socket rails
- Thread starter belvedere
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SJay3660
Well-known member
I used these to organize my sockets worked very well
https://www.tekton.com/hand-drive-sockets/socket-organization
https://www.tekton.com/hand-drive-sockets/socket-organization
TuxThePenguin
Well-known member
best value are the cheap all-metal ones that you can get for a couple bucks. Downside is they get rusty and they generally feel cheap and aren't very ergonomic to hold. And they are often either too tight or too loose. But they work and some people think they're great and some people hate them.
I like Ernst plastic ones well enough for a step up. They cost a bit more, around $15 to $20 for most of the single rails.
But I think I want to get some more Koken ones. I really like the rail that came with my Koken z-eal 3/8 socket set.
I like Ernst plastic ones well enough for a step up. They cost a bit more, around $15 to $20 for most of the single rails.
But I think I want to get some more Koken ones. I really like the rail that came with my Koken z-eal 3/8 socket set.
joshmodelskidoo
Well-known member
i use the metal ones, not real fond of them but i havent found anything else i like. the plastic hf rails seem nice but wimpy. if i didn't do any grinding i would probably go magnetic
Depends on what you want them to do. Are they just to hold sockets in place in a drawer? Do you pick up a whole rail and bring them to the car to work? Do you throw a rail in your tool bag?
For positive retention I like the Ernst socket rails. Inexpensive, super positive retention with the 1/4 turn locking, and durable.
For tool boxes I like Hansen style organizers if the drawer is deep enough, otherwise just a simple magnetic bar like they sell at Harbor Freight. This is for "one socket at a time" work though where I want to just be able to grab one and I don't want it to fight me.
For positive retention I like the Ernst socket rails. Inexpensive, super positive retention with the 1/4 turn locking, and durable.
For tool boxes I like Hansen style organizers if the drawer is deep enough, otherwise just a simple magnetic bar like they sell at Harbor Freight. This is for "one socket at a time" work though where I want to just be able to grab one and I don't want it to fight me.
The hansen-style rails from HF are surprisingly durable. I'm no fan of HF in general but these rails have held up well for me for 5+ years now, and I actually prefer them to hansen rails because it puts the hex end up (where the hansens put the square up) so it's easy to test fastener size if you have a free bolt or nut and don't know the size off hand. The spacing is a bit tight when you get to larger sockets for a give size....my 14mm and 15mm 1/4 sockets are touching...but they all fit on the rails, none of the squares are over-sized, and the printed size on the short/deep divider is easy to read and give you a decent handle if you want to grab the entire rail out of the box.
Edit: I'm talking about the pittsburgh brand ones, not the US general direct Hansen knock-offs (or rebrands, not sure which)
VolvoRyan
Well-known member
DugT
Well-known member
Me too. Tekton's twist-to-lock makes it fast and easy to release or lock a socket onto the rail.
zmotorsports
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I have some specialty sockets on the Tekton twist lock rails. I like them quite a lot.
However, my favorite are the magnetic molded block style. I have my most commonly used SAE and Metric in these and prefer them for convenience. I have my SAE in red and my metric in either yellow or other more vibrant color. My 1/4" shallow and deep are in one common block, then 3/8" shallow in a block, then 3/8" deep in a block and lastly my 3/8" semi-deep impacts in a block.
They are quick and easy to grab sockets out of and when working on a vehicle I simply lift the entire block out of the socket drawer and bring it with me. I stick it to either an inner fender or on my tool cart on the side handle where the sockets are now easily viewed and accessed. Most importantly I can quickly put a socket back into the magnetic tray and grab the next size without having to dig around under wrenches or other tools for the one socket I just took off and tossed into the tool cart.
Here in the foreground you can see the 3/8" shallow SAE magnetic block on the end rail of my tool cart within easy reach.
However, my favorite are the magnetic molded block style. I have my most commonly used SAE and Metric in these and prefer them for convenience. I have my SAE in red and my metric in either yellow or other more vibrant color. My 1/4" shallow and deep are in one common block, then 3/8" shallow in a block, then 3/8" deep in a block and lastly my 3/8" semi-deep impacts in a block.
They are quick and easy to grab sockets out of and when working on a vehicle I simply lift the entire block out of the socket drawer and bring it with me. I stick it to either an inner fender or on my tool cart on the side handle where the sockets are now easily viewed and accessed. Most importantly I can quickly put a socket back into the magnetic tray and grab the next size without having to dig around under wrenches or other tools for the one socket I just took off and tossed into the tool cart.
Here in the foreground you can see the 3/8" shallow SAE magnetic block on the end rail of my tool cart within easy reach.
ekimneirbo
Well-known member
I just bought some off Amazon for about $16 for 6 rails. They have several brands that all look the same, so you have to watch which one you pick to get the right colors. I plan to bolt them in my tool drawer. What I like is that they don't have sizes that end up not matching your socket set.....just plain rails. I have another tool bench that I have metal ones in, and I really don't care for them. I ordered 3 sets of the 6 rails so I can have an extra set to cut off (?) if needed and put the odd sockets like spark plug, sensors, swivel joints and reducers in place.
toddmorr
Well-known member
ernst, lots of copies of those everywhere. Durable and inexpensive and they hold the socket really well.
but i echo the other guys---think carefully about how you really access and store the sockets; that will point you to the right design.
but i echo the other guys---think carefully about how you really access and store the sockets; that will point you to the right design.
FuzzyTiger
Well-known member
Ugh. My neighbor has these really nice rails. They feel great and are all metal... No branding on them sadly and he doesn't remember where he got them but he's not the sort to spend more than a couple dollars on things like that so its a real puzzler.
TuxThePenguin
Well-known member
https://www.harryepstein.com/8-wright-blue-socket-rail.html
https://www.harryepstein.com/8-wright-red-socket-rail.html
https://www.harryepstein.com/1-4-dr-wright-socket-rail-clip.html
https://www.harryepstein.com/3-8-dr-wright-socket-rail-clip.html
https://www.harryepstein.com/1-2-dr-wright-socket-rail-clip.html (out of stock)
TuxThePenguin
Well-known member
Get us a photo (or at least a detailed description). Someone will know.
Sportsman762
Well-known member
If your wanting all metal rails the Proto rails are nice. They are made in the USA too. I use them to store all my sockets. Most people who complain about the metal rails have used the cheap harbor freight ones.
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...f269_Proto®-Socket-Bar-Sets---1|4"-Thru-3|4"/
You can also order the rails separate
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...8b-40ce-b4af-20fdb00d88c5_Proto®-Socket-Bars/
Or clips separate
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...2-4ade-a5c1-0eec10f8660e_Proto®-Socket-Clips/
I use mine in my portable tool boxes every weekend at the farm. Rain or shine something is always broke so they get wet frequently and have yet to rust.
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...f269_Proto®-Socket-Bar-Sets---1|4"-Thru-3|4"/
You can also order the rails separate
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...8b-40ce-b4af-20fdb00d88c5_Proto®-Socket-Bars/
Or clips separate
https://www.protoindustrial.com/en/...2-4ade-a5c1-0eec10f8660e_Proto®-Socket-Clips/
I use mine in my portable tool boxes every weekend at the farm. Rain or shine something is always broke so they get wet frequently and have yet to rust.
richfinn
Well-known member
The old style Snap-On metal rails (dull metal finish) are a million times better than the cheap crappy chrome ones
I dare say Ko-Ken would be good too
I like the "Mechanics Time Saver" magnetic block style for 1/4 drive sockets and bits
For big axle nut Sockets I prefer the magnetic bars that Snap-On and everyone else sells
I hate those fricking plastic Hansen style things with posts with a vengeance, I like to mix and match whats on my rails I dont like pre-numbered posts, I can tell by the state of the socket what size it is
I dare say Ko-Ken would be good too
I like the "Mechanics Time Saver" magnetic block style for 1/4 drive sockets and bits
For big axle nut Sockets I prefer the magnetic bars that Snap-On and everyone else sells
I hate those fricking plastic Hansen style things with posts with a vengeance, I like to mix and match whats on my rails I dont like pre-numbered posts, I can tell by the state of the socket what size it is
I cut the plastic craftsman ones on my power miter saw all the time if that helps...
How dare your light flip me off! Love mine, thing's bright and versatile.I have some specialty sockets on the Tekton twist lock rails. I like them quite a lot.
However, my favorite are the magnetic molded block style. I have my most commonly used SAE and Metric in these and prefer them for convenience. I have my SAE in red and my metric in either yellow or other more vibrant color. My 1/4" shallow and deep are in one common block, then 3/8" shallow in a block, then 3/8" deep in a block and lastly my 3/8" semi-deep impacts in a block.
They are quick and easy to grab sockets out of and when working on a vehicle I simply lift the entire block out of the socket drawer and bring it with me. I stick it to either an inner fender or on my tool cart on the side handle where the sockets are now easily viewed and accessed. Most importantly I can quickly put a socket back into the magnetic tray and grab the next size without having to dig around under wrenches or other tools for the one socket I just took off and tossed into the tool cart.
Here in the foreground you can see the 3/8" shallow SAE magnetic block on the end rail of my tool cart within easy reach.
Ditto on Proto - got mine from Zoro and they were very reasonable - not much more than the crappy ones from Harboring Fright.
BlakeTheCarGuy
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I get the ones from Rural King they are amazing and the sockets don’t sit upside down that’s one thing I can’t stand so that’s an even bigger plus for me.
Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal
Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal
bugnut
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I found the Walmart hyper tough to my liking. They are plastic and aluminum. Color coded upto 1/2" drive. Can slip off the end cap and add or subtract holders as needed. They hold socket on with the detented ball. They can be cut with my chop saw. Also find them to hold up fairly well.
I replaced all of my crappy spring metal ones with these.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hyper-To...inum-Socket-Rail-Organizer-UC8667TA/177416678
I replaced all of my crappy spring metal ones with these.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hyper-To...inum-Socket-Rail-Organizer-UC8667TA/177416678
gm54210
Well-known member
Olsa Aluminum rails, ball detent socket holders. You can buy additional holders in all sizes as well.
Wyoming09
Well-known member
Badger 13
Well-known member
I use the Westling Machine socket holders. They are billet aluminum, and made in the USA
Socket Trays
Socket Tray Sets - Metric Socket Trays - Universal Socket Trays
Socket Trays
Socket Tray Sets - Metric Socket Trays - Universal Socket Trays
16again
Well-known member
I use Westling Machine socket holders. Certainly not for everyone, but I prefer them over the rest.
what i hate about the metal ones is when you have your impact wrench in one hand and you want the 3/4 socket you pull on it and the rail comes with it ..you have to let go the gun and hold the socket rail to pull out the socket you want.. as for all my 3/8 sockets i love the snap on magnet holder. snap on sells them cheap..and it's rare.
danski0224
Well-known member
I have the Harbor Freight US General, 4 mounted rail version.
I tried the Ernst style, and decided to go back to the clips on a metal rail.
The HF ones don't fall over (the Ernst holders take up more room) and they are relatively inexpensive. There are similar versions on Amazon- not sure if they are the same as what is sold at HF.
I tried the Ernst style, and decided to go back to the clips on a metal rail.
The HF ones don't fall over (the Ernst holders take up more room) and they are relatively inexpensive. There are similar versions on Amazon- not sure if they are the same as what is sold at HF.
fordgasm
Well-known member
If you’re gonna get the tekton twist style rails do yourself a favor and buy the Ernst ones. They are identical and a few bucks cheaper. It’s what I used.
Don't worry - after a while they will be too loose
Two Door
Well-known member
Cut this in two - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0714K76XH/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Cap the cuts with these - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MWGPYQM/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Speed-Racer
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 25, 2008
- Messages
- 731
The Snap-on metal rails and clips are amazing and one of the best values on the truck. These were used for decades before the magnetic ones were standard, they allow for custom setups.
https://shop.snapon.com/categories/Socket-Rails-and-Clips/675977
https://shop.snapon.com/product/Socket-Rails-and-Clips/Socket-Rail-and-Socket-Clips/A270A
https://shop.snapon.com/categories/Socket-Rails-and-Clips/675977
https://shop.snapon.com/product/Socket-Rails-and-Clips/Socket-Rail-and-Socket-Clips/A270A
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zmotorsports
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Yeah, it's a good light and gets used a lot. My only complaint was that when I bought the first one I purchased a red one. It had some issues with holding a charge so my dealer warranteed it for me but didn't have another red one and was having trouble getting one so I had to settle for either the orange or the neon green. I chose the orange but wish I could have had it replaced with another red one.
jgromada
Well-known member
i kind have been slowly switching over to Ernst rails. & i would say i really liked them.
Bought a bunch recently and must have gotten a bad batch. The 1/2 ones are good. But had a a few 3/8 that there is no "stop". the socket can just rotate and socket easily pulls off.
The 1/4 size is even worse. I have to talk to Ernst about this for warranty. Like i said maybe a bad batch?
Bought a bunch recently and must have gotten a bad batch. The 1/2 ones are good. But had a a few 3/8 that there is no "stop". the socket can just rotate and socket easily pulls off.
The 1/4 size is even worse. I have to talk to Ernst about this for warranty. Like i said maybe a bad batch?
Anyone know if the Ernst twist-lock clips hold as well as the Tekton "Patented twist-to-lock design" ?
I haven't tried either.
But do like the Mod-Box socket rails I purchased a couple years ago. And have liked the Hanson socket trays (found at Menards for 1/2 price) that I've had in a US General 5-drawer cart for approx 9 yrs.
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-socket-rails?quantity=1&color=gray&tool-count=15-tool
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0060B39SS/?tag=atomicindus08-20
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073VRW5YQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20
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TuxThePenguin
Well-known member
Anyone reselling a tool holder that looks like Ernst and says made in USA is going to be an Ernst rebranded. Including Snap On stuff. Snap On rebrands tons of Ernst stuff (they also rebrand stuff from other companies like Lisle).
Tekton is a company that resells stuff. I don't believe they manufacture anything aside from marketing. Do they own patents (this is a genuine question that I don't know the answer to)? When they say it is a patented product, they're probably referring to Ernst patents which they're probably legally using since they are almost definitely purchasing that product.
Besides, Ernst is the name brand in these socket rails. You don't compare Ernst to Tekton. You compare Tekton to Ernst.
Ernst is literally the standard.
Tekton is a company that resells stuff. I don't believe they manufacture anything aside from marketing. Do they own patents (this is a genuine question that I don't know the answer to)? When they say it is a patented product, they're probably referring to Ernst patents which they're probably legally using since they are almost definitely purchasing that product.
Besides, Ernst is the name brand in these socket rails. You don't compare Ernst to Tekton. You compare Tekton to Ernst.
Ernst is literally the standard.
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softailgarage
Well-known member
I love how they look, but never had any luck keeping them on the rail, was forever picking em up.
TuxThePenguin
Well-known member
I agree. I bought some of those and they came back out of my box in very, very, very short order. If they work for someone, great, but I don't personally understand how they could work well for anyone.