What tool kit to buy from the Snap-On student excellence program?

[Houe]

Buying snap on at 1/2 price can be a good value. They are high quality tools. That being said if you watch Ebay and craigslist you can find snap on tools for around 40-50% off for new to lightly used tools. So this isn't your last chance to get snap on at a decent price. Going the ebay or craigslist route is more work however. You will lose bidding many times compared to the winning bids if you want to stay in that 50% off range.

Choose what you buy from snap on wisely and buy cheaper tools where you don't need snap on. I'd probably buy a few snap on ratchets, a mid length socket set, and maybe a flare nut wrenche set. Short and deep sockets buy from williams or others. If you are an auto guy buy only metric from snap on and buy SAE in cheaper brands. Don't go into huge debt - be careful.

 

[bczygan]

Yes, I'm a HF fanboy.

And I am signed up for the SO school deal.

I just went through and looked at the offerings again.

But I just can't justify a $100 ratchet, even at half off.

Especially when my HF ones work just fine.

Bill

 

[Joe Mamma]

If your borrowing money to buy tools, just consider this..

Ill assume your younger, and are probably not making “career” money yet. If you had been working and saving for a long time to put lets say - $10,000 in the bank, and its YOUR money - would you spend that 10 grand the same way you would 10 grand you borrow? Would you buy 10 grand in tools, and say “its an investment” and leave yourself with no liquid money on hand? Would you treat that borrowed money the same way you treated your own?

verced, the above is very wise advice.

That being said, I would go with Snap-On sockets (chrome), combination wrenches, and maybe a ratchet or two. Oh, and their small picks are great.

I'd think twice about their pliers and screwdrivers. There are a lot of other good options with others brands.

I'd probably avoid most of their electronic products, impact sockets, toolboxes, tool carts, and other tool storage. There are a lot of other options that are a lot less expensive.

Joe Mamma

 

[Pig_Pen]

Buying snap on at 1/2 price can be a good value. They are high quality tools. That being said if you watch Ebay and craigslist you can find snap on tools for around 40-50% off for new to lightly used tools. So this isn't your last chance to get snap on at a decent price. Going the ebay or craigslist route is more work however. You will lose bidding many times compared to the winning bids if you want to stay in that 50% off range.

Choose what you buy from snap on wisely and buy cheaper tools where you don't need snap on. I'd probably buy a few snap on ratchets, a mid length socket set, and maybe a flare nut wrenche set. Short and deep sockets buy from williams or others. If you are an auto guy buy only metric from snap on and buy SAE in cheaper brands. Don't go into huge debt - be careful.

I don’t want to hijack but this post about getting tools for 1/2 price on eBay has me wondering. For those of who’ve never bought from a tool truck, is the list price what you usually end up paying or is there a list price and a street price like there is on firearms etc.?

 

[Coloradical]

I don’t want to hijack but this post about getting tools for 1/2 price on eBay has me wondering. For those of who’ve never bought from a tool truck, is the list price what you usually end up paying or is there a list price and a street price like there is on firearms etc.?

Im sure it depends on the dealer but I would say 99% people just pay list price with out questioning it on the tool truck. I was the same way tho, for what ever stupid reason I never even gave it thought. I learned from an old feller to never pay the truck the asking price. I haggled with my Snap On guy on every single purchase from that day forward. Either I beat him down on the price or I made him throw in extra this or extra that... I’ll have to look through my receipts for examples [emoji38]. I remember buying a Long flex 3/8 ratchet and convinced him to throw in the 1/4 ratchet for free. That’s kinda how I started realizing the level of mark up they’re dealing with. I mean you definitely have to have a good relationship tho with the person, in my case haggling actually helped me become better friends with the guy.

 

[Shane6377]

I see lots of advice to buy Snap On sockets and combo wrenches but I've never seen the value in this. Even if there is a marginal difference in quality (which I would argue there is none) there is a drastic difference in price between alternatives.

SK, Proto and Wright all make comparable sockets and combo wrenches at a fraction of the cost.

I understand the "buy it for life" mentality... but that is true of all of the brands listed above.

Do yourself a favor and buy a 10mm Wright Grip wrench and an SK SuperKrome 12mm socket off of eBay and compare the quality to Snap On.

You'll lose your 10&12mm stuff anyway so it won't go to waste![emoji6]


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[victor252]

Williams WSC-238 General Maintenance Set (236 Piece)
only 1 left at the price of $380.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0155AIYMU/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[kctyphoon]

Lol - this is gonna hurt to say this, but I’m trying to be objective here..
I’m not a pro mechanic - BUT if i was - MAYBE i would buy snap on ratchets if it was like an incredible deal. The reason being - mechanics love them, I’m sure they “feel” better than some others, and at a steep discount i can see those being worth it. Ratchets tend not to get lost, especially if you only have a few. They are the only thing with moving parts involved, and i can see “appreciating” the quality. (I guess).. MAYBE i would also buy a set of standard combo wrenches. They are the “most used” type of wrench, and your not killing off a sibling to try and afford them. I cant tell you how they compare to like the 84 tooth or 120 Gearwrench ratchets, cause those are pretty nice and come in that $110 set i was talking about.

Sockets - no
Screwdrivers - no
Pliers - **** no

Gearwrench or similar for all the other sockets, ratchet wrenches, and whatever else.. you can get a complete 1/4’’ and 3/8” socket set with ratchets for like $110 - and yes pros use Gearwrench - dont pretend you dont. Sunex is a great source for impact stuff.

Milwaukee screwdrivers - I’m no authority on screwdrivers, but the Milwaukee’s are nice, and they are for turning screws - lets be realistic. The demolition drivers are great.

Channellock pliers are cheap and well respected .. nobody can say they aren’t worth the money. Yes you can spend $50 a pair on knipex but its really not necessary.

 

[Aqua-Andy]

I have not been on this site for six months or so, I guess things never change. These topics are brought up every day. My response is always the same. PICK ANY OTHER FIELD OF WORK THAN THIS ONE!!!!!! How many other professions require you to have some kind of secondary education, purchase your own tools and then expect you to start working for around $10/h? The best decision I ever made was to get out of the auto dealer and get into industrial maintenance. Went from working 9.5 hours a day and every third saturday to 8 hours a day and every twelfth saturday and the option to take a day off during the week. I don't work half as hard as I used to and make more money and the best thing, I'm actually appreciated for what I do at work now. I can't tell you how many noobs I've seen come into the dealer just out of tech school with a mountain of school and tool debt to only make $10/h and then get out of the business all together.

 

[Wamsutta]

This is what's in the set!

SEP Premium All Metric Set
SKU: SEPPREMET List Price: $5,345.00

6 pc 3/8" Drive Adaptor/Extension Set (1) (206EAU)

Wire Stripper/Cutter, (AWG 10–20), 6" (Blue-Point®) (1) (PWC6)

1/4" Drive 6" Knurled Extension (1) (TMXK60)

12 pc Combination Drive TORX® Bit Standard Socket Set (T8–T55, GM® style T47) (1) (212EFTXY)

3/8" Drive 11" Knurled Friction Ball Extension (1) (FXK11)

12pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive® Shallow Socket Set (8–19 mm) (1) (212FSMY)

12 pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive® Deep Socket Set (8–19 mm) (1) (212SFSMY)

7 pc 3/8" Drive Metric Hex Bit Standard Socket Set (4–10 mm) (1) (207EFAMY)

17 pc 1/4" Drive Metric 6-Point Starter Socket Set (1) (117TMM)

10 pc 12-Point Metric Flank Drive® Plus Standard Combination Wrench Set (10–19 mm) (1) (SOEXM710)

17 pc 1/2" Drive 6-Point Metric General Service Socket Set (1) (317AMMPC)

Black 7-5/8" Rigid Carbon Scraper (1) (CSA8C)

Single Bevel Maple Handle Putty Knife (Blue-Point®) (1) (PK23A)

24 oz Ball Peen Dead Blow Soft Grip Hammer (1) (HBBD24)

Ratcheting Soft Grip Standard Orange Screwdriver (1) (SGDMRC44BO)

Socket, Spark Plug, Standard, Retention, 5/8", 6-Point (1) (S9706KRA)

Pliers, Locking, Curved Jaw with cutter, 10" long (1) (LP10WR)

6 pc Combination Instinct® Soft Grip Screwdriver Set (1) (SGDX60BO)

Set, Cutters/Pliers, 4 pc (1) (PL400B)

1/4" Drive 6-13/16" Instinct® Soft Grip Standard Shank Driver (1) (SGT4BR)

3/8" Drive Dual 80® Technology Standard Handle Ratchet (1) (F80)

12 pc 1/4" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive® Deep Socket Set (5–15 mm) (1) (112STMMY)

Soft Grip Radiator Hose Pick (1) (SGA173BR)

11 pc Punch and Chisel Set (1) (PPC710BK)

1/2" Drive TechAngle® Flex-Head Torque Wrench (12.5–250 ft-lb) (1) (ATECH3FR250B)

Needle Nose Pliers, 8" (1) (97ACF)4 pc Striking Prybar Set (1) (SPBS704AO)

3/8" Drive Dual 80® Technology Standard Handle Locking Flex-Head Ratchet (1) (FX80A)

4 pc Instinct® Soft Grip Miniature Pick Set (1) (SGASA204CO)

https://sep.snapon.com/webclient/#/product/SEPPREMET?ref=Category Browsing

 

[f121]

The only tools I would buy snap on if I was starting out are the soft grip screwdrivers, the 18" pry bar and maybe a dual 80 3/8 ratchet.

Sockets I would either buy bluepoint or other quality Asian, heck when I started out Bluepoint was luxury. I still haven't broken any of my 3/8 sockets and I'm pretty sure my entire 3/8 drawer and road set cost less than my snapon 3/8 breaker bar and 3/8 flex ratchet.

 

[sweet victory]

Here's my advice...


Only buy off the truck what you cannot find at a reasonable savings on ebay. I personally only purchase new/lightly used listings. Things like a SO coolant vacuum filler rarely show up. This is an awesome time saving tool and I would highly recommend it. Buying on ebay is only worth it if you're paying less than half of the truck price since promos usually give you the corresponding Metric/SAE set for ratchet for free.



Also...there is nothing wrong utilizing credit available to you if you can treat it like a tool, and not a crutch. For instance, I wanted an 84" epiq with all of the bells and whistles. I financed thru SO credit and instantly received a $5k rebate. (Purchased during show to receive thousands in additional savings) I then shopped around for loans that would provide the lowest interest rate. I ended up using a money market account as collateral to get a share secured loan through my credit union. I saved $9000+ in interest and will have the box paid off in less than half the time. Truck accounts are interest free, so when you factor in things like the cost of money or how much you want to keep liquid, it's definitely a tool worth using to help making large purchases manageable.

 

[Shane6377]

This is what's in the set!

SEP Premium All Metric Set
SKU: SEPPREMET List Price: $5,345.00

6 pc 3/8" Drive Adaptor/Extension Set (1) (206EAU)

Wire Stripper/Cutter, (AWG 10–20), 6" (Blue-Point[emoji768]) (1) (PWC6)

1/4" Drive 6" Knurled Extension (1) (TMXK60)

12 pc Combination Drive TORX[emoji768] Bit Standard Socket Set (T8–T55, GM[emoji768] style T47) (1) (212EFTXY)

3/8" Drive 11" Knurled Friction Ball Extension (1) (FXK11)

12pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive[emoji768] Shallow Socket Set (8–19 mm) (1) (212FSMY)

12 pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive[emoji768] Deep Socket Set (8–19 mm) (1) (212SFSMY)

7 pc 3/8" Drive Metric Hex Bit Standard Socket Set (4–10 mm) (1) (207EFAMY)

17 pc 1/4" Drive Metric 6-Point Starter Socket Set (1) (117TMM)

10 pc 12-Point Metric Flank Drive[emoji768] Plus Standard Combination Wrench Set (10–19 mm) (1) (SOEXM710)

17 pc 1/2" Drive 6-Point Metric General Service Socket Set (1) (317AMMPC)

Black 7-5/8" Rigid Carbon Scraper (1) (CSA8C)

Single Bevel Maple Handle Putty Knife (Blue-Point[emoji768]) (1) (PK23A)

24 oz Ball Peen Dead Blow Soft Grip Hammer (1) (HBBD24)

Ratcheting Soft Grip Standard Orange Screwdriver (1) (SGDMRC44BO)

Socket, Spark Plug, Standard, Retention, 5/8", 6-Point (1) (S9706KRA)

Pliers, Locking, Curved Jaw with cutter, 10" long (1) (LP10WR)

6 pc Combination Instinct[emoji768] Soft Grip Screwdriver Set (1) (SGDX60BO)

Set, Cutters/Pliers, 4 pc (1) (PL400B)

1/4" Drive 6-13/16" Instinct[emoji768] Soft Grip Standard Shank Driver (1) (SGT4BR)

3/8" Drive Dual 80[emoji768] Technology Standard Handle Ratchet (1) (F80)

12 pc 1/4" Drive 6-Point Metric Flank Drive[emoji768] Deep Socket Set (5–15 mm) (1) (112STMMY)

Soft Grip Radiator Hose Pick (1) (SGA173BR)

11 pc Punch and Chisel Set (1) (PPC710BK)

1/2" Drive TechAngle[emoji768] Flex-Head Torque Wrench (12.5–250 ft-lb) (1) (ATECH3FR250B)

Needle Nose Pliers, 8" (1) (97ACF)4 pc Striking Prybar Set (1) (SPBS704AO)

3/8" Drive Dual 80[emoji768] Technology Standard Handle Locking Flex-Head Ratchet (1) (FX80A)

4 pc Instinct[emoji768] Soft Grip Miniature Pick Set (1) (SGASA204CO)

https://sep.snapon.com/webclient/#/product/SEPPREMET?ref=Category Browsing

Seems like a long list but after a quick comparison there's no way I would buy the Snap On set. Good tools no doubt but way better value to be had.

Even at your student discount of 50% ($2672.50) you could easily get equivalent alternatives for every tool on this list for about half. I didn't even shop deals or sales... just full retail from Amazon, HJE, KC Tool and a couple other online retailers.

That would leave you with money to purchase the other things you'll need... like impact drivers, 3/8" torque wrench, impact sockets and SAE tools if you get into anything other than automotive. Don't forget your toolbox [emoji6]


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[BDT/NWMN]

I'd buy ratchets, screwdrivers, and 1/4" drive sockets, and torx sockets. And talon pliers. Those things I think are clearly superior, and worth the snap-on premium, especially at student discount. The rest of the stuff, I'd look at other tool brands in addition to Snap-on. Then decide if the SO are what you want.

In the metric set Wamsutta and Hiball referenced above, there are several things I definitely would not pay the SO premium for. Pry bars, vise grips, wire strippers, 1/2" drive socket stuff, torque wrench, punches and chisels, carbon scraper, torque wrench, putty knife are all things that SO makes nothing special, but the price is several times what others charge. I have the SO torque wrench, pry bars, the 1/2" drive, the punches and chisels, and the scrapers, so this is not a random thought, but based on usage. I have also owned the vise grips and electrical strippers but don't now because there's others I prefer, and those wore out.

The 3/8" drive stuff, I like the SO, but I prefer Proto. Nothing wrong with the SO, just my preference. Same with the 1/2". I own both, again, so this is from experience.

However, I agree if you just want to buy a set and be done with it, that would be the most logical one.

I would pretty much clone Dave's suggestions; and add a 44" Generation II HF tool cabinet to keep it safe and organized.

 

[Max]

Before I bought a SO box (even at half price) I’d look at Lista. Lista makes great stuff - US made, super heavy duty weight allowed per drawer and box, great slides, etc. They are really first class boxes, and you can even specify exactly how deep you want each drawer.

Max

 

[chrismenke]

Gearwrench or similar for all the other sockets, ratchet wrenches, and whatever else.. you can get a complete 1/4’’ and 3/8” socket set with ratchets for like $110 - and yes pros you Gearwrench - dont pretend you dont.

I've had many Snap On wrench sets, and only one GearWrench set, so my sample pool is small, but my GearWrench metric ratcheting wrenches ****. The open ends seem to magically expand just enough to slip and round every fastener they touch. Never have I had an issue with a Snap On wrench. Period.

Also, try walking into a retailer and warranting a whole GearWrench set with "hey, none of these seem like good wrenches, they all seem to slip on fasteners, please exchange."

Can't comment on their other offerings.

 

[MadMark]

Lets make a short list of the bullet proof Snap On Stuff:

1) Flare Nut Wrench set. (Most say they don't round off fittings)
2) 3/8 dr. Metric Hex bit socket set. (Allen key sockets)
3) 3/8 Drive Torx Socket set (get the set with the stronger gold "removal" bits)
4) Metric Universal Socket Set (3/8 drive add 1/4 drive if funds permit).
5) Tech angle torque wrench - in your most used drive size.

Those with experience please add to this list. Lets consolidate it to make it easy for him.

 

[Skin]

Snap-On bit sockets aren't worth it in my experience. Just get VIM for practically 1/8th of the cost (its one of the most grossly overpriced products SO sells). The gold torx bits don't fit well (often have to hammer them in to prevent cam-out) and the rest are just nothing special. A lot of guys use the Taiwan rebrands from the likes of MAC and Cornwell and literally have zero complaints. Cornwell in particular sells a huge 84pc master set for about 3 bills, less on promo.

Milwaukee screwdrivers - I’m no authority on screwdrivers, but the Milwaukee’s are nice, and they are for turning screws - lets be realistic. The demolition drivers are great.

Channellock pliers are cheap and well respected .. nobody can say they aren’t worth the money. Yes you can spend $50 a pair on knipex but its really not necessary.

For phillips drivers the ACR tips do make a difference. I really like my SO set but there are alternatives. I also like my Vessels. If you're going to get 1 set for pro use I wouldn't just buy whatever, at least for phillips. Flats, who cares. They get used for prying and wedging more than turning screws.

I do think Snap-On makes some excellent pliers. The extra long needle nose and slip joints are stand outs. I also think Cobras are worth the premium over Channellock. The anti-pinch design of the handles is worth it to me alone then factor in that they have a better tooth profile and are just far easier to adjust properly. Having used both the Cobras grip like locking pliers while Channel would need a separate pair of locking pliers crushing the handles together to grip as well.

 

[ngk22r]

Lol - this is gonna hurt to say this, but I’m trying to be objective here..
I’m not a pro mechanic - BUT if i was - MAYBE i would buy snap on ratchets if it was like an incredible deal. The reason being - mechanics love them, I’m sure they “feel” better than some others, and at a steep discount i can see those being worth it. Ratchets tend not to get lost, especially if you only have a few. They are the only thing with moving parts involved, and i can see “appreciating” the quality. (I guess).. MAYBE i would also buy a set of standard combo wrenches. They are the “most used” type of wrench, and your not killing off a sibling to try and afford them. I cant tell you how they compare to like the 84 tooth or 120 Gearwrench ratchets, cause those are pretty nice and come in that $110 set i was talking about.

Sockets - no
Screwdrivers - no
Pliers - **** no

Gearwrench or similar for all the other sockets, ratchet wrenches, and whatever else.. you can get a complete 1/4’’ and 3/8” socket set with ratchets for like $110 - and yes pros you Gearwrench - dont pretend you dont. Sunex is a great source for impact stuff.

Milwaukee screwdrivers - I’m no authority on screwdrivers, but the Milwaukee’s are nice, and they are for turning screws - lets be realistic. The demolition drivers are great.

Channellock pliers are cheap and well respected .. nobody can say they aren’t worth the money. Yes you can spend $50 a pair on knipex but its really not necessary.

If you could only buy two types of tools from Snap On it goes to ratchets and their Flank Drive Plus wrenches.

If you could buy two more then it would be the pliers (your common use pliers) and screw drivers (you buy one set and your done, I have the hard handle model).

 

[plinker]

Also...there is nothing wrong utilizing credit available to you if you can treat it like a tool, and not a crutch. For instance, I wanted an 84" epiq with all of the bells and whistles. I financed thru SO credit and instantly received a $5k rebate. (Purchased during show to receive thousands in additional savings) I then shopped around for loans that would provide the lowest interest rate. I ended up using a money market account as collateral to get a share secured loan through my credit union. I saved $9000+ in interest and will have the box paid off in less than half the time. Truck accounts are interest free, so when you factor in things like the cost of money or how much you want to keep liquid, it's definitely a tool worth using to help making large purchases manageable.

Nothing wrong with making truck credit work for you. But you have to be smart about it and not go overboard (like many have and do). It's about like having a rewards credit card and paying it off monthly. It's nice to have them pay you instead of the other way around.

 

[Shane6377]

If you could only buy two types of tools from Snap On it goes to ratchets and their Flank Drive Plus wrenches.



If you could buy two more then it would be the pliers (your common use pliers) and screw drivers (you buy one set and your done, I have the hard handle model).

1. Ratchets
2. ???

Snap On Flank Drive Plus wrenches are good but nothing special IMO. Wright Grip are equal/better for much less. HJE has a set of 7-19mm for $114.25.

Pliers? Not only are Snap On overpriced but they aren't as good as alternatives IMO. Wilde pliers are my favorite... Klein's for diagonal cutters and wire strippers. I'd take Wilde or Klein pliers over SO even if they cost the same. Channellock are also good quality and much better value than SO.

Screwdrivers are subjective because of handle preferences. Snap On screwdrivers are good but I prefer Witte Maxxpro Plus for much less.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[ngk22r]

1. Ratchets
2. ???

Snap On Flank Drive Plus wrenches are good but nothing special IMO. Wright Grip are equal/better for much less. HJE has a set of 7-19mm for $114.25.

Pliers? Not only are Snap On overpriced but they aren't as good as alternatives IMO. Wilde pliers are my favorite... Klein's for diagonal cutters and wire strippers. I'd take Wilde or Klein pliers over SO even if they cost the same. Channellock are also good quality and much better value than SO.

Screwdrivers are subjective because of handle preferences. Snap On screwdrivers are good but I prefer Witte Maxxpro Plus for much less.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

I work on cars for a living and when doing alignments alone is where the Flank Drive plus wrenches shine, I have even saved money because I do not need line wrenches for the fact the the FDP bites in and is able to losen a power steering line without rounding out.

Pliers I bought when there was a deal and the talon grips are excellent pliers and the other ones I bought. Not over priced in my book since I have not had to warranty then yet and it has been a long time.

Screwdrivers are a personal preference...

My quick simple list was where to focus on purchasing the Snap On must haves.

 

[plinker]

1. Ratchets
2. ???

Snap On Flank Drive Plus wrenches are good but nothing special IMO. Wright Grip are equal/better for much less. HJE has a set of 7-19mm for $114.25.

Pliers? Not only are Snap On overpriced but they aren't as good as alternatives IMO. Wilde pliers are my favorite... Klein's for diagonal cutters and wire strippers. I'd take Wilde or Klein pliers over SO even if they cost the same. Channellock are also good quality and much better value than SO.

Screwdrivers are subjective because of handle preferences. Snap On screwdrivers are good but I prefer Witte Maxxpro Plus for much less.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

The 8" slip joint pliers (47CF) and the 6" needle nose (96CF) are the best ones available to buy per many on here, including myself. Not saying they are comparable to Channelock due to cost, but they are the best I've used for gripping. I have a lot of Channelock & Klien pliers FWIW.

If I was buying new screwdrivers, I would check into Witte as well, they seem to be a good value and hold up well from what I've seen.

 

[Yarpo]

Lots of good advice here, I would say DONT go overboard, tho you certainly can if you do so wisely as Sweet Victory points out. I will tell you what I rolled into the shop with just recently. Three weeks ago actually. (Not a new tech, but new in the sense that I'm at a shop this time and working on European cars, not firetrucks, so I needed to bring ALL metric tools, and all the standard **** I got is at home) My last job was mobile and I worked along side the boss most the time, so we used all his tools for the most part, so I didn't acquire a pool of snap on stuff.

This post will be long but it'll outline what I've made work as a new auto tech. You certainly DON'T need a bunch of snap on stuff to wrench, and even less of it if you're unsure or just to get started.

My list is pretty close to what others stated. As far as Snap on stuff I rolled in with

• two snap on ratchets (1/4" regular / 3/8" flex)
• three piece Snap on pliers set
• and my boss gave me
  • 1/4" and 3/8" universal swivel
• Snap on mini pick sit
• mini torx screwdrivers

That was it for Snap on. I wish I would have gotten and I still may, 1/2 regular Snap on Ratchet, as the ones I have is an older Gearwrench quick release, lower tooth count (48 or 60?) and my 3/8th is a Carlyle comfort grip. My gearwrench 4 piece 84T set is what all my flex ratchets are besides the one extra Snap On one I have, and they have been excellent. Very enjoyable to use, tho I do reach for the Snap Ons give the opportunity. Not sure why....just seem to gravitate towards my hand.

I wish I would have gotten snap on long pattern wrenches, but at the end of the day it doesn't matter because I've used mine so little. I bought Wright Wright Grip wrenches and they're very nice, used my 11mm a bunch today (Break lines on a merc) but the length kind of bugs me. With a student discount or solid eBay discount, Id consider upgrading but again, I have hardly used mine. Other wrenches I rolled in with - GW XL double box, ratchet/regular on each side, been my favorite for breaking things lose, the leverage is amazing. Also grabbed the Carlyle 5PC XL Double Box Flex Ratcheting Wrench. The metric flex I've only just recently acquired but I've already used them a few times in the last two days. I was borrowing my coworkers matco a fair amount before buying these so I think quality flex wrenches are worth a look, certainly.

As far as sockets and extensions go, my sockets are all Gearwrench and Grey Pneumatic, and they've seen a LOT of use, not a single complaint out of them. Chrome Extensions are all Gearwrench, tho I have some old off brand Impact extensions, no complaints out of either. For power tools I had/have all Milwaukee stuff, again not a single complaint and significantly cheaper than Snap on. Plus, every time my coworkers snap on gun fails to remove something I just give them mine, trying to convert them as they where already on the fence about upgrading.

Screwdrivers and prybars, I've used mine a fair amount more than I thought I would, I'd go Snap On, tho I'm currently using a set from Gearwrench (I think same as Carlyle, different handle shape) and they've also been very good to me, so while I'd LIKE to upgrade, meh. I'd say use your judgement here, I dont know anything about motorcycles, probably not many Phillips or flats. Maybe skip that unless you really want nice screwdrivers, as the instincts certainly are my favorite My prybars are wilde made craftsman, no complaints. Its a metal stick afterall.

Pliers, I know I touched on it above, but the three piece set with the tray is excellent. The three positon slip joint pliers is amazing and I'm a hose clamp machine with these things. Needle nose are top notch and my favorite needlenose I own. Sidecutters are meh, but they're side cutters, sharp and cut everything. I snipped brake lines today....hope that's not a no no

This post got awfully long....so other things I'd recommend - VIM for bit sockets if you dont wanna go Snap On. Oh, and find good hammers, I ******* use mine on everything. Mine are ****** so I won't recommend them, as in they came from Harbor Freight and cost me like, 15 dollars, but they've been fine (so far, but I'm hesitant to say they'll last long)

 

[ChrisLS8]

Nothing wrong with making truck credit work for you. But you have to be smart about it and not go overboard (like many have and do). It's about like having a rewards credit card and paying it off monthly. It's nice to have them pay you instead of the other way around.

Yep, I have two rewards cards I use constantly. One is 1.5 on anything and the other is 4% for dining and entertainment. I usually just use em and pay em right off then use the rewards after a few months to pay off part of that months balance. Always look for ways to exploit free money

 

[oldldh]

The Gorilla in the room --- that will not go away...

You are, for all practical reasons, opening a small business...

Treat it like a small business, and remember, it's all about cash flow...

If you have too much cash flowing into the SnapOn folks' pocket, that means that someone else is not going to get what they need...

Caution is really good way to do business...

 

[Shane6377]

I work on cars for a living and when doing alignments alone is where the Flank Drive plus wrenches shine, I have even saved money because I do not need line wrenches for the fact the the FDP bites in and is able to losen a power steering line without rounding out.

[\QUOTE]


That's exactly what the Wright Grip wrenches do... and the Proto Anti-slip Design ASD, MAC Knucklesaver and many others. That's why I made the comment that the FDP is nothing special to me.



Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Joe Mamma]

I work on cars for a living and when doing alignments alone is where the Flank Drive plus wrenches shine, I have even saved money because I do not need line wrenches for the fact the the FDP bites in and is able to losen a power steering line without rounding out.

That's exactly what the Wright Grip wrenches do... and the Proto Anti-slip Design ASD, MAC Knucklesaver and many others. That's why I made the comment that the FDP is nothing special to me.

From what I have seen, the Snap-On wrenches are longer and lighter than the others. I would be happy to be proven wrong.

Joe Mamma

 

[ngk22r]

I work on cars for a living and when doing alignments alone is where the Flank Drive plus wrenches shine, I have even saved money because I do not need line wrenches for the fact the the FDP bites in and is able to losen a power steering line without rounding out.

[\QUOTE]


That's exactly what the Wright Grip wrenches do... and the Proto Anti-slip Design ASD, MAC Knucklesaver and many others. That's why I made the comment that the FDP is nothing special to me.



Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

Except that the Proto/Knuckle Saver wrenches slipped and the FDP didn’t...

The Wright looks similar to the Matco (and the matco slipped and rounded the toe adjuster lock nut and then got stuck on the corners instead of staying on the face)

 

[Yarpo]

Except that the Proto/Knuckle Saver wrenches slipped and the FDP didn’t...

The Wright looks similar to the Matco (and the matco slipped and rounded the toe adjuster lock nut and then got stuck on the corners instead of staying on the face)

The wright perform just as well as the Snap on ones, at least in this test

The open ends are very very good, but the wrenches are shorter which is my only ever so slight complaint, and the beams fatter (Tho this is a pro in wrights favor depending on who you ask)

 

[ngk22r]

The wright perform just as well as the Snap on ones, at least in this test

The open ends are very very good, but the wrenches are shorter which is my only ever so slight complaint, and the beams fatter (Tho this is a pro in wrights favor depending on who you ask)

I was mistaken about the wright then, they also have teeth on them. The pictures I have seen do not show the teeth and looks like a matco wrench.

 

[Skin]

ASD doesn't work unless something has changed drastically. It loads the wrench fronts so the open ends are prone to spreading. The only open ends I tested that gripped superbly were FD+ and Matco/Armstrong/Gearwrench with the notches at the back. Williams Supercombos should also be excellent since its FD+ without the teeth. No experience with WrightGrip/2.0.


Of course its also worth mentioning that there are a number of versions coming out of Taiwan now too like the Infar (Carlyle) and Kabo which are employing notches and/or teeth.

If I was conscious about money, wanted quality, and didn't care overly about USA COO i'd get the Carlyle long sets on sale no question. I think they big metric set in the roll drops as low as $120.

 

[kctyphoon]

I’m actually surprised at how this thread has gone. I swear a couple years ago it felt like threads were doing nothing but saying SPEND SPEND SPEND.

Pretty sure you can boil everything down to this. The most expensive brands in tools is an option, not a requirement. Someone just starting out doesn’t NEED to buy the same tools as a guy thats been doing this for 20 years. If someone says its a waste of money to buy twice - #1 - show me a mechanic that DOESNT have 3 of everything. #2- spending $100 on a tool (say a socket set) that worked just fine for years paid for itself time and time again. If you decide you WANT to upgrade later and have the money to do so - knock yourself out - you earned it.

I’m betting you have a list of tools you need to get. If you wanna post that list, guys will be more than willing to give you suggestions if you want some.

 

[unslow1]

Honestly I would recommend buying little to nothing. Most of the guys I know that went through school to become a mechanic only stayed in a shop less than a year. I would include myself in that. A couple are still doing it full-time but the ones that aren't and spent a lot are sorry they spent a lot of money on tools. You also don't want to start a career way in debt. Just last year a friend of mine had a son graduate tech school. His son was mad when his dad insisted he didn't buy the big toolbox and tools. My friend put together a box and tools from his stuff. I helped him out with a few. Sure enough 10 months later out of the industry and got a government job. I started out with mostly Craftsman. Now I also have a lot of truck brands but a lot of guys I know still use the older Craftsman stuff.


The Flatrate Master on Youtube has several videos on this topic.

 

[kctyphoon]

^ - i know more than a few people that have college degrees and are doing labor jobs instead.. its almost rare these days (esp for labor related jobs) to find people doing what they spent money on an education for. The “idea” of being a mechanic is often much more attractive than actually being one - and thats true for MANY career choices.

These trade schools are “for profit” schools. You are income to them. Thats it. It doesn’t mean there isn’t great people working there, but there is a business model, and it is “Get people to spend money”. Students loans are given to anybody for any reason these days. That’s WHY schools got so expensive. Believe me, if that weren’t the case, there would not be classes on “identifying social injustice” and ******** like that - cause if money wasnt just being handed out, people wouldn’t waste it on **** like that. Dont even get me started. We’ll let you borrow money - and you can take anything you want in school - so when you graduate with a major in lesbian dance theory, we dont care if you cant find a job - but you still owe us the money back. Student loans should be evaluated on a case by case basis - just like a mortgage. You wanna borrow money to become a computer engineer - no problem, cause thats a safe bet that you’ll be able to pay it back. You wanna borrow money and major in “historical art appreciation” - you can find someone else to float that loan, cause last we checked theres about ZERO jobs available for that.

Snap On doesn’t care what you do with your future. Their goal in having a presence in these schools is simple. Its “we have a huge pool of young people willing to take out student loans that aren’t concerned the bill is gonna come, and are convinced that they will all have good paying jobs that so it wont be a problem - and the best part is the money is being given to them BY SOMEONE ELSE , they aren’t borrowing from us - there is NO RISK TO US of not getting paid back - so lets give them an INCENTIVE to spend as much of that money as possible WITH US”. Its a ******* sales pitch - and a good one. “Invest in your future, tools that will last you a lifetime - you’ll NEVER get a discount this good again in your life”. So for a “limited time only, and the clock is ticking” - “act now before its gone”. Its the same thing as a ****** infomercial at 2am except its not “for the first 100 callers”. Its a predatory practice thats gone on for years, and will continue to go on - that will ultimately only benefit a small percentage of the people that bought into it.

Lets put it this way - theres a high probability many people wont wind up in the carrer they think they will when they are still in school. Would you recommend that THEY buy the most expensive things? When you get older, and you realize you can take a test, get a city job for sanitation that has great benefits, great pay, great vacation benefits, and a retirement package - suddenly laying on your back doesn’t seem so attractive anymore. I kick myself for not becoming a cop when i could have, cause you grow up seeing on TV that cops dont make a lot of money - and NOTHING can be further from the truth, not to mention I’d be about 2 years away from retirement cause back then it was 20 years and done, and I’m only 42.

My father lives in a house probably worth about 8 or $900,000 in Staten Island. His neighbor on one side is a cop, the other side is a famous crime bosses daughter. The guy across the street made $145,000 last year working for sanitation (i know cause my father looked up his income online cause its public info lol) , and another guy works for the power company.

Save money - thats best advice you’ll ever be given. Even if its just a little bit every week, over time it adds up. You can build a tool collection and build a bank account at the same time. It doesn’t have to be one or the other.

 

[Shane6377]

Based on national stats, auto mechanics make between $29,000 and $53,000 a year with the average being $39,000.

Just food for thought before you spend a lot on tools.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Shane6377]

The wright perform just as well as the Snap on ones, at least in this test

The open ends are very very good, but the wrenches are shorter which is my only ever so slight complaint, and the beams fatter (Tho this is a pro in wrights favor depending on who you ask)

Wrights are shorter. But with the money you save you can get a gym membership and not need a long wrench to turn a fastener. [emoji23]

Seriously though... we're talking tools coming out of school. You don't need long pattern wrenches. You don't know that you'll stay in the industry. You will have a lot of other expenses.

If you're going to buy Snap On tools at least get them off of eBay for cheap from other students who bought the Snap On package and need to pay student loans or rent.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Briancapecoral]

Hello all. I have an opportunity to buy snap-on tools from the student excellence program. Can anyone recommend what tool set to buy. I will be working on Japanese motorcycles and late model Asian vehicles mostly. I was considering the SEP Premium All Metric Set. Should I consider something else and why? Anything else that would be nice to have as an entry level tech? I can't post the link yet but google 'snap on student excellence program" and you will get the link to the catalog. Thanks

My son is currently in school and I’m using this discount to buy him tools. You should get 2 emails a week, Tue has a weekly deal and Fri a daily deal. I’ve seen the Fri deal as much as 65% off. Last week it was $180 for a complete set of deep and shallow 3/8 sockets, list was around $530. They also have a Super Deals section on website that changes slowly. I got him a couple ratchets for under $100 in super deals and not any more than what I have paid for SK. They were more than 50% of list.

I’m not a mechanic so wouldn’t, or shouldn’t , try to tell you what tools you will need. I just enjoy working on my cars as a hobby.

 

[Hiball]

My son is currently in school and I’m using this discount to buy him tools. You should get 2 emails a week, Tue has a weekly deal and Fri a daily deal. I’ve seen the Fri deal as much as 65% off. Last week it was $180 for a complete set of deep and shallow 3/8 sockets, list was around $530. They also have a Super Deals section on website that changes slowly. I got him a couple ratchets for under $100 in super deals and not any more than what I have paid for SK. They were more than 50% of list.

I’m not a mechanic so wouldn’t, or shouldn’t , try to tell you what tools you will need. I just enjoy working on my cars as a hobby.

Phew.... Thank goodness for Dear old Dad, otherwise your son would have ruined his financial future because he touched a SO tool.

Obviously there is a high turnover rate of mechanics, especially early on in thre career and probably a fair share of mid life changes to boot. I'd wager the balloons and streamers falling from the ceiling wears off fairly quickly for most. I have a buddy who did the auto tech school, got a job right out of school and while he liked the work, the pay right off the bat sucked. What did he do? Opened his own garage and now puts in 60+ hours a week, it doesn't sound like fun for me, but anybody who has ran there own business knows that comes with the territory sometimes. I know he has been thinking about hiring another employee, but that comes with its own problems also.

I'm a big fan of saving for your future, I would never reccomend that a New Student/Tech take on a great load of debt right off the bat. I've also been around here long enough to know how GJ can take a simple question and turn a $2700 figure into 10's of thousands of dollars and a ruined future just to fit there narrative. Truthfully... The OP hasn't been back since he posed the question, and it seems these threads pop up on occasion with No feedback from day 1 from the OP.. Suspicious to say the least considering the traction they generate.

Before the Anti-Snap on crowd strings me up for a differing of opinion, let me first say... There is nothing wrong with going with a cheaper brand, Tekton, GW or even HF if that was what the OP wanted. Unfortunately... That wasn't what the OP asked, he specifically asked about SO and a particular set. I'm going to assume he understands the cost and my understanding is that those SEP sets need to be paid up front, No tool truck payments etc. Thus I'm also going to assume he has a viable way to pay for the tools up front or maybe a parent investing in there child. It's unfair to assume the OP's financial prowlness based of the brand of tool he wishes to buy. In reality, buying a cheaper set of tools isn't going to make him a financial genius, if the OP isnt financially disciplined in today's marketplace, the $4 energy drinks, fast food on every corner and New IPhone coming out every month will make Snap on tools look like a A+++ Investment Lol.

Food for thought... If you come back OP, take in all the advice and apply it to your situation. FWIW Snap on isn't the only school offering student discounts. There are very few mechanics who only cater to one brand, and if you find someone pushing only one brand, be suspicious.

 

[ngk22r]

Phew.... Thank goodness for Dear old Dad, otherwise your son would have ruined his financial future because he touched a SO tool.

Obviously there is a high turnover rate of mechanics, especially early on in thre career and probably a fair share of mid life changes to boot. I'd wager the balloons and streamers falling from the ceiling wears off fairly quickly for most. I have a buddy who did the auto tech school, got a job right out of school and while he liked the work, the pay right off the bat sucked. What did he do? Opened his own garage and now puts in 60+ hours a week, it doesn't sound like fun for me, but anybody who has ran there own business knows that comes with the territory sometimes. I know he has been thinking about hiring another employee, but that comes with its own problems also.

I'm a big fan of saving for your future, I would never reccomend that a New Student/Tech take on a great load of debt right off the bat. I've also been around here long enough to know how GJ can take a simple question and turn a $2700 figure into 10's of thousands of dollars and a ruined future just to fit there narrative. Truthfully... The OP hasn't been back since he posed the question, and it seems these threads pop up on occasion with No feedback from day 1 from the OP.. Suspicious to say the least considering the traction they generate.

Before the Anti-Snap on crowd strings me up for a differing of opinion, let me first say... There is nothing wrong with going with a cheaper brand, Tekton, GW or even HF if that was what the OP wanted. Unfortunately... That wasn't what the OP asked, he specifically asked about SO and a particular set. I'm going to assume he understands the cost and my understanding is that those SEP sets need to be paid up front, No tool truck payments etc. Thus I'm also going to assume he has a viable way to pay for the tools up front or maybe a parent investing in there child. It's unfair to assume the OP's financial prowlness based of the brand of tool he wishes to buy. In reality, buying a cheaper set of tools isn't going to make him a financial genius, if the OP isnt financially disciplined in today's marketplace, the $4 energy drinks, fast food on every corner and New IPhone coming out every month will make Snap on tools look like a A+++ Investment Lol.

Food for thought... If you come back OP, take in all the advice and apply it to your situation. FWIW Snap on isn't the only school offering student discounts. There are very few mechanics who only cater to one brand, and if you find someone pushing only one brand, be suspicious.

This sums it up very well.