Maybe this is why some makers are painting the insides of their sockets?
Based on what I've learned here, I'm less inclined to buy SK or any painted socket. I gotta think the only reason to do this would be to cover up something.
What have we learned here? That some manufacturers paint/protect the insides of their sockets after chroming? And some may not? Now that it is established finally that they paint them, you come up with some kind of conspiracy theory against SK (and others). Time to let it go.
Today, I had the time and energy to work on a project car I bought a few years ago. I've done a fair amount of work to it over the last few years with "crappy" Craftsman USA sockets and Gearwrench sockets. I've also used those same Craftsman sockets over the last 13 years on a number of repairs/projects. The interior (and exterior too) of the Craftsman sockets aren't all that pretty but guess what? They have gotten the job done over and over again without damaging the sockets or fasteners. I also used a well worn SK 1/2 ratchet (short) and well worn Wright 1/2 ratchet (long) that I bought used, then cleaned and lubed. They work great but look worn out.
I probably will buy some Williams and SK sockets later this year so I can move some of the Craftsman into the house. As long as they look ok on the outside, I don't care if the manufacturers paint/protect them or not inside. Because that coating will be getting worn off pretty soon after I get them - by using them.
So to the OP - just throw them on a ratchet and use them. See what happens. I bet they'll work just fine.
