Universal Sockets?

[gsea]

I'm looking into a set of universal sockets. All my sockets are craftsman, so I figured I'd complete the set, as they have a 17pc SAE/Metric for $107 online right now. Are these any good or has anyone had them break on them?

Other option is used SK or truck brand... but looking around I can't seem to find a set that size used for the same price as the cmans....

 

[el tanque prohibido]

You talking about chrome or impact? Which drive size?

 

[Old Donn]

By universal do you mean spline drive? Fits several different fasteners? I've got a set of SK spline drive, haven't needed to use them yet. You probably won't either. Might wanna consider that before you spend your cash.

 

[Obie]

I'm pretty sure he's talking about the flex sockets, as the spline/universal ones are about twelve bucks a set. The USA flex sockets are nice, good for the price like all the other Craftsman sockets. I've heard the new stock is from taiwan though, but I haven't seen it in person yet. Just something to keep in mind.

 

[jjpp]

If you are looking for impact wobble sockets, I highly recommend Grey Pneumatic. The ones that I have are exact copies of the old style Snap-On, they hold up almost as well, and at a 1/3 of the price. I am a mechanic and have used and abused them as they are my back-ups when I break or lose one of my others.
I also have and use everyday the 3/8 drive shallow and deep set of standard sockets.
http://www.gpsocket.com/

 

[GoBlue]

The chrome Craftsmans are good. I have some of the U.S ones and have zero issue. I would ask though...when are you needing them? I rarley use them as its not often that a impact wobble or universal joint cant be used.

 

[glenmore]

I have the USA Craftsman metric flex and they do come in handy. One has chrome failure and another has gotten too loose. I should but haven't gotten around to warrantee them at Sears yet.

 

[PinkLinc]

If you don't have an immediate need for them and are just building your arsenal, I'd hold off on the Cmans. Build yourself a Snap On set a few sockets at a time when you run into them used. They can be had for a fraction of the retail price if you are patient. Compared to the Cmans, Snap On universals are much tighter and more compact. I would also recommend the 12 points here because if you are needing a universal, it's safe to assume it's in a tight or awkward spot and the 12 point will make it that much easier to engage to fastener.

 

[gsea]

To clarify, I was talking about chrome flex/swivel sockets, probably just 3/8" drive for now. I'm sticking with US-made stuff, and all my other sockets are cman. That being said, I feel a bit disinclined to buy any more considering the direction they're heading with quality and COO. I figured sockets would still be safe for a while, so that's disturbing to hear that they new stock is imported now, which for me nullifies one of the big appeals of cman which is easy warranty.

Anyone able to comment on SK vs SO?

 

[el tanque prohibido]

There's something about Snap-on flex sockets that make them able to flex further without binding; they really did their homework when they designed them.

 

[rebelram]

I have a wide variety of universal sockets. The SK and SnapOn sockets work very well. I also have quite a few Mac universals. I like them because they have hex screws in the pivot joint. Sometimes if you have a loose pivot joint, you can tighten the screws to help. Proto universals are very similar to the Mac design. Armstrong universals are pretty much a clone to the Craftsman ones. I also have a few old Plomb and Williams universals.

If I were buying a new set, I would probably look at SK or Proto. SnapOn are great sockets, but I rarely buy new SnapOn tools.

 

[lowendrider]

I have 2 sets..one sae, one metric. KD and Williams usa. I like both of them but haven't really used them much either.