MWEric
Well-known member
YES, do buy SK socket sets. Nice chrome, shallow broaching on the deep sockets which I like. The only things I personally don't like are the ratchets and bit sockets. Buy from Harry Epstiens like everyone else mentioned.
Should I buy SK?
- Thread starter Mastercraft81
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BDT/NWMN
Well-known member
If you're going to come into a thread that has nothing to do with Toptul and then claim that they are better, you'd be best off including a disclosure that you sell and market Toptul. In essence, you're waving your own "flag".
And for some of Us, a red flag at that
dnschmidt
Well-known member
OK, forget that I mentioned TOPTUL at all (WHICH I PROUDLY SELL DIRT CHEAP - This is a disclaimer for those here wishing to see one). How about all of the other companies I mentioned, notice I didn't only mention TOPTUL but, unless I'm going blind, I also mentioned Genus, K-T Pro, Gearwrench and Tekton. Add to that KABO (Producer of most of NAPA's Carlyle line which is highly respected), Grey Pneumatic, Sunnex, Hans and a host of others. S-K is not superior to any of them so why would anybody pay more for them.
It's simple: COO. There is no other logical reason, that's just a fact. Buying S-K is a political choice made with pride of country as the deciding factor.
It's simple: COO. There is no other logical reason, that's just a fact. Buying S-K is a political choice made with pride of country as the deciding factor.
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There are other "logical" reasons beyond COO:
1. There are many suppliers for purchasing SK. (unlike these other no name brands like KT, Genius, Hans, Kabo, etc)
2. If there's ever a warranty issue, I'd much rather deal with SK then these other brands.
Kinda Ironic that you choose to force your opinions onto people as Facts.... Think about it.
SK doesn't do everything the Best, you would be hard pressed to find a single brand that makes everyone happy. With that said.. If you can deal with round head ratchets, obviously some people just don't like them, SK drive tools are 1st rate IMO. I would personally avoid there Bit sockets, there are better choices out there IME.
sberry
Banned
The Cman are nothing special and havnt been great since early 70's. They may have been SK then. I busted a lot of them 80's and 90's right out of the box. 2 or 3 of them from the 3/4 and in 82 a couple replacements came from Tiawan then.
I rember buying a big set for a road job in 90 or so, we bench tested them, must have easily snapped half a dozen. Never broke replacements. recall being all proud, rolled under a car with a hand ratchet and broke a 15 first time I used it. Never broke a wrench despite trying.
I rember buying a big set for a road job in 90 or so, we bench tested them, must have easily snapped half a dozen. Never broke replacements. recall being all proud, rolled under a car with a hand ratchet and broke a 15 first time I used it. Never broke a wrench despite trying.
"no other logical reason, that's just a fact."
again, a ******** comment.
who are you to determine the op's logic and what is fact? sk has a unique ratchet design and shape. they also have a unique ratcheting wrench. how about the handle knurling or the shape of the screwdriver handles? how about the shape of the wrench beams? i could go on but you get the idea.
apparently if you like any of those things you are illogical and must must also be a coo nut because that is the only possible answer according to you.
i for one am tired of the self promotion of your product (which you proudly sell dirt cheap) veiled as "advice". yes you mention other brands but always after toptul. i view most of your comments as little more than spam as no matter the question,toptul is the answer, even when the op didn't inquire about it.
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Chief919
Well-known member
Stability is another factor. A warranty is only good if someone is still there to service it.
How long has TOPTUL been around? How long will they?
Will they pull the name change switch that a lot of Asian manufacturers do where the same people do the same stuff from the same factory, but all the names change every decade or so and all support suddenly goes away- especially if facing a problem or massive recall.
Sure, S-K's previous owners **** the bed on this, but ideal is a strong company and even with prior history would bet my money on them still being around and handling warranties long after those Asian headquartered brands have long since changed names and weaseled out of supporting anything.
Of all the brands you mentioned I would expect maybe Gearwrench to be the only brand listed that will be around still in 20 years other than SK. Time will tell.
COO aside, country of ownership/management can make a big difference in long-term warranty support. What brands of China or Taiwan or Japan made tools from companies in those countries imported here could you have bought 20 years ago and get warrantied today?
******* match aside SK has old stock out there that may have cosmetic blemishes.
If you are a chrome worshipper and it must be perfect buy from those that sell only new production items.
Not closeout and liquidator type stores.
If price is the key issue and you intend to beat them up using them buying from the bargain sites is fine.
Too many buyer's regrets threads about how the chrome was off on one or it had -gasp- specs of rust inside a socket.
All my sockets are packed with old grease from working and the chrome isn't as shiny as it was new.
Nobody cares and I get paid.
If you are a chrome worshipper and it must be perfect buy from those that sell only new production items.
Not closeout and liquidator type stores.
If price is the key issue and you intend to beat them up using them buying from the bargain sites is fine.
Too many buyer's regrets threads about how the chrome was off on one or it had -gasp- specs of rust inside a socket.
All my sockets are packed with old grease from working and the chrome isn't as shiny as it was new.
Nobody cares and I get paid.
sberry
Banned
No, I have some SK, not a lot, don't recall my Bud ever breaking one. I believe they may have fixed the problem by 2000. Probably have 500 sockets, maybe more. I bought the biggest set they had in about 82, the super monster and was really disappointed compared to some old stuff I had which was actually rather well crafted. The 80's is where the lob claws started showing up, I don't know all the details as I am not a collector but I bought quite a bit between 80 and early 90's and besides the ratchets the sockets were not so good, the tubing wrenches were also a sore spot. While the wrenches were crude they seem strong.
I quit replacing the ratchets, I regret letting the old rounds go and the pears are pitiful. It must set a world record for most mass produced faulty tool ever. got a couple that last less than 5 minutes. I got a couple SK that still work well, very good.
sberry
Banned
The stuff has served me well for the cost, once the bad eggs were sorted out the rest never gave much a problem although I have some metrics that were not used a lot, a drawer full that look new yet. Just so many multiples from sets in sizes not often needed,, 11 mm etc. I use the 10 a lot, the majority of them are cman.
I took a collection to the store a couple years ago, they were out and the woman let me pick and choose so I didn't have to order **** they didn't have, I traded some off stuff for commons I do use.
There is the old Cman and the new is 80's, the second pic is replacements from recent. Both std ratchets are already scrap, never really used. Maybe they need lube etc but I aint farting with them.
I got no problem with this guys promotion. So what. We got a lot of snap promoters on here at 20x the cost and they are great guys?
I took a collection to the store a couple years ago, they were out and the woman let me pick and choose so I didn't have to order **** they didn't have, I traded some off stuff for commons I do use.
There is the old Cman and the new is 80's, the second pic is replacements from recent. Both std ratchets are already scrap, never really used. Maybe they need lube etc but I aint farting with them.
I got no problem with this guys promotion. So what. We got a lot of snap promoters on here at 20x the cost and they are great guys?
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bob15
Well-known member
So explain how all the companies you mentioned are superior to SK. And no tool polisher BS. Show people facts where they are better. Do they have better steel, better heat treat, better fastener contact area, better durability life. I want numbers and facts, not some sales pitch ****.
sberry
Banned
The fact that this forum isn't full of problems every day with them says a lot. Dozens and dozens of people not thrilled with SK kind of says it all.
I never had an issue with one but I aint that fussy either and don't figure myself for a golden arm though. But the wrenches are not all that "special".
I had an eroded fastener yesterday, I happened to look, I had an SK in hand, for giggles picked up an import and it was about the same. I went to the box and got a snap flank 6 pt and it worked, the SK didn't perform any better than the cheap ****.
I never had an issue with one but I aint that fussy either and don't figure myself for a golden arm though. But the wrenches are not all that "special".
I had an eroded fastener yesterday, I happened to look, I had an SK in hand, for giggles picked up an import and it was about the same. I went to the box and got a snap flank 6 pt and it worked, the SK didn't perform any better than the cheap ****.
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How many own any Toptul and how many use them professionally as opposed to SK, Wright, etc? That has to be factored into any comparison.
sberry
Banned
I agree but the problems in the complaints are not from well worn tools but new sets. As I mention, I don't recall ever having a problem with an SK though, some of it I had a long time and used it hard before I had more of other stuff. Most of what I have is from 70's, my Bud bought his 80/90 but never heard him complain or don't recall a break and he was a hardline guy, lots under front ends and suspension, clutch work.
Roberts210
Well-known member
Please! Don't encourage him.
Or if he wants to do that, do it on ANOTHER Thread. This one is about S-K.
yjWrangler
Well-known member
Other than the ratchets, I really dig all my SK stuff
jakemac
Well-known member
I wouldn't put money on that bet. Gearwrench is owned by Apex, who just announced the demise of their Armstrong brand. Apex has no problem hacking away at their brands as long as they think it will put more money in their pockets. Even at the expense of the brands themselves. At some point Apex will acquire a shiny new toy and toss Gearwrench to the side.
KTC, Keiba, Ko-ken, Vessel, etc...
^^^
And how many times has SK changed hands?...
67King
Well-known member
In my experience, SK > Gearwrench, and GW is a slight step down from CM-USA. Great value, and I have several, but they aren't up to SK quality. I actually bought a set of reversible wrenches to replace a smaller CM-USA set, but have them up for sale now as they are not as nice. They flex head ones and open end (still ratcheting) are fine for occasional use, but not everyday use.
Hammer1963
Well-known member
Once again I see people have lost track of the question in general. Are SK tools good, sure in general they are but not every item is. Are they an improvement over recent Craftsman (last 30 years) yes they are as are most Gearwrench offerings. All this talk about 30, 40, 50 year old SK, SK Wayne, Craftsman is moot. Those tools are no longer available for you to purchase new and therefore do not qualify in your search.
Many Craftsman sockets do not have proper detenting in the sockets which becomes very aggravating if you are using them daily like you are. Nothing like having a socket drop and roll away or worse, while attempting to earn a living.
Never get tied to one brand. It's ridiculous. My suggestion is this: buy the ratchets you prefer whatever they may be and then give the SK or Gearwrench sockets a try. Both are very comparable in quality. If you do not like them, then I am sure you can find an eager buyer. Best of luck on your decision
Many Craftsman sockets do not have proper detenting in the sockets which becomes very aggravating if you are using them daily like you are. Nothing like having a socket drop and roll away or worse, while attempting to earn a living.
Never get tied to one brand. It's ridiculous. My suggestion is this: buy the ratchets you prefer whatever they may be and then give the SK or Gearwrench sockets a try. Both are very comparable in quality. If you do not like them, then I am sure you can find an eager buyer. Best of luck on your decision
derosa
Well-known member
Can't speak to sockets but with wrenches this is total bs, which makes me think its bs for sockets and ratchets. I've bought and used now gearwrench xl and x-beams along with sunnex, tekton, evercraft, and power built and honestly they're all about the same quality just different lengths. If a bicycle axle nut has been over tightened or installed with visegrips too often any of the above will slip. If its a 70s model with weak nuts that ate poorly spec'd they will round it out. And I have watched the jaws on my tiawan made gearwrench spread when leaning on the wrench working on my cars. They're really aren't as good as some of the US made stuff, SK included, will agree they really aren't worse then then the mid 90s and newer craftsman. My craftsman pro did such a great job trying to replace soft brake lines I ended up replacing all the lines.
rapid robert
Well-known member
SK sockets are great. Also love the superchrome wrenches.
Warranty on ratchets is outstanding...Call and they ship a free rebuild kit.
The only socket I ever had to warranty was a 3/8 drive 10mm that cracked...Mailed it in and had a new socket in less than a week.
Warranty on ratchets is outstanding...Call and they ship a free rebuild kit.
The only socket I ever had to warranty was a 3/8 drive 10mm that cracked...Mailed it in and had a new socket in less than a week.
Mhyde52
Well-known member
I'd agree with a number of people here that sk, for the most part, makes a better wrench / socket than most of the better common Taiwan imports i.e gearwrench, tekton etc. As well, sk being not a huge upgrade over said Taiwan product.
I think they have a solid place now as the reasonable us made hand tool brand. Yes, buy sk and be happy with it.
I think they have a solid place now as the reasonable us made hand tool brand. Yes, buy sk and be happy with it.
WittHay
Well-known member
I find that finding easy replacements for lost tools is important. Getting an 8mm SK socket to replace the one you lost shouldn't be a problem.
How do get individual tools from brands like Toptul, Kokum and all those other foreign brands? For me it would be too much of a hassle.
How do get individual tools from brands like Toptul, Kokum and all those other foreign brands? For me it would be too much of a hassle.
Indexmill
Well-known member
Hi,
Can you please post more information on the SK double offset ratcheting box wrench set imported from Kabo? Pictures if possible?
Thank you.
BDT/NWMN
Well-known member
I would like to learn a second language; but not for the purpose of conducting a tool warranty or replacement
No it's not a "fact", it's your theory.
As to the "fact" that you mention other brands - in your first post, you state TOPTUL first in all caps (yes I know that's how it is often shown). Kind of makes it stand out from the brands following it. Hmmmm, kinda makes a person wonder about that - maybe you want it to stand out and you name other brands to cover your rear. And it is a fact that you market and sell Toptul. I've seen it in other threads.
As for your claims that SK is not "even close" to the brands you talk about - where is the test data that backs that up. It's not a "fact" just your opinion.
As for COO, you seem to be stuck waving the Taiwanese flag. Is is really pride in their tools or your own vested economic interest?
Finally, are you an authorized distributor in North America or the USA for Toptul? Are there any other authorized distributors or sellers other than you? Or do you just buy particular items and sets in bulk and re-sell on Ebay? So how do you handle a warranty claim? Get a replacement for a lost socket from a set you sell? Get a rebuild kit for a ratchet? And are you limited in what individual tools and sets you sell? Or can you get anything from their catalog? Are you a one-man operation and what happens when you have the flu or go on vacation? All very reasonable questions for someone that may become interested in purchasing Toptul as against someone who wants to "wave the flag" for SK. And again, what about test data vs. Snap On, Ko-Ken, Nepros, SK, Wright, Proto, Williams and the well-known European brands?
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No it's not a "fact", it's your theory.
As to the "fact" that you mention other brands - in your first post, you state TOPTUL first in all caps (yes I know that's how it is often shown). Kind of makes it stand out from the brands following it. Hmmmm, kinda makes a person wonder about that - maybe you want it to stand out and you name other brands to cover your rear. And it is a fact that you market and sell Toptul. I've seen it in other threads.
As for your claims that SK is not "even close" to the brands you talk about - where is the test data that backs that up. It's not a "fact" just your opinion.
As for COO, you seem to be stuck waving the Taiwanese flag. Is is really pride in their tools or your own vested economic interest?
Finally, are you an authorized distributor in North America or the USA for Toptul? Are there any other authorized distributors or sellers other than you? Or do you just buy particular items and sets in bulk and re-sell on Ebay? So how do you handle a warranty claim? Get a replacement for a lost socket from a set you sell? Get a rebuild kit for a ratchet? And are you limited in what individual tools and sets you sell? Or can you get anything from their catalog? Are you a one-man operation and what happens when you have the flu or go on vacation? All very reasonable questions for someone that may become interested in purchasing Toptul as against someone who wants to "wave the flag" for SK. And again, what about test data vs. Snap On, Ko-Ken, Nepros, SK, Wright, Proto, Williams and the well-known European brands?
SK is mediocre all around...decent but nothing brilliant
that's not a controversial opinion at all.
are there taiwan tools better than SK? you bet.
again, not controversial.
Is SK a step up from craftsman? You bet
again, not controversial.
Lets leave it at that.
gdocktor3
Well-known member
More than once we've seen (in layman terms) - Old SK is a lot better than new SK, but old SK made Craftsman sockets at one time. So how is SK now a step up from old USA Craftsman?? I own a lot of new and old SK, I just don't think any of it's a step up from any era Craftsman USA in terms of sockets, extensions, etc. Especially considering he's looking for 1/4" sets.
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Musicinabottle
Banned
- Joined
- Jul 24, 2016
- Messages
- 3,371
I'm certain that if SK ever made something for craftsman, that it was a B grade type of deal.
I believe both the CM and SK socket quality is all over the map (full stop>. I have a few CM V series sockets that look and perform exceptionally! All of my other CM is USA G series from the around late eighties is very decent > most Taiwan. I cannot speak for current SK/CM production but I reckon SK USA > CM PRC, now whether its worth the cost premiums, I would rate on a deal to deal basis. No generalities would apply here folks. The original OP question isn't specific enough for a non-trollish answer> what era CM does the OP have and what SK sets is he looking for?
I have 2 SK sockets sets from the seventies. SK 3/8 drive > CM -G series sockets . SK 1/4 drive < CM " but SK ratchet was better. Strangely The SK socket quality between 3/8 and 1/4 is miles apart?
IMO some CM - V sockets would be equal to truck brands from the same era ~60's
Older CM pro(SK) long combos are arguably on the same level as SO I've handled.
I have 2 SK sockets sets from the seventies. SK 3/8 drive > CM -G series sockets . SK 1/4 drive < CM " but SK ratchet was better. Strangely The SK socket quality between 3/8 and 1/4 is miles apart?
IMO some CM - V sockets would be equal to truck brands from the same era ~60's
Older CM pro(SK) long combos are arguably on the same level as SO I've handled.
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I'm not a fan of them not having a quick release.
I am certain mine are just heavily worn, but the sockets fall off easily at times. My 1/4" is especially good for hard to reach areas and has saved me quite a bit though. It is still my go to during many projects.
I am certain mine are just heavily worn, but the sockets fall off easily at times. My 1/4" is especially good for hard to reach areas and has saved me quite a bit though. It is still my go to during many projects.
I really wanted to tear your opinions apart piece by piece, but it looks like everyone else has done that so I'll spare you.
All I've got to say is we know who you voted for..
67King
Well-known member
ssdave
Banned
Here's one opinion, backed with photo's and my own one on one comparison.
I upgraded my Craftsman to SK many years ago when I did mechanic work professionally. It was an upgrade at that time. I've seen some of their newer stuff. It is definitely an upgrade from Craftsman today. SK has varied in quality over time. At a low, it was about the same as Craftsman. At the best, it competed head to head with Snap-on. I have a few sets left. One of my favorite sets is a newer metric set that compares 100% with Snap-on. I'm including a few pictures. I have always have had good warranty service, only complaint I had and why I moved away from buying them is they got real hard to buy for awhile when they were dropped by the automotive stores. It got easier to buy Snap-on than Proto and SK once they went out of the stores. Now, internet has made all of them more accessible again.
I upgraded my Craftsman to SK many years ago when I did mechanic work professionally. It was an upgrade at that time. I've seen some of their newer stuff. It is definitely an upgrade from Craftsman today. SK has varied in quality over time. At a low, it was about the same as Craftsman. At the best, it competed head to head with Snap-on. I have a few sets left. One of my favorite sets is a newer metric set that compares 100% with Snap-on. I'm including a few pictures. I have always have had good warranty service, only complaint I had and why I moved away from buying them is they got real hard to buy for awhile when they were dropped by the automotive stores. It got easier to buy Snap-on than Proto and SK once they went out of the stores. Now, internet has made all of them more accessible again.
