Top 5 Socket Sets
- Best Accessories: DEWALT 168-Piece Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set
- Largest Set: DEWALT 172-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- Best Basic Set: Neiko 65-Piece Socket Set
- Best Quality: Craftsman 135-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- Best Labels: Stanley Black Chrome and Laser-Etched 69-Piece Socket Set
Full Answer
What socket wrench set should I buy?
When it comes to sockets and ratchets, you're always best to start with a good 3/8-inch drive set, and this comprehensive offering fits the bill for a very reasonable price. Swivel sockets are an absolute lifesaver in situations where you can't get a socket and ratchet in place in a straight line.
What are the best quality socket sets?
Types of Socket Sets
- Non-Impact Sockets. Non-impact socket sets are made up of sockets that are not designed for use with impact electric tools.
- Hex (6-Point) Sockets. Hex socket sets are the most common socket set on the market. ...
- Imperial Sockets. An Imperial socket set is a socket set that is intended for use on fasteners measured in SAE. ...
What is the best socket set to buy?
- BEST OVERALL: Sunex Tools 3/8 Inch Drive Impact Socket Set 51-Piece
- BEST VALUE: WORKPRO 39-Piece Socket Set
- UPGRADE PICK: Sunex 3580, 3/8 Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set
- BEST FOR SPARK PLUGS: Sunex 8845 3/8-Inch Drive Spark Plug Socket Set
- BEST FOR MECHANICS: Milwaukee 3/8 in. ...
- BEST TORX BIT SET: Neiko Master Torx Bit and External Torx Socket Set
What is the best socket tool set?
The Best Socket Set 1 EPAuto 1/4-Inch & 3/8-Inch Drive Socket Set. Our top choice and a great all-around socket set is the EPAuto 1/4-Inch &... 2 Dewalt DWMT73804 Drive Socket Set. Second on our list is this Dewalt DWMT73804 34-Piece Drive Socket Set. With only... 3 Craftsman 50230 Mechanics Tool ...
What is a socket wrench?
What to look for in a good wrench set?
How many Allen socket bits are in a Neiko socket set?
What are SAE sockets made of?
Why do chrome sockets have pin holes?
How many pieces are in a Dewalt case?
How many extensions does a pear head ratchet have?
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Which brand is the best for socket set?
Top 5 Socket SetsBest Accessories: DEWALT 168-Piece Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set.Largest Set: DEWALT 172-Piece Mechanics Tool Set.Best Basic Set: Neiko 65-Piece Socket Set.Best Quality: Craftsman 135-Piece Mechanics Tool Set.Best Labels: Stanley Black Chrome and Laser-Etched 69-Piece Socket Set.
What socket wrench should I buy?
While 12-point sockets are fine for most light work, choose six-point sockets for larger hardware or applications that demand serious torque. Six-point sockets are less likely to slip in this situation.
Which is better 6pt or 12pt sockets?
Answer: It's true that 12-point sockets are fine for most lightweight repairs, but heavy wrenching calls for a six-point socket. A six-point socket is much less likely to slip off a stubborn fastener or round over the corners. Here's why: (1) Six-point sockets have thicker walls, so they're less likely to flew.
Which type of socket is best?
For the best fit, choose a 6-point socket for a 6-point fastener and a 12-point socket for a 12-point fastener.
How do I choose a socket set?
When selecting a socket set, you should think about where you will be using it as well as what it must include. Instead, try to buy the socket set that will expand your tool collection in the best way, and concentrate on the size range of sockets included, both standard and deep lengths, in metric and imperial sizes.
How many teeth should a good ratchet have?
Fine, or high-tooth-count, ratchets range from about 72 teeth to 160 teeth.
Why would you use a 12 point socket?
The additional points make these sockets easier to connect with the heads of fasteners. This is ideal if you are trying to work on a fastener that is hard to see or you cannot see at all. 12 point sockets are also great for use in tight spaces as they allow you to connect to a fastener at more angles.
Are Gearwrench sockets good?
Gearwrench is among the best tools brand you can get in the market. The tools have become professionals' favorite because of their great performance, high quality, and budget-friendly price. Most of their tools are highly durable and exceptionally strong since they are constructed with chrome alloy steel.
What are 8 point sockets used for?
Proto® 8 Point Sockets are ideal for use on stubborn or damaged fasteners, and also on fasteners made from soft materials. The TorquePlus™ design is a high performance drive configuration which allows for quick and easy socket engagement to the fastener flats, not the corners.
Are Milwaukee socket sets good?
All in all I think this set is very good, very quality. I will probably keep this set on me just because I think the feel of the actual socket and the ratchet itself. I do wish the case that all of these come in was a little better designed. More compact and smaller would be good and I don't need a removable tray.
What are the 3 types of socket wrenches?
5 Types of Socket Wrenches#1) Ratcheting. Ratching is the most common type of socket wrench. ... #2) Flex Head. There are flex-head socket wrenches that have a swiveling head. ... #3) T-Handle. One of the most basic types of socket wrenches is the T-handle. ... #4) Nut Driver. Another type of socket wrench is nut driver. ... #5) Gearless.
Who makes the best open end wrenches?
Uphill Merchandise. Efficere 24-Piece Combination Wrench Set. ... Tekton. Tekton 30-Piece Combination Wrench Tool Set. ... Gearwrench. Gearwrench Ratcheting Wrench Set. ... Bulltools. Bulltools Swiveling and Ratcheting Wrench Set. ... SK Tools. SK Tools 15-Piece Wrench Set. ... Geardrive. Geardrive Nine-Piece Offset Wrench Collection. ... Grip. ... Gearwrench.
Should I buy metric or SAE sockets?
Typically, SAE sockets and wrenches are used on American-made cars, as mentioned previously, however, when it comes to working on imported cars (assuming you're in the USA) you'll most likely be looking for metric units of measurement.
What sockets are the most commonly used?
The most commonly used types are 8 mm, 10 mm and 14 mm sockets.
What size wrenches are most commonly used?
Most common are the 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and ½-inch ratchet drivers, but ¾-inch and 1-inch sets are available for heavy-duty work.
What size wrenches should I have?
To calculate the wrench size needed, you must first measure your bolt. Take the diameter of the bolt, and multiply by 1.5. This calculation and conversion factor is valid for either metric or standard bolt sizes. The resulting number will be the size of the wrench you need to adjust the bolt properly.
What size sockets are there?
sockets in sizes 9/16, 5/8, and 13/16 inch. Between them all, you’ll be able to
What is an impact wrench?
Impact wrenches are power tools that add extra "oomph" in the form of an extra burst of torque to turn the most stubborn nuts and bolts. These wrenches use sockets designed to handle the extra force of a power tool.
What size sockets does Sunex use?
With metric and deep metric sockets ranging from 10 mm to 19 mm each, and with SAE and deep SAE sockets rang ing from 5/16-inch to 3/4-inch, Sunex is confident that you’ll have the right tools for the job with their impact sockets—especially when you attach their complimentary 3-inch extension for those awkward, hard-to-reach jobs.
How do socket sets simplify the issue?
Many socket sets simplify the issue by including sockets in both measurement systems. The best color-code the sockets so you can find what you need at a glance.
How many pieces are in Sunex 3580 socket?
The Sunex 3580 3/8-Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set is truly a behemoth of a socket set, sporting 80 pieces including metric, deep, universal, and external star sockets, along with a variety of extensions.
How many sockets are there in Mulwark?
All in all, MulWark’s 34-piece socket set is a compact, complete, and competitively-priced addition to any amateur handyperson’s collection.
How many sockets are in a Stanley STMT71652?
For the hardware handler who wants it all, there’s only one set out there that combines the variety and quality of a higher-end collection with the affordability of a midrange set: the Stanley STMT71652 123 -Piece Socket Set. This crowd-pleaser comes loaded with 123 of the most useful tools, including over 70 sockets, more than 20 screwdriver bits, 2 ratchets, and a spinner handle.
What is a swivel socket?
Swivel sockets are an absolute lifesaver in situations where you can't get a socket and ratchet in place in a straight line. With a healthy mix of sizes in both standard and metric, this set ensures that you'll have an easier time on your next DIY project.
What size ratchets does Westward have?
This is another solid entry-level set that covers both standard and metric sizes, though it's a little more pricey due to the inclusion of both 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive ratchets. In terms of quality, Westward is definitely a step up from most of our budget-friendly offerings.
Do you need a socket set for nuts and bolts?
No matter the project, if it involves nuts and bolts, you need a socket set. Sure, wrenches can be handy, but really, how much energy and time do you feel like wasting? These socket sets range from bare-bones entry-level to professional grade, so no matter your skill level and budget, one of these kits will do the trick.
Does Craftsman have all the sockets?
Need all the sockets? No problem. This massive set from Craftsman includes every socket the brand makes in 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch drives, so if there's a bolt on your car that this set doesn't fit, then it's not a conventional bolt.
Do you need impact sockets for air tools?
If you're using air tools on your DIY projects, impact sockets are a must. Regular chrome sockets are not designed for the kinds of stresses involved in using impact tools, so a set like this is a must-have. This is a good, affordable option once again, but be warned — it does skip certain sizes.
Best Accessories: DEWALT 168-Piece Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set
This robust 168-piece kit from DEWALT comes with sockets, hex keys, screwdrivers, and other tools to help you tackle your DIY projects. The screwdriver handle and heads are stored in a miniature case in the lid of the main case. This case adds an extra layer of security to keep you from losing them.
Largest Set: DEWALT 172-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
This 172-piece socket set comes with a 72-tooth ratchet that requires just five degrees of movement to tighten nuts and bolts tucked away in compact areas. It also includes other useful tools, such as Allen wrenches for fastening hex screws and extension bars for tightening hard-to-reach bolts.
Best Basic Set: Neiko 65-Piece Socket Set
Constructed from drop-forged steel and coated in black phosphate, this socket set from Neiko is made to withstand a variety of intense work environments. Though the set only comes with 65 pieces for basic home improved projects, these pieces will last a lifetime.
Best Quality: Craftsman 135-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Constructed with a corrosion-resistant polish, this 135-piece socket set provides homeowners with long-lasting fastening tools. Each piece meets or exceeds standards set up by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Best Labels: Stanley Black Chrome and Laser-Etched 69-Piece Socket Set
This set’s 69 pieces are made from durable stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant black finish. Each tool has a silver or white size label on it. Its spot in the include case also features a raised size label, making identifying the right tool for the job easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pass-through socket is equipped with a hollow ratchet head that can pass through long, threaded bolts to loosen the attached nut.
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What is socket wrench?
Socket wrenches allow you to tighten and loosen fasteners with speed and ease, making them essential tools for automotive or maintenance work. Socket wrenches come in a variety of sizes, types, and finishes, but thankfully, you don’t have to build your tool collection by purchasing one socket at a time. Buying a set of socket wrenches will outfit ...
What is the best socket set?
The best socket set includes a wide variety of sockets—both in size and purpose. Or if you’re looking for the best performance for a specific task, you could opt for a specialty set, such a spark plug socket set. There are a lot of socket sets on the market, and they vary in price and quality.
How many sockets does a swivel joint have?
The set includes 3-inch and 6-inch extension bars and a universal swivel joint, along with 24 standard twelve-point sockets, divided into 12 SAE and 12 metric sockets. It also has 24 deep six-point sockets that are also divided into 12 SAE and 12 metric sockets, covering the most popular socket sizes.
How many sockets does a Steelhead 52 have?
The SteelHead 52-Piece Socket Set gives you a variety of options to choose from, and allows versatility as you work on different jobs. The set has both six- and twelve-point sockets, with all the six-point sockets being deep and all twelve-point sockets being of standard size. The chrome plating keeps the sockets safe from moisture, while the durable plastic case and the sturdy metal latches protect them while in transit.
What are Torx Plus bits?
Torx Plus bits have a thicker wall and are made for high-torque situations. However, if you are not working with Torx screws, these bits are not that useful. Keep this in mind when looking for a socket set.
What is SAE socket?
SAE sockets are simply a description of a sizing system and can include regular sockets, impact sockets, pass-through sockets, and spark plug sockets, among others.
How many sockets are there in a 6 point socket?
The set comes with a 3-inch extension bar and a universal swivel joint. It also has eight standard SAE sockets, eight deep SAE sockets, twelve standard metric sockets, and twelve deep metric sockets, including all of the most common sizes for both.
What are socket sizes?
Sockets come in various sizes and shapes, including 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1-inch. The smaller ones are built more discreetly, with less emphasis on density and sturdiness, and don't require much torque. The larger sockets come with a longer ratchet, which makes it easier to apply more torque.
What Should You Look For in Socket Sets?
The most common socket drive sizes are 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch, which relate to the size of the driver that connects to the sockets. Size and torque are the tradeoffs between the two. A 1/4-inch drive ratchet will fit into tighter spaces, but a 3/8-inch ratchet will provide more torque. For even greater torque, some of the larger socket sets include a couple of 1/2-inch drive diameters.
Why are hex sockets called hex sockets?
Hex sockets get their name because the fasteners they attach to have a consistent 6-point design. This shape is tough and dependable, and it can withstand a lot of abuse. Some hex sockets have a modified internal socket face that allows them to take more torque without slipping and harming the fastener.
How many pieces are in a 1/4 inch drive master socket?
This CASOMAN 1/4-Inch Drive Master Socket Set has 62 pieces. All of the tools are made of top-grade Chrome Vanadium alloy steel that has been cold-formed and heat-treated for exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term durability. A 72 tooth ratchet handle and other essential accessories are included with the set of 46 1/4″ Dr. sockets in SAE and metric, deep and shallow. The set comes with a sturdy blow-molded carrying bag for simple transit, secure storage, and rapid organizing.
Why are impact sockets so good?
These are pieces of equipment that are continuously subjected to various levels of force, specifically torque. Because impact sockets are subjected to even higher amounts of pressure, durable and rugged construction helps a lot.
How many teeth does a ratchet have?
It also shows how much room you'll need to work with your tool. Many of the ratchets have 72 teeth, which is what most people prefer. For the ordinary at-home mechanic, shaving off tenths of degrees from the arc swing isn't worth it.
How many pieces are in a Dewalt mechanic tool set?
With two pear head ratchets, a variety of sockets, extensions, universal joints, and adapters, this 142-piece DEWALT Mechanic Tool Set is a flexible pick. The mechanics’ toolsets are packaged in a solid container with metal locks for extra protection. The 72 tooth count ratchets have a rapid release mechanism that allows you to connect or remove a socket quickly. DirectTorque technology was added to the sockets to reduce fastener rounding and improve grip. Ratchets include a low-profile directional lever to assist decrease catch spots and make the mechanics toolset easier to use with one hand.
What is a ratchet wrench?
Arguably the most important inclusion in a socket set, a ratchet, also known as a socket wrench, has two main components: the ratchet handle and ratchet wheel. When attached to a bolt and socket, the teeth on the ratchet wheel engage with a toggle to lock the direction of torque, thereby reducing the size of the turning arc required to engage the ratchet handle around the socket drive point.
How many 3/8 inch impact sockets are there?
With 44 different 3/8-inch impact components, this budget-friendly socket set offers excellent value for anyone looking to get started with impact guns or pneumatic wrenches. To further improve on its value proposition, this set also includes a 3-inch extension bar, a 6-inch extension bar, and a universal joint.
How many teeth does a Gearwrench 57 have?
Why we like it: With 84 geared teeth on its ratchet wheel, the GearWrench 57-Piece 3/8-Inch Drive 6-Point Socket Set offers superlative turning arc performance.
Why are sockets and ratchets less likely to crack?
This is because hex fasteners have six points of contact (with a bolt), while spanners only have 2 points of contact. When there are more points of contact, torque pressure is more evenly distributed across the socket and ratchet, thereby minimizing potential damage to the fastener.
Why are hex sockets used?
This is because the majority of fasteners have a standard 6-point (hexagonal) shape. For this reason, a hex socket set is a reliable set for everyday use . In a high-end set, hex sockets may also have a convex internal socket face. This allows additional torque to be applied without increasing the risk of rounding a fastener.
What is socket identification?
An easily understandable socket identification system is a valuable feature in any socket set, helping you quickly and easily distinguish between different socket standards, heads, and sizes. A precise socket identification system is especially important if you plan on unpacking and/or storing your socket set in a cluttered tool chest or atop a crowded workbench. For clear and long-lasting socket identification, look for deep laser etching or roll stamped industrial markings.
How many teeth does a ratchet wheel have?
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly socket set, you can expect your ratchet to have approximately 32 teeth in its ratchet wheel.
What is an offset wrench?
Both ratcheting and swivel-head wrenches can help you get in tight areas, but certain situations may call for an offset wrench, a hand tool where the wrench's head is positioned on a different plane than its body. This sounds complicated, but it's not.
What is a ratcheting wrench?
So-called ratcheting wrenches meld the convenience of a socket set and ratchet with the traditional wrench design to create a tool that's arguably better than the sum of its hand-tool parts. Basically, the boxed ends of these wrenches contain a small ratcheting mechanism that allows you to tighten or loosen fasteners without having to constantly reposition the tool. Yeah, it's super convenient. Each ratchet wrench still has an open end for applications where that is more appropriate.
What size wrenches are in Tekton tool kit?
Sizes range from ¼ inch to 1 inch on the standard side and from 8 mm to 22 mm in metric land. The open ends of these wrenches are angled 15 degrees to make it easier to access reclusive fasteners, and the boxed ends are designed to grip the sides of nuts or bolts to reduce the chances of rounding them off when torque is applied. With a mirror-like chrome finish, these tools not only look great, they're built to last as an integral part of your mechanics tool set.
What is the measurement system for a wrench?
Wrenches come in different sizes. There are two different measurement systems: standard (SAE wrench), which uses inches and fractions; and metric, which runs in millimeters. Almost all modern vehicles are metric, and practically anything you'll encounter from Europe or Japan will use this measurement system, too.
Why is it important to have a proper wrench?
Having the proper tool for a job can make it much easier to complete, and with far less swearing. As with most things in life, there are different tiers of wrenches to choose from. You can get a basic set for just a few bucks, but they won't feel very nice and who knows how accurate they are or how long they'll last.
What tools do mechanics need?
Sure, certain tasks can be accomplished with pliers, a screwdriver or maybe even a hammer if something needs a good bashing, but when it's time to do more involved work that involves some serious torque, wrenches are an absolute necessity to have as part of your arsenal.
Is a ratcheting wrench good?
When it comes to outright versatility, this metric set of flexible-head, ratcheting wrenches is about as good as it gets. Built by Bulltools, each wrench features an integrated ratchet mechanism, which, in certain situations, makes it far easier to remove fasteners as you don't have to constantly reposition the wrench.
How many sockets are there in a car set?
You can buy sets with about 25 sockets (about $40) and as many as 128 ($200). We chose sets in the $44 to $80 range because we found them well suited to the intermediate DIYer who also does some car care. If you opt for a bigger or smaller set, our brand recommendations still apply. You get the same quality and features regardless of the size of the set.
What is the difference between a 12 point socket and a 6 point socket?
But 12-point sockets do offer some advantages for the average homeowner. The biggest plus of a 12-point socket is that it gives you twice the number of starting positions. So you only need to rotate the socket a maximum of 30 degrees before it slips onto the fastener (as opposed to 60 degrees for a six-point socket). That’s an important feature when you’re working in tight spaces or hard-to-see locations—like inside an appliance.
How many teeth does a 3/8 drive ratchet have?
The tooth count on the 3/8-in.-drive ratchets varied among the brands, from 36 to 72 teeth. The coarsest ratchet required a 10-degree movement; the ratchet with the finest teeth, only 5 degrees.
How much torque does a 3/8 inch ratchet need?
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) sets standards for ratchet strength. All 3/8-in. ratchets must withstand a minimum torque of 1,800 in.-lbs., regardless of the number of teeth. Both the ratchets shown meet the minimum standard. In fact, this new fine-tooth 3-degree 120-position ratchet from Gear Wrench exceeds ASME standards by 80 percent. As long as a ratchet meets ASME standards, its tooth count doesn’t determine its strength.
What is a quick release on a ratchet?
A quick release feature allows the socket to pop off the ratchet easily. Four of the five brands have a “quick release” such that you press a button and the socket falls off. The quick release also locks the socket in place so it doesn’t stick on a bolt head and become a permanent part of the engine.
Why do we like 72 tooth ratchets?
We reviewed socket sets in the Sept. ’12 issue (p. 48) and liked the 72-tooth ratchets because they required only a 5-degree swing arc to grab the next tooth. We got letters from readers saying that fine-tooth ratchets aren’t as strong as coarse-tooth ratchets and that we should have warned readers about that weakness.
What does ratchet teeth mean?
The more ratchet teeth mean the less swing needed (fewer degrees of rotation) to move one click, which is a handy feature in tight quarters.
What is a socket wrench?
Socket wrenches are similar to standard wrenches in that they allow you to quickly tighten bolts, but are comprised of a ratchet bar, and transposable sockets that fit directly on nuts or bolts. With many buying options available, we’ve researched the best socket wrench sets, including universal, metric, standard, and heavy-duty socket wrench sets, ...
What to look for in a good wrench set?
Some other things to look out for in a good wrench set would be that the wrench has a good grip, especially in tasks where more torque is required, to ensure the wrench stays firmly in hand. Making sure that the tool is made from a durable construction and has a protective coating, such as chrome plating, will ensure the tool’s longevity. In addition, a limited lifetime warranty always provides extra peace of mind in case anything happens to your sockets.
How many Allen socket bits are in a Neiko socket set?
Available in metric or SAE measurements, this Neiko Allen socket set comes with 14 impact Allen socket bits. The SAE drive measurements come in ¼-, ⅜-, and ½-inches with additional sockets for each drive. The chrome-molybdenum steel sockets have a pinhole for additional strength and security when applying force to tougher jobs. One reviewer wrote, “I had a lot of work to do on my vehicles and motorcycle and these sockets saved the day! They stood up to a lot of high torque and performed flawlessly.”
What are SAE sockets made of?
A good set would be made from tempered steel and will include a variety of ratchets, sockets, adapters, and extension bars for hard-to-reach areas.
Why do chrome sockets have pin holes?
The chrome-molybdenum steel sockets have a pinhole for additional strength and security when applying force to tougher jobs. Even if the socket falls from a ladder or pocket, it can handle the impact.
How many pieces are in a Dewalt case?
As Amazon’s choice for the best DeWALT mechanic toolset, this case features 192 pieces with patented direct torque technology, hand-stamped labels, and polished chrome vanadium finish. For any task requiring a regular socket, this kit will have you covered.
How many extensions does a pear head ratchet have?
The SAE and metric measurements include ¼-, ⅜-, and ½-inch pear head ratchets, nine extensions, three adapters, and a universal joint. This one also comes as a ratchet set ( $233.89, Amazon ), too, if needed.
