I recently purchased an SHL80 ratchet on eBay after my mechanic offered to buy my SL936. Both are in great shape although the SL936 seems to be in slightly better condition. It was a hard choice because I've grown attached to the SL936. I've had it for a few years and its worked well. Researching the difference left me with only a few threads comparing these ratchets.
A number of people mentioned that the SL936 is nicer for mechanics because they are easier to clean and will fit into tight spots. It's true that the SHL80 is longer, bulkier and has a soft grip handle that can get dirty much more easily. Yet the SHL80 seems to weigh less despite the size. I'm a "do it yourself" type of guy but I don't have to ratchet very often so these aren't issue for me.
When I do use tools, I tend to break cheap ones. I had a huge $50 set of Chinese tools for 10 years but resold it on Craigslist after I broke the 1/4" ratchet. I know that removing lug nuts with a 1/4" ratchet isn't a great idea but I had nothing else. This is why I bought the SL936. Being stuck on the road after a flat wasn't too appealing. That's why I have a small Snap On collection in my car.
Anyways, here we are today and I believe that there's nothing better than the SL936. That is until the SHL80 arrives and I notice the smooth ratcheting, nice grip and extra torque that I'm getting. In fact, everything about it is smoother and more comfortable. The SL936 seems like a relic that only an old timer could appreciate.
I do prefer the SL936's sound but that's not a good enough reason to keep it. It might be obvious now that I went with the SHL80. Nevertheless, I've created this thread to help others in making their decision between similar models. Likewise, has anybody else noticed the difference between older Snap On and newer models? Which do you prefer? Do you like soft grip ratchets?
A number of people mentioned that the SL936 is nicer for mechanics because they are easier to clean and will fit into tight spots. It's true that the SHL80 is longer, bulkier and has a soft grip handle that can get dirty much more easily. Yet the SHL80 seems to weigh less despite the size. I'm a "do it yourself" type of guy but I don't have to ratchet very often so these aren't issue for me.
When I do use tools, I tend to break cheap ones. I had a huge $50 set of Chinese tools for 10 years but resold it on Craigslist after I broke the 1/4" ratchet. I know that removing lug nuts with a 1/4" ratchet isn't a great idea but I had nothing else. This is why I bought the SL936. Being stuck on the road after a flat wasn't too appealing. That's why I have a small Snap On collection in my car.
Anyways, here we are today and I believe that there's nothing better than the SL936. That is until the SHL80 arrives and I notice the smooth ratcheting, nice grip and extra torque that I'm getting. In fact, everything about it is smoother and more comfortable. The SL936 seems like a relic that only an old timer could appreciate.
I do prefer the SL936's sound but that's not a good enough reason to keep it. It might be obvious now that I went with the SHL80. Nevertheless, I've created this thread to help others in making their decision between similar models. Likewise, has anybody else noticed the difference between older Snap On and newer models? Which do you prefer? Do you like soft grip ratchets?
