 1/4dr and 3/8dr ratchets. I also have the SK 3/8dr roto head and it's a solid ratchet I'd recommend too.

 

[t1r2u3s4t]

roto is a better speeder for sure, but roto head tends to be wider and might not fit where a flex head would.

 

[blackz26]

My Roto-head ratchets are always my first choice. If you can swing the price pick up the Snap-on 1/4dr and 3/8dr ratchets. I also have the SK 3/8dr roto head and it's a solid ratchet I'd recommend too.

Sorry im anti snap on, not just because of price. I'll probably be going for gear wrench. Good price good ratchet and easy to warranty.

 

[Hiball]

My Roto-head ratchets are always my first choice. If you can swing the price pick up the Snap-on 1/4dr and 3/8dr ratchets. I also have the SK 3/8dr roto head and it's a solid ratchet I'd recommend too.

That SK is the best Roto I've ever owned...

 

[ddo]

I use both. Tight quarters flex is generally what i reach for. Open spaces, the rotator is my preference. Locking rotator like zyklops is best as a speeder as it stays straight. Zyklops also has a sleeve on shaft and extensions that makes using it as a speeder smooth.

As far as flex wanting to come off bolt more at angles, i dont buy it. Only thing that matters is the point where you apply force relative to position of the head of ratchet. That doesnt change much between flex and roto.

 

[blackz26]

I wish the gear wrench ones had a hold in the the handle so you could slide a little bar in it to make it a ratcheting t handle. I think its kinda funny I don't like non lock flex heads but love my non lock Roto. Just easier for me to keep the handle where I want it. I used the kobalt one in the hot deals for 15 seconds doing a spark plug job and switch ratchets immediately. Gave it to my brother. My locking flex stanely telescopic one, love it.

 

[diesel research]

Am i right to say they essentially do the same job?

no.

even assuming both heads fit, different tasks require different flexing mechanisms. been in plenty of situations where a roto wouldnt flex right for a needed task. brackets in the way, roto wont flex far enough to bend around bracket w/o smacking into something else.

gotta have them both.

 

[blackz26]

no.

even assuming both heads fit, different tasks require different flexing mechanisms. been in plenty of situations where a roto wouldnt flex right for a needed task. brackets in the way, roto wont flex far enough to bend around bracket w/o smacking into something else.

gotta have them both.

Darn. A reason to buy more stuff.. how will I ever deal....