Widest span of 1/4” sockets

[wesst]

I am looking at upgrading my 1/4” drive socket set as I pass my current set to my son. I tend to find most sets go to 9/16”, however I am curious as if anyone knows of a brand that offers 1/4” drive up to 1” or so.

Not trying to dispute the fact that I should be going to a larger size drive above 9/16, but rather trying to see if sizes larger than 9/16” exist.

Thank you in advance for any input or suggestions you may offer.

 

[bob15]

I've seen and have sockets up to 5/8".

 

[scubadoober]

Just get a 3/8" drive in a 1/4" ratchet. Basically all of the major tool manufacturers make them. There is only so much torsional strength in that little 1/4" stock. Especially if it is a quick release.

 

[dutchgray]

Just get a 3/8" drive in a 1/4" ratchet. Basically all of the major tool manufacturers make them. There is only so much torsional strength in that little 1/4" stock. Especially if it is a quick release.

Plus there really isn't a size advantage in 1/4" drive sockets over 1/2" or so, unless your 1/4" sockets are really thin wall, like Bonney 12 pt ones.

 

[Tallpilot]

Plus there really isn't a size advantage in 1/4" drive sockets over 1/2" or so, unless your 1/4" sockets are really thin wall, like Bonney 12 pt ones.

Note sure I'd agree with that...the ID/OD may be the same but the height is lower plus the height of the drive tool is smaller. Those few mm might be the difference you need for it to fit.

 

[Mr_B]

^ +1 on that
Main reason I go up to 15mm in 1/4 is due to socket height and tool smaller size making some jobs far easier/quicker ...

 

[M6erfan]

SK makes 1/4" drive sockets in 5/8" & 16mm. Those sizes are the largest I'm aware of in 1/4" drive

 

[crewchief888]

for most automotive i use 1/4" dr , 7mm, 10mm, 13mm.
anything larger i go to 3/8" dr.

i work on const eq, i use mainly 3/8" dr up to 1"

not everything i do needs a 2" wrench and a 16lb sledgehammer...

but i have those too, just in case

 

[dutchgray]

Note sure I'd agree with that...the ID/OD may be the same but the height is lower plus the height of the drive tool is smaller. Those few mm might be the difference you need for it to fit.

Except I have Koken Z-EAL sockets, the 3/8" drive is shallower than any of my other 1/4" sockets, except the 1/4" Koken Z-EAL ones which are tiny, the 3/8 in 1/4 body ratchets are no taller either, I maintain you dont need 1/4 drive sockets beyond what comes in the standard sets, (I have up to 14mm) but I rarely use above 10mm.

 

[thatguysb]

Quick post, gearwrench 1/4 set covers till 15MM and 9/16. Thats the most complete budget set i have came across.

 

[77Mini]

Just get a 3/8" drive in a 1/4" ratchet. Basically all of the major tool manufacturers make them.

This might be the best option if you are looking for larger sockets used on a 1/4" ratchet.

 

[bmwrd0]

I have an old Armstrong set that goes to 11/16 but that and the 5/8 are marked special.

 

[jumbojak]

Quick post, gearwrench 1/4 set covers till 15MM and 9/16. Thats the most complete budget set i have came across.

I think my Carlyle sets have the same range. I know there's a 9/16.

 

[thatguysb]

truthfully speaking i only used the 14mm 9/16 once in the past 3 years or so, was to turn in some bellhousing bolts in a nissan note, couldnt fit a 3/8 ratchet or a wrench. thats about it. Im sure some people would use them alot, but over 10mm i step up to 3/8s, I am slowing starting to change that however.

 

[Fedwrench]

I have 1/4 drive shallow sockets up to 5/8 and 16 mm. They're one of those things where it's better to have them and not need them, than to need them & not have them. Although I've used mine a few times, I think the wide selection of fine toothed ratcheting wrenches coupled with 3/8 drive ratchets in 1/4 inch drive bodies can offer you more versatility. Additionally, today's ultra long 1/4 drive ratchets offer unmatched access. Hell, you can even get a stubby 1/2 drive ratchet from tone that isn't much bigger than a standard 1/4 drive ratchet.
What I would like to see are 1/4 drive spark plug sockets but, that's another thread.