The u joint kind of disappointed me, but i think it could be useful. It doesn't provide much of an angle, somewhat limited movement. But it seems smooth, I almost think it could work well if you put a few together.
KTC intentionally limited the range of motion after their research determined that a universal joint sees its most use within a low swing angle. By limiting the range of motion, they were able to design the joints to flex within the same axis, making the universal joint operate more smoothly, shorter in length, and more durable. It's also more user-friendly as it'll limit the 'fastener slip' that is often common on full-range universal joints, or the floppy-jointed universal that we often fix by wrapping electrical tape.
I want to add an update after some further inspection. Other than as a novelty item, I would not suggest the nepros ratchet for someone looking for functional tools. Don't get me wrong, it is a functional tool, but I really don't think it's that much better than tools you could get for half the price. Sockets are awesome, I would suggest them any day for someone looking for higher end pieces, but the ratchet is just too ordinary to justify the price point in my opinion. Your money would be better spent with another company.
Keep in mind that the Nepros line, and that ratchet, was developed back in 1995. At the time, a 36-tooth was probably a mechanics' standard ratchet. When KTC launched Nepros, they wanted to create tools that reflected what Snap-on, "The King of Tools", made. As a standard ratchet that Snap-on had for decades, they took that 36-tooth, batman pawl'ed, pear-head ratchet to their own drawing board. That ratchet was, in a way, KTC's interpretation or answer to how
they would've done it. This mechanism, from what I've felt, is a bit clunky by design, whether it's a Snap-on, Hazet, etc. Although, Nepros does have the 72-tooth roundhead that's a smooth operator, much smoother than their pearhead.
I don't disagree with your feelings completely, but I still think it's a good price for the level of attention to details and the fine workmanship that you receive. The surface finish, along with the chrome treatment is second to none. The hollow handle, the hard composite plastic that's sprung to maintain tension on the head and thereby keeping the head from becoming floppy--those are features that aren't found anywhere else.
Btw, KTC has been seeing and listening to users, and they know that times have changed with regards to the trend in ratchets. Yes, they have been in the development of a high toothcount ratchet for the Nepros brand. One source told me that it's going to be a 90-tooth ratchet. I'll be keeping my eyes open for that.
