Didn't realize those were that inexpensive.
Neither did he
Didn't realize those were that inexpensive.
Matt I am soon going to order a Hex L-keys from PB and was considering the rainbow or the knurled keys so have a few questions I hope you can answer.
1. Do you feel the knurled is better than the rainbow?
2. Do you feel it is worth the extra to get the knurled instead of the rainbow?
3. Is there a noticeable difference in performance?
4. Do you think the knurled is as durable as the rainbow or more durable?
I am buying with durability in mind, so would like the most durable tools (so i buy new tools fewer times - and hopefully only once).


Not op but to chime in PB Swiss make great hex keys in my opinion the best hex keys out there. With the knurled a little thicker that would only mean they would be stronger, with durability in mind that sounds like a solid choice.
However one thing to keep in mind is that because they are thicker they may not fit into recessed holes(for example a 10mm hole wouldn’t fit these knurled because it’s too wide) But it shouldn’t be a huge problem. With hex(and Torx) you should have multiple variations anyways; 1/4 bits, L-keys, sockets, ball-end, stubby, short/long.
https://www.bikeradar.com/features/heres-why-you-shouldnt-buy-the-cheapest-tools/
Quote:
This .06mm is just a hair’s difference, but use each of the two extreme examples in the same bolt and you’ll feel an obvious change in grip and movement, and likely see the undersized version cut into the edges of the bolt before it begins to turn.
From this, you can see that Bondhus tools are an obviously brilliant choice if you’re after a snug fitting hex wrench. They also happen to be some of the cheapest available and go against the idea that more expensive is better.
Perhaps the most surprising measurement is that of the PB Swiss hex wrench. These are seen in many pros’ toolboxes and are often thought of as the very best — but while they’re super strong and very nice looking, they don’t, on this showing at least, fit as snugly as Bondhus items that cost ¼ as much.
Hi Gezginite,
To answer your question: the knurled hex wrenches are definitely beefier, no question about it. But, I still use the rainbow (normal) hex wrenches in the day-to-day at work. The rainbow set is smaller, the color coding is a feature I have really come to rely upon, and they are beefy enough for my uses.
I don't baby my tools at all, and I abuse the PB hex wrenches, and those rainbow wrenches are 20 years old (of daily use) and going strong- tips are all in like-new shape.
Short answer: you can't go wrong with either set, but I find the color coding to be a very valuable feature for hex wrenches.
A few days ago I searched for that pick on snap-ons website and print catalog, could only find the hardhandle mini hook/picks in the long version. I even asked the snapon guy about them. Do I need to email snapon? I was thinking about getting the Pratt Read set but would rather get the snapon for ease of warrantycoworker needed a new screwdriver shaft, I had been waiting to order a couple parts from S-O and since the shipping was the same I also ordered this sweet hi-viz right angle hook. Used constantly at work!



3/8 set


I love Facoms sets, no skips and setup with tools you’ll actually use/need.

The removable plastic trays fit straight into their (and other) toolboxes as well, which is also a plus.
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Odd-job;8417192Bought this stuff below the shelter in place from O’Reillys. Walked in looking for one of those black Titan micro roto ratchets everyone was buying. Couldn’t find them but these followed me home. [ATTACH=full said:1416128[/ATTACH]
Finally found quarter inch stubby sockets in chrome. Taiwan made and around $12 a set. You can also turn them with a wrench like the Astro stubbies.
Couldn’t seem to find many good options elsewhere.
3/8 set
Are those 11mm outer hex? I've been looking for some inch 11mm outer hex sockets that are better than the lackluster Snapon ones and less overpriced than Matco.
Those look like they might come from the same Taiwanese factor as Facom/USAG, Würth, Matco, Tone, Wera, etc. In which case they would fit the bill at about 10% the price of Matco, the ony other one to have an inch set.

Lovely. Europeans buy American tools, and Americans buy European. The best of both worlds![]()
Picked up my first Snap-On wrenches from Ebay, primarily due to Coronavirus travel restriction boredom. I already have a set of Proto, Tekton and USA Craftsman and I'm interested to see how much better the Snap-ons are.
Also picked up a drill press vice and 13/16" lug nut socket for my Chevy from Amazon.
that's awesome, thank you. always wanted astro/sunex-style in 1/4" but didn't want to shell out for the snap on:Is it me or is GJ actually buying less tools these days? I will blame it all on the Rona virus and associated spouses afraid of delivery packages and crazy Amazon pricing algorithms.
Bought this stuff below the shelter in place from O’Reillys. Walked in looking for one of those black Titan micro roto ratchets everyone was buying. Couldn’t find them but these followed me home.
Finally found quarter inch stubby sockets in chrome. Taiwan made and around $12 a set. You can also turn them with a wrench like the Astro stubbies. Couldn’t seem to find many good options elsewhere.
Here’s a pic vs the ubiquitous 10mm craftsman USA.
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