Wrench Finish Question

[TheMonge23]

Not sure how long it's been going on (seems to be a fairly recent trend to me) but is there any functional benefit to the black finish combo wrenches that I have seen around? Are they generally more durable or something? I'm guessing its an aesthetics thing but figured I'd ask.

example if you need one:
http://www.protoindustrial.com/en/i...to®-Black-Finish-Combination-Wrench---Metric/

 

[In The Doghouse]

A fad.

 

[devoncoolman]

Black is in now. Black typically was just non chrome people bought because they were cheaper. Some people like industrial finish. But what ***** is they rust. So these are an alternative

 

[retrobuilder]

Unless you store these tools in an air conditioned garage or really keep care with a periodic corrosion resistant coating or oil the black oxide will tend to oxidize over time. Similar to impact drivers.

 

[devoncoolman]

Not really sure if they are black chrome or actualy black oxide finish. Hard to tell.

 

[wrh3]

There are some industries/jobs that don't allow chrome since it could get damaged and flake off:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=129453

 

[Loscaldazar]

Black Chrome, Black oxide and black phosphate are all different finish types. Black phosphate is actually very durable and rust resistant. Black oxide not so much.