sajohnson
Well-known member
After reading a bunch of reviews, I settled on these socket holders:
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200677449_200677449
Their list price is higher than Lisle, but with a promo code (Keycode: 270706, $20 off) I was able to bring the cost down to where they were essentially the same price -- $109 delivered for 2 each 1/4; 3/8; and 1/2 inch drive (6 total).
I don't have the Lisle holders for a side-by-side comparison, but the Strongway holders are heavier, and most reviewers say they are built better.
Another issue with most magnetic holders is relatively weak magnet strength. People report sockets falling out from their own weight. Those complaints were very rare with Strongway.
I'm sure if I held a holder upside down and wacked it on the floor the sockets would be jarred loose, but there's no way any sockets are going to fall out when simply carrying the holder by the handle. The magnets are *powerful*. If a socket is laid in a recess within about 3/8 to 1/2" of the magnet it will slide toward the magnet and snap into place. I've intentionally jarred the holders (moderately) and the sockets didn't budge.
The 1/4" and 3/8" drive socket holders have a second magnet on the rear to they can be placed on any steel surface. The 1/2" drive holders do NOT have that second magnet -- presumably because when full of sockets they are just too heavy.
In any case, so far so good. Just thought I'd pass that on.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200677449_200677449
Their list price is higher than Lisle, but with a promo code (Keycode: 270706, $20 off) I was able to bring the cost down to where they were essentially the same price -- $109 delivered for 2 each 1/4; 3/8; and 1/2 inch drive (6 total).
I don't have the Lisle holders for a side-by-side comparison, but the Strongway holders are heavier, and most reviewers say they are built better.
Another issue with most magnetic holders is relatively weak magnet strength. People report sockets falling out from their own weight. Those complaints were very rare with Strongway.
I'm sure if I held a holder upside down and wacked it on the floor the sockets would be jarred loose, but there's no way any sockets are going to fall out when simply carrying the holder by the handle. The magnets are *powerful*. If a socket is laid in a recess within about 3/8 to 1/2" of the magnet it will slide toward the magnet and snap into place. I've intentionally jarred the holders (moderately) and the sockets didn't budge.
The 1/4" and 3/8" drive socket holders have a second magnet on the rear to they can be placed on any steel surface. The 1/2" drive holders do NOT have that second magnet -- presumably because when full of sockets they are just too heavy.
In any case, so far so good. Just thought I'd pass that on.