Snap On Flank Drive Plus vs Craftsman Standard

[KingPerformance]

I’m posting pictures of a Craftsman 15mm wrench vs a Snap On 15mm Flank Drive Plus wrench. Why 15mm? Well, in my collection of tools the 15mm is RARELY used. I don’t think I have ever used the Craftsman 15mm wrench. I wanted to be fair and if I used my craftsman 10mm to compare to a Snap On 10mm no one would ever buy a craftsman tool EVER again. The open end spread to almost 11mm, the head is HEAVILY twisted, and I broke the boxed end. All of this damage on a short Craftsman 10 mm without hanging any extensions on them.

The first thing you will notice is the 15mm Snap on is quite a bit longer. This is their standard length Flank Drive Plus unit. That extra leverage gives you more torque to bust bolts loose.

Moving on you will see that I used my Digital Caliper to measure the thickness of the wrench head on both sides of the open end. Take not that the Snap On wrench is exactly the same thickness all the way down to the .01 of an mm. The Craftsman unit isn’t even close. Just for the naysayer’s, I measured from multiple places on the open jaws of both units and the snap on was exactly the same for all of them, the craftsman varies WIDLY. The measurements represented are the closest I could get on the Craftsman. The tolerances vary even more then what is shown in the pictures.

Snap On:
Sorry for the blurry photo, but it says 6.89mm

&
6.89mm

Craftsman:
7.17mm

&
7.38

I tried to get a picture of this, but it just never turned out properly. Looking at the nose of the open end the jaws of the craftsman do not line up top and bottom. It is fairly dramatic; I just don't have the camera skills, or equipment to do the trick. The Snap On tool lines up perfectly.

I tried to get a picture showing the inside of the jaw but they were just too blurry and out of focus. Just to let you know the Snap On wrench has little grooves cut into it, and the Craftsman does not. These groves latch onto the fastener in a way that no other tool company has done yet. You will not round off the head of a bolt or a nut with these wrenches easily. YES if you are putting tons of torque on aluminum fittings and you’re not using a flare nut wrench it is possible to round off the edges, but this type of grasp is AMASING. I have personally rounded off a bolt with a non spread Craftsman wrench, grabbed a Snap On wrench and taken it off.

This is NOT my picture; I found it using a search engine and re-hosted it.

That is what Flank Drive Plus is all about.

You should be asking WHY it matters that the thickness of the tool being inconsistent, or not even close, or the fact that the tool doesn’t even line up should be a consideration on why someone should buy a tool. The main reason is those are SOME of the things NEEDED for a tool to grasp properly and function properly. On this alone I will never purchase another Craftsman tool that will get regular use. I know I will purchase a specialty low torque use tool or a tool that is retagged by Craftsman, but nothing more then that. It’s difficult for me to stay away from these tools because of the convenience of purchase and warranty, but to me the poor performance is not worth it. For some of you the extra performance isn't worth the additional money, and that is your choice. Craftsman works for millions of people every day. They are a good company making tools right here in the USA. And it is VERY difficult to turn my back on them for the majority of my purchases.

So, it comes down to what type of person you are, and what you expect your tools to do for you. If you’re a craftsman guy fine, that’s why we have more then one tool company out there. And the minute someone shows me a replacement or a new tool that works better then a snap on tool for less money, I'll be purchasing that. I for one am tired of working twice as hard to get a job done, tired of busted knuckles, broken tools that shouldn’t be broken, and warped/poor forgings. So far, none of my snap on tools has let me down, and I was a full time auto tech. I know that I will keep my tools for the rest of my life, so the additional cost to purchase the tool I KNOW will do the job correctly the first time, and have fewer failures, the small percentage in cost over another tool company is not that big of a deal.

Regards,
Jason
King Performance

 

[TNToy]

Well said.

If I were still a weekend-wrench-turner, I'd probably be using Craftsman, Kobalt, or Husky for most everything. I never bought truck brand tools until I started doing this 45 hours per week.

If you have the money and you want to buy a set of wrenches that will last the rest of your life as a recreational wrench-turner... Snap-On, Mac, or Matco are the way to go. But if you don't have the money to burn, and you don't mind warrantying Craftsman stuff every couple of years as it wears out, great.

The reason those of us who do this professionally are tool-truck diehards is very simple: A Craftsman 1/2" wrench may last a weekend warrior ten years, but it'll last us 10 days/weeks/months. Add in all your other wrench and socket sizes, and that's a lot of warranties at 40hrs/week.

A Snap-On wrench will last us ten years, and will last you guys a lifetime. And it had better, since it costs ten times as much.

 

[bmwpower]

So what does the Snap-on / Craftsman measure BETWEEN the jaws? How close to 15mm is it?

 

[-lecroix-]

No offense meant, but I find it ironic, if not humorous, that you chose to use a set of $16 Harbor Freight calipers in your comparison to show the advantages of using more expensive/pro wrench hand tools versus affordable/home use hand tools.

P.S. I did the same measurements as you and came to the same conclusions.

 

[the dude]

I would like to see the 10mm craftsman you reference. I am in need of a new set of wrenches and need convincing that Craftsman is not the way to go.

 

[bmwpower]

It's possible that since the Craftsman is made of pot metal, you're actually pushing in of the side of the wrench with the caliper.

Yea, what's the accuracy of the caliper (I noticed that too...)?

 

[KingPerformance]

So what does the Snap-on / Craftsman measure BETWEEN the jaws? How close to 15mm is it?

I don't believe any of them will be 15mm, as they have a certain way that they grab after you start to pull on the wrench. If they were exactly 15mm you may not get them on certain bolts/nuts.

No offense meant, but I find it ironic, if not humorous, that you chose to use a set of $16 Harbor Freight calipers in your comparison to show the advantages of using more expensive/pro wrench hand tools versus affordable/home use hand tools.

P.S. I did the same measurements as you and came to the same conclusions.

It’s a Snap on or Blue point caliper. I'll have to check. It is easier to read the digital then the dial units on a photo.

I would like to see the 10mm craftsman you reference. I am in need of a new set of wrenches and need convincing that Craftsman is not the way to go.

I don't have it any more.

It's possible that since the Craftsman is made of pot metal, you're actually pushing in of the side of the wrench with the caliper.

Yea, what's the accuracy of the caliper (I noticed that too...)?

I don’t think Craftsman is made of pot metal. Isn’t pot metal mostly zinc and aluminum mixed in with other scrap? I'll check on the accuracy and get back with you. I believe I still have the certification paperwork. Its repeatability is impeccable as shown in the 2nd and 3rd photo.

 

[-lecroix-]

It’s a Snap on or Blue point caliper. I'll have to check. It is easier to read the digital then the dial units on a photo.

Which appears to be the same caliper Harbor Freight sells for $16 ... it appears SnapOn has pulled a fast one over on you guys.

Harbor Freight 6" Digital Caliper

 

[bmwpower]

The pot metal thing was a joke... I should have added the

 

[bmwpower]

Which appears to be the same caliper Harbor Freight sells for $16 ... it appears SnapOn has pulled a fast one over on you guys.

Harbor Freight 6" Digital Caliper

And mine from Summit:

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=SUM-900017&autoview=sku

 

[KingPerformance]

Ok, so looks can be deceiving.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...&group_ID=1142&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

Gauge is 0 to 6" (0 to 250mm) in 0.0005" (0.01mm) resolutions. Use for inside, outside, depth and step measurements. Inch/metric conversion with one button. Large LCD display. Hardened stainless steel frame.

bmwpower, got ya!

Uh oh, it’s a conspiracy! THEY ARE TAKING OVER THE WORLD ... no wait, just digital calipers.

 

[-lecroix-]

I own two sets of the HF models, 1 set in the tool box and the other in my desk. I keep my Starrett and Brown & Sharpe stuff put away in my Kennedy machinists chest for things that really count.

See, I'm a tool snob too. Just happens to be in metrology tools instead of hand tools though.

Then again, that's where I make my living, so I understand.

 

[kythri]

I guess I'd like to see more of an apples-to-apples comparison.

Instead of the cheapy that comes in a $20-$30 set, use this one: http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/prod...tical=TOOL&subcat=Wrenches&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

12pt, full polish, looks to be a bit better quality than the raised-panel wrench that everyone moans and complains about.

 

[TNToy]

You're missing the point, kythri.

Most of the guys who weekend-wrench use the raised-panel craftsman stuff, and seen no need to upgrade since they've never used anything better. He's jsut trying to show them the difference between the really good stuff, and what he's currently using.

The Craftsman Pro polished stuff is a big step up from the raised-panel, but not what is currently being used.

The Dude:
I would like to see the 10mm craftsman you reference. I am in need of a new set of wrenches and need convincing that Craftsman is not the way to go.

I'll get a picture of a standard Craftsman wrench with spread jaws later this week. There are a couple running around our shop that are absolutely shot.

 

[the dude]

Thanks, I would be interestead to see them. As a matter of fact I went out ot my tool box and had a look at my most used wrenches, the 12mm and 14mm raised Craftsman, and they are pretty chunked out. I never really noticed and I don't think it has ever been much of an isues.

My plan was to go into the professional Craftsman line and use the raised panel craftsman as my "in truck" set and buy something nicer for the shop.

So how do the pro series compare to snap-on?

 

[TNToy]

They don't. But they are still pretty good tools. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a set of C-man pros for something I don't use that much, like a set of SAE. If you gave me a set of raised-panel wrenches, I'd sell them on eBay.

 

[wilbilt]

Everyday, professional use is a lot different than occasional wrenching. I look at the photos of toolboxes posted here, and many (most) of the tools pictured look like they have never been used.

Sure, they are nice and shiny, but many are missing the point. My tools are, for the most part, beaten, battered, and worn. Lesser quality went by the wayside a long time ago.

When I look at the mismatched wrenches, the worn sockets, and the gripless pliers, I see 20+ years of my life. These tools paid the bills, fed my kids, and kept a roof over our heads through many lean times.

Each one has it's story, and only the survivors are still talking. The lesser ones are long gone. If I was looking for status, I would buy a shiny new box and fill it with shiny (but inferior) tools.

I'm not looking for that, though. My sweat is mixed with that worn chrome, and the good memories are of the ones that didn't break, round out, or shatter.

I have bought newer, lower-priced tools based on the fact I no longer use them professionally, and have been sorely disappointed. There is no substitute for the real deal. There is a lot more to it than design and finish. It's all about function, and those who polish their shiny tools as a means to an end just don't get it.

Craftsman tools?...Sure, I buy them, at flea markets, pawn shops, and estate sales. The wrenches and sockets go into kits for the vehicles, as they are better than fingers when push comes to shove. Pliers can be good, for a while.

I recently gave a set of Craftsman pliers, sockets, ratchets, and wrenches to a displaced Katrina survivor who had become a refugee. He was a HVAC mechanic, and looking to pick up the pieces in a different place. I'm sure the tools will suit him well until he is in a position to upgrade.

My tools won't win any beauty contests, but I guarantee they will get the job done.

 

[ImportTuner]

Everyday, professional use is a lot different than occasional wrenching. I look at the photos of toolboxes posted here, and many (most) of the tools pictured look like they have never been used.

Sure, they are nice and shiny, but many are missing the point. My tools are, for the most part, beaten, battered, and worn. Lesser quality went by the wayside a long time ago.

When I look at the mismatched wrenches, the worn sockets, and the gripless pliers, I see 20+ years of my life. These tools paid the bills, fed my kids, and kept a roof over our heads through many lean times.

Each one has it's story, and only the survivors are still talking. The lesser ones are long gone. If I was looking for status, I would buy a shiny new box and fill it with shiny (but inferior) tools.

I'm not looking for that, though. My sweat is mixed with that worn chrome, and the good memories are of the ones that didn't break, round out, or shatter.

I have bought newer, lower-priced tools based on the fact I no longer use them professionally, and have been sorely disappointed. There is no substitute for the real deal. There is a lot more to it than design and finish. It's all about function, and those who polish their shiny tools as a means to an end just don't get it.

Craftsman tools?...Sure, I buy them, at flea markets, pawn shops, and estate sales. The wrenches and sockets go into kits for the vehicles, as they are better than fingers when push comes to shove. Pliers can be good, for a while.

I recently gave a set of Craftsman pliers, sockets, ratchets, and wrenches to a displaced Katrina survivor who had become a refugee. He was a HVAC mechanic, and looking to pick up the pieces in a different place. I'm sure the tools will suit him well until he is in a position to upgrade.

My tools won't win any beauty contests, but I guarantee they will get the job done.

Hey Will, sounds like your tools are well used; so since you are garageless, where do you keep them? And on that note, Craftsman Club dates are coming up ... Jan 28th - Feb 3rd ...

 

[wilbilt]

Where do I keep them? In old, worn, boxes located in my carport-on-on-the-side-of a shed. I had a couple of Snap_on boxes, but they were getting ruined/rusted...drawers filling up with water, etc...

I sold them, de-rusted most of the tools, and moved them to higher ground. It's not ideal, but is working so far. I'll post pics if I ever get it presentable. It also houses 2 Craftsman drill presses (one 1956, one 2006), a P&H stick welder (1950s), a "Farmhand" wirefeed, a nameless homebuilt muffler tubing bender, 80-gallon Emglo compressor, COATS 20/20 Tire machine, homebuilt welding table, two Blackhawk floor jacks, Snap-On jack stands, three 6"x 18" Sears (Craftsman/Dunlap) lathes, Miter saw, power tools, and a BendPak 4-post 12K lift in pieces out back.

 

[-lecroix-]

When I look at the mismatched wrenches, the worn sockets, and the gripless pliers, I see 20+ years of my life. These tools paid the bills, fed my kids, and kept a roof over our heads through many lean times.

That statement said more to me than any picture of a drawer of shiny, hand polished, overly expensive wrenches that are posted here specifically for bragging rights alone could ever say.

Thank you wilbit.

 

[kythri]

Where do I keep them? In old, worn, boxes located in my carport-on-on-the-side-of a shed. I had a couple of Snap_on boxes, but they were getting ruined/rusted...drawers filling up with water, etc...

I sold them, de-rusted most of the tools, and moved them to higher ground. It's not ideal, but is working so far. I'll post pics if I ever get it presentable. It also houses 2 Craftsman drill presses (one 1956, one 2006), a P&H stick welder (1950s), a "Farmhand" wirefeed, a nameless homebuilt muffler tubing bender, 80-gallon Emglo compressor, COATS 20/20 Tire machine, homebuilt welding table, two Blackhawk floor jacks, Snap-On jack stands, three 6"x 18" Sears (Craftsman/Dunlap) lathes, Miter saw, power tools, and a BendPak 4-post 12K lift in pieces out back.

Jeez, why?!

I sense there's a story behind this that I missed...

 

[kartracer55]

$28.20 vs $8.49

Id say the Snap on better be a superior tool!

I own A set of snap on and a set of Craftsman Metric's (actually 2 sets). Yes, the snap on's are a superior tool. BUt, at the end of the day, all the snap-on tools in the world wont make up for me being a ****** mechanic. I know my limits, and I also know when to spend 300$ and when to spend 50$ on something. I can still get most job's done with a craftsman wrench if I needed too

Jim

 

[kythri]

You're missing the point, kythri.

Nah, I get the point - "Snap-On rules, Craftsman *****!"

Most of the guys who weekend-wrench use the raised-panel craftsman stuff, and seen no need to upgrade since they've never used anything better. He's jsut trying to show them the difference between the really good stuff, and what he's currently using.

The Craftsman Pro polished stuff is a big step up from the raised-panel, but not what is currently being used.

So exactly how does the Craftsman Pro stuff (like what I posted) stand up to the tool-truck brands?

Are we afraid of a comparison of the two? Will we find that there really is no justification for paying tool-truck prices?

The raised-panel stuff is at the higher-end of entry-level/light-to-moderate-use hand tools, and not particularly suited towards the demands of a full-time mechanic.

Is anyone honestly disputing that? Is Craftsman even marketing tools to that segment? I could be completely wrong, but I thought that the Craftsman warranty didn't apply to commercial use (mentions that in the 2006-2007 catalog). I'd certainly say that a professional mechanic's use of Craftsman tools constitutes "commercial use".

So, we've pointed out the difference between Craftsman's lower-end stuff, and Snap-On's higher end stuff.

I believe those differences (at least in this thread) are invalid when compared to the Craftsman Pro wrench - which is still an order of magnitude less expensive than the Gucci gear in a Snap-On box.

For the record, the differences pointed out:

1> Snap-On wrench is longer than Craftsman, therefore, more leverage, more torque.

2> Snap-On wrench thickness is more consistent than the Craftsman, therefore, allowing better seating/grip on a fastener.

3> Snap-On wrench has "flank-drive", which seems to be less about the quality of the wrench, and more about attacking crappy fasteners. One could argue that all things being equal, if the fastener is truly 15mm, and the wrench is truly 15mm, then flank-drive isn't needed.

#1 is invalid if the Craftsman wrench is one of the polished ones such as the one I linked to.

#2 is inconclusive, until said Craftsman wrench is measured.

#3 is arguable.

So, at the prices on the Sears page, and listed here, why should one buy a $28.20 Snap-On vs. a $11.99 Craftsman Pro?

 

[KingPerformance]

Nah, I get the point - "Snap-On rules, Craftsman *****!"



So exactly how does the Craftsman Pro stuff (like what I posted) stand up to the tool-truck brands?

Are we afraid of a comparison of the two? Will we find that there really is no justification for paying tool-truck prices?

The raised-panel stuff is at the higher-end of entry-level/light-to-moderate-use hand tools, and not particularly suited towards the demands of a full-time mechanic.

Is anyone honestly disputing that? Is Craftsman even marketing tools to that segment? I could be completely wrong, but I thought that the Craftsman warranty didn't apply to commercial use (mentions that in the 2006-2007 catalog). I'd certainly say that a professional mechanic's use of Craftsman tools constitutes "commercial use".

So, we've pointed out the difference between Craftsman's lower-end stuff, and Snap-On's higher end stuff.

I believe those differences (at least in this thread) are invalid when compared to the Craftsman Pro wrench - which is still an order of magnitude less expensive than the Gucci gear in a Snap-On box.

For the record, the differences pointed out:

1> Snap-On wrench is longer than Craftsman, therefore, more leverage, more torque.

2> Snap-On wrench thickness is more consistent than the Craftsman, therefore, allowing better seating/grip on a fastener.

3> Snap-On wrench has "flank-drive", which seems to be less about the quality of the wrench, and more about attacking crappy fasteners. One could argue that all things being equal, if the fastener is truly 15mm, and the wrench is truly 15mm, then flank-drive isn't needed.

#1 is invalid if the Craftsman wrench is one of the polished ones such as the one I linked to.

#2 is inconclusive, until said Craftsman wrench is measured.

#3 is arguable.

So, at the prices on the Sears page, and listed here, why should one buy a $28.20 Snap-On vs. a $11.99 Craftsman Pro?

I'm thinking about heading out to a Sears just to purchase a single Craftsman pro wrench and put it through the same tests and any others that you guys can come up with. I agree that the Craftsman Pro is better then the standard Craftsman, but it is in no way close to Snap On quality in hand tools. You can justify any of these other tools until you actually USE the Snap On. Believe me when I say that I did the exact same thing for YEARS. It wasn’t until I actually starting comparing Snap On back to back with Matco, MAC, Stanley, Craftsman (even Pro) that I realized, its not all hype. There really is a difference in how they grasp fasteners, how well they work, and how long they last.

I do have Craftsman Pro Flare Nut wrenches, would you say that this is a fair comparison to a Snap On Combination wrench or would it be too different? I can take photos and measurements of this right away.

If you’re happy with Craftsman pro, that’s a good thing. Don’t take it any other way. If a less expensive tool fulfils your needs, awesome, you are coming out ahead. However, that does not mean the Craftsman Pro IS as good as a Snap On. It just means it meets YOUR needs.

Don't get me wrong, Snap On is NOT the end all be all of hand tools, there are others out there that make excellent pliers, specialty tools etc. Let us not forget Snap On is the rule of measure everyone compares to, and for good reason.

 

[kythri]

I'm not saying that Craftsman Pro is as good as Snap-On, but I'm not saying that Snap-On is "better".

I just find it amusing all the animosity between the Pro-Craftsman and Pro-Snap-On crowd (I myself am guilty of it, I'm sure).

To each their own, of course.

I personally am not going to be convinced on a quality (or lack of quality) issue until I see some evidence of it personally.

My main issue was that if you're going to issue a blanket statement about Snap-On being superior to Craftsman, at least compare an equivalent product.

 

[KingPerformance]

I'm not saying that Craftsman Pro is as good as Snap-On, but I'm not saying that Snap-On is "better".

I don’t understand what you are saying then.

I just find it amusing all the animosity between the Pro-Craftsman and Pro-Snap-On crowd (I myself am guilty of it, I'm sure).

To each their own, of course.

I have no animosity, do you harbor some sort of anger towards Snap On?

I personally am not going to be convinced on a quality (or lack of quality) issue until I see some evidence of it personally.

You are going to have to start by purchasing, or borrowing some tools then. I have personally done exactly what you speak of, back to back comparisons being a non believer myself at one time. As I have said over and over, Craftsman (pro and standard) work. No doubt about it, they work. But there is no doubt in my mind that they are on the lower and middle tier of tools made in the USA. If using those tools is satisfactory to you, great, you just saved a lot of money. Some people are satisfied with using cheap Chinese tools, you have to choose based on your personal requirements. If Craftsman is not good enough for you, and you want, or require something better it is available.

My main issue was that if you're going to issue a blanket statement about Snap-On being superior to Craftsman, at least compare an equivalent product.

Not going to happen, there is no such thing. In addition to that, the raised panel is what I had available at the time, is the most widely used, and sold version of Craftsman tool. I stated that I would do the same back to back tests on pro; you stated it would not be good enough until you used the tools yourself. I agree with you and recommend that you try out a set of Snap On Flank Drive Pro wrenches.

 

[eschoendorff]

I have a newer Snap On OEX series 1/2" wrench and a 1/2" Cman Pro. Maybe I can take some pictures and measurements later....

 

[kythri]

Not going to happen, there is no such thing.

I'd argue that the brand name (Craftsman Professional), the marketing and the style of the wrench indicates that Sears/Craftsman is positioning the Professional line against the tool-truck brands.

I stated that I would do the same back to back tests on pro; you stated it would not be good enough until you used the tools yourself.

For my own personal purchasing decision, yes. That's not to say I wouldn't like to see such a review. Perhaps it's just me, but I feel that the comparison of the two products is like pointing out all the ways a Ferrari is better than a Yugo.

I agree with you and recommend that you try out a set of Snap On Flank Drive Pro wrenches.

And if I find a deal on some at a hawk-shop, I might pick some up. I'm not against the brand, I'm against the exorbitant price.

 

[danski0224]

I wonder how much of the Snap-On mystique is just tool snobbery?

How many mechanics started out with Craftsman only to be ridiculed by their co-workers because of it?

There was a point in my life when I did a lot of wrenching on my vehicles, and the Craftsman stuff got the job done with plenty to spare. I did break a few sockets, though. Sometimes using them as intended- sometimes not.

I also own some Snap-On flare nut wrenches and misc. items, and I will admit that they have a better feel in my hands, but that doesn't mean that the Craftsman stuff I own is junk. Some of the Craftsman Pro stuff sure seems to be close to the Snappy product in terms of wrench length, but I have no need to go out and buy all new wrenches just because.

My favorite ratchet is an older Craftsman stainless steel 3/8" drive with a thin profile head. Too bad they don't make it anymore. Second on the list is a Snap-On.

I am also guilty of wanting a basic standard and metric wrench and socket set with the Snap-On name on it. Wanted that for a long time- no reason, and I certainly don't earn my living turning wrenches. I have also wanted a Snap-On toolbox for almost as long, but now I know that Lista is a better product. Someday....

 

[ImportTuner]

This is getting real interesting ... Snap On vs. Craftsman ... Chevy vs. Ford ..

 

[-lecroix-]

This post makes me smile.

 

[ba614]

to compare Snap On to Craftsman is like comparing humans to monkeys ... similar in looks ... similar in action ... but two different animals ... there really isn't any comparison

I had a box full of Snap On Tools that a theif relieved me of ... I replaced them with Craftsman Tools ... they get the job done and I have no complaint about them ... you get what you pay for ... but having owned and used Snap On I know the difference ... there is no comparison ... you're dealing with two different animals

 

[Dodgepu360]

I think we need to do some destructive testing to determine which brand of wrench takes the most force before the open end fails

I picture a hydraulic press with a pressure gauge and piece of hex bar stock rigidly mounted to the press

Place the open end on the hex, apply pressure to the wrench on the other end and record the pressure when the wrench fails

The wrench that takes the highest pressure to break would be the strongest

This seems like a way to evenly test the wrenches

The same idea would also apply to testing sockets and ratchets

 

[rose jackets67]

Though I'm but a young buck and don't have the wrenching experience many of you do, I thnk I have something valid to add here.

Take a fairly common wrench size - say, 9/16".

A raised panel Craftsman costs $7.99
A polished Craftsman Professional costs $10.49
A Snap On OEX-series (Standard Flank Drive, not plus - more fair comparison to Craftsmans) costs $25.50

All those prices are pulled off of the Sears and Snap On websites.

I don't think the debate going on here is that the Snap On is inferior to the Craftsman stuff. I think everyone recognizes they are some of the best tools out there.

I think the question is, how much is that increase in quality worth?

For another $2.50, the upgrade to the Craftsman Pro is a no-brainer. For $15 more, though, what are you really getting? I own both, and have to say that you're not getting much for the extra money with the Snap Ons.

Adam

 

[kythri]

That sounds like a great idea for a new tool website - kind of like a Consumer's Reports for the hand tool world.

Someone should run with that idea, and make some money with it.

 

[eschoendorff]

Okay, Kythri... I gotta admit, I see your point. I happen to agree with you and have wanted to see some actual quantifiable evidence myself.

Well, I cannot give you that. What I can give you guys are some photos of a 1/2" Craftsman pro, a Snap On 1/2" (OEX 1608) and a 1/2 GearWrench for the hell of it. Here are some photos... I know that the Snap On and the Cman are different lengths, but I am not as interested in length as I am in head dimensions, ect.

The lineup:

The open end, Gearwrench on top, Snap On in the middle, Cman Pro on bottom:

The box end, Gearwrench on top, Snap On in the middle, Cman Pro on bottom:

Box end width comparison, Snap On up top, Cman Pro on bottom:

Open end width comparison, Snap On again on top, Cman Pro on bottom:

As you can see, the Cman Pro and the Snap On handle dimensions are very similar... for the record, the GearWrench has the sharpest edges, followed by Snap On, and then teh Cman Pro is nicely rounded.

Now, I would love to take a caliper to teh wrenches to see how consistent they are, but I want to take a nap first.

 

[bmwpower]

Personally, I don't see why minor variances in thickness on one wrench are going to make a difference in performance. The strength of the metal is the key, I believe.

I'd love the be able to compare the manufacturing process of both wrenches. I would hope the Snappy has a longer, more complex process. The Snappy seems like a sorted race car (slim and trim, strong where it needs to be) and the Craftsman design doesn't look as refined. Case in point: the boxed end dimensions.

 

[eschoendorff]

I'd love the be able to compare the manufacturing process of both wrenches. I would hope the Snappy has a longer, more complex process. The Snappy seems like a sorted race car (slim and trim, strong where it needs to be) and the Craftsman design doesn't look as refined. Case in point: the boxed end dimensions.

I don't know that the pictures do the whole thing justice. I would also love to learn about the actual manufacturing proceses of both wrenches. I gotta disagree with you though on the point of refinement. I think that what you are seein gis simply two different designes. In real life, the Cman Pro looks well sorted, and feels good. The box end area of the wrench is just a little different (not better, not worse, but different) than the Snappy. I have a feeling that the length of teh wrenches may have played a part here. The Cman Pro box end is a little more blended into the handle, where the Snappy is a more abrupt transition. Maybe it was a length issue????

 

[stupidjet]

now we're getting somewhere, it's liek craftsman is finally getting respect...

 

[swgray]

Isn't it quite possible the Craftsman wrench has a tapered design while the Snap-On is parallel? I don't see how this is a problem, even if its not the case. The distance between the flats is what should matter.

The precision of the fasteners being used could also be called into question, couldn't it. If your wrench is the exact size stamp on its side, what do you do if the fastener is slightly larger or smaller than spec? Change wrench sizes. To what size, the 15.2mm? Or would it be better to have a tool with decent clearances to accommodate the different variations in bolts and nuts?

That said, I have and use the Craftsman raised panel wrenches everyday. At home and at work. I like the pebble finish, as I can hold them with a relaxed grip and not drop them.

I think if I had, lets say $3000 to set myself up with tools for a repair business, I would try to get the most bang for my buck. If I can get a 9/16 Craftsman for $8 instead of a Snap-on for $25.50, I'll have an extra $17.50 for more specialty tools.