Snap on Socket question

[rc356s]

Hi All,

Recently I scored a used MAC 3/8" ratchet wrench and over a dozen MAC deep sockets at a garage sale. Included was also several Snap-on FS281 style shallow sockets in various sizes.
Comparing these Snap-on sockets to other Snap-on sockets I have they look identical. The difference that I see is that the chrome is different. It is not as "Bright" as my other snap-on sockets. The new sockets are darker, much like the new Craftman sockets with the etched size labels.
Did Snap-on have a variation in chrome or could they be fakes?

 

[V70R]

Have you looked for any date stamp codes on each piece to compare? Older Snap-on tools were of a matte-chrome plating, newer items are a nickel chrome type.

 

[rc356s]

I will have to check those tomorrow. What does the date stamp look like, I assume some kind of code numbers?

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

I never saw replica Snap-on sockets before.

 

[rc356s]

Checking the date code from the chart given (Thanks!) I see that the new sockets were built in 2004. Perhaps these are of the nickle chrome type.

I am going to add a picture showing the two 2004 sockets next to a 1992 socket and a MAC socket. Just to compare the finish on all of them. When looking straight at the new sockets they all do look like the same fiinish. It is only when you look at them at an angle that the color difference is seen. It may be difficult to see it in the pictures.