VIM Hex Socket Set Recommendation

[tjpavlov]

Hi,

I am thinking about buying some VIM-branded hex sockets. It seems like they get very solid reviews on this site.

They seem to make a couple of different kinds though. I was hoping that you could help me to decipher what is the real difference.

The first are the chrome satin finish ones:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LQEUJK/?tag=atomicindus08-20

They seem to be one piece and made with a nice knurling on the ends. These are sold in both metric and imperial sets. The price point of around $25 for each set is attractive because I can use my Sears Tool of the Month Club points to get these around half off.

VIM also sells a more comprehensive set though. The comprehensive set appears to be made of two pieces, a regular socket press-fitted (I am guessing) to a more regular looking hex bit:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000K1D01A/?tag=atomicindus08-20

VIM's website doesn't give me even a hint as to what the functional difference is between the two.

I'm not a mechanic. I need these for just general around the house type stuff. I've always felt that having a set of these would be helpful when putting stuff together (ever been to an ikea, anyone?).

So if you have an opinion one way or the other, I would love to hear it.

Thanks!

 

[benzoni]

I have both of these but in different brands. Unless you work on some automotive or large equipment I think the small stubby kit will work any most any home application. The stubby kit bits are all the same length and 1/4 inch drive. The large kit has all drive sizes and will cover way more sizes than you will ever need. I would get the stubby set in metric and standard sizes. As for quality I think these are some of the best if not the best you can buy.

 

[Kirbot]

Advance auto carries both sets too.
TRT30 gets you 30% off, or TRT41 gets $40 off $100.

I want to order the stubby sets there eventually.

 

[tjpavlov]

Thanks for the tips! Is there any advantage to either design?

 

[T45]

Half cut for home use should be fine. Keep a set of simple hex keys around if you need some extra length.Stuff like 3mm hex is weaker than the 1/4 socket/extension bar and you have less of that weak part between you wrench and the fastener. The bit sockets are repairable and you can get the bits in various hardness and precision cuts as well as long-lengths as needed. But provided L-keys are around, its unlikey you will miss out much. If you need torque control, the story is different ... as in that case you need the correct sockets in the various lengths...for your torque wrench.

 

[Kirbot]

No idea if there's a quality difference, but I think the 1/4 drive sets look handy.

You can always pick some some individual big ones if you need them, or just get the set from HF.
You probably won't need really expensive sockets when you're working with stuff over 10mm. Even the cheap ones are strong.

I have this set, and I'm thinking it should compliment the 1/4 Vims nicely.
http://www.harborfreight.com/9-piece-38-and-12-drive-metric-hex-bit-socket-set-67880-7763.html

 

[benzoni]

Thanks for the tips! Is there any advantage to either design?

The advantage in my mind is that you will be able to use 9 different sizes in metric and sae all on a 1/4 ratchet. With the master set you can only use the 4 smallest sizes before having to move up to a 3/8 ratchet. This can in some situations give greater access than you would otherwise have with a 3/8 and longer socket bits.