Snap On

[rtole]

I heard snap on is waiting for sears to tank.......then they will buy the craftsman name. They will get rid of the snap on name all together. They will sell all the old snap on stock by enticing people with a free pair of robogrips. They will warranty old craftsman stuff and give you 2 replacement tools for every one broken. The snap on warranty will only be even exchange, and only once. It has been proven the new lobster claw is way better than a flank drive plus. So all FDP wrenches must be traded in once the change over happens. After that any snap on wrench will be replaced with a robogrip. (The next best thing) We all know the craftsman quick release ratchet is by far superior to the dual 80, so all dual 80s must be turned in or someone will come and collect them, and will leave you with one of those 3/8 and 1/4 all in one ratchets with a 3/8 to 1/2 adapter. If you turn in 5 dual 80s you will get 1 raised panel quick release ratchet. They are doing you a favor.
I figure if we are going to have another one of these threads I would post something that has not been said 3,876,127 times already.
OP.......this is discussed everyday. My advice....try a little of a few brands that you have locally, A 3/8 ratchet from every company you can get will give you a feel for ratchets and only truck brands will be real expensive. I like snap on, but by no means do I bleed snap on red. I have ratchets, and a few key items related to my job from them . My sockets are all grey pnuematic, and gearwrench. I say its not that USA tools have gotten worse......but imports have gotten way better. I have gearwrench 120 xp ratchets, while I like my dual 80s a touch better.......you can get by real fine with gearwrench. USA stuff like SK and Armstrong are great, but like snap on..........but hard to justify for the price increase over some of the better imports. As someone said a couple pages back........these USA companies are hard to find locally. I am finding gearwrench all over the place. I do find value in some snap on stuff......but that's just me. Your situation may be differant. I tend to like ratchets, and I prefer snap ons ratchets. Lots of guys here love Armstrong and SK ratchets. I bought one of each to try, gave them away.........I didn't like them at all. The round head SK was okay, but I hated the armstrong ratchet. It auto reversed and the handle dug into my hand. You may love them. Just like some like ford or Chevy......what I like and you like may be different. Gotta try some for yourself.......like we all do anyway.

 

[espyking83]

This is my point exactly,,, totally different issue than the age old question,,, how good is the tool? Not actually subjective at all, really none. So you havnt actually used a china end wrench on an air craft fastener then to see if it really did strip it,,, if I under stand this its pretty much speculation?

My first wrench set after the Navy was Chinese Husky. Slipped for a week, then realized tools werent something a professional mechanic should skimp on. Bought an old Proto Challenger wrench set off here and saw the difference immediately. Proceeded to try virtually every major tool manufacturers wrenches/sockets/screwdrivers/etc.

Came to the conclusion that Wright makes the best wrenches, Wiha makes the best screwdrivers, SK for 1/4 ratchets, Koken for 3/8 ratchets, SO for 1/2 (I forgot to mention that in the best tools SO makes, the SLF80 is the best 1/2 ratchet in the world IMO, but I dont really use 1/2 enough to really make an argument) SO makes the best ratcheting screwdrivers, and SK is the smartest decision for sockets (based on quality and price), Martin makes the best specialty wrench, Sioux and Dotco makes the best air tools. I can literally go on for days depending on the types of tools. I can give my opinion for the absolute best manufacturer for a tool regardless of price as well as the best bang for the buck. There is one thing I can tell your for sure, Snap On doesnt really do the best in either of those areas.

 

[Herod]

Our resident tool expert...

 

[espyking83]

Our resident tool expert...

Don't start something I'll remember tomorrow. I'll make it a point to come here every day and kick you around. Not really what I come here for but I will make some fun of it.

 

[SantaAna12]

I heard snap on is waiting for sears to tank.......then they will buy the craftsman name. They will get rid of the snap on name all together. They will sell all the old snap on stock by enticing people with a free pair of robogrips. They will warranty old craftsman stuff and give you 2 replacement tools for every one broken. The snap on warranty will only be even exchange, and only once. It has been proven the new lobster claw is way better than a flank drive plus. So all FDP wrenches must be traded in once the change over happens. After that any snap on wrench will be replaced with a robogrip. (The next best thing) We all know the craftsman quick release ratchet is by far superior to the dual 80, so all dual 80s must be turned in or someone will come and collect them, and will leave you with one of those 3/8 and 1/4 all in one ratchets with a 3/8 to 1/2 adapter. If you turn in 5 dual 80s you will get 1 raised panel quick release ratchet. They are doing you a favor.



I want some of whatever you've been smoking.

 

[Boiler]

I don't get the hate for snapon. If you think it's overpriced why does it bother you that it exists? I can understand snap on fans thinking lesser tools are just that, because they want the best. But they could care less if others buy the best.

As far as quality goes, anyone who argues snap on is not among the best across their whole line, and probably THE best for at least 1/3 of it, I call them delusional or full of it. As far as a value argument i can understand, that's completely an individual decision. But there is no denying they are top quality. And that alone makes it worth it for some people, price be damned.

 

[rtole]

Not smoking anything (heck not even a drink yet) I just get baited into replying in these threads, and thought I would spew some nonsense since this topic always turns into a ******* match and a lot of dumb **** comes out.
It seems that snap on is always in the discussion for "best" tools...........it seems they are what everyone compares too. (In the USA) Is it only a prestige thing? No. That only goes so far. Like someone said a few posts ago, they clearly make a great product across the board. They are the best in more cases than any other brand. (In the USA) They best is not always a value......that's why I don't own all snap on. Even if I could afford it I would likely not own all snap on. I enjoy having other brands.

 

[joel63]

Happy wrenching to all, no matter which brand of tools you use.

Sweet, succinct, and rational.^^^^^^^^^

And Happy Thanksgiving to all.

 

[Herod]

Don't start something I'll remember tomorrow. I'll make it a point to come here every day and kick you around. Not really what I come here for but I will make some fun of it.

Blah, blah, blah...

Make fun of deez nuts

 

[gmm213]

OP - what is your budget for tools over the next 3-4 years? You need to look at that and also how far you want to push that budget in terms of range.

Good luck!

I like you the best so far.

My budget will probably be 2-3 grand as I said I dont have much left. I have my Snap On box Wrenches, my old old craftsman screwdriver set from my dad, 2 or 3 sets of Allen wrenches, some pry bars, a few pairs of vice grips, some random hammers, and my giant monkey wrench thats older than my dad and has no branding. Plus a few power tools.

Im planning on acquiring 3/8 and probably 1 inch ratchet sets to start. Probably a torque wrench as well. Plus some specialty tools that Ill probably go through the internet for.

I realize that with some tools you can do just as well if not better with other companies that are cheaper but I like the snap on because of the CS. But that wont stop me from purchasing tools elsewhere.

As someone mentioned Japanese I really prefer USA made. Not as much for the quality, Im sure going around can get me better bang for my buck but I dont mind paying a premium to support the good ole USA.

As stated I didnt start this thread for a "is snap on end all be all". I was simply wondering if the norm was becoming that reps were becoming a holes. If so what are other USA options. My experience with the truck tools is only a few years and I had one rep. Ive since moved and dont want to go through the hassle of spending god awful amounts to build a relationship with a rep that will just become a **** when Im not constantly blowing money at his truck.

When I purchase snap on its for the CS, thats what Im willing to pay the prices for. its not that a Snap On tool is more than twice as good as a Williams or SK or such, its that I dont have to go through the net for CS and warrenty

 

[rtole]

OK, I just threw out the import stuff for the value point. I would certainly say that snap on is not a value brand by any means...unless you are depending on it every day. Even then........hard to say if the value is really there. I have multiples of sockets so if one fails I have backup. For the price of Grey pneumatic sockets I could have 3 sets maybe more. Snap on has better clearance but I don't run into that problem often. They wear less than the cheaper brands.........but you can warranty cheaper sockets.
Yes, you need a relationship with a snap on driver(or any truck brand for that matter) they are business owners and only kiss **** to people that make them money. They have to to maximize their incomes. They will not cater to the once a year 100 dollar buyer. That's a waste of their time and resources. They need to stop at shops and get more sales per stop. If your only going to buy a little......you need to hunt them down and kinda kiss **** to get in there. It's not personal.......they just need to make their money. They do that by maximizing their time and sales per stop. I am the only buyer at my shop.........my guy texts me to see if I need anything........if not he has my credit card and he bills me at night. He warranties anything with the snap on name without question if I break it. He is busy. We have 2 snap on owners in my area of 90,000. They other guy has another truck and pays a guy to run it. My snap on guy offered me a job as he is looking to get another truck going. I must say the dealers around my area have always been stellar.........without fail. The other trucks can't seem to keep drivers in business. To me snap on makes most of their stuff where matco seems to rebrand most of their stuff. I have no opinion of mac or Cornwell cause I have never seen either truck in my area. I don't think snap on is going by the way of poor customer service........but they won't ever be great for the low purchase volume owner or the used buyer looking for replacement. Just not their business model. Kinda like grainger is high priced unless your a volume buyer. Yeah snap on does not really care about the little guy.............just like other business to business companies. They will sell to private people, but they only do it if its quick and easy. Just like other business to business companiesm. That's really what the deal is. You will not hear many bad stories of snap ons service if its a regular snap on customer who buys enough to warrent a stop. If you buy.......they will come.

 

[rtole]

With that said, I like SK for a USA brand. They hold up well and look good. For your it would come down to what is available locally for you. Sometimes wright, williams, or proto would be a local option. Proto can be expensive as well......but with some shopping it can be had for the same price as others and would be darn darn close to snap on quality. It seems SK is the more available high quality option.

 

[amlv20]

The best tools worth it,are the tools you like and afford.its your money anyways spend it on what you want.

 

[gmm213]

Numerous people have mentioned certain tools from Snap On are worth it but other things just arent. Someone mentioned a list. After searching it seems like many people like SK for ratchets, ext, sockets etc but not theyre pliers or screwdrivers. Anyone have any recommendations what tools Snap On is worth it for and what can come from other manufacturers like SK and Williams? I had a Snap On ratchet set and I have used a few Mac and Sk tools form guys at work. I did like the SKs but Im still drawn to Snap on especially after using and hearing most rave about the dual 80.

 

[Dirty Diesels]

Numerous people have mentioned certain tools from Snap On are worth it but other things just arent. Someone mentioned a list. After searching it seems like many people like SK for ratchets, ext, sockets etc but not theyre pliers or screwdrivers. Anyone have any recommendations what tools Snap On is worth it for and what can come from other manufacturers like SK and Williams? I had a Snap On ratchet set and I have used a few Mac and Sk tools form guys at work. I did like the SKs but Im still drawn to Snap on especially after using and hearing most rave about the dual 80.

You cannot go wrong with the dual 80 ratchets, I've also been advised by a few of the members on here about Matco's 88 tooth ratchets in previous discussions.

Pliers, deffo Snap on &/or Knipex & Vise grip for locking pliers.

Screwdrivers, again Snap on. I'd also look at Wera.

Sockets, extensions & adaptors, well Snap on & Mac, they all have good 1's.

Wrenches/spanners, if I were to do it again, deffo Snap on.

 

[Dirty Diesels]

Our resident tool expert...

Don't start something I'll remember tomorrow. I'll make it a point to come here every day and kick you around. Not really what I come here for but I will make some fun of it.

Jeez guys reading through the OP's thread & you 2 have been having a right lovers tiff ! Now, now come on, can't you just take it off of the main thread & go to PM's ?

 

[bczygan]

If you were to go into my toolbox and replace all my HF tools with SO......


I wouldn't stop you.

 

[espyking83]

Numerous people have mentioned certain tools from Snap On are worth it but other things just arent. Someone mentioned a list. After searching it seems like many people like SK for ratchets, ext, sockets etc but not theyre pliers or screwdrivers. Anyone have any recommendations what tools Snap On is worth it for and what can come from other manufacturers like SK and Williams? I had a Snap On ratchet set and I have used a few Mac and Sk tools form guys at work. I did like the SKs but Im still drawn to Snap on especially after using and hearing most rave about the dual 80.

Snap On does make very good ratchets, but they're just not worth the price difference from other brands, especially their industrial ones. As I have said before, their service is impeccable. If you find yourself replacing tools constantly, then yes, Snap On is worth it. If not, you can find the same quality in industrial brands. This is just not unique to Snap On, it goes for Mac, Cornwell, and Matco as well. Give a serious look at Williams and Bahco tools, they're the best thing about Snap On Imo.

Williams makes pro quality tools, regardless if the COO is USA or Taiwan. Worth every damned penny and perform every bit as good as Snap On. Just remember that Snap On doesnt warranty their industrial brands on the truck, you have to send them in. Armstrong makes an 88 tooth ratchet that is superb, only knock I have on it is that it's a bit heavy in your hands and the handle gets uncomfortable after a while. SK makes very good and durable ratchets, but if higher tooth count is what you need I would look elsewhere. I have their 72 tooth 3/8 ratchet and it is kinda clunky compared to other ratcheting mechanisms.

I dont hate Snap On, I have quite a bit of Snap On tools, but nearly every tool from them that I thought has been better than everyone elses turned out to be rebranded. They make good enough wrenches and sockets, but they're no better than some industrial brands. Their performance isnt worth the price difference. If you have to warranty a socket or a ratchet thatdidnt break because of a manufacturing defect then the problem lies in your technique.

 

[bcradio]

Line wrenches are the one must have tool from Snap-On IMO

 

[sberry]

I don't hate Snapon and in fact think they are poster examples of good business. A lot of companies should take lessons from them.

 

[Formula]

My toolbox and 80% of my tools are snap on. I've been using them 8 hours a day for over 20 years.

For my tools at home in the garage doing side work, I have a mix of craftsman, harbor freight, etc. Most of them are good enough. For everyday use, I know they won't hold up.

If I didn't make a living using tools, would I buy snap on? Not likely.

 

[wafrederick]

Snap On is getting ****** with dealers now,treating them like ****.The dealer down the road in my area has been forced out by Snap On,he owned his franchise.So far they bought some of the tools back and supposed to get a check from Snap On.Snap On wanted him to hand over the franchise and he told them no.Plus Snap On is trying to starve him out,works at a shop doing maintance now.Plus he is collecting from people that owe him money still and Snap On is not liking this at all.No dealers in the Holland,Mi area anymore and the two dealers in the area lost their franchise and house.Any dealer that decides to retire,they keep the tools and Snap On won't take them back.One dealer in my area got a letter on this and he was pissed.Has $500,000.00 worth of tools in a couple storage lockers he has to sell on his own.Snap On also owns the franchises now,the person buys the routes.

 

[sberry]

I've been using them 8 hours a day for over 20 years.

We use them daily but none for 8 hours.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Line wrenches are the one must have tool from Snap-On IMO

I agree,, that is number one on the Snap-On list of must haves

 

[toddoky]

Snap-on angle head wrenches also feature the most effective head angles as well in my opinion.

 

[Tronyadorable]

Snap-on angle head wrenches also feature the most effective head angles as well in my opinion.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675023&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog
Puh_Leeez.
I'm pulling the trigger on this.
http://www.jensputzier.com/Hazet/Ha...uble-Open-End-Wrench-Set-outside-hexagon.html

 

[Adam.C]

Anyone have any recommendations what tools Snap On is worth it for and what can come from other manufacturers like SK and Williams?

Wild Cowboy and I talked about Mission Critical Tools. Here's may take on the subject:

Ratchets- I don't see why you need a high tooth count stubby or short ratchet. Buy whatever you want that feels nice in your hand. All I'm looking for in a ratchet is:
Good feel
Low back drag
Cheap, available, replacement parts

Where I think you want Snap On, is for the long flex heads. The Dual 80's are strong, low back drag, with fine teeth that allow you to swing in a tight spot. Especially the SHLF80A. I also recommend the FHLF80. But are these worth paying retail for when you can buy used and replace the guts for $10 a pop? I paid about $120 for my SH and $75 for my FH and I'm happy with my purchases.

For sockets, I have Snap On. I bought them second hand. I really think they are better than other makes. I prefer Shallow and semi-deep. Deep is too deep for anything I do. I doubt I'll ever break one and if I do I will buy a new one for whatever new costs. Might be worth buying new swivel sockets. SOs are very nice, very short, and very tight, which I like.

The flank drive plus wrenches are nice. I don't use them often, but when I do, I'm glad I have them. I don't think I would buy SO ratchet wrenches again, and certainly not second hand. You can break ratchet wrenches. I do like the high performance series wrenches. Recommend them highly. You'll never break one, so buy them second hand. I like the 0 degree models for front engine work.

Snap On makes excellent screwdrivers. The new handles fit my hand very nicely, but I only have a few. The tips are excellent. I bought my set new 30 years ago and still use them and like them. I've had a few shanks warrantied, no receipt, no problem, no questions asked. I would do it again. No regrets.

Snap On make excellent pliers- I really like the older slip joint model. Again, will you every wear out or break a pair of pliers? You can get most for under $20 a pop second hand.

I guess I'm coming to the conclusion that I personally could not justify buying much from the truck retail. I have bought A LOT of stuff off the truck on special for what I thought were reasonable prices. Picked up a nice set of wheel sockets cheap, swivel impacts, panel popper set- love it, etc etc.

Best deals on second hand SO are for sets missing items or with worn items. I'll buy new from the truck to fill in the set.

The place where the warranty really shines if for items that wear- screwdrivers, Hammers?, most importantly bit sockets- buy these new.

For the other stuff, I think you are better off buying second hand. I guess my philosophy is buy second hand, not second quality.

 

[T45]

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675023&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog
Puh_Leeez.
I'm pulling the trigger on this.
http://www.jensputzier.com/Hazet/Ha...uble-Open-End-Wrench-Set-outside-hexagon.html

WTF those 15/60 hazets are $200ish+shipping and go up to 14mm

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675023&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

This set of snappy 30/60 goes to 17 for $250ish and can be had $100 less

 

[TonyCH]

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675023&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog
Puh_Leeez.
I'm pulling the trigger on this.
http://www.jensputzier.com/Hazet/Ha...uble-Open-End-Wrench-Set-outside-hexagon.html

Don't order the Hazet set quite yet, unless you are mainly working with electronics or bicycles.

 

[espyking83]

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=675023&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog
Puh_Leeez.
I'm pulling the trigger on this.
http://www.jensputzier.com/Hazet/Ha...uble-Open-End-Wrench-Set-outside-hexagon.html

I ended up buying a cheap Tekton set, grinding down the lobster claws, and heating the beam to bend the shapes I need. Actually work pretty damned good LOL. Some people probably use angle wenches enough to merit spending big time money on them, but they're considered one of those 'convenience tools' to me. I bet those Hazets are nice though.

Snap On does have the best angles I have seen, but damn, the price...

 

[sberry]

I have a couple bent up wrenches but made it a long time without angle wrenches and don't have plans for any at the moment.

 

[espyking83]

I have a couple bent up wrenches but made it a long time without angle wrenches and don't have plans for any at the moment.

I find that I actually need a lateral bend in the beam more than I need a bend in the open end. We should make a thread to see everyones custom tools if there isnt one already.

 

[amlv20]

Yea I agree snap is nuts with those angle wrenches for $700, i Bought cheap atd wrenches for less then $100 I got the full sae and metric sets.

 

[stikman56]

Yea I agree snap is nuts with those angle wrenches for $700, i Bought cheap atd wrenches for less then $100 I got the full sae and metric sets.

I bought the 1-1/2 to 2 inch set from HF with a coupon for 36 bucks for the buses. They have worked well. I also have the set up to 1-1/4" and hardly ever use them.

 

[gmm213]

Thank you for all the input. Anyone have any suggestions on a good USA made torque wrench? Its definitely on my get ASAP list

 

[5.0 clunker]

If I made my living solely on turning wrenches I would not bat an eye at SO gear regardless of the price but I dont so I have no problems using low cost tools. Plus all my tools are covered by my companies tool program so if I break anything they will replace it with proto.

 

[JDon99]

Thank you for all the input. Anyone have any suggestions on a good USA made torque wrench? Its definitely on my get ASAP list

CDI or Precision Instruments are both pretty good.

 

[JAKE-THE-TOOL-MAN]

Thank you for all the input. Anyone have any suggestions on a good USA made torque wrench? Its definitely on my get ASAP list

Gearwrench, all can be had for $100 each and some change

 

[gmm213]

Thanks Jdon99. Im staying away from gearwrench. Especially for my torque wrench. One thing I refuse to skimp at all on. Im sure gearwrench works good but I dont need a bolt snapping or coming loose at 100 mph on my ATV.

 

[JAKE-THE-TOOL-MAN]

Thanks Jdon99. Im staying away from gearwrench. Especially for my torque wrench. One thing I refuse to skimp at all on. Im sure gearwrench works good but I dont need a bolt snapping or coming loose at 100 mph on my ATV.

Gearwrench torque wrenches are made in the USA and make torque wrenches for Matco... They are high quality click type and can be had at Tool Topia at a huge discount. You are entitled to your opinion though.