Tekton or Gearwrench 1/2 set

[Fedwrench]

I got lost reading about DIN wrenches when i thought we were talking about metric socket sets.

Why these two brands? Why chrome?

I can't speak to the quality of Tekton sockets because i don't have any. I do have other Tekton tools that I'm quite happy with. However, i wouldn't wait for Tekton to release redesigned sockets when there are so many other choices out there.

As for Gearwrench, my Gearwrench sockets are the older Taiwan made versions and i don't think you can find a nicer finished socket inside and out for the price. I also like their knurling on the base of the sockets. They have served me well. On the other hand, i'm not a fan of their 120xp ratchets.

But allow me to muddy the waters a bit. If i'm using 1/2 drive, access usually isn't an issue depending on what you're working on so why not just get impact sockets? Sunex/Grey Pneumatic/NAPA Carlyle all other thin wall impact socket sets in a wide range of sizes that won't break the bank if you shop around.
Have you cruised Ebay looking at Proto, SK, or other brands used offerings?
What does cripe distributing have to offer?

If Dennis was still hawking Toptul, the solution would be easy.

Have you looked at oem tools? they have some nice satin finished sockets with a band of knurling in the center of each socket best purchased on sale.

I might have missed it but, are you looking for ratchets, extensions, breaker bar too or just 1/2 drive sockets? one reason for asking, is that a standard 10.5 inch 1/2 drive ratchet included in most kits is best replaced with a 15-18 inch long handled ratchet or even a flex head version.
Good luck in your quest but, you may want to cast a wider net to catch the best deal.

 

[ChrisLS8]

I got lost reading about DIN wrenches when i thought we were talking about metric socket sets.

Why these two brands? Why chrome?

I can't speak to the quality of Tekton sockets because i don't have any. I do have other Tekton tools that I'm quite happy with. However, i wouldn't wait for Tekton to release redesigned sockets when there are so many other choices out there.

As for Gearwrench, my Gearwrench sockets are the older Taiwan made versions and i don't think you can find a nicer finished socket inside and out for the price. I also like their knurling on the base of the sockets. They have served me well. On the other hand, i'm not a fan of their 120xp ratchets.

But allow me to muddy the waters a bit. If i'm using 1/2 drive, access usually isn't an issue depending on what you're working on so why not just get impact sockets? Sunex/Grey Pneumatic/NAPA Carlyle all other thin wall impact socket sets in a wide range of sizes that won't break the bank if you shop around.
Have you cruised Ebay looking at Proto, SK, or other brands used offerings?
What does cripe distributing have to offer?

If Dennis was still hawking Toptul, the solution would be easy.

Have you looked at oem tools? they have some nice satin finished sockets with a band of knurling in the center of each socket best purchased on sale.

I might have missed it but, are you looking for ratchets, extensions, breaker bar too or just 1/2 drive sockets? one reason for asking, is that a standard 10.5 inch 1/2 drive ratchet included in most kits is best replaced with a 15-18 inch long handled ratchet or even a flex head version.
Good luck in your quest but, you may want to cast a wider net to catch the best deal.

I have the OEM shallow metric sockets and really happy with em and they were cheap

 

[AreYaSerious]

I got lost reading about DIN wrenches when i thought we were talking about metric socket sets.

Why these two brands? Why chrome?

I'm looking for a complete set, that won't need much additions but other then that no other reason.

I can't speak to the quality of Tekton sockets because i don't have any. I do have other Tekton tools that I'm quite happy with. However, i wouldn't wait for Tekton to release redesigned sockets when there are so many other choices out there.

As for Gearwrench, my Gearwrench sockets are the older Taiwan made versions and i don't think you can find a nicer finished socket inside and out for the price. I also like their knurling on the base of the sockets. They have served me well. On the other hand, i'm not a fan of their 120xp ratchets.

I have the 120xp ratchets and I actually will grab them over my SK.

But allow me to muddy the waters a bit. If i'm using 1/2 drive, access usually isn't an issue depending on what you're working on so why not just get impact sockets? Sunex/Grey Pneumatic/NAPA Carlyle all other thin wall impact socket sets in a wide range of sizes that won't break the bank if you shop around.
Have you cruised Ebay looking at Proto, SK, or other brands used offerings?
What does cripe distributing have to offer?

If Dennis was still hawking Toptul, the solution would be easy.

Have you looked at oem tools? they have some nice satin finished sockets with a band of knurling in the center of each socket best purchased on sale.

I might have missed it but, are you looking for ratchets, extensions, breaker bar too or just 1/2 drive sockets? one reason for asking, is that a standard 10.5 inch 1/2 drive ratchet included in most kits is best replaced with a 15-18 inch long handled ratchet or even a flex head version.
Good luck in your quest but, you may want to cast a wider net to catch the best deal.

I am looking for the set and going to add flexhead ratchets as I go. I'm trying to chunks at a time, however I did not look at OEM tools.

Thank you for the excellent points.

 

[Mr_B]

I'd buy sockets as set, like shallow and deeps in tray or on rails .
buy extensions in set and add a koken swivel joint .
buy ratchets as required and job jobbed with no unwanted tools or poor design or quality as you picked what brands do best in terms of tool design and warranty needs for your requirements .
those oem sockets are pretty decent .

 

[Tallpilot]

It depends on your use case. For my sockets I keep in my main box on Hansen trays or Westling Machine trays I bought on rails or as individuals. For my truck kit the sets in blow molded cases are awesome since they are self contained and easily fit in my storage areas.

 

[M6erfan]

https://www.misterworker.com/en-us/...MIrM-8g8-93QIVLbCzCh0k-gm0EAQYCCABEgIgg_D_BwE

https://www.jensputzier.com/hazet/h...c/hazet-600n-8-combination-wrench-set-84.html

https://picclick.com/Snap-On-Combination-wrench-YOU-PICK-lot-529-323323643975.html#&gid=1&pid=1

Most German or even Japanese/Taiwanese copies of German wrenches will have DIN stamped on them (most likely that refers to the standard tolerances but the designs are also very similar). Notice the thinner, sharp edged profile compared to the American full polish style which is thicker in the beam and has rounded corners. To me they feel better in the hand but that is purely personal preference.

Meh. I'll take my KTC, Stahlwille, Gedore wrenches over Snap-on every day of the week. Snap-on wrenches = knife edge IMO, especially in the longer lengths.

Williams supercombos are the most comfortable wrenches I've ever handled though.

 

[M6erfan]

I have the 120xp ratchets and I actually will grab them over my SK.

IMO, the GW 120xp wins the award for "most overrated ratchet" ever

 

[Mr_B]

^
Yeah stahlwille and ktc hands down some of best usable wrenches you can buy with decent I beam design
I too think 120xp is pretty useless vs the 84T, I would take 84T every time even if more money .
I like the oem sockets for design and pricing, only thing don't like is 1/2 set is 10pc stopping at 19mm and be way better going to 24mm in 14pcs .
Main point is OP wants look over wider range of brands to net best tool designs/options/warranty .
loads of good options, a lot better out there than just GW tekton ect and similar price range . Also don't be concerned on warranty for sockets, it almost pointless as so cheap it almost costs more in time/calls to warranty a 4 buck item and they don't break often these days, money/warranty better used on ratchets and extensions as bit more quality and usable warranty more useful on them .

 

[_Riddle]

^
I not seen any GW with etched sizes, they all still stamped that I see.
I can understand going etched large and having smaller stamped 180deg offset so dual marked but unfortunately cutting a cent here and there for shareholders is more important than worthwhile product for most of these stupid companies .
If tekton introduce better pro design sockets and stick with roll stamping or dual marking if have to go laser etching they be onto a winner as only way you get pretty decent sockets these days is searching off brands from higher end taiwan manufacture, infar premier being about best bang for buck you can get, carlyle pretty nice but pretty high price considering napa history of tool brands and i hate pay the warranty premium and in 10yrs time if want warranty them get whatever average **** they marketing if carlyle or the quality goes south (history suggests it will lol)

What pro features do GearWrench sockets offer over Tekton? I'm also looking for a 1/2" and 3/8" socket set and I'm leaning towards Tekton, but would pay the extra $ for GearWrench if they are a better quality socket. I just bought a 1/4" Tekton set and so far it seems nice for the money, but I've only done some minor wrenching on motorcycles with it so far.

 

[Moose97]

I have a set of Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches that I love.

I almost pulled the trigger on a complete Tekton set for my son.

In other words I don't think you can go wrong either way.

I really have nothing to add to this thread.

 

[Mr_B]

^^
knurl band (far better handle), better stepped shouldering (fits tight clearance ect easier and massive bonus on deeps, also aids handling), larger size markings.
GW slowly cutting back on features/quality.
About best midrange sockets are infar/premier or toptul .
The oem sockets look pretty decent but next to no hands on experience with those.
Only thing tekton sockets got going is current easy warranty but I got no interest on warranty for 5bucks a socket.
Nothing wrong with tekton sockets but they plain old low cost average .
oem and infar/premier way better at similar cost, GW okay but not as great a socket buy as once was .
I only buy half soft satin sockets with knurl and full stepped shouldering is a must, I don't use anything regardless of brand without it as not as versitile or easy use and in a 10hr day not dropping your sockets so much and have them fit in recesses and tight clearance spaces without a struggle saves time and energy .
Bigger size marking is a cool feature and amazed no one fully caught on to that ! especially truck brands :-/

 

[ChrisLS8]

^^
knurl band (far better handle), better stepped shouldering (fits tight clearance ect easier and massive bonus on deeps, also aids handling), larger size markings.
GW slowly cutting back on features/quality.
About best midrange sockets are infar/premier or toptul .
The oem sockets look pretty decent but next to no hands on experience with those.
Only thing tekton sockets got going is current easy warranty but I got no interest on warranty for 5bucks a socket.
Nothing wrong with tekton sockets but they plain old low cost average .
oem and infar/premier way better at similar cost, GW okay but not as great a socket buy as once was .
I only buy half soft satin sockets with knurl and full stepped shouldering is a must, I don't use anything regardless of brand without it as not as versitile or easy use and in a 10hr day not dropping your sockets so much and have them fit in recesses and tight clearance spaces without a struggle saves time and energy .
Bigger size marking is a cool feature and amazed no one fully caught on to that ! especially truck brands :-/

You keep bringing up Premier sockets but are you referring to Sealey or another brand?

 

[Mr_B]

^
you can get them via sealey branded premier or as infar .

 

[ptgarcia]

^
you can get them via sealey branded premier or as infar .

It doesn't look like these available in the USA, at least without paying shipping from Europe. Do you know if they are rebranded for the USA?

 

[Mr_B]

I not seen an exact US rebrand, closest is carlyle metrics which match design of infar/premier full polished knurl band sockets, carlyle use infar so likely same but few design changes such as US way of grooves on A/F and not opting for half satin. I bought most of mine via eBay, first sets I got was off an independent tool truck .
If buying via sealey got be sure it half polished/half chrome as they have 3 socket versions and not all same infar oem, the short shouldered full polished sets are like mainland chinese while half soft satin and full chrome with knurl bands and full length stepped shouldering are infar .

 

[M6erfan]

^^
knurl band (far better handle), better stepped shouldering (fits tight clearance ect easier and massive bonus on deeps, also aids handling), larger size markings.
GW slowly cutting back on features/quality.
About best midrange sockets are infar/premier or toptul .
The oem sockets look pretty decent but next to no hands on experience with those.
Only thing tekton sockets got going is current easy warranty but I got no interest on warranty for 5bucks a socket.
Nothing wrong with tekton sockets but they plain old low cost average .
oem and infar/premier way better at similar cost, GW okay but not as great a socket buy as once was .
I only buy half soft satin sockets with knurl and full stepped shouldering is a must, I don't use anything regardless of brand without it as not as versitile or easy use and in a 10hr day not dropping your sockets so much and have them fit in recesses and tight clearance spaces without a struggle saves time and energy .
Bigger size marking is a cool feature and amazed no one fully caught on to that ! especially truck brands :-/

I've been going this way too. After using these types of sockets you really see the benefits.

 

[Mr_B]

^
yeah germans came up with nice user design, the taiwanese smart enough copy it, mainland chinese copied bit of snapon style with the bergen/us pro range, even the chrome chips like snapon lol .
Another thing I like on the infar/premier is chrome donk flake that much and more wears down over decades, sure most used and abused chipped some chrome on hex edges but nothing like snapon or koken, snapon wrenches and koken socket flakes been a ballache to me couple decades ago .

 

[apdxyk]

https://www.misterworker.com/en-us/...MIrM-8g8-93QIVLbCzCh0k-gm0EAQYCCABEgIgg_D_BwE

https://www.jensputzier.com/hazet/h...c/hazet-600n-8-combination-wrench-set-84.html

https://picclick.com/Snap-On-Combination-wrench-YOU-PICK-lot-529-323323643975.html#&gid=1&pid=1

Most German or even Japanese/Taiwanese copies of German wrenches will have DIN stamped on them (most likely that refers to the standard tolerances but the designs are also very similar). Notice the thinner, sharp edged profile compared to the American full polish style which is thicker in the beam and has rounded corners. To me they feel better in the hand but that is purely personal preference.

For uninitiated ones: don't grab that top Stahlwille item - it's an empty inlay for the tools pictured.


Btw, my 14 series wrenches have no DIN stamped anywhere. Not that it matters.

 

[M6erfan]

My Stahlwille, KTC, Heyco wrenches have no "DIN" stamped on them either

 

[Mr_B]

never seen a stahlwille wrench with a din stamp and I got a few from varying decades .

 

[Tallpilot]

https://m.ebay.ie/itm/Stahlwille-Ge...N894-Tool-No-4004-24-/302860719697?nav=SEARCH

 

[M6erfan]

Wow, you found the one. nice!

 

[_Riddle]

@Mr_B which set did you end up getting?

 

[Mr_B]

@Mr_B which set did you end up getting?

I have infar made premier, some over 20yrs old and some more purchased about 5 years ago, bought as socket on rail sets standard and deep in metric and a/f in 1/4 3/8 and 1/2 .
1/4 deep set example is ak2706


I do have older gearwrench in 3/8 and 1/4 and that in truck mobile tools mainly but they decent made and was proper nice design .

2 of easiest source nice sockets are oem and napa carlyle, carlyle bit spendy and need be flyer sale or similar .

 

[timc930]

I have infar made premier, some over 20yrs old and some more purchased about 5 years ago, bought as socket on rail sets standard and deep in metric and a/f in 1/4 3/8 and 1/2 .
1/4 deep set example is ak2706


I do have older gearwrench in 3/8 and 1/4 and that in truck mobile tools mainly but they decent made and was proper nice design .

2 of easiest source nice sockets are oem and napa carlyle, carlyle bit spendy and need be flyer sale or similar .

What do you think about SK compared to GW and other mid-grade sockets?

 

[Mr_B]

^
Only real plus on SK is US made. quality seems fair, they do full step shoulder smaller sizes but not drive end on larger . Not ergonomic due to this and fact all polish and no knurl band . Basically they fine but lack much design features and they lot more spendy than some other more featured higher end taiwan stuff .
The older GW was better buy without a doubt. What you got realise with the better picked taiwan sockets is they as good or better than truck brands, impact sockets can be more durable as they don't make them so soft as not bound to same legal concerns, my taiwan done as well as stahlwille koken snapon and draper japan, actually better than snapon and koken as chrome holding up better .

 

[timc930]

I know you have a lot of older import sockets, 5-20yrs old, but if buying today what would you look at?

 

[Mr_B]

^
easier purchase from US or want it quick I look at Carlyle and oem .
If happy buy online internationally I look at premier and toptul .
If want lower cost I look at GW and buy the deals like BOGO and the half price rail sets .
All those options give you pretty decent quality and design and good variety on price and warranty . You pay for your warranty items hence why tools more expensive, premier and carlyle sockets both seem likely be infar yet premier cheaper as you not paying in advance for your warranty replacement like with carlyle and to be honest warranty on 5buck socket is pretty pointless even as a pro, self warranty cheaper, quicker and 100% reliable .
carlyle sockets on sale are pretty good buy ( I own the semi deeps) and more so if heavy user/pro as may get some return from the retail warranty cost .

 

[_Riddle]

I ended up buying the gearwrench 1/2” set from Tooldiscounter.com it was cheaper there than Amazon. I almost went with Tekton since it was less expensive and had more pieces but I just bought a Tekton 1/4” set and wanted to try a different brand.

Things that pushed me towards the gearwrench were the knurling on the sockets, biggier size indicator, and partial broaching on the deep sockets. Looking forward to trying them out, and the 120xp ratchet that comes with it.

 

[Mr_B]

^
Yeh it not bad design features to the cost plus pretty easy source.
Not a big fan of the 120xp but other like them .
sockets certainly better design than a lot, tekton included . even snapon been pretty lazy on socket innovative design features .

 

[_Riddle]

^
Yeh it not bad design features to the cost plus pretty easy source.
Not a big fan of the 120xp but other like them .
sockets certainly better design than a lot, tekton included . even snapon been pretty lazy on socket innovative design features .

Eventually I want to replace a lot of my tools with SO or other US made brands. This set should do nicely to get me started for a few years. Next month I’m hoping to pick up a 3/8 socket set to replace my Husky set. Also a good set of Channellocks.

 

[timc930]

Eventually I want to replace a lot of my tools with SO or other US made brands. This set should do nicely to get me started for a few years. Next month I’m hoping to pick up a 3/8 socket set to replace my Husky set. Also a good set of Channellocks.

Exactly where I am headed. I am buying SO ratchets, SK screwdrivers, SK or Channel Lock pliers , and either SK or GW sockets, but still researching sockets. Most of my wrenches are the older C-Man pro, but I need to add some larger sizes, 22-30 and the SAE equivalent, but haven't started looking at these yet. I need to buy one large wrench for an upcoming project on a Land Rover to replace the VANOS, so I'll prob pick one brand and try it out on that project....

These types of threads are incredibly informative.

 

[Mgdoug3]

I like my 120xp in 3/8. In 1/2, the action is smooth but the head is really bulky compared to my other 1/2 ratchets. You'll have to tell us how you like the set when it comes in.

 

[fluxdeity]

Tekton is a Michigan based company providing good(not perfect, but good enough for price and warranty) tools.

Gearwrench is owned by Apex who also owns many other tool brands and doesn't really care about customer service as much as profit margins.

 

[ReggieR]

I'm not a pro, I'm a glorified weekend warrior. Can't justify it.

My grandpa was a "non-pro fisherman" who lived on a lake and fished almost daily.

His kids sold a 4 leaf clover collection in photo albums( seriously) for big bucks and he had jars of silver dollars. All went to bury him and fix up the dump. He had over 50 fishing rods. Almost all Kmart **** and tackle boxes full of garbage, beautiful solid plywood furniture he wasted hundreds of hours obuilding and boxes full of no name tools. It all went to the dump. Couldn't even flea market the ****.

I was just a teen. Looking back, the ol guy was an idiot.
Here come the flames