Snapon cannot get the locking mechanism right

[Shoreline_]

The old button one everyone complained about because it was easy to bump. I'm on 2 years now the new style and I don't think it's much better. Also the head is huge. Did anyone like the new style locking mechanism?

 

[liliysdad]

I don’t buy locking flex ratchets. Solved.

 

[Theronswanson]

The original design was the better of the 2 IMO. Yeah, you could bump it, but for me any ways, it really didn't happen too often. Still better than non locking flex heads that flop all over the place

 

[Steve_P]

The Matco locking method is superior IMO. However, SO typically refuses to adopt someone else's design, even when it's vastly superior to their own; they'd rather redesign the wheel and then patent an octagon.

I prefer a flex head with a friction fit, but some brands don't give you the option.

 

[TheToolEnthusiast]

The G2 ratchets dare I say are the best of both worlds. Snap-On Dual 80 style mechanism and Matco locking mechanism.

 

[drokihazan]

I have both generations of Snap-On locking mechanism. The new one won't stay locked, but the old one bangs into stuff and pops loose. They both ****.

 

[Steve_P]

The G2 ratchets dare I say are the best of both worlds. Snap-On Dual 80 style mechanism and Marco locking mechanism.

actually, while the mechanisms do interchange, they are not similar in their design. The Icon looks more like the Koken 72T design than the SO 80T. I find this really odd since the Matco 88, GW 90T, SK 90T, Tekton 90T, Capri 90T..... all use a proven design. And HF, who does nothing but copy didn't take the easy way and go with the GW 90T style design.

 

[TheToolEnthusiast]

@Steve_P do you mean the ratchet head internals or the locking mechanism?

 

[Steve_P]

G2 internals are very different from SO 80T. Yes, the cavity machining is ~identical. But the mechanisms are very different.

The G2 Icon locking is definitely a Matco/Gearwrench copy. Because it works, is simple, doesn't reduce strength....

If I didn't have a zillion ratchets I'd buy an Icon to try. I'm sure at some point I will buy one anyway LOL.

 

[teufel666]

If you don't mind always locked, I'm pretty impressed with Proto.

 

[CoThG]

I have the standard length, long and extra long new Snap-On locking flex heads in 3/8. The locking mechanism is vastly superior to the original. It locks up bank vault tight when locked, with zero play. The original and all other competing flex heads have substantial play when locked, which drives me crazy.