I’ve been a ASE master tech for 8 years now. I use a mismatched set of craftsman and Huskey wrench’s and I’ve never thought to myself “man, I wish these wrench’s worked better”.
I’ve been a Master Mechanic for 40 years but I stopped buying Snap On and Matco tools about 15 or more years ago because of the price. Some guys live,eat,drink and work as mechanics 24/7 (you know the type,Snap On jacket and stickers on their trucks combined with a toolbox that resembles a small apartment complex) I’m not that guy,I choose to put my money into my house and help my kids with college tuition. Great video,well done.
Thats relative to your income though. What if you can afford the house, college, and the tools? I own a business so it is all just a tax write off for me. However I agree no mechanic early in their career should be going in debt for tools.
@@pedaltheglobe419 I didn’t mention that both of my houses are on the central coast of California in Pismo Beach and I also am a business owner as well. I would rather put my money into something that appreciates rather than depreciates. Have a great day
I have stopped too. I'd rather buy myself a house and put my daughter through college vs buying snap-on man a house on the lake and put his kids plural through college. It's crazy the price they cost. There nice tools no doubt but if they sold for half price they would still make plenty of money and put the other 3 mac matco and cornwell out of business. They would triple there sales easily. I wish we had a techs choice truck here in sw va.
@@johnrpizzaguySnap On tools have a very high resale value, and for techs who have been at it a long time they can actually profit selling their old tools. Try that with Icon.
@@trey934 Cant you buy everything on techs choice truck on Amazon and locally though? I thought it was mainly Milwaukee, Lisle, and similar brands they carry on those?
Can you imagine actually paying 3000 dollars for a 32 piece wrench set. It's close to 10 times over priced. I worked for SnapOn as a CNC operator and I literally never bought any of their tools after seeing the process and what the markup is, even with a massive employee discount. That set should be under a grand new, even with the insane royalty fee for the name.
@@2_Spanners Their foam actually is better than most other foam out there. It is closed cell foam versus open cell and much more durable and grease resistant. I have got oil and grease on it and it just wipes right off with a Tub of Towel.
The great thing about this video is that just about everything that you showed was a quality, brand name tool, with a lifetime warranty (for the most part). It's amazing the amount of quality tools that you can get if you're not buying snap on.
As a shifty shade tree tractor mechanic I can say in my 3 years of this and 10 years in aerospace I have never needed 3000 dollar wrenches haven't broke and lost 3k worth of wrenches in my life take your Gucci tools put them in your Gucci purse and take a hike brother
I have been a heavy duty truck and tractor mechanic just over 20 years and bought a gearwrench non ratcheting wrench set metric and SAE early on in my career and use them daily with no problems never had to warranty any and absolutely love them especially how they make them a bit longer than most companies for more leverage only ever lost one the 3/4 went through a rock screening plant loaded into a dump truck and graded out onto a road before being returned to me after buying a replacement. Snap on does make great tools but not always worth the price and my Snap on dealer sucks. Great videos keep up the great work.
Nobody who spends $3000 on a set of these is going to say they are bad, or a bad investment, or they were wrong to buy them. When a $300 set does exactly the same thing.
Come on, $2800 is only $50 a week for 56 weeks. When I was young, I only craved tool truck brand tools. Now as I'm winding down my career, I only buy the occasional new tool from a trunk like the LN46ACFpliers. It depends on what you work on but, I'm not sure I would invest that kind of coin for that many SAE wrenches. I think the biggest thing that has changed over the last 25 years is that the quality gap between truck brand and non truck brand tools has narrowed to the point that there's no longer a big difference. I really enjoy your videos. You share your real world experiences as they relate to certain tools which is refreshing. Thanks for sharing, Great Job!!!
I bought 2 huge SK wrench sets a few decades ago and couldn't be happier. I think they were a little over three hundred. My ratchets and sockets are Snap On though
I love that you did this. Snap On tools are great, and I own many, but it doesn't mean I don't question their value vs. the price paid. I honestly believe they are significantly overpriced. Imagine having all these tools in place of a set of standard and metric wrenches.. that's mind boggling.
Worked in a restoration shop, SnapOn truck came by every 2 weeks. I asked, “? So much for these tools”.. was told “tolerance, they fit hardware correctly”.. I stated, “great, if u work at Bowing or NASA.. hardware here is old, rusted and not consistent tolerances” then he tried “warranty”.. I said Craftsman, and I don’t have to wait 2 weeks for u to show up and say “I don’t have it on the truck”
used to be a die hard Dewalt guy but it was getting to be to expensive for the batteries, swapped over to Hercules and all Icon tools, they are priced great, life time warranty, and are as good if not just below what Snap-On makes for a fraction of the cost!
What a great time to be a technician, at least as far as tool options are concerned. When I started, in the late 70s, you had very few options for tools. Truck brand, Craftsman and SK and a couple others at the parts store. I have 45 plus years of buying tools and I will say, I am very proud of my American made boxes filled (mostly) with American made tools. You didn't have Tekton, Capri, GW and the like. No interweb to order everything. Where today's technician is hammered is electronics. The cost of a really good unit with updates is eye watering. How is the backdrag on the 120 ratchet? ASTRO makes some extremely durable lights.
Amen Randy, I made a recent short on my YT channel and man the haters came out in droves. Most just don't realize that "back in the day" as you stated, we had 3 choices, run to Sears and buy Craftsman, go to a local hardware store and buy tools made in Taiwan, or buy off the trucks. Techs now have a great many options, and good for them. But my 36 year old set of Snappy wrenches still have value. I wonder what value the current crop of Icon wrenches will have in 4 decades. I suspect they will just end up in the cheap tool bucket at future swap meets. Time will tell.
I started wrenching in the late 70s. The choices were mainly Craftsman and Snap-on. My first Snap-on set was 1/2" SAE deep impact socket set for $110.00. $20/week was the payment plan. In 77 $110 was a ton of money. Still have all the sets I purchased from Snap on today.
I still have my tools and boxes. The best I can remember, I never lost money on my boxes when trading up. I have been very lucky to have 3 very good Snap On dealers. I was given the money I paid for them each time I traded up. Disclaimer, I am anal about my tools and boxes. At the end of the day each tool was wiped down and put in its proper place. Around every 6 months my boxes were completely cleaned, not just the weekly wipe down, and got waxed at least once a year. I always looked at the tools and boxes as a investment in my livelihood. That's what I made a living with. I wanted the best, most reliable and a tool I could depend on day in and day out. Even now with the cheapest tools you get a "lifetime" warranty. Not much worse can happen than a tool breaking and causing me to lose money, don't you just love book time. I wanted tools that I didn't need to warrant. Most every time I had to use the warranty was from misuse. I wore out some ratchets but I never had one just fail. The sockets I broke were doing a job that a impact should have been used. Based on prices I see on Ebay, not just asked for but actually sold for, I can get a minimum of 50% and more likely 70% of what I paid. In some cases 100% because of when I bought them and what they are selling for now. Show me another tool brand that can do that. Stay strong brothers.
Pretty much our choices were Craftsman n Snap-on. Craftsman bought at Sears and Snap-on off the trucks. Snap-on offered tools that were specific for the trade. Craftsman offered mainly basic tools. The boxes were Craftsman. No 56" plus boxes were available. The tools held up.
@@ToolBoxTouryou guilty bro 😂 I had 6 now 9 also since I have business accnt and reg I had to un install my reg Amazon accnt to make your affiliate link work🤦🏽♂️ that's silly from Amazon 😢 I don't knew that I also use their program on my yt you make me buy something😅 you deserve the affiliate commissions 💪
I started with that gear wrench set when I started as a lube tech 12 years ago and I’ve had them ever since and have never lost or broke one. Best bang for the buck. Back when I bought them I got the whole set for 165 and I highly recommend it
I bought this set used unopened for less than half price. Be patient and search around for deals. If you want to save a bit but still want made in USA quality, the Wrightgrip Wrenches have proven to beat the Flank Drive Plus wrenches in head to head competition and are priced incredibly reasonable. No foam though if that’s your thing.
I agree that the Wrightgrip are a solid alternative, but I wouldn't say "proven" to beat the SO. They did so in an uncontrolled demonstration on a sample of one. No statistically valid result can be drawn from anything TTC or Project Farm does. It's interesting, but that's about it.
I bought a Titan 16 piece Metric wrench set for $45 yes i said Titan. And it has worked just fine for Automotive work. Allot of people get carried away in the wrench debate. I meab how much torque are you really gunna put on a combination wrench before you reach for something else. Doubled them up and also used extenders on them multiple times and have had no issues.
Love it. After all wrenching is usually a business. Expenses vs income. You wouldnt turn a f150 platinum into a work truck. Snap makes sense after youve built out your set. But even then, machines will probably make more money, or preparing to start your own shop.
I have a complete set of Snap On tools. I was in the automotive industry for over 30 years, & do have other brands of tools. I even designed a set of hand tools & tool boxes for a Tiawan company. I’d buy Snap On again if I was still in the industry, & could afford it. The wrenches & sockets fit & work in areas that other brands just don’t. I worked on mostly Porsche cars, & I worked for Carroll Shelby. I do own harbor freight tools, & they have come a long way. I get it, if you need to start with HB, that’s fine, eventually you may want to buy Snap On if you decide to stay in the profession.
Started with a mixture of Pittsburg and gear wrench wrenches. They worked perfectly fine everyday use. I gifted myself that Snapon set after coming up on a deal paid 1600 for them.
80% of my wrenches are Snap-On. Luckily, I purchased them way back in the 1980's and 1990's. But, no way would I buy them now! $3000 for a combo wrench set is insane! Btw, I also have the Gearwrench SAE & Metric Set, too; Its the best bang for the buck!
eBay my friend. I buy all my snap on new on eBay and most is 1990’s era and early 2000’s. Amazing deals! Got a hard handle limited edition screwdriver set in the plastic from 1996. Love these
I picked mine up new on eBay for $1500 I don’t think I’d buy it at 2800 tho that said it’s a killer set. The weight of them and the larger sizes are good for diesel
They are simply catering to a different demographic. If you see your tools as disposable then definitely the price isnt justified for you and Icon, Kobalt, Husky, or Craftsman will get you through. If you see your tools as a lifetime investment you can pass down to your grandson or want high resale value when you retire then it is justified. I am a capitalist. I believe something is worth what others are willing to pay for it. Considering Snap-On did $5B in revenue last year there is clearly a market for the prices they are charging. If they were charging too much then they would have to lower their prices or go out of business. They have buyers at the price point they are charging. That is simple economics and free markets. No one is obligated to sell you something at the price you demand individually. Honestly get so sick of these online debates where men are worrying about what other men are paying for their tools.
@@ToolBoxTour Hard to justify what’s the best cuz if you look at the HRC quality Koken 🇯🇵, Knipex🇩🇪 are of higher quality but again it’s not bashing Snapon cuz for me I stand by their ratchets, 🔧 and pliers but mostly the rest I don’t see it where I can spend that money again after breaking their things and other mid tier brands even lower tier outlasting them in those areas so again it’s in the eye of the beholder and that’s where it seems to be for a lot of the consumers in which they are more cheerleaders/fangirls than actual realist. IJS
I've got a ton of Snap On and MAC tools in my box. Almost 100% of it's used. I just picked up a 4 3/8" Snap On Soft Grip ratchets in the foam for $170. The ratchets alone are almost $700 new. They were filthy as hell but 20 minutes with some dawn and tooth brush and they look good. I could spent $75 and replace the handles and still have more than half the price in them.
@@1MiketheMechanic In my case it showed how little they knew about what they were selling. When I asked if they could do better on the price (it was $200 just for the ratchets) they had no clue what they were selling at that pawn shop.
This was especially good. Well done! If you can afford to buy a brand new Ferrari, my hat's off to you. If not, you're better off with an average car, like most folks. Same goes for tools. As you mentioned, today there is a much wider selection of decent quality tools available at very reasonable prices. That wasn't as true back in the 60's-70's-80's. Also, I'll add that, if you want to buy good, made in USA tools, but don't have the money to buy them new, look for used stuff. It's much cheaper.
I love these videos I’ve been watching for a few months now, and I love seeing the diversity in tools that these techs and mechanics have. Gives me ideas on which tools to buy.
Dude, I love your videos! I can not tell you how much an appreciate you taking the time to give the part numbers, and links when you can. Also you have your own opinion on cheaper tools vs tool trucks I really like seeing everyone’s opinions. You are helping a ton of people out buying new tools. I work at a collision shop, but do a ton of suspension work from wrecks. This video helps a ton, please keep doing what you’re doing!
as someone who's is always a "bang for your buck" kind of guy, I got a snap-on 3/8 extended ratchet with a student discount and it was very very well worth it. $115 and I have a ratchet for life. Used every day for 3 years and still use 8 years later even after leaving the shop. zero issues after surviving many tool throws and "too lazy to grab a hammers". but I will say, I would have never bought it at full price.
I’m a Snap-On guy. I bought all my SO stuff in the early 80’s. I still have every piece. It’s all still as new. A thing to remember is you’re paying for the warranty and the service in addition to the tools. I’m not going to defend their prices. They were bad enough in the 80’s, now they’re obscene. Last year I’d been hearing how good the GearWrench tools were? They looked like a nice tool and the price was right so I bought both a 1/4 and 3/8 long flex ratchets. IMHO compared to SO, GW tools are full blown junk. If you want or have GW tools? Never use any SO tools ever because if you do you’ll find out how bad your GW tools actually are. If you do get the SO bug eBay is a great alternative to the trucks but don’t expect to have the SO guy warranty your eBay purchases.
Great point. You might not see the differance right away, but put them side by side after 30-40 years hard work. I see these assholes brag about their China trash tools and cant finish one job without a broken wrench. Ive stopped letting them borrow anything.
I’m getting Capri or USAG (same as Mac) wrenches all day long! Wright 2.0 or Hazet for a splurge, which is pennies compared to Snap-on. All have been tested to be as good and arguably better performers than Snap-on
It’s like this in every industry. You can buy at a good price or you can buy at the top end price. Doesn’t matter if it’s bikes, food, furniture, electronics, clothes, appliances, or a toilet. There’s always a good price and an extreme price.
I’d like to add for all the new techs reading please get a regular lightbulb test light. I know it doesn’t look cool but you must use it before you get out the multimeter. I’ve spent so many hours of my life chasing strange electrical problems only to find out the connector can’t handle a load on it.
@@ToolBoxTour Yes bro! Check out the 28800 test light and tell me what you think about it. It can load test power and ground circuits at the push of a button and show voltage drop while doing it.
I have literally bought everything you showcased here for my sons. They use the hell out of every item... their friends are constantly in my shop, all working on their cars together. I like being able to provide a free and comprehensive place for them to do quality work. The only item I wouldn't suggest is the Gear Wrench set. I initially bought these so they wouldn't be touching all my Snap-On tools, but I was kind of disappointed in them. Yes, the ratchet ends of the combos are handy, but the fitment on the open ends are sloppy, in my opinion. The price is good, and they are strong tools, just loose. I would (and have) opted for the ICON combos more recently. They are nearly identical in fitment to my Snap-On tools and they cost 1/3 as much. Plus, there is a Harbor Freight on every corner these days, and convenience is a HUGE factor. Thanks for another great video.
My 40 year old snap on "toothed" wrench set, yes I have the OG set is absolutely no better than the Icon set I have as well and their much easier to get replaced. Now what is the best set of combo wrenches is my Mac thin profile extra long set I also bought almost 40 years ago.
I have the Taiwan 44pc GW , they're fantastic, I'm so glad I dodged the China version but I wouldn't let that stop you, for just over $200 with a 1.5" and 32mm wrench it's definitely awesome! One ratchet that's been very impressive to me, and I have LOTS of them, is the Husky 144T , I went back and bought the ½" and ¼" , and I've been grabbing them professionally and they're great! This video is all very good advice. I'm a tool addict and I concur!
Probably 600 euros buys me a pretty good selection of Facom here in Europe....still got my Snap on spanners from the Uk...but for replacing lost or broken its easier here with the Facom.....😊
Does anyone know what those wrench holders are called at 1:45 ? I have the same gearwrench set and can't find any that will fit every wrench like those.
Holy hell…I assumed for $2800 from Snap-On there would be the wrench set…and a bunch of other tools as well. Not just…the wrench set. Thirty. Eight. Wrenches. For $2800. 😂
I. Do ❤ and bought snap on wrenches and snap on sockets and i also do like wright tools and they also make good wrenches and if you are not a professional mechanic i do recommend that set for the non professional do it yourself😊
Absolutely love your unbiased opinion on this! And a great comparison cleaver idea for a video! Appreciate the work you put into these! Keep em coming!
I own the Gearwrench 44 pc wrench set based or your suggestion, and I went for the 84t 11 pc ratchet set they are like 370$ also got a 20pc ratcheting wrench set from farm and fleet for like 50$ . All of that has been outstanding I'm in a semi truck shop and regular hit the larger wrench's with a 3 lb hammer lol, still have not warrantied one yet. Honestly I don't think I have spent over 2800$ in tools yet but our shop buys most of the specialty stuff like axle nut sockets and various pullers. Only truck tools I've bought so far were the MAC cobalt drills and just ordered a air hammer attachment for brake shoe anchor pins, and only those because of the warranty. I am warming up to MAC though cause they have been loyal to our shop and is literally the only truck that stops by anymore also the prices are at least not too insane.
I can tell you first hand that my Carlyle tool brand from NAPA is built by a lot of the same manufacturers in Taiwan as some brands like Milwaukee (their wrenches for example) and GearWrench and a couple others. They may not have a huge complete wrench set for SAE+Metric like SnapOn but I can tell you first hand with my Carlyle set they're lifetime warranty and under 200$ for a Metric or SAE set in my region. Why spend a thousand for a set if both brands offer the same warranty and built just as well?
But can you count on NAPA always carrying Carlyle? The answer is no you can't, I remember when NAPA carried a brand called Pittsburg, no not the same garbage sold by HOBO Freight, those had lifetime warranties but you can't get them anymore.
Im 62 ... been buying snap on since i was 15 ... snap on wrench are the best when it counts.... i have set of snap on Whitworth .... and a set of snap on British standard ... these are different then sae or metric ... for working on classic British motorcycles cars ect. The nuts bolts are worn down ect. And hard to replace ... snap on hands down is the best option to remove the nuts bolts ect. With minimal damage...
First off, I love tools. I love the look, the feel, the engineering and the pride that goes into making a good quality tool. I could be blindfolded, you could hand me two tools, and without even using them I feel like I could tell the difference just by feel, balance and wieght alone. If you've used tools your whole life, you know what I mean. Like you said, years ago there was a massive gap, now a day's thats just not the case. There's so many good US, German, Japanese etc company's that focus on certain catagories and have almost perfected them, you listed many of them. Now, it's not only not necessary to buy all SO tools, in a lot of cases, there's very reasonably priced options that arguably do it better. Every Category has its king for me personally. Socketry I go Koken, Wrenches/Wright, Screwdrivers/Vessel, Pliers/Knipex, Hammers/Trusty Cook & Proto, Prybars Mayhew or Wilde, Specialty Testors/OTC or Lang... On and on it goes. Rebranding occurs for this reason, its not worth it for 'the big four' to try and top those brands in those categories. I love Snap-On as well, and to be honest, if I had unlimited funds and no kids, I'd buy that set of wrenches hands down, but for now the only Snap-On tool I have is their ACF series combi needle nose pliers because nobody does those better than Snap-On in my book... So many nice tools, so little time, but I'll take that big table of tools any day, and I'll definitely take all those nice tools over a big Snap-On box filled with hopes, dreams and invisible tools. That table of tools will make me enough money to buy that SO wrench set as a retirement gift to myself one day. Used of course lol.
I've got that Gearwrench wrench set, and it's a good bang for your buck set. Also got one of those ASTRO lights, and I hate it. We'll I hate the rotary dial because I'm always bumping it and turning the light down. I much prefer my Harbor Freight lights. In particular the Buar over the ICON because you can swap out the battery as it's just a common 18650 LiOn
Never had to do a fan clutch before, but that fan clutch tip made this video worth it. I totally would have used it the way you initially thought as well
I've actually had really great luck with the 22, and 21 poece set of wrenches from Carlisle that you can get at Napa, they just redesigned them to have more of a mac style tooth in the front and on the box end but over all for the value i can buy both sets for well under what the snap on one costs. And ironically theyve held up extremely well to the abuse i put them through in racing over the last 4 years along with street cars too. I really like them, but i wouldn't be opposed to getting a set of mac wrenches specifically for work and making those my home wrenches just because i have the opportunity to do so.
I have a Fluke 115. Yet I always find myself reaching over for a THSINDE 18B+ DMM (which is a carbon copy of a FLUKE 18B+) that cost me $25 a couple of years ago in Amazon. I've compared it to the 115 and it's performance is within 99% accuracy. The Fluke is gathering dust in its box.
You just can’t beat a set of snap on wrenches. Some guys buy expensive clothes, watches, boats, alcohol or gambling. It’s just about what you like. I have lots of SnapOn tools, most are from the 80s or 90s, I love them today as much as I did the day I bought them.
Your ending statement is spot on. 25 years ago, if you wanted quality you bought Snap On. I started wrenching in 1992, you didn’t have many options for quality. The new guys are lucky to have the options and the information resources they have when it comes to tool purchasing.
That may be because Snap-on owned the patent for off-corner engagement and no one could touch their design. That patent expired in the early 90’s, which lead to everyone copying Snap-on’s design.
Bull there were a few options, you have MAC, Matco, Cornwell, SK, and there were some others as well. All of those I just mentioned were excellent tools.
That is a very comprehensive set; throw in some harbor freight sockets, hammers, and a pittance of miscellaneous: and that would pretty much cover all that a entry level tech would need for a good while. And in the neighborhood of 3K. Everything you showed is professional level quality: you know your stuff quite well.
Otc front end service kit and their ball joint installation and separator service set for 2wd and 4x4 especially older gm and ford trucks and vans, are both a need in my opinion and I am a diy weekend warrior working on rust belt farm equipment and 2wd and 4x4 farm trucks
I thought he said somebody off the street? Totally agree with you on the green Tec’s not buying everything they can’t afford and being broke over it. That can’t be helpful to them.
I worked at a Pasco and they had the gear wrench serpentine belt tool and it's great. I got the OEM brand from AutoZone but it doesn't ratchet. I wish I spent the extra money for the gear wrench.
I have been on the fence about that wrench set. My guy offered it to me for $2,200. I still don't know if I'm willing to spend that much on wrenches. $600.0 off and it still makes me hesitate. It is indeed a very nice set
Tax write off, if you make your living turning wrenches and you have to supply your own tools you can write them off your income tax. None of these TH-camrs will ever tell you that as they try and point everyone to cheap tools that you won't be able to write off because they are so cheap you don't have enough invested in them to write them off.
I really enjoy your honesty. Especially when you have used your Gearwrench set for years at 10% of the Snap-on set. Thats a lot of tools on that table. What do you think that would cost if it was all Snap-on tools. Great video thank you.
A couple minor nits: 1. The Milwaukee power tools need batteries that aren't cheap. Easy to forget or take for granted when you already have them from earlier "kit" purchases. 2. Obviously Snap-on will finance anyone that can make it into the truck. If you need some specialty tool right now and you're broke as a joke, it's a consideration. Even though you know it's going to make you even broker. Also: +1 on another mention of Milwaukee hand tools coming out - they are a great value and high quality. I picked up a 3/8 drive combo SAE/metric impact socket set for a fair price and they've taken some serious abuse.
I have the same set at work , gearwrench wrench set, I highly recommend as well , only I wouldn’t recommend thier ratchets , I’ve had several have tooth engagement issues right out the box or they lock up
OTC use to be great, but their warranty process is now absurd. Spent over an hour to be told i needed proof of purchase for a tool bought 20 years ago. Wont give them another dime.
As someone who owns zero snap on tools, here’s my best defense for the high price: a full-time, flat rate mechanic who saves a few rounded off or stripped out fasteners per year over his career, can easily justify the cost. This assumes that Snapon continues to have a performance edge (though small) over the other brands.
I love my flank drives, but when you put it that way... Anyways, great list that will get someone off to a good start. I have run into a job where I found out someone broke my tie rod tool and had to use my pwz pliers. That was probably 5 years ago and I haven't needed to replace it
I love my fluke, auto range true rms that gives very trustworthy readings, and a bunch of accessories. I did buy mine new at half price though. As for buying snap on, some people I work with like the interest free payments to own high end tools vs buying stuff online with a credit card. I own some snap on products but am not a diehard, just get what they make that I like.
35 year professional auto technician here. Snap On makes great hand tools, but not worth the price. Fan clutch, noid lite, PS/Harmonic balancer puller and power steering pump pulley puller are dying tools. Don't fool yourself with buy once cry once. Things change. When I bought my first Snap On wrench set there was no Flank Drive Plus.
as a newer tech i don't even bother with snap on i have some mac stuff because they are a little cheaper but doing research you can find a lot of what you need off brand thats 1/4 the price and does the same job
@mustangecoboosthpp3869 hey all I'm saying is my 3/8 rigid impact destroyed my co workers snap on 3/8 so bad he gave it back to the snap on dealer the second he came around I think to buy snap on because "they are the best" is kinda stupid
So you basically buy the whole workshop for the price of a snap-on wrench set.
Yes!
I’ve been a ASE master tech for 8 years now. I use a mismatched set of craftsman and Huskey wrench’s and I’ve never thought to myself “man, I wish these wrench’s worked better”.
I’ve been a Master Mechanic for 40 years but I stopped buying Snap On and Matco tools about 15 or more years ago because of the price. Some guys live,eat,drink and work as mechanics 24/7 (you know the type,Snap On jacket and stickers on their trucks combined with a toolbox that resembles a small apartment complex) I’m not that guy,I choose to put my money into my house and help my kids with college tuition. Great video,well done.
Thats relative to your income though. What if you can afford the house, college, and the tools? I own a business so it is all just a tax write off for me. However I agree no mechanic early in their career should be going in debt for tools.
@@pedaltheglobe419 I didn’t mention that both of my houses are on the central coast of California in Pismo Beach and I also am a business owner as well. I would rather put my money into something that appreciates rather than depreciates. Have a great day
I have stopped too. I'd rather buy myself a house and put my daughter through college vs buying snap-on man a house on the lake and put his kids plural through college. It's crazy the price they cost. There nice tools no doubt but if they sold for half price they would still make plenty of money and put the other 3 mac matco and cornwell out of business. They would triple there sales easily. I wish we had a techs choice truck here in sw va.
@@johnrpizzaguySnap On tools have a very high resale value, and for techs who have been at it a long time they can actually profit selling their old tools. Try that with Icon.
@@trey934 Cant you buy everything on techs choice truck on Amazon and locally though? I thought it was mainly Milwaukee, Lisle, and similar brands they carry on those?
Can you imagine actually paying 3000 dollars for a 32 piece wrench set. It's close to 10 times over priced. I worked for SnapOn as a CNC operator and I literally never bought any of their tools after seeing the process and what the markup is, even with a massive employee discount. That set should be under a grand new, even with the insane royalty fee for the name.
ye but foam
@@2_Spanners Their foam actually is better than most other foam out there. It is closed cell foam versus open cell and much more durable and grease resistant. I have got oil and grease on it and it just wipes right off with a Tub of Towel.
Yeah I could buy a 76 piece wrench set from tekton for half that and get up to 2 in and 50mm
There are also companies that cut foam to fit the tools you have. It's also closed cel
Do you or have you ever worked at any of the other tool brand factories as a CNC operator?
The great thing about this video is that just about everything that you showed was a quality, brand name tool, with a lifetime warranty (for the most part). It's amazing the amount of quality tools that you can get if you're not buying snap on.
As a shifty shade tree tractor mechanic I can say in my 3 years of this and 10 years in aerospace I have never needed 3000 dollar wrenches haven't broke and lost 3k worth of wrenches in my life take your Gucci tools put them in your Gucci purse and take a hike brother
I have been a heavy duty truck and tractor mechanic just over 20 years and bought a gearwrench non ratcheting wrench set metric and SAE early on in my career and use them daily with no problems never had to warranty any and absolutely love them especially how they make them a bit longer than most companies for more leverage only ever lost one the 3/4 went through a rock screening plant loaded into a dump truck and graded out onto a road before being returned to me after buying a replacement. Snap on does make great tools but not always worth the price and my Snap on dealer sucks. Great videos keep up the great work.
$3000 for a wrench set actually upsets me. Legitimately makes me angry. Absolutely no way.
ItS eVeRy WrEnCh YoUlL eVeR nEeD lmao people spend their money on wild shit don’t they
So dont buy it. Did it make you feel better to vent your anger in the YT comment section?
Crazy part is suckers are buying them
Nobody who spends $3000 on a set of these is going to say they are bad, or a bad investment, or they were wrong to buy them. When a $300 set does exactly the same thing.
@oddjobkia Yeah man, it's all psychological. They say that people usually buy things already thinking how to justify that purchase to other people.
Come on, $2800 is only $50 a week for 56 weeks. When I was young, I only craved tool truck brand tools. Now as I'm winding down my career, I only buy the occasional new tool from a trunk like the LN46ACFpliers. It depends on what you work on but, I'm not sure I would invest that kind of coin for that many SAE wrenches. I think the biggest thing that has changed over the last 25 years is that the quality gap between truck brand and non truck brand tools has narrowed to the point that there's no longer a big difference. I really enjoy your videos. You share your real world experiences as they relate to certain tools which is refreshing. Thanks for sharing, Great Job!!!
I bought 2 huge SK wrench sets a few decades ago and couldn't be happier. I think they were a little over three hundred. My ratchets and sockets are Snap On though
I love that you did this. Snap On tools are great, and I own many, but it doesn't mean I don't question their value vs. the price paid. I honestly believe they are significantly overpriced. Imagine having all these tools in place of a set of standard and metric wrenches.. that's mind boggling.
Worked in a restoration shop, SnapOn truck came by every 2 weeks. I asked, “? So much for these tools”.. was told “tolerance, they fit hardware correctly”.. I stated, “great, if u work at Bowing or NASA.. hardware here is old, rusted and not consistent tolerances” then he tried “warranty”.. I said Craftsman, and I don’t have to wait 2 weeks for u to show up and say “I don’t have it on the truck”
stated😂
used to be a die hard Dewalt guy but it was getting to be to expensive for the batteries, swapped over to Hercules and all Icon tools, they are priced great, life time warranty, and are as good if not just below what Snap-On makes for a fraction of the cost!
THAT IS ATRUE PROBLRM. FIT SO GOOD THAT THEY DONT FIT ANY INPERFECTION
What a great time to be a technician, at least as far as tool options are concerned. When I started, in the late 70s, you had very few options for tools. Truck brand, Craftsman and SK and a couple others at the parts store.
I have 45 plus years of buying tools and I will say, I am very proud of my American made boxes filled (mostly) with American made tools.
You didn't have Tekton, Capri, GW and the like. No interweb to order everything. Where today's technician is hammered is electronics. The cost of a really good unit with updates is eye watering.
How is the backdrag on the 120 ratchet?
ASTRO makes some extremely durable lights.
Amen Randy, I made a recent short on my YT channel and man the haters came out in droves. Most just don't realize that "back in the day" as you stated, we had 3 choices, run to Sears and buy Craftsman, go to a local hardware store and buy tools made in Taiwan, or buy off the trucks. Techs now have a great many options, and good for them. But my 36 year old set of Snappy wrenches still have value. I wonder what value the current crop of Icon wrenches will have in 4 decades. I suspect they will just end up in the cheap tool bucket at future swap meets. Time will tell.
I started wrenching in the late 70s. The choices were mainly Craftsman and Snap-on. My first Snap-on set was 1/2" SAE deep impact socket set for $110.00. $20/week was the payment plan. In 77 $110 was a ton of money. Still have all the sets I purchased from Snap on today.
I still have my tools and boxes. The best I can remember, I never lost money on my boxes when trading up. I have been very lucky to have 3 very good Snap On dealers. I was given the money I paid for them each time I traded up.
Disclaimer, I am anal about my tools and boxes. At the end of the day each tool was wiped down and put in its proper place. Around every 6 months my boxes were completely cleaned, not just the weekly wipe down, and got waxed at least once a year.
I always looked at the tools and boxes as a investment in my livelihood. That's what I made a living with. I wanted the best, most reliable and a tool I could depend on day in and day out.
Even now with the cheapest tools you get a "lifetime" warranty. Not much worse can happen than a tool breaking and causing me to lose money, don't you just love book time. I wanted tools that I didn't need to warrant. Most every time I had to use the warranty was from misuse. I wore out some ratchets but I never had one just fail. The sockets I broke were doing a job that a impact should have been used.
Based on prices I see on Ebay, not just asked for but actually sold for, I can get a minimum of 50% and more likely 70% of what I paid. In some cases 100% because of when I bought them and what they are selling for now. Show me another tool brand that can do that.
Stay strong brothers.
@@randysmith9636 thanks for posting Randy. And amen my brother. 👍
Pretty much our choices were Craftsman n Snap-on.
Craftsman bought at Sears and Snap-on off the trucks. Snap-on offered tools that were specific for the trade. Craftsman offered mainly basic tools. The boxes were Craftsman. No 56" plus boxes were available. The tools held up.
I love these kind of videos. It puts into perspective the price/value/utility of tools. For most of us, tools are tools, not collectables.
Broke people see them as tools people that can afford them see them as cool or collectibles.
I think I didn't need to see this video...... now my Amazon cart has 12 more items in it.
Haha! You should see MY cart 🤦♂️
@@ToolBoxTouryou guilty bro 😂 I had 6 now 9 also since I have business accnt and reg I had to un install my reg Amazon accnt to make your affiliate link work🤦🏽♂️ that's silly from Amazon 😢 I don't knew that I also use their program on my yt
you make me buy something😅 you deserve the affiliate commissions 💪
Hahaha
I started with that gear wrench set when I started as a lube tech 12 years ago and I’ve had them ever since and have never lost or broke one. Best bang for the buck. Back when I bought them I got the whole set for 165 and I highly recommend it
Appreciate your reviews. I will never understand why people pay Snap On prices. But, to each his or her own.
I bought this set used unopened for less than half price. Be patient and search around for deals. If you want to save a bit but still want made in USA quality, the Wrightgrip Wrenches have proven to beat the Flank Drive Plus wrenches in head to head competition and are priced incredibly reasonable. No foam though if that’s your thing.
I agree that the Wrightgrip are a solid alternative, but I wouldn't say "proven" to beat the SO. They did so in an uncontrolled demonstration on a sample of one. No statistically valid result can be drawn from anything TTC or Project Farm does. It's interesting, but that's about it.
Good video been wrenching with husky for 8 years and has served me well in the diesel big truck world
I bought a Titan 16 piece Metric wrench set for $45 yes i said Titan. And it has worked just fine for Automotive work. Allot of people get carried away in the wrench debate. I meab how much torque are you really gunna put on a combination wrench before you reach for something else. Doubled them up and also used extenders on them multiple times and have had no issues.
Love it. After all wrenching is usually a business. Expenses vs income. You wouldnt turn a f150 platinum into a work truck. Snap makes sense after youve built out your set. But even then, machines will probably make more money, or preparing to start your own shop.
I have a complete set of Snap On tools. I was in the automotive industry for over 30 years, & do have other brands of tools. I even designed a set of hand tools & tool boxes for a Tiawan company. I’d buy Snap On again if I was still in the industry, & could afford it. The wrenches & sockets fit & work in areas that other brands just don’t. I worked on mostly Porsche cars, & I worked for Carroll Shelby. I do own harbor freight tools, & they have come a long way. I get it, if you need to start with HB, that’s fine, eventually you may want to buy Snap On if you decide to stay in the profession.
Started with a mixture of Pittsburg and gear wrench wrenches. They worked perfectly fine everyday use. I gifted myself that Snapon set after coming up on a deal paid 1600 for them.
My 17 years old AIGO Japan wrench set is still cranking.
I just bought a 1 1/4" combination wrench from a pawn shop with that name, it is a quality wrench. I don't think they are made any more.
80% of my wrenches are Snap-On.
Luckily, I purchased them way back in the 1980's and 1990's. But, no way would I buy them now! $3000 for a combo wrench set is insane! Btw, I also have the Gearwrench SAE & Metric Set, too;
Its the best bang for the buck!
So are they Flank drive plus?
@@1MiketheMechanic No. They were regular Flank Drives for the standard combo sets.
eBay my friend. I buy all my snap on new on eBay and most is 1990’s era and early 2000’s. Amazing deals! Got a hard handle limited edition screwdriver set in the plastic from 1996. Love these
I picked mine up new on eBay for $1500 I don’t think I’d buy it at 2800 tho that said it’s a killer set. The weight of them and the larger sizes are good for diesel
Counterfeit
@@foxwood67 haha no not even close.
@@foxwood67 I was a pawn shop I didn’t buy it off aliexpress smarten up lol
I payed $200 for my snapon set of combination wrenches 1/4-1" 1/16 in 1984 at $5 an hr
Now I make $42
42÷5=8
8x200=$1680
Those snap on spanner’s. Literally cost more than my entire toolbox. With the toolbox included…
The prices of Snap-On products are absolutely absurd and not justified
They are simply catering to a different demographic. If you see your tools as disposable then definitely the price isnt justified for you and Icon, Kobalt, Husky, or Craftsman will get you through. If you see your tools as a lifetime investment you can pass down to your grandson or want high resale value when you retire then it is justified. I am a capitalist. I believe something is worth what others are willing to pay for it. Considering Snap-On did $5B in revenue last year there is clearly a market for the prices they are charging. If they were charging too much then they would have to lower their prices or go out of business. They have buyers at the price point they are charging. That is simple economics and free markets. No one is obligated to sell you something at the price you demand individually. Honestly get so sick of these online debates where men are worrying about what other men are paying for their tools.
Don't buy them, get some junk from HF
@@pedaltheglobe419facts
Although Snap-on charges crazy numbers sometimes, when you want the best, people will pay 👍
@@ToolBoxTour Hard to justify what’s the best cuz if you look at the HRC quality Koken 🇯🇵, Knipex🇩🇪 are of higher quality but again it’s not bashing Snapon cuz for me I stand by their ratchets, 🔧 and pliers but mostly the rest I don’t see it where I can spend that money again after breaking their things and other mid tier brands even lower tier outlasting them in those areas so again it’s in the eye of the beholder and that’s where it seems to be for a lot of the consumers in which they are more cheerleaders/fangirls than actual realist. IJS
I've got a ton of Snap On and MAC tools in my box. Almost 100% of it's used. I just picked up a 4 3/8" Snap On Soft Grip ratchets in the foam for $170. The ratchets alone are almost $700 new. They were filthy as hell but 20 minutes with some dawn and tooth brush and they look good. I could spent $75 and replace the handles and still have more than half the price in them.
Just goes to show you the true value.
@@1MiketheMechanic In my case it showed how little they knew about what they were selling. When I asked if they could do better on the price (it was $200 just for the ratchets) they had no clue what they were selling at that pawn shop.
This was especially good. Well done! If you can afford to buy a brand new Ferrari, my hat's off to you. If not, you're better off with an average car, like most folks. Same goes for tools. As you mentioned, today there is a much wider selection of decent quality tools available at very reasonable prices. That wasn't as true back in the 60's-70's-80's. Also, I'll add that, if you want to buy good, made in USA tools, but don't have the money to buy them new, look for used stuff. It's much cheaper.
I love these videos I’ve been watching for a few months now, and I love seeing the diversity in tools that these techs and mechanics have. Gives me ideas on which tools to buy.
Dude, I love your videos! I can not tell you how much an appreciate you taking the time to give the part numbers, and links when you can. Also you have your own opinion on cheaper tools vs tool trucks I really like seeing everyone’s opinions. You are helping a ton of people out buying new tools. I work at a collision shop, but do a ton of suspension work from wrecks. This video helps a ton, please keep doing what you’re doing!
That was a great visual ! We all support Snap-On and their phone in customer support is very refreshing, but we all have our limits!
as someone who's is always a "bang for your buck" kind of guy, I got a snap-on 3/8 extended ratchet with a student discount and it was very very well worth it. $115 and I have a ratchet for life. Used every day for 3 years and still use 8 years later even after leaving the shop. zero issues after surviving many tool throws and "too lazy to grab a hammers". but I will say, I would have never bought it at full price.
I’m a Snap-On guy. I bought all my SO stuff in the early 80’s. I still have every piece. It’s all still as new. A thing to remember is you’re paying for the warranty and the service in addition to the tools. I’m not going to defend their prices. They were bad enough in the 80’s, now they’re obscene.
Last year I’d been hearing how good the GearWrench tools were? They looked like a nice tool and the price was right so I bought both a 1/4 and 3/8 long flex ratchets. IMHO compared to SO, GW tools are full blown junk. If you want or have GW tools? Never use any SO tools ever because if you do you’ll find out how bad your GW tools actually are. If you do get the SO bug eBay is a great alternative to the trucks but don’t expect to have the SO guy warranty your eBay purchases.
Great point. You might not see the differance right away, but put them side by side after 30-40 years hard work. I see these assholes brag about their China trash tools and cant finish one job without a broken wrench. Ive stopped letting them borrow anything.
That wrench set better have a lifetime warranty. Because retirement is not in the cards if we keep buying shit like a $2800 wrench set.
I’m getting Capri or USAG (same as Mac) wrenches all day long! Wright 2.0 or Hazet for a splurge, which is pennies compared to Snap-on. All have been tested to be as good and arguably better performers than Snap-on
It’s like this in every industry. You can buy at a good price or you can buy at the top end price. Doesn’t matter if it’s bikes, food, furniture, electronics, clothes, appliances, or a toilet. There’s always a good price and an extreme price.
I made this same decision in 2021 and spent close to this and I can’t fit all my tools into my 52” box and service cart. No regrets at all!!
Another great video!! Need more content like this !! Helps us folks who have a tool problem!!!
Keep up the great content!
I’d like to add for all the new techs reading please get a regular lightbulb test light. I know it doesn’t look cool but you must use it before you get out the multimeter. I’ve spent so many hours of my life chasing strange electrical problems only to find out the connector can’t handle a load on it.
Thanks for sharing that. Regular incandescent test light can do wonders. Scope on a rope! -South Main Auto
@@ToolBoxTour Yes bro! Check out the 28800 test light and tell me what you think about it. It can load test power and ground circuits at the push of a button and show voltage drop while doing it.
Jarhead diagnostics sells a load test lamp that uses a 1156 light bulb. Check out their site
@@ToolBoxTour huge South Main fan myself. Eric O. is a diagnostic genius and very entertaining to watch. 👍
I agree 100%! Keep it simple!
I have literally bought everything you showcased here for my sons. They use the hell out of every item... their friends are constantly in my shop, all working on their cars together. I like being able to provide a free and comprehensive place for them to do quality work. The only item I wouldn't suggest is the Gear Wrench set. I initially bought these so they wouldn't be touching all my Snap-On tools, but I was kind of disappointed in them. Yes, the ratchet ends of the combos are handy, but the fitment on the open ends are sloppy, in my opinion. The price is good, and they are strong tools, just loose. I would (and have) opted for the ICON combos more recently. They are nearly identical in fitment to my Snap-On tools and they cost 1/3 as much. Plus, there is a Harbor Freight on every corner these days, and convenience is a HUGE factor. Thanks for another great video.
My 40 year old snap on "toothed" wrench set, yes I have the OG set is absolutely no better than the Icon set I have as well and their much easier to get replaced. Now what is the best set of combo wrenches is my Mac thin profile extra long set I also bought almost 40 years ago.
$3000 for a wrench set? That’s almost 10 times what it’s actually worth.
You should make this a series. Thank you for another amazing, eye opener.
I have the Taiwan 44pc GW , they're fantastic, I'm so glad I dodged the China version but I wouldn't let that stop you, for just over $200 with a 1.5" and 32mm wrench it's definitely awesome! One ratchet that's been very impressive to me, and I have LOTS of them, is the Husky 144T , I went back and bought the ½" and ¼" , and I've been grabbing them professionally and they're great! This video is all very good advice. I'm a tool addict and I concur!
Very informative video. Thanks for showing and describing the cost/benefit analysis of different tool brands. Well done!
Probably 600 euros buys me a pretty good selection of Facom here in Europe....still got my Snap on spanners from the Uk...but for replacing lost or broken its easier here with the Facom.....😊
Nice 👍
Does anyone know what those wrench holders are called at 1:45 ? I have the same gearwrench set and can't find any that will fit every wrench like those.
OEMTOOLS 22219
Holy hell…I assumed for $2800 from Snap-On there would be the wrench set…and a bunch of other tools as well. Not just…the wrench set. Thirty. Eight. Wrenches. For $2800. 😂
Dont forget the foam
I've got the Harbor Freight inner tie rod tool and have impacted it at least 20 times with no problems.
I. Do ❤ and bought snap on wrenches and snap on sockets and i also do like wright tools and they also make good wrenches and if you are not a professional mechanic i do recommend that set for the non professional do it yourself😊
Absolutely love your unbiased opinion on this! And a great comparison cleaver idea for a video! Appreciate the work you put into these! Keep em coming!
That gear wrench 44 pc set and the 25” 1/2” 120xp locking flex head has worked great for me for about 3 years at this point. Bauer light is fire also.
Your best video yet. Not a snap-on fan boy, so love the comparison.
Snap on makes the best wrench sets
Icon: hold my 🍺
Comparing Taiwanese made mid tier to USA grade A… how long you been stupid?
Wished videos like this existed 10 years ago
I own the Gearwrench 44 pc wrench set based or your suggestion, and I went for the 84t 11 pc ratchet set they are like 370$ also got a 20pc ratcheting wrench set from farm and fleet for like 50$ . All of that has been outstanding I'm in a semi truck shop and regular hit the larger wrench's with a 3 lb hammer lol, still have not warrantied one yet. Honestly I don't think I have spent over 2800$ in tools yet but our shop buys most of the specialty stuff like axle nut sockets and various pullers. Only truck tools I've bought so far were the MAC cobalt drills and just ordered a air hammer attachment for brake shoe anchor pins, and only those because of the warranty. I am warming up to MAC though cause they have been loyal to our shop and is literally the only truck that stops by anymore also the prices are at least not too insane.
I can tell you first hand that my Carlyle tool brand from NAPA is built by a lot of the same manufacturers in Taiwan as some brands like Milwaukee (their wrenches for example) and GearWrench and a couple others. They may not have a huge complete wrench set for SAE+Metric like SnapOn but I can tell you first hand with my Carlyle set they're lifetime warranty and under 200$ for a Metric or SAE set in my region. Why spend a thousand for a set if both brands offer the same warranty and built just as well?
But can you count on NAPA always carrying Carlyle? The answer is no you can't, I remember when NAPA carried a brand called Pittsburg, no not the same garbage sold by HOBO Freight, those had lifetime warranties but you can't get them anymore.
Im 62 ... been buying snap on since i was 15 ... snap on wrench are the best when it counts.... i have set of snap on Whitworth .... and a set of snap on British standard ... these are different then sae or metric ... for working on classic British motorcycles cars ect. The nuts bolts are worn down ect. And hard to replace ... snap on hands down is the best option to remove the nuts bolts ect. With minimal damage...
That’s seriously fascinating. I appreciate you sharing. I’ve never heard of those wrenches but makes total sense!
66 years old still use my craftsman
First off, I love tools. I love the look, the feel, the engineering and the pride that goes into making a good quality tool. I could be blindfolded, you could hand me two tools, and without even using them I feel like I could tell the difference just by feel, balance and wieght alone. If you've used tools your whole life, you know what I mean. Like you said, years ago there was a massive gap, now a day's thats just not the case. There's so many good US, German, Japanese etc company's that focus on certain catagories and have almost perfected them, you listed many of them. Now, it's not only not necessary to buy all SO tools, in a lot of cases, there's very reasonably priced options that arguably do it better. Every Category has its king for me personally. Socketry I go Koken, Wrenches/Wright, Screwdrivers/Vessel, Pliers/Knipex, Hammers/Trusty Cook & Proto, Prybars Mayhew or Wilde, Specialty Testors/OTC or Lang... On and on it goes. Rebranding occurs for this reason, its not worth it for 'the big four' to try and top those brands in those categories. I love Snap-On as well, and to be honest, if I had unlimited funds and no kids, I'd buy that set of wrenches hands down, but for now the only Snap-On tool I have is their ACF series combi needle nose pliers because nobody does those better than Snap-On in my book... So many nice tools, so little time, but I'll take that big table of tools any day, and I'll definitely take all those nice tools over a big Snap-On box filled with hopes, dreams and invisible tools. That table of tools will make me enough money to buy that SO wrench set as a retirement gift to myself one day. Used of course lol.
I've got that Gearwrench wrench set, and it's a good bang for your buck set. Also got one of those ASTRO lights, and I hate it. We'll I hate the rotary dial because I'm always bumping it and turning the light down. I much prefer my Harbor Freight lights. In particular the Buar over the ICON because you can swap out the battery as it's just a common 18650 LiOn
Never had to do a fan clutch before, but that fan clutch tip made this video worth it. I totally would have used it the way you initially thought as well
My 2002 f150 I bought was only $1500 .that wrench set is crazy. I really like tekton tools for the money
I've actually had really great luck with the 22, and 21 poece set of wrenches from Carlisle that you can get at Napa, they just redesigned them to have more of a mac style tooth in the front and on the box end but over all for the value i can buy both sets for well under what the snap on one costs. And ironically theyve held up extremely well to the abuse i put them through in racing over the last 4 years along with street cars too. I really like them, but i wouldn't be opposed to getting a set of mac wrenches specifically for work and making those my home wrenches just because i have the opportunity to do so.
I have a Fluke 115. Yet I always find myself reaching over for a THSINDE 18B+ DMM (which is a carbon copy of a FLUKE 18B+) that cost me $25 a couple of years ago in Amazon. I've compared it to the 115 and it's performance is within 99% accuracy. The Fluke is gathering dust in its box.
You just can’t beat a set of snap on wrenches. Some guys buy expensive clothes, watches, boats, alcohol or gambling. It’s just about what you like.
I have lots of SnapOn tools, most are from the 80s or 90s, I love them today as much as I did the day I bought them.
Hard to go wrong with the Snap-ons!
Your ending statement is spot on. 25 years ago, if you wanted quality you bought Snap On. I started wrenching in 1992, you didn’t have many options for quality. The new guys are lucky to have the options and the information resources they have when it comes to tool purchasing.
That may be because Snap-on owned the patent for off-corner engagement and no one could touch their design. That patent expired in the early 90’s, which lead to everyone copying Snap-on’s design.
Bull there were a few options, you have MAC, Matco, Cornwell, SK, and there were some others as well. All of those I just mentioned were excellent tools.
That is a very comprehensive set; throw in some harbor freight sockets, hammers, and a pittance of miscellaneous: and that would pretty much cover all that a entry level tech would need for a good while.
And in the neighborhood of 3K.
Everything you showed is professional level quality: you know your stuff quite well.
Sata 42 piece combination wrench set for 130 after coupon this past week. It’s a great value on wrenches.
Otc front end service kit and their ball joint installation and separator service set for 2wd and 4x4 especially older gm and ford trucks and vans, are both a need in my opinion and I am a diy weekend warrior working on rust belt farm equipment and 2wd and 4x4 farm trucks
$3k? Bananas.
Last year I dropped a new Snap On 1/4” ratchet on the floor, the ball and spring flew out…
A&P/IA,ASE
A ton of useful tool recommendations in this video, this could easily be used as a beginner mechanics tool buying guide.
Just because they’re expansive doesn’t mean they are good…. They’re just over-priced…. There’s a sucker born everyday
Everyone has their "thing" they will spend money on,, shoes, cars, watches, tools, whatever. Its crazy people care what others buy
Couldn’t agree more. Well said.
He don't speak a out this subject in the video this is a video for the new techs to get their eyes open amd don't go broke
I thought he said somebody off the street? Totally agree with you on the green Tec’s not buying everything they can’t afford and being broke over it. That can’t be helpful to them.
I worked at a Pasco and they had the gear wrench serpentine belt tool and it's great. I got the OEM brand from AutoZone but it doesn't ratchet. I wish I spent the extra money for the gear wrench.
Definitely one of your best videos yet!
That’s funny about the fan pulley tool ! 😂
I like the Cyclops lights ( from Amazon ).
Affordable, durable, and bright
I have been on the fence about that wrench set. My guy offered it to me for $2,200. I still don't know if I'm willing to spend that much on wrenches. $600.0 off and it still makes me hesitate. It is indeed a very nice set
Tax write off, if you make your living turning wrenches and you have to supply your own tools you can write them off your income tax. None of these TH-camrs will ever tell you that as they try and point everyone to cheap tools that you won't be able to write off because they are so cheap you don't have enough invested in them to write them off.
I really enjoy your honesty. Especially when you have used your Gearwrench set for years at 10% of the Snap-on set. Thats a lot of tools on that table. What do you think that would cost if it was all Snap-on tools. Great video thank you.
A couple minor nits: 1. The Milwaukee power tools need batteries that aren't cheap. Easy to forget or take for granted when you already have them from earlier "kit" purchases. 2. Obviously Snap-on will finance anyone that can make it into the truck. If you need some specialty tool right now and you're broke as a joke, it's a consideration. Even though you know it's going to make you even broker. Also: +1 on another mention of Milwaukee hand tools coming out - they are a great value and high quality. I picked up a 3/8 drive combo SAE/metric impact socket set for a fair price and they've taken some serious abuse.
Yeah it’s super easy to get sucked into the financing of a truck when you’re starting out. It’s definitely the easiest way to get started out.
I have the same set at work , gearwrench wrench set, I highly recommend as well , only I wouldn’t recommend thier ratchets , I’ve had several have tooth engagement issues right out the box or they lock up
I acrually like the mac wrenches better, love the offset on the box end, its gottn me outa jams so man times and makes life smoother.
OTC use to be great, but their warranty process is now absurd. Spent over an hour to be told i needed proof of purchase for a tool bought 20 years ago. Wont give them another dime.
As someone who owns zero snap on tools, here’s my best defense for the high price: a full-time, flat rate mechanic who saves a few rounded off or stripped out fasteners per year over his career, can easily justify the cost. This assumes that Snapon continues to have a performance edge (though small) over the other brands.
I love my flank drives, but when you put it that way... Anyways, great list that will get someone off to a good start. I have run into a job where I found out someone broke my tie rod tool and had to use my pwz pliers. That was probably 5 years ago and I haven't needed to replace it
I love my fluke, auto range true rms that gives very trustworthy readings, and a bunch of accessories. I did buy mine new at half price though.
As for buying snap on, some people I work with like the interest free payments to own high end tools vs buying stuff online with a credit card. I own some snap on products but am not a diehard, just get what they make that I like.
I like the proto black chrome ratcheting wrench set 5/16 to 1 1/2
I bought the GW wrenches and ratchets. Totally agree with your review.
35 year professional auto technician here. Snap On makes great hand tools, but not worth the price. Fan clutch, noid lite, PS/Harmonic balancer puller and power steering pump pulley puller are dying tools. Don't fool yourself with buy once cry once. Things change. When I bought my first Snap On wrench set there was no Flank Drive Plus.
as a newer tech i don't even bother with snap on i have some mac stuff because they are a little cheaper but doing research you can find a lot of what you need off brand thats 1/4 the price and does the same job
You are what is known as penny wise but pound foolish.
@mustangecoboosthpp3869 hey all I'm saying is my 3/8 rigid impact destroyed my co workers snap on 3/8 so bad he gave it back to the snap on dealer the second he came around I think to buy snap on because "they are the best" is kinda stupid
Otc heavy duty slide hammer kit sweet, and the the Ingersoll and rand long barrel air hammer my favorite suspension air tool part
IMO if you’re going to buy FD+ wrenches buy the ratcheting ones. Much easier to justify the cost when you got FD+ on one end and dual80 on the other
The snap on set is profesional grade. They are meant to be used constantly. They pay there self off in a few years. This also influences labour rates.
Most people go snap on or matco for the warranty. You can replace any broken tool unlimited times. Long term it can be worth it
Oh forsure. Especially if they come to your shop every week.
Manny is taking the wrench set
The Tone ratchets are actually made in Taiwan not Japan, you can also get the same ratchets under Blackhawk by Proto
Dude. I love your box tours. But, this vid rocked. Thx.
Watching from Ontario Canada 🎉😊