Tekton vs Gearwrench socket set?

[honza.vosalik]

I'm looking for a starter socket set for my kiddos bday.
I'm trying to decide between these two.
I actually purchased the gearwrench at HD for $100 already, but I'm having second thoughts and thinking about returning it. The tools seem fine, but the box seems crappy. Even when closed the sockets are falling out of place:-/ and I bet he'd be losing them as a result of that.

I have the Tekton myself, it's a bit more expensive at $150 than the gearwrench, but the tools are good, great warranty/customer service and sturdy nicely organized box. And comes with braker bar.

What are your thoughts?

73-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 1/4-1 inch (SAE), 6-24 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15311.

www.tekton.com

GEARWRENCH 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. Drive 6-Point Standard & Deep SAE/Metric 90-Tooth Ratchet and Socket Mechanics Tool Set (106-Piece) 83001 - The Home Depot

GEARWRENCH Mechanics Tools have all been designed with the professional user in mind to increase productivity, access, and strength. The ratchets and sockets are made from premium alloy steel and feature

www.homedepot.com

 

[ste6168]

Though I haven't used it yet, I picked up that Gearwrench set at HomeDepot for $100, as a secondary backup set, seemed like a great deal for the money.

 

[Tools4Me]

In general would give my support to Tekton. Tekton quality is slowly increasing over time, they are introducing more and more US made stuff, and they have good customer service if there is an issue. Gearwrench customer service is often hit or miss and they seem to try their best to slowly lower the quality of their tools over time. Almost everything they sell starts out as good Taiwan made stuff which over time has a slight drop in quality control, and then manufacturing suddenly flips to China without changing part numbers and the quality drops quite a bit even though the price stays the same. It is obvious that Gearwrench cares more about their profit margin than anything else. Tekton seems to actually care about putting out a good quality product and they are trying to support domestic manufacturing where they can.

I also like how Tekton necks down the diameter of their smaller sized deep sockets for most of the length of the socket. Gearwrench and most other brands only neck down the first inch or so and the rest stays full diameter, which often isn't enough if you are trying to reach down into a tight or recessed area.

 

[Locker537]

I've been very happy with my Tekton tools and their customer support.

 

[M6erfan]

I'm looking for a starter socket set for my kiddos bday.
I'm trying to decide between these two.
I actually purchased the gearwrench at HD for $100 already, but I'm having second thoughts and thinking about returning it. The tools seem fine, but the box seems crappy. Even when closed the sockets are falling out of place:-/ and I bet he'd be losing them as a result of that.

I have the Tekton myself, it's a bit more expensive at $150 than the gearwrench, but the tools are good, great warranty/customer service and sturdy nicely organized box. And comes with braker bar.

What are your thoughts?

73-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 1/4-1 inch (SAE), 6-24 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15311.

www.tekton.com

GEARWRENCH 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. Drive 6-Point Standard & Deep SAE/Metric 90-Tooth Ratchet and Socket Mechanics Tool Set (106-Piece) 83001 - The Home Depot

GEARWRENCH Mechanics Tools have all been designed with the professional user in mind to increase productivity, access, and strength. The ratchets and sockets are made from premium alloy steel and feature

www.homedepot.com

I think you answered your own question. Tekton is good stuff at a fair price with great customer service. Don't forget to use any points you have (if you ordered directly from their website) to apply towards the purchase.

 

[VolvoRyan]

It's hard to say no to Tekton. The tools are at least on par with anything in the price range, and Tekton is just a cheerful company.

-Ryan

 

[Fedwrench]

In a way. you're kind of doing an apples to oranges comparison on the two sets. The Gearwrench set is a combination 1/4 & 3/8 drive set that is probably a good starter set overall. The Tekton set I believe is their master 3/8 drive set offering no skip sizing 6-24mm and 1/4 to 1 inch. Does your kiddo need all of that for starters? If yes, then Tekton is the way to go.
However, if your kiddo prefers comfort grip non quick release ratchets or likes deep knurling on their metric sockets, then Gearwrench is the way to go.
However, I wouldn't get too hung up on the storage boxes the sets come in. probably more sooner than later, the tools will end up on rails in a some sort of metal box. I would also look at the smaller 3/8 drive set Tekton offers that has no skip sizes to 19 mm & 3/4. tekton also has a really nice 1/4 drive set incase you need two presents instead of just the one

 

[bscman]

I just ordered the Tekton 6pt 3/8 SAE and Metric shallow/deep socket set when it was on sale last month.
It included a ratchet, breaker bar, and some extensions for $149ish shipped, plus 10% back in points.

All and all, I'm very pleased with it.
I have no use for the molded plastic case (they now reside on westling billet trays) but it was of high enough quality. The case was better than any other blow molded tool case that has come with my old craftsman sets, kobalt, etc. and the latches (plastic) had very positive retention.

The nice thing about this set is, unlike the kobalt, lowes, or husky I've ordered in the past--this is a complete kit with no skips.
I spent a bunch of time (and money!) running around in my younger years piecing together full sets after my craftsman kits short changed me.
Since then I've slowly purged all my early, incomplete kits because the mismatch of brands/series bothered me too much.

This set was my first from Tekton, and I've already ordered another socket set (1/2 drive metrics) as well as a few of their USA made pliers.

 

[Bannik254]

Bought the Tekton's 3/8 master set for home and family use. Sockets share a lot of blanks, extension's "knurling" is laughable, and the quick release ratchet that comes in the set just feels terrible to use- Too much back-drag, and the handle is just a weird design. Including a breaker bar in the set is nice. The case seems to hold up ok.

For $150, it's a compromise.

That Gearwrench set looks to be a better value overall, I'll take Gearwrench ratchets over Tekton's any day. When winter comes you come to appreciate comfort grips when having to do quick repairs in a garage that's barely above 40F.

If Tekton didn't have their tool service and their website's 10% back on purchases, I would have gone Gearwrench instead.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

Both are pretty good I’d probably go with Tekton though. To me the case would not matter but I understand he is going to lose them if they aren’t in a case. I like the Gearwrench ratchet designs. It appears the Tekton is also 3/8 only but he may need the 1/4 as well not sure. So that’s something to consider too.

 

[ike]

i'd personally buy Tekton over Gearwrench today, just because I think Taiwan made tools have higher quality than Apex tools made in China. They have cut costs and their products suffer to the point that I no longer will buy from them.

 

[cweidert03]

I have a similar Gearwrench set in my truck box and I hate that the tools don’t stay in place.. I always try not to open it if someone else may have a set close because I’ll have to spend 5+ min organizing it to close it

 

[nicks78camaro]

Wrote off Gearwrench years ago. Bought a flex head ratcheting wrench set, 10mm was defective/locked up. Tried soaking it, etc, no luck.

Called them, they wouldn't send another without me paying to ship the defective one back. I ended up buying a single wrench for the price that shipping would've been, and never bought another tool from them.

Tekton, on the other hand, will warranty with pictures emailed to them, without wanting the broken tool back.

Tekton's rewards program is nice too.

So I will support Tekton.

 

[qqzj]

Tekton's sockets have lower quality chrome. They just look dull. Also Tekton sockets are deep broached, meaning the sockets are more hollow inside. GearWrench's sockets only open up a bit near the end. Not a big deal. The good thing about Tekton is that they have all sizes. GW's 3/8 set only covers up to 19mm. I would buy GW's 1/4 and 3/8 sets. But I would buy Tekton's 1/2 set. GW's China made products are working great for me. No complaints here. But I actually do not like comfort handle ratchets. Those are stupid hard to clean. If you have to pick among them, I think I would pick Tekton as a better compromise. For a starter set, I think those $100 gunmetal Craftsman tool sets are better than both.

 

[mogandave]

How old is your boy?

If still at home why not buy him something badass that he can use that you don't have?

By the time I was twelve I understood them to be our tools. That they went on the same wall ( like the jig-saw & sander) or in the same drawers (like the 3/8" drive kit) made them no less a gift.

 

[Raineman]

As someone else mentioned, you need to do apples to apples. To get the sets close to the same, you would need 2 Tekton sets to be the equivalent of the GW set because they don't have a combined 1/4 & 3/8 set.

3/8 set is SKT15301 = $89
1/4 set is SKT05301 = $74

$163 total for the Tekton sets.

I'm a Tekton "fanboy", and I can't stand GW and definitely not a fan of APEX's warranty experience, so I know which way I'd go.

 

[mike93lx]

You listed off a bunch of reasons why you prefer the tektons. To me, those are easily worth $50. Are they worth it to you?

I bet you'd be pretty unhappy with the gear wrench set compared to the tekton...

 

[Citation]

OP, I personally think the Tektons are nicer tools but I doubt the difference is going to mean much in real life.

To rewind a bit, what age, what is the intent, is this meant to be the start of a larger tool collection? Is this a tool set that is meant to keep them running when they are away from home or will they have Dad's tools at hand? What are they likely to be working on?

With the two sets in question you are trading quality and good coverage of the 3/8" drive range for a wider range of tool sizes. This is clearly a trade off because there are going to be times when a 1/4 drive is the correct tool for the job yet the Tekton kit has none.

Another thing to consider is if this kit will also be the tool box or not? When I got out of college I started my automotive tools collection by buying a Cman socket wrench (and other stuff) set. For the next 15 years I used that box and a small Plano box to carry most of my tools. My Cman set had some disapointing gaps (no 12-14mm deep 3/8 drive sockets). The box did have a great feature, it had a large compartment in the top where I could keep most of my wrenches, that 14mm deep socket I bought, and pliers and screwdrivers. That was a really handy feature since it meant I could pass on buying a real tool box for many years while I lived in places without a garage.

The point to that story was to consider if your son will be better off with a very complete subset of tools (just 3/8 drive sockets) or might be better with a set that has more gaps but covers a wider range of needs and has storage for additional tools.

 

[CHI_Tool&Die]

If you already have the Gearwrench set then just keep it. Why go through the hassle of the return, waiting for the credit to process, buying another set, and waiting for it to ship? Honestly, if the sockets and ratchets are good, I’d keep it and down the line look at other forms of storage.

 

[mike93lx]

If you already have the Gearwrench set then just keep it. Why go through the hassle of the return, waiting for the credit to process, buying another set, and waiting for it to ship? Honestly, if the sockets and ratchets are good, I’d keep it and down the line look at other forms of storage.

You aren't at HD 5x a week anyway? That's normal, right? Right?

 

[honza.vosalik]

Thanks for the feedback everyone! He will be turning 9 and likes to have his own tools. I will plan to go with Tekton...

I might go with this smaller set instead at of the previously mentioned. If he ever needs the 20+mm, that might be better in 1/2" drive.

46-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 5/16-3/4 inch (SAE), 8-19 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15301.

www.tekton.com

 

[lardy1]

That's a pretty nice basic 3/8" set right there. Tekton really is no frills with their sockets. But they're very functional, affordable and available. I personally think Gearwrench wins the cosmetics award but I'd buy Tekton if it was me.

 

[qqzj]

Thanks for the feedback everyone! He will be turning 9 and likes to have his own tools. I will plan to go with Tekton...

I might go with this smaller set instead at of the previously mentioned. If he ever needs the 20+mm, that might be better in 1/2" drive.

46-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 5/16-3/4 inch (SAE), 8-19 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15301.

www.tekton.com

That's going to be a mistake. The best thing about tekton is no skip and comprehensive coverage. This set doesn't offer that.

 

[Handyandy23]

That's going to be a mistake. The best thing about tekton is no skip and comprehensive coverage. This set doesn't offer that.

Where are the skips? Looks comprehensive up to 19mm?

 

[Steve_P]

Tekton's sockets have lower quality chrome. They just look dull. Also Tekton sockets are deep broached, meaning the sockets are more hollow inside. GearWrench's sockets only open up a bit near the end. Not a big deal. The good thing about Tekton is that they have all sizes. GW's 3/8 set only covers up to 19mm. I would buy GW's 1/4 and 3/8 sets. But I would buy Tekton's 1/2 set. GW's China made products are working great for me. No complaints here. But I actually do not like comfort handle ratchets. Those are stupid hard to clean. If you have to pick among them, I think I would pick Tekton as a better compromise. For a starter set, I think those $100 gunmetal Craftsman tool sets are better than both.

Dunno, I have a decent amount of SK, Tekton, Williams USA, Gearwrench.... and Tekton's chrome is as good as my Gearwrench sockets and prettier than my newer Williams USA and Snap On. I certainly wouldn't call what Tekton I have as low-quality chrome. It might be just below SK's level, but it's definitely very good IMO

 

[mike93lx]

Thanks for the feedback everyone! He will be turning 9 and likes to have his own tools. I will plan to go with Tekton...

I might go with this smaller set instead at of the previously mentioned. If he ever needs the 20+mm, that might be better in 1/2" drive.

46-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 5/16-3/4 inch (SAE), 8-19 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15301.

www.tekton.com

That's an amazing set for a 9yo and in a package that he can actually carry. Too bad the case doesn't have a handle

 

[M6erfan]

That's going to be a mistake. The best thing about tekton is no skip and comprehensive coverage. This set doesn't offer that.

No skips in that set

 

[qqzj]

Most 3/8 cover up to 19mm. I guess I should have emphasized the 'comprehensive' part

 

[kudakev615]

Most 3/8 cover up to 19mm. I guess I should have emphasized the 'comprehensive' part

it goes up to 19mm, lemme hit whatever youre smoking

 

[visionguru]

....He will be turning 9 and likes to have his own tools. I will plan to go with Tekton...

Do you shop at Costco? They have a big DeWalt set (with wrenches) for $100, and a smaller socket set for $30.

DeWalt Mechanics Tool Set - Costco Sale! | Frugal Hotspot

*UPDATE* 8/19/22. COSTCO SALE! The DeWalt Mechanics Tool Set from Costco is a massive 184-piece treasure chest of tools to help...

www.frugalhotspot.com

Our local Meijer stores used to have a Tekton isle. From years of playing with their tools, I think Tekton is over priced by 50% for its quality.

 

[Citation]

OK, given your son's age I'm going to go out on a limb and suggest he may be happier with a wider range of tools vs higher quality. He also might end up losing a lot of parts between now and when he moves out of Dad's tool box. A set that includes tools like screwdrivers, hex keys, combo wrenches etc that will be useful for things like working on a bike, lawn mower etc. Yeah, it's not as high of quality but having a range of tools is really handy too.

Something like this Cman setup

Craftsman 1/4 and 3/8 in. drive Metric/SAE 6 and 12 Point Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case 104 pc Mfr# CMMT45104 - Ace Hardware

The 104 pc. Mechanic Tool Set is a comprehensive 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. drive mechanic tool set that is packed into Craftsman's Portable Tool Box with 20.5 in. ball-bearing drawers. An ideal set to incorporate into an existing arsenal of tools or a great starter set. This set features Craftsman's...

www.acehardware.com

is nice because it comes with a tool box that has space for additional tools (not in love with the set, just showing it as an example)

I started my tool collection at about that age. At the time I was more concerned about tools for working on smaller items thus pliers, screwdrivers, a soldering iron etc. These were the tools I used in my room on my own projects. When I needed to work on my bike or later my car I went to the garage and used Dad's box. Honestly, getting him a nice box might be a better place to start. Something like a 2-3 drawer Craftsman Rally box, some screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches to start with.

 

[honza.vosalik]

OK, given your son's age I'm going to go out on a limb and suggest he may be happier with a wider range of tools vs higher quality. He also might end up losing a lot of parts between now and when he moves out of Dad's tool box. A set that includes tools like screwdrivers, hex keys, combo wrenches etc that will be useful for things like working on a bike, lawn mower etc. Yeah, it's not as high of quality but having a range of tools is really handy too.

Something like this Cman setup

Craftsman 1/4 and 3/8 in. drive Metric/SAE 6 and 12 Point Mechanics Tool Set with Hard Case 104 pc Mfr# CMMT45104 - Ace Hardware

The 104 pc. Mechanic Tool Set is a comprehensive 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. drive mechanic tool set that is packed into Craftsman's Portable Tool Box with 20.5 in. ball-bearing drawers. An ideal set to incorporate into an existing arsenal of tools or a great starter set. This set features Craftsman's...

www.acehardware.com

is nice because it comes with a tool box that has space for additional tools (not in love with the set, just showing it as an example)

I started my tool collection at about that age. At the time I was more concerned about tools for working on smaller items thus pliers, screwdrivers, a soldering iron etc. These were the tools I used in my room on my own projects. When I needed to work on my bike or later my car I went to the garage and used Dad's box. Honestly, getting him a nice box might be a better place to start. Something like a 2-3 drawer Craftsman Rally box, some screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches to start with.

He already has a 3 drawer craftsman toolbox, a set of ratcheting cman wrenches, a set of kobalt wrenches, a pair of pliers...

 

[AirMech#406]

Tekton hands down. Unbeatable customer service, build quality is soild across the majority of their tools (expections being a few of their ratchets and their click style torque wrenches), 10% back on in store purchases, and free shipping is the icing on the cake.

 

[carmantl]

Tractor supply has a $149 set that covers most of the bases (324 pieces). Not the highest quality but also not too bad. Look up KKV0001, it's on sale often for $99.

 

[bubinga]

I'm looking for a starter socket set for my kiddos bday.
I'm trying to decide between these two.
I actually purchased the gearwrench at HD for $100 already, but I'm having second thoughts and thinking about returning it. The tools seem fine, but the box seems crappy. Even when closed the sockets are falling out of place:-/ and I bet he'd be losing them as a result of that.

I have the Tekton myself, it's a bit more expensive at $150 than the gearwrench, but the tools are good, great warranty/customer service and sturdy nicely organized box. And comes with braker bar.

What are your thoughts?

73-Piece 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Socket and Ratchet Set | TEKTON

Includes: 1/4-1 inch (SAE), 6-24 mm (Metric) 6-point chrome socket with large stamped markings, 90-tooth ratchet, extension, universal joint, and case. No skipped sizes. SKT15311.

www.tekton.com

GEARWRENCH 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. Drive 6-Point Standard & Deep SAE/Metric 90-Tooth Ratchet and Socket Mechanics Tool Set (106-Piece) 83001 - The Home Depot

GEARWRENCH Mechanics Tools have all been designed with the professional user in mind to increase productivity, access, and strength. The ratchets and sockets are made from premium alloy steel and feature

www.homedepot.com

As far as warranty, I'm waiting almost 2 months for a gearwrench replacement.
Tekton, usually about 4 days.

 

[bubinga]

I've been very happy with my Tekton tools and their customer support.

Yes!

 

[bubinga]

Most 3/8 cover up to 19mm. I guess I should have emphasized the 'comprehensive' part

IOW's no skips?
I hate, hate hate when sets skip sizes. They'll be skipping the 16mm and the 18mm all the time.
Like you don't need 16 and 18 mm.....smh

 

[bubinga]

You should have got that set for $100 I think it was a 270 piece Cobalt that Home Depot had around Christmas.

 

[mike93lx]

You should have got that set for $100 I think it was a 270 piece Cobalt that Home Depot had around Christmas.

Kobalt is Lowe's.

I have one of those $100 sets. It's my loaner/portable set. The ratchets are garbage and it comes with a ton of useless ignition wrenches to add numbers. Plus the box is way too heavy for a 9yo.

 

[AJHD]

You should have got that set for $100 I think it was a 270 piece Cobalt that Home Depot had around Christmas.

Do you mean Kobalt? That's a Lowes brand, not HD.

But I think you mean Husky at HD. That set is still $99 @ HD.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Mechanics-Tool-Set-270-Piece-H270MTS/309161789

That said, the tools aside, I will say that I too bought the Gearwrench set for 99$. I wanted more chrome sockets and more SAE sockets.
I also put everything on organizers, so I don't care about the case.

But Gearwrench customer service/warranty can be a pain. Tekton is much easier. The blow molded cases from Tekton are much better too, or at least with their older sets they were.

Just my two cents.