Value brands for mechanics tools?!

[Jersey Drew]

So I have a mix of craftsman, husky, gear wrench and finally tekton for tools. They have all served me well and I don’t break tools often. But I like having nice things so I would eventually like to start upgrading some of my tools. I am looking for better than what I have but not necessarily snap on (only because of the price of them).

And I know there’s no one brand that does everything well so I would like to break this down into a few categories:

Ratchets
Ratchet accessories (Extensions and swivels)
Sockets
Wrenches
Ratchet wrenches

 

[Don1357]

It doesn't sound like you want better as in 'better' tool but better as in 'more expensive' tool.

Like everybody else I have drooled after Snap-on sets for longer than some have been alive here. On the other hand I have the same craftsman set I bought when I was in the Army decades ago. I have never broken nor strip a single wrench nor socket, so defining better would entail the tools removing bolts by themselves...

I did upgrade my 1/4-3/8-1/2 wrachet wrenches to Kobalt. The low tooth count on the standard Craftsman set made wracheting a pain in the *** on a tight spot that you only had an inch of travel to play with.

 

[tez929rr]

It doesn't sound like you want better as in 'better' tool but better as in 'more expensive' tool.

Like everybody else I have drooled after Snap-on sets for longer than some have been alive here. On the other hand I have the same craftsman set I bought when I was in the Army decades ago. I have never broken nor strip a single wrench nor socket, so defining better would entail the tools removing bolts by themselves...

I did upgrade my 1/4-3/8-1/2 wrachet wrenches to Kobalt. The low tooth count on the standard Craftsman set made wracheting a pain in the *** on a tight spot that you only had an inch of travel to play with.

Tell it. I have all the Craftsman stuff from the first set I bought in the 70’s. Lots of other tools since then from a variety of brands. When want a ratchet I usually grab one of the HF composite ratchets I have added over the years because they are so smooth and comfortable in the hand. So to the OP, don’t spend money if you don’t need to. All that matters is that they work and make you happy.

 

[sberry]

There will be someone along shortly to help with this thread.

 

[Jersey Drew]

It doesn't sound like you want better as in 'better' tool but better as in 'more expensive' tool.

Like everybody else I have drooled after Snap-on sets for longer than some have been alive here. On the other hand I have the same craftsman set I bought when I was in the Army decades ago. I have never broken nor strip a single wrench nor socket, so defining better would entail the tools removing bolts by themselves...

I did upgrade my 1/4-3/8-1/2 wrachet wrenches to Kobalt. The low tooth count on the standard Craftsman set made wracheting a pain in the *** on a tight spot that you only had an inch of travel to play with.

I guess you’re kind of right but I am finding that my tools are lacking certain sizes that I’m starting to need having a diesel truck. And the newer stuff that I’m buying piece by piece from husky and craftsman just seems super flimsy.

 

[GrantCee]

There are sometimes real performance gains to be had, depending of course on what one already owns.

For instance: my old Craftsman tools (which I bought in high school and college) were made before the days of “flank drive” and other forms of off-corner engagement. My combination wrenches, in particular, were far inferior to the Wright-Grip I eventually replaced them with.

I also replaced my regular sockets, which were all 12-point and had a disturbing tendency to round off slightly rusted fasteners, with modern 6-point designs. No more damaged bolts.

More recently, I bought a set of Koken’s extensions with the heavy knurling on the ends. I used to wrap skateboard tape around my old ones to help with the grip, but that quickly “dunked up” or came off. The Koken extensions are what I’ve been looking for for years and were worth the price.

More expensive tools often bring with them enhanced usability or durability. Sometimes it’s worth it, sometimes not. Each person has to decide that for him (or her) self.

 

[setfocus]

The brand of tools you already have are the value tools imo, mostly not junk and low prices... I'm an auto tech and I have something of each of those brands in my tool box. I would just replace frequently used tools that you feel are lacking, with the best or what you like best. Maybe a snap-on ratchet or some knipex pliers. Seems silly to replace everything you have for something only a little better, when what you have is working for you.

That said, next step up from what you have would be the industrial brands williams, wright, proto, sk, there are some mid level tool brands from europe and japan that are also good

 

[Ralf11]

Ratchets - used Snappy Dual-80, Ko-ken or Nepros (very nice, spendy as Snappy hard to find used)
Ratchet accessories (Extensions and swivels) - Ko-ken or see above
Sockets - Hazet, Ko-ken (esp. the nut grips), Zeal, Nepros - and as always: used Snappy
Wrenches - see above
Ratchet wrenches - no used Snappy DB end flex yet; Hazet makes a nice regular 20o angled one

you said nice things, and the above are; does not mean they work better or are stronger than say Proto or older Craftsman, but I bet they are better than the newer Crapsman and for sure will allow access to areas lower end brands will not

you can sprinkle Mac and Matco, Stahwille in thru there too; PB Swiss and Vessel for screwdrivers

BTW, locking flex ratchet handles rule

 

[ThePostman]

I have a wright 7-24mm set that is strong. I have a proto 10-19mm 6 point set, and and the proto sae spline set. Basic combo wrenches, I can beat them with a mini sledge with confidence. Wright 250 give or take, proto stuff I like to get off zoro with a 20% coupon. My next purchase will be the one footer 3/8 flex head by proto, someone here beat me to it, I'm jealous.
Main point, wright, proto, sunex, grey pneumatic, all good companies for wrenches, sockets, and ratchets.

 

[Fedwrench]

what is it that you want to do that your current selection of tools can't do?

 

[Jersey Drew]

what is it that you want to do that your current selection of tools can't do?

I am finding that I missing certain sizes, the bigger ones that are now needed for my new truck. Also I am finding that the wrenches I have or just a bit thick to fit in some places. I am actually pretty happy with my old USA craftsman sockets except for the half-inch drive I have are 12 point. Those are my two major gripes with current tools.

So my thought process is, instead of buying piece by piece of larger stuff I could just buy better complete sets and replace some of my older stuff as needed.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

You have lots of fine brands there.
Ratchets I like Kobalt honestly for the price and everything 90 teeth they are great. I use them professionally and never have an issue. I like the SK as well but they mostly have 72 teeth not a major issue unless you need one with finer teeth. Also PowerBuilt is nice too. And Proto.
Wrenches I like Williams and Proto and SK. The Gearwrench combination wrenches aren’t bad but they recently moved all production to China so I’m not too happy about that.
Ratchet wrenches I have a lot of brands Blue Point, Williams and Gearwrench to name a few all have worked fine and should for what you are doing too.
Extensions and Adapters I use a lot most are SK and Popular Mechanics they work fine and are quality also Kobalt and Craftsman and Matco.
Lots of sockets are good. Honestly Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Pro is a great buy for the money. Sunex, Proto, Gearwrench, SK and Kobalt are some to name a few also Williams which is made by Snap-on is really good and a fraction of the price too.
Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[visionguru]

.. Also I am finding that the wrenches I have or just a bit thick to fit in some places. ...

That's what I found too, when doing a transmission filter change: only a slim 10mm box end wrench would fit the housing bolts because of the awkward positions/geometry. At last, I found a 10mm wrench in my junk drawer, which I bought in college for like $5 a set from Autozone, pathetic quality, but slim enough to get the job done.

I'm under the impression that Home Depot sells Husky thin wrenches. Unless you specifically buy thin wrenches, all the 'professional' or 'better' wrenches are more likely to be thicker than thinner than the ones you currently have.

 

[Iowafox]

I started out with alot of Stanley and old Craftsman tools. I upgraded my ratchets to the NAPA Carlyle ones no regrets at all. I also splurged and got a few MAC flex head ratchets in 3/8 and 1/2 drive. Sockets I have been using Husky sockets and there ok not the best but good. I am getting MAC USA 3/8 drive sockets to fulfil a dream I have been chasing for years build my own MAC tools 3/8 master socket set. MAC stuff is possible due to my work discount. But wrench wise I say go Gearwrench there great!! My regular combo wrenches are all garage sale find USA brands from SK,Snappy, MAC, Craftsman and Proto. I say if you want a good ratchet tho try a napa carlyle one. I have 2 of the regular 3/8 all chrome $25 ones and they are really well built. I also say try there 1/4 drive ratchets as well I have a comfort grip short that is good but my Harbor freight Roto head is my favorite 1/4 ratchet. 1/2 drive I say Proto for standard size but for long (braker bar) ratchets MAC round flex head is the best i've found and have used it that way for 10+ years now.
for 1/2 drive sockets I say go get the Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Pro impact sockets. I have there shallow metric and SAE 1/2 impacts the Taiwan not china made ones and they are my go to 1/2 sockets there 6pt and hold up really really well. I have chrome 1/2 as well but 9 times out of 10 my impact sockets are the used ones. I would also look into Tekton for sockets and Gearwrench zero complaints from them.
Extensions and Adaptors I have Proto, Snapon, MAC, Stanley and Craftsman. I find for extensions find the kind you like best and go with it there all the same for the most part. I have locking ones and wobble plus they all work about the same there.
Adaptors I have the same brands Proto, Craftsman usa, Snapon and
MAC. I find these are where you want something quality USA if you can new or used.
I also suggest looking at impact universal joints the pined or pin less kind what ever you want and use on a hand ratchet will last forever and gets into tricky areas. Those I like the Icon brand ones from HF and I also have a 3/8 drive one from Orileys PT is the brand and was like $8 and for hand ratchet use its great. I think especially with todays cars and trucks this is one tool often overlooked.
I am a shade tree car fixer and a tinkerer. I love tools and love having more then I need.
Hope some of this helps!!

 

[richfinn]

So I have a mix of craftsman, husky, gear wrench and finally tekton for tools. They have all served me well and I don’t break tools often. But I like having nice things so I would eventually like to start upgrading some of my tools. I am looking for better than what I have but not necessarily snap on (only because of the price of them).

And I know there’s no one brand that does everything well so I would like to break this down into a few categories:

Ratchets
Ratchet accessories (Extensions and swivels)
Sockets
Wrenches
Ratchet wrenches

Ko-Ken for the socketry (vast range, very innovative)

Stahlwille for the wrenches (I replaced my old Snap-On with the 14s and I actually prefer them!!!)

 

[lardy1]

I suggest focusing on one area or category of tools and read all you can...talk to actual users.....window shop online etc, etc, etc. I don't think there's a "best" in any category. Focusing on your own needs and budget rather than focusing on a brand name will help you avoid the disappointments of knee jerk purchases.

Some of these pro mechanics in here are open, honest and without brand prejudice. It takes awhile to identify them but they offer great experience and opinions.

 

[Iowafox]

I suggest focusing on one area or category of tools and read all you can...talk to actual users.....window shop online etc, etc, etc. I don't think there's a "best" in any category. Focusing on your own needs and budget rather than focusing on a brand name will help you avoid the disappointments of knee jerk purchases.

Some of these pro mechanics in here are open, honest and without brand prejudice. It takes awhile to identify them but they offer great experience and opinions.

This here is spot on!! I agree don't worry about brand name do research on what your after and find the best deal!

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

I started out with alot of Stanley and old Craftsman tools. I upgraded my ratchets to the NAPA Carlyle ones no regrets at all. I also splurged and got a few MAC flex head ratchets in 3/8 and 1/2 drive. Sockets I have been using Husky sockets and there ok not the best but good. I am getting MAC USA 3/8 drive sockets to fulfil a dream I have been chasing for years build my own MAC tools 3/8 master socket set. MAC stuff is possible due to my work discount. But wrench wise I say go Gearwrench there great!! My regular combo wrenches are all garage sale find USA brands from SK,Snappy, MAC, Craftsman and Proto. I say if you want a good ratchet tho try a napa carlyle one. I have 2 of the regular 3/8 all chrome $25 ones and they are really well built. I also say try there 1/4 drive ratchets as well I have a comfort grip short that is good but my Harbor freight Roto head is my favorite 1/4 ratchet. 1/2 drive I say Proto for standard size but for long (braker bar) ratchets MAC round flex head is the best i've found and have used it that way for 10+ years now.
for 1/2 drive sockets I say go get the Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Pro impact sockets. I have there shallow metric and SAE 1/2 impacts the Taiwan not china made ones and they are my go to 1/2 sockets there 6pt and hold up really really well. I have chrome 1/2 as well but 9 times out of 10 my impact sockets are the used ones. I would also look into Tekton for sockets and Gearwrench zero complaints from them.
Extensions and Adaptors I have Proto, Snapon, MAC, Stanley and Craftsman. I find for extensions find the kind you like best and go with it there all the same for the most part. I have locking ones and wobble plus they all work about the same there.
Adaptors I have the same brands Proto, Craftsman usa, Snapon and
MAC. I find these are where you want something quality USA if you can new or used.
I also suggest looking at impact universal joints the pined or pin less kind what ever you want and use on a hand ratchet will last forever and gets into tricky areas. Those I like the Icon brand ones from HF and I also have a 3/8 drive one from Orileys PT is the brand and was like $8 and for hand ratchet use its great. I think especially with todays cars and trucks this is one tool often overlooked.
I am a shade tree car fixer and a tinkerer. I love tools and love having more then I need.
Hope some of this helps!!

Spot on there Iowafox. Can’t ever have too many tools anyway.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[Fedwrench]

How old is your Tekton stuff?

I ask because, Tekton's current offerings on their web site are light years ahead of their older stuff.

Two areas where Tekton shines is the wide array of chrome sockets and their 90 tooth ratchets. If I wanted to upgrade my chrome sockets or ratchets, I would look there first. I use their 90tooth ratchets daily in a professional setting and they perform quite well.
You would be hard pressed to find chrome six point sockets that are finished nicer than Tekton's current line up. Add in their excellent warranty service, 10% back in rewards points and free shipping once registered on their web site, and there's no reason to shop elsewhere.

The easy answer for better combination wrenches used to be Craftsman Professional back in the day but, that's not an option any more. You could watch ebay for a used truck brand set, or a Proto set.
However, you could also pick up these Dewalt sets.
https://www.toolnut.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=dewalt+wrench+set

The long pattern fully polished combination wrench sets are great. Now in full disclosure, they aren't as great as they once were because, they no longer have the anti slip open ends. However, they still offer nice balance & feel, off corner boxed end engagement, excellent chrome, and they aren't horribly expensive. Shop around for the best deal. Good luck in your quest

 

[Jmo371]

tekton stuff is good to go for a pro-lite setting

 

[Kps]

Hazet 953SPC 1/4" and 1/2" Drive Socket Set, 47 pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BTGIVZA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[measuredtwice]

Re: Value brands for mechanics tools?!

You get the best value from deals on high quality tools, not lesser tools. It does take time and not everyone is willing to make the effort. If you work for it, you will find lots of high quality tools that can be bought for prices similar to the cost of lesser tools... sometimes you'll even find deals making high quality tools cheaper than lesser tools.

 

[Iowafox]

You get the best value from deals on high quality tools, not lesser tools. It does take time and not everyone is willing to make the effort. If you work for it, you will find lots of high quality tools that can be bought for prices similar to the cost of lesser tools... sometimes you'll even find deals making high quality tools cheaper than lesser tools.

This ^^^ that is true! That is the only way I was able to make my dream MAC 3/8 socket set a reality. Took years of looking and hunting and a job I hate but I am starting it and my kids will be receiving them once i'm gone. Sometimes the slow and steady method is the best and upgrade to bigger and better as they wear or break makes the best results.

 

[dar24601]

Well if your just a guy who likes to work on his own stuff (like I am) then here is what I reach for most often.

Ratchets — 1/2” wright model 4426, 3/8 Pittsburgh pro composite ratchet

Sockets & accessories — i have a set of husky, I’ve was replacing them with sk but have started getting tekton stuff. I’ll stick with sk cause I try buy USA as much as I can but for stuff I don’t use often I’ll go tekton.

Wrenches — well I splurged and replaced old craftsman set with set of wright grips. Love em total overkill for my needs but ain’t busted a knuckle yet

Ratcheting wrenches — picked up a set of kobalt on clearance and get the job done. I have used my buddies gearwrench they felt nice so will probably upgrade to those if kobalt fails

 

[Kscardsfan]

Buy used and save a ton of money. I have a lot of pro grade sockets and wrenches etc that would retail at at 750-800+ bucks that I probably have 200 in total by buying used and haunting garage sales etc. The other trick I’ve found is buying industrial brands when possible. Usually the same or a very, very close copy of the pro grade tool for a fraction of the price.

 

[Ton ton]

You get the best value from deals on high quality tools, not lesser tools. It does take time and not everyone is willing to make the effort. If you work for it, you will find lots of high quality tools that can be bought for prices similar to the cost of lesser tools... sometimes you'll even find deals making high quality tools cheaper than lesser tools.

I agree.

 

[guitarbutt]

Don't replace what you have. Just buy whatever expensive brands you want so you can fill in the gaps. Nothing wrong with most Harbor Freight or Snap On tools

 

[Mr_B]

In terms of proper better tool and value you looking at likes of stahlwille wrenches, koken sockets, mac and matco ratchets and hand picked better items from brands like facom blue point carlyle capri toptul premier and even icon .

 

[belvedere]

If you can take your time, used truck brands can sometimes be had at a decent price.

SK, Williams USA, and Carlyle are some quality alternatives to look at.

 

[nelstomlinson]

You don't have to have complete sets. If you need a tool, buy it: individual wrenches, or individual sockets. If you break a tool, buy a better one, for that individual tool. Most of what you have is still fine for your uses, just add the few items you're lacking.

 

[Cgw1984]

People advocating for used truck brands arent wrong. Its actually what i do. But remember you DO technically give up warranty (yes, you can lie and get it warrantied, but that depends on your (lack of) integrity). Also, it relies on "hoping" your preferred venue has it for sale in a decent condition. Its not always worth it to spend 50 bucks on a used snap on ratchet, when a new $20 tekton will treat you just as well. (Same warranty, assuming you lie about being the first owner, and a home user still has to wait on shipping from either co). Id say the home user is smart to buy tekton. If you want "name brand", buy the truck stuff. But you will likely not notice a quality difference in a home setting.