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Ultimate 1/4 Ratchets

Nineeightyone

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Joined
Mar 21, 2018
Messages
393
Location
Pennsylvania
If I were buying on a budget and had more time, Tekton would be my pick. I bought a 3/8" non-quick release ratchet, and it's an absolute dream.

I love it...not one mention of Tekton! I don't mind my flex 120xp in 1/4", have the 84t as well. After reducing the back drag on both they are pretty slick.

Sorry to burst your bubble :lol_hitti
 
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seber

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Joined
May 31, 2016
Messages
4,192
Location
Deep East Tx.
I tried the zyklop. It can do a lot of things but every one of them is slower than just grabbing the right tool. Even using it as a standard ratchet felt awkward. I got rid of that one.
 

M6erfan

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Joined
Dec 6, 2014
Messages
10,170
Location
'Merica!
I love it...not one mention of Tekton! I don't mind my flex 120xp in 1/4", have the 84t as well. After reducing the back drag on both they are pretty slick.

And another mention of Tekton... People really should read the whole thread before commenting.

Man, I luv my quarters! Use them probably 75-80% of the time (I work on vintage Jap MX bikes).

Not sure if I have a favorite... I have Facom 72t round head (France), Carlyle 72t locking flex (my longest), Snap-on TR72 (my shortest), new Tekton 90t flex. I use them all, I grab the S-o when I need finesse/feel tightening a bolt into aluminum, the Carlyle when I need length for reach/access or a bit of muscle. The new 90t Tekton seems really nice and might become my go-to ratchet, I just got it recently so too soon to tell but looking good so far. :thumbup:

Sorry to burst your bubble :lol_hitti
 
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rhys99

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 2, 2019
Messages
80
Location
Lancashire UK
I've ordered a nepros 90t, hopefully it won't take too long to arrive! annoyingly here in the UK we don't have Carlyle, harbour freight, Cornwell or any of the big brands you guys have. I envy your choices!

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk
 

Downwindtracker 2

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Joined
Jun 13, 2019
Messages
1,715
Location
BC
Well, I don't have any experience with the best 1/4", but thanks to you guys here at GJ, I picked up a Gearwrench flex head and Tekton pivot head. The Gearwrench is the better of the two.
 

Elsinore13

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 20, 2017
Messages
504
My "go to" setup for tearing down cars for estimates. You can tear down half an import with this right here. Matco mini polished 1/4 in drive 72 tooth, it just feels “right”. Matco locking 3 and 6 inch extensions and a set of medium deep Snap On flank drive metric sockets with a deep 8 and 10 mm added in the mix.


I have plenty of other 1/4 in drive stuff but this right here is the all around winner.


attachment.php
 

Brownsfan

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Joined
Apr 16, 2012
Messages
5,974
Location
Cleveland Ohio
Do you have Mac available to you ? The 90t mac ratchets are awesome. .Pretty much the same as the Proto already mentioned. I think Mac is available across the pond.
 

barev

Active member
Joined
Dec 12, 2016
Messages
40
Try out the GearWrench 120xp. I have the standard 5", flex head chrome handle 6 3/4", and flex-head soft handle 8". I own about 10 other 1/4" ratchets and always grab one of these.
 

JerseyBoatBuilder

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Joined
Mar 3, 2012
Messages
1,584
Location
Florida
Snapon TL72 or Pittsburgh 1/4 3/8 flex head..
Anything smaller or tigher spaced I use the small bluepoint hex bit ratchet
 

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joel63

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 9, 2012
Messages
1,907
Location
Central FL
I started by using a Craftsman 1/4 ratchet.

When I changed over, I started using a So TM70B.

I also like the So TMK739 short round head and TR72 quick release.
 

shockwave

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 23, 2012
Messages
2,125
Location
Marietta,ga
My current favorite is proto 90 tooth I got from msc for around 100 or Matco 88 locking flex are my current go to ratchets my 1/4 is my go to
 

toolaholic

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Joined
Jul 26, 2012
Messages
2,123
Location
PA
I love it...not one mention of Tekton! I don't mind my flex 120xp in 1/4", have the 84t as well. After reducing the back drag on both they are pretty slick.

Here’s a Tekton I got on amazon wharehouse deals for about $13. A 90 tooth 3 inch long ratchet .
 

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Heap64

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Joined
Mar 17, 2006
Messages
135
Location
Illinois
Those are pretty sweet little ratchets aren't they? I liked the baby enough that I bought a few bigger brothers to keep it company.
 
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tym

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Joined
Mar 5, 2016
Messages
2,428
Location
MA
I have a 1940s Snap-On midget 1/4" drive ratchet as my go-to. It's not fine-tooth, but is smooth and virtually no backdrag.
 

taumac

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Joined
Aug 30, 2011
Messages
8,104
Location
Brooksville, Fl
I’ve been been using hell out of these lately. I really like using them.

2d85a58640e99e7fd5d33e55b4043ef3.jpg
 

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Sam'sAutoParts

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Joined
Aug 27, 2013
Messages
2,075
Location
Northeast PA
I’ve been been using hell out of these lately. I really like using them.

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I may have to pick up a 1/4” one the next time I’m in HF. I rarely use my 3/8” SK Tuff1 anymore, but I think I would use a 1/4”.


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Greg85mcss

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Jul 9, 2015
Messages
760
Location
Frederick MD
I really like the Pittsburgh pro ratchets but the backwards selector is kinda a deal breaker for professional use because it's against my muscle memory. I did pick up that 1/4 rotary head last week and it's very handy to break something loose then spin it off like you would turning an extension.

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Dave455

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Joined
Mar 19, 2013
Messages
5,797
Location
Sussex, England
O.P. I think the Snap On are about the best out there. The only thing I notice is that the Snap On tools are a lot less beefy than the older British made 1/4 drive. I think the Snap On is probably optimised for aerospace work.

U.S. made tools are expensive in the U.K. at the mo, due to the exchange rate. I totally agree with everyone pointing you in the direction of Nepros. Awesome tools, but for some reason you have to pay in U.S. dollars on their website, even though the tools are shipped from Japan, so the same applies.

Try looking at other Japanese tools. I normally advise KoKen, but their 1/4 drive is a little on the light side too. Maybe consider their Z Series, designed for automotive work, both in 1/4 and 3/8 drive. The latter is smaller than regular 3/8 drive so perfect for bike work!

Also consider the German makes as it's all good value in the U.K. at present. I don't like Gedore 1/4 drive, it's a bit flimsy and doesn't fit well. Stahlwille is very nice though, as is Hazet. The Hazet seems to be particularly nice in 1/4 drive. It fits together superbly (very rigid) and they offer a range of ratchets to rival (or better) Snap On. The finish is probably more durable too!

Get KoKen from Consolidated tools in Manchester, but pick what you want from the KoKen website as it's better. Get Stahlwille and Hazet from TBS Aachen direct from Germany!
 
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MetricTech

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Joined
Jul 31, 2017
Messages
124
Location
Cynthiana, Ky
1ad0a770c8ba39da4097ee4e87ca7291.jpg

Here’s my all stars at work, I have just as big of a collection at home but I’d say these are my favs. I left out the dual 80 because the OP said that’s what he has already
 

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JBH

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Jan 17, 2018
Messages
811
IMO the best all-rounder is Koken. Unfortunately, my favorite Koken, the QR flex head with Wiha screwdriver handle pictured below, is no longer sold. You can buy a Hazet plastic handle that fits over the current metal handle Kokens. They are longer, the head is a little bigger, and no QR, but they are still excellent.

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Koken Zeal flex head would be really great with about 2" more handle. I understand they make such a ratchet now, but I was unaware of it at he time.

Nepros 90T QR stubby is the most versatile: attach a spinner handle or other extension to make a speed ratchet, or attach a breaker bar to make an indexing flex head.

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X1 Mike

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Joined
Dec 4, 2008
Messages
8,389
Location
Flagler, Fl
IMO the best all-rounder is Koken. Unfortunately, my favorite Koken, the QR flex head with Wiha screwdriver handle pictured below, is no longer sold. You can buy a Hazet plastic handle that fits over the current metal handle Kokens. They are longer, the head is a little bigger, and no QR, but they are still excellent.

attachment.php


Koken Zeal flex head would be really great with about 2" more handle. I understand they make such a ratchet now, but I was unaware of it at he time.

Nepros 90T QR stubby is the most versatile: attach a spinner handle or other extension to make a speed ratchet, or attach a breaker bar to make an indexing flex head.

attachment.php


I hate, I mean I really freaking hate a bar code on a handle. That could be the greatest handle in the history of handles but I'd never own it. :mad:

My therapist is adjusting my meds.
 

mr.lemons

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Joined
Oct 24, 2017
Messages
2,191
Location
UK
I hate, I mean I really freaking hate a bar code on a handle. That could be the greatest handle in the history of handles but I'd never own it. :mad:

My therapist is adjusting my meds.

The bar codes on Wiha soft finish wear off after a few uses or when they come into contact with chemicals so not worth worrying about. You can wipe them off with brake cleaner.
 
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jgromada

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Joined
Oct 13, 2011
Messages
1,017
Location
Maryland (between DC & Balt)
i'm thinking a lot of the brands mentioned here in this thread are not even available in the UK where the OP resides! Lots of opinions on people's favorite 1/4 ratchet. By far my least used ratchet size.
 

Mr_John

Banned
Joined
May 12, 2011
Messages
256
I know you own Snappies, already, but do you have the 1/4 TX72 locking flex head? A VW mechanic i follow on YouTube (The Humble Mechanic) ranked that as his favorite 1/4 inch, and also his favorite ratchet of any ratchet he owns in any size. I was able to pick up a new one off eBay from a seller that had a couple at about $50 off retail. At any rate, I love the slim handle and head and the button-on-handle based locking mechanism.

I also own a 6.85 in long GearWrench 120XP 1/4 with a non-locking flex head, but a very slim Matco-like head with a 3 degree swing arc - it uses a 60 tooth mech with dual offset pawls that engage each tooth at two different points, so 60 teeth strong with 120 different positions and only 3 degrees of swing arc. At only $26.47 USD (on Amazon), made in Taiwan (not China) with a beautiful chrome finish and a lifetime warranty from Apex - I definitely recommend it, and it's a relative bargain.
 

JBH

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Joined
Jan 17, 2018
Messages
811
I know you own Snappies, already, but do you have the 1/4 TX72 locking flex head? A VW mechanic i follow on YouTube (The Humble Mechanic) ranked that as his favorite 1/4 inch, and also his favorite ratchet of any ratchet he owns in any size.

Here's a thread on that tool:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=411095&highlight=high+backdrag

The only thing I have to add is that I subsequently picked up the little Bahco with the same Dual-really-72 internals. It feels a little better than the Snapon branded one, but isn't as good as Koken/Zeal, Nepros, Stahlwille, etc.
 

Mr_John

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May 12, 2011
Messages
256
Here's a thread on that tool:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=411095&highlight=high+backdrag

The only thing I have to add is that I subsequently picked up the little Bahco with the same Dual-really-72 internals. It feels a little better than the Snapon branded one, but isn't as good as Koken/Zeal, Nepros, Stahlwille, etc.

Thanks. It's funny, but read that thread and it starts out on the QR version of that same ratchet (TRX72), but seems to branch off into a bunch of other stuff that doesn't have much to do with the ratchet, itself. I also noticed that the OP never mentioned whether his eBay purchase was used or new. If it's used, and S-O's tend to be used by mechanics - that could be an explanation for the lack of smoothness. At any rate, I love my TX72, the fit and finish is excellent, and the backdrag is relatively low. Now, if you're looking for value, even at my $78 eBay price, for new, it's not 3 times better than the 1/4" GW 120XP that sells around $26 on Amazon.

Oh, and the KTC Nepros ratchets are beautiful - but, didn't recall a locking 1/4, and the extended handle 1/4 flex head Nepros was pretty damn expensive, esp when you add in Nepros shipping costs that base shipping price on the cost of the order (the higher the cost the higher the shipping). The Nepros NBR290F would be $102 for the ratchet and $19.90 to ship - so about $122 out the door. That's even more than SO's retail price, and, again, the SO has a (patented) locking mechanism. Although, the Nepros is very pretty....
 
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davethorik

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Joined
Sep 14, 2013
Messages
4,992
Location
Norka, Ohio
i'm thinking a lot of the brands mentioned here in this thread are not even available in the UK where the OP resides! Lots of opinions on people's favorite 1/4 ratchet. By far my least used ratchet size.

No different when someone in the USA asks for tool recommendations and British members chime in with a bunch of brands that aren't easily available here. Reading comprehension seems to be VERY low on GJ.
 
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rhys99

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Joined
Jan 2, 2019
Messages
80
Location
Lancashire UK
I know you own Snappies, already, but do you have the 1/4 TX72 locking flex head? A VW mechanic i follow on YouTube (The Humble Mechanic) ranked that as his favorite 1/4 inch, and also his favorite ratchet of any ratchet he owns in any size. I was able to pick up a new one off eBay from a seller that had a couple at about $50 off retail. At any rate, I love the slim handle and head and the button-on-handle based locking mechanism.

I also own a 6.85 in long GearWrench 120XP 1/4 with a non-locking flex head, but a very slim Matco-like head with a 3 degree swing arc - it uses a 60 tooth mech with dual offset pawls that engage each tooth at two different points, so 60 teeth strong with 120 different positions and only 3 degrees of swing arc. At only $26.47 USD (on Amazon), made in Taiwan (not China) with a beautiful chrome finish and a lifetime warranty from Apex - I definitely recommend it, and it's a relative bargain.

I own the THRLX72 and im honestly not too impressed with it, i also own a 1/4 gearwrench 120xp and would say its smoother than the SO. Then again i always feel like Non quick release ratchets feel smooth when used. The Nepros is on its way so i'll report back on my findings with that
 

Mr_John

Banned
Joined
May 12, 2011
Messages
256
I own the THRLX72 and im honestly not too impressed with it, i also own a 1/4 gearwrench 120xp and would say its smoother than the SO. Then again i always feel like Non quick release ratchets feel smooth when used. The Nepros is on its way so i'll report back on my findings with that

Yes, the Nepros is a rather lust-worthy tool. I think their shipping is a bit outrageous, though, especially for such small items. Regardless, the Nepros line is a rather exotic and rare tool line - so, I'm looking forward to your review.
 

JBH

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 17, 2018
Messages
811
Yes, the Nepros is a rather lust-worthy tool. I think their shipping is a bit outrageous, though, especially for such small items. Regardless, the Nepros line is a rather exotic and rare tool line - so, I'm looking forward to your review.

Does Frank still carry them? I bought mine from him.
 

Mr Ratchet

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Joined
Mar 3, 2011
Messages
928
Location
Michigan
I like Matco the best especially their locking flex heads. They have quite a few to choose from including an extra long 12" locking flex head.
I have an 8" fixed head Matco that is my go to for 1/4" drive. I do also like my 1/4" SO due to its short length which comes in handy at times.
 
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rhys99

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Joined
Jan 2, 2019
Messages
80
Location
Lancashire UK
Yes, the Nepros is a rather lust-worthy tool. I think their shipping is a bit outrageous, though, especially for such small items. Regardless, the Nepros line is a rather exotic and rare tool line - so, I'm looking forward to your review.
$14.90 to go from Japan to the UK seems OK to me.
 

Mr_John

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Joined
May 12, 2011
Messages
256
$14.90 to go from Japan to the UK seems OK to me.

Is that $14.90 USD or GBP? $14.90 pound sterling is equal to $18.31 USD using today's exchange rate. That's too much for the manufacturer to ship a 1/4 ratchet. I'm sure there is a massive profit margin on a $102 USD 1/4 ratchet. The manufacturing cost is probably less than $25, so, Free Shipping wouldn't kill them.
 

Mr_John

Banned
Joined
May 12, 2011
Messages
256
Does Frank still carry them? I bought mine from him.

Not sure, but I didn't find anywhere that sold the Nepros ratchets less than buying direct from Nepros. Again, though, I think $20 to ship a 1/4 ratchet from the mfr is ridiculous.
 

xin

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 13, 2017
Messages
697
Location
ARKANSAS - NWA
My "go to" setup for tearing down cars for estimates. You can tear down half an import with this right here. Matco mini polished 1/4 in drive 72 tooth, it just feels “right”. Matco locking 3 and 6 inch extensions and a set of medium deep Snap On flank drive metric sockets with a deep 8 and 10 mm added in the mix.


I have plenty of other 1/4 in drive stuff but this right here is the all around winner.


attachment.php

What 1/4 ratchet is that one?
 
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