SK vs. Gearwrench Flex-Head Ratchets

[Bro-Hio]

I'm looking at purchasing a full range of flex head ratchets (1/4", 3/8" full size and stubby, and 1/2").

I'm torn between SK's option and the Gearwrench set. I have tools from both companies, and I like both companies. I don't really care about the price difference between the two, as good tools are worth the money. I am just interested in first hand experiences with either.

 

[rice rocket]

While the Armstrong ratchets are near identical to the Gearwrench, they only offer the locking flex as Armstrong (or Matco). I prefer the locking, although it's not critical for the larger 1/2" size.

 

[Brownsfan]

Depends on how much access to tight spots you need? The Gearwrench will have a thinner head and a higher tooth count. The SK is a time tested design that is tough as hell. Do you like a knurled handle or smooth chrome or a comfort handle ? SK only gives you knurled. Gearwrench gives you a choice between comfort grip and smooth chrome. Now the Bro-Hio name. I thought we were done with that when he was taded to the Braves.

 

[Bro-Hio]

I don't really have a handle preference. I grew up using my Dad's old SK-Wayne 3/8" set, and I have a whole collection of Kobalt smooth handle ratchets that I keep in my work tools & car set.

This is for personal/ at home use. I don't turn wrenches everyday for a living. I don't nit-pick over every little detail in a tool in-between polishing sessions. I like to buy good quality tools once and be done with it.

I do need access to tight spots with little swing room, so that might be a point towards the Gearwrench set.

 

[Brownsfan]

Then look at the Gearwrench 120xp series ratchets. They have like a 3° arc swing.

 

[thaas4488]

I personally like my gearwrench ratchets alot better than all my other stuff.

I have 1/4 3/8 1/2 all in flex and straight handles, I have never used the cushion grips though, and currently only have one 120xp in a tool tote at work.

 

[PJNJ]

While the Armstrong ratchets are near identical to the Gearwrench, they only offer the locking flex as Armstrong (or Matco). I prefer the locking, although it's not critical for the larger 1/2" size.

You're wrong about Gearwrench. Gearwrench has now brought out 84 tooth locking flex head ratchets. Here's the 3/8" for sale at one place -
http://www.jbtoolsales.com/gearwren...full-polish/?gclid=COfzhrrByccCFUeRHwodosgG3w

If you want USA buy the Armstrong version. That's what I have. Since I bought it, I have virtually stopped using my two other flex ratchets which are a Wright and Gearwrench 120. It's that good. I would get it over the SK any day and I like SK.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

You're wrong about Gearwrench. Gearwrench has now brought out 84 tooth locking flex head ratchets.

Gearwrench numbers:
81015: 1/4" Drive Locking Flex Head, Full Polish 7"
81016: 1/4" Drive Locking Flex Head, Cushion Grip 8-1/4"
81266: 3/8" Drive, Locking Flex Head, Full Polish 11-1/2"
81267: 3/8" Drive, Locking Flex Head, Cushion Grip 13-1/2"
81362: 1/2" Drive, Locking Flex Head, Full Polish 17"
81363: 1/2" Drive, Locking Flex Head, Full Polish 24"

81276: 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" Full Polish - 3 piece set (81015, 81266, 81362)
81275: 1/4", 3/8" Cushion Grip - 2 piece set (81016, 81267)
81274: 1/4", 3/8" Full Polish - 2 piece set (81015, 81266)

 

[HanShotFirst]

Well the SK ratchets are made in the US, so that would immediately get my nod. And they just happen to be tough as nails.

 

[oldldh]

GearWrench---

Here's my set...

GW #81230P...$94.97 at...

www,tooldiscounter.com

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I like my SK very much, but Gearwrench products will actually fit in the space required to work on modern cars. The SK is just too bulky. It's my go-to spark plug ratchet, but I'm not pulling a timing cover, or working on exhaust studs with it.

 

[BK13]

I wish (and I'd be thrilled if someone proves me wrong) that you could get an XP120 with a flex head and an bent plain handle. I've seen the 60 and84 tooth models, but not the 120.

 

[Wamsutta]

There's also the Carlyle flex head ratchets; they have a very comfortable soft grip handle that they copied from Snap-on.

 

[Kirbot]

Armstrong would be the best of both worlds. (American made, higher tooth count, thinner head)

But between the two, I would take Gerwrench

 

[Brownsfan]

This being The Garage Journal I say screw it and get both. Then you will have the thinner heads and fine tooth for tight spots and the brute force of the SK. One thing is for sure . You will not break the SK ratchets. I was using my 3/8 flex head SK last weekend to tear down friends Harley. I was redoing all the wiring on it. It's an older bike and some stuff was really tight. I think I was standing on it at one point. There will be 2 things left after the world ends. Roaches and SK ratchets. They are indestructible.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

I used Gearwrench flex heads exclusively when I was working on trucks. They are excellent quality, and stand up to all the abuse I could throw at them without skipping a tooth.

I've more recently switched over to a mix of Snap-On, SK and Williams USA. Absolutely love my SK ratchets, especially how smooth they get after a good grease (or Superlube). My go to in my road bag is a 3/8" SK bent handle flex. I was about to pull the trigger on a 1/4" SK flex ratchet, but I stumbled upon a New Snap-On Dual 80 for $14 more, so I impulse bought it. I might still pick up the SK, since this is the Garage Journal...

Either (or both) will do you right.