Jeffcuevas I agree bro I still use and prefer them over my dual80’s snapons and also still use my old Mac low tooth rats as well they and my craftsman are beasts I’ll put them up against any of todays rats
Honestly the Pittsburgh pro long handle soft grip flex head 3/8’s ratchet has been great for me. For $26 it’s a steal. I’ve had it maybe 6 months and I have no complaints as far as daily use. The only thing people really complain about is the switch is backwards from most other ratchets but it never bothered me.
Forged Steel Wrench I own several duralast ratchets and I’ve never seen a soft grip. Is that something they sell online only ? Ive been keeping an eye out for one because I’ve heard a couple people say they have one but so far the store that is in my area doesn’t have one.
Hey Flat Rate Master, you can "swap" a modern comfort soft grip (round profile) on your 3/8" Flex-head ratchet with the red acetate handle. In other words you can interchange the hard handle for the comfort grip: part no. [FH936-12].
I'm a big fan of ratchet diversification. For years I used 4 or 5 but as I'm in the trade longer I've found that instead of struggling it's much easier to have a broad range of options. I know I'll catch some flack for that but its better efficiency. I think obviously knowledge is key to success but if you don't have the tools to do the job, knowledge is kinda an afterthought.
I have also heard gear wrench ratchet’s for the money or actually very good,,,,I’m going to check out their 120 xp for3/8 inch ratchet and a quarter inch ratchet The gear wrench 120 XP half inch flex head Ratchet has a five star rating for well over 1200 people on Amazon for $44.97 I thought it was very impressive,,,if I had seen that before I purchased my snap on dual 80 half inch long reach flex head ratchet I may not have purchased it and I may have just bought a full set of the gear wrenches 120 XP ratchets instead,,, however I already purchased the half-inch flex head snap on dual 80 long reach on eBay for $214.50 it will be here by the end of this week or sometime early next week it’s brand new I purchased it from eBay,,, I may buy the gear wrench 120 xp 3/8”inch and 1/4” ratchet’s also
GREAT VIDEO I HAVE WATCHED THIS PARTICULAR ONE MORE THAN ONCE on the ratchets good to hear it coming from you a true professional one who uses them everyday for years . I saw a open end electric ratchet on a mega factory episode one time think it was a Porsche factory . It may not be in the hands of consumers as of yet but I must believe someone somewhere is working on it . In the life of a mechanic without the enjoyment of using are tools there is only the bills to pay . Thanks again for the professional look at these tools and please keep the the videos coming .
Great topic, I fell in love with Snap-on 23 + years ago never look back. Love my old plastic handles hate new comfort grip even though I own a couple. Could not agree more you said.
Thanks for the review. At 8:34 you displayed the 1/2" drive Craftsman ratchet briefly. The one feature I do like about it is the knurled thumb wheel. Because the head is relatively large, it can sometimes be difficult to use the thumb wheel, especially if you are forced to hold the ratchet in an awkward position. But, I find the 3/8" ratchet is much easier to use the thumb wheel with because the head is smaller. I also have some Tekton ratchets with a thumb wheel, and the wheel is located above the head instead of below it, which for me is generally more convenient. I like this feature because it allows me to turn the nut by fingertip, which can be convenient if the nut is spinning too freely to generate enough friction to resist against the ratcheting mechanism. Otherwise, there's no ratcheting action until there's sufficient resistance to turn the nut.
Good video, I personally use only Dual 80's and have 80% of the entire range, plus all the comfort grip round heads. Making flatrates and speed, the last thing you want to fight is your ratchet causing back drag, or a ratchet that won't hold the torque, or a ratchet that isn't long enough. As a technician, you make paycheck by using your hands. A weekly Snap-On repayment beats busting your hands and quitting the career, what sort of job you can do without your hands. There comes a time when your up or below the engine bay and need to view specific things when your turning the crank and you do not have time to raise or lower the hoist nor a second person. These small things such as ratchet selection, there is a difference.
I hope you’re right because I just ordered the long reach dual 80 flex head 1/2”inch flexible head ratchet it cost me with tax and shipping $214.50 I got it from a seller on eBay brand new coming from Florida
@@william38022 Its a steep investment, but point is there, you pay for the service with your local truckie. He will go out of his way to repair it (if your truckie has the parts and can get it quick enough). It beats hitting toolstore in your spare time when you could have to spent it with your family. Buying from online is a mixed bag, its basically undercutting your truckie. Its not fair to ask someone that hasn't made money from you to repair something that he never sold you. The best thing you can do in this case is to keep it maintained once awhile (clean, gut everything and re-lube with Superlube). Make sure the cover plate is fully seated and I recommend a bit of medium strength loctite on the cover plate screws (I had a F80 cover plate movement). Know the limits of each tool, if there is visible rust etc, douse it with penetrant for a bit before you try. As always, work smarter and minimise injuries. FYI: Where I'm at (OZ), I paid much more than that for these ratchets.
You sure about that strength comment ? Check out ave right here on TH-cam . He has a ratchet strength test video that might surprise you. Btw he is completely uninfluenced by any brand sponsorship .
Public internet one will find (oh guy that uses profanity in every other word). NO thanks, a man can't control his *filthy mouth* not going to take any advice.
I’m with you on this FRM, I am always using a 3/8” ratchet, especially the flex heads. And the longer you do this, the longer the ratchet you reach for.
I have the same ratchet as you... I love that friggen thing... just like you.. when that comes out .. something’s gunna move or get snapped off ... don’t think I’ve come across a bolt/nut I couldn’t budge with that thing..
Thumbwheel ratchets...when you can't spin the fastener with just your fingers or the socket...you know those ones that are too loose for a ratchet but too tight for fingers...lol
tyler henry It’s a vastly underrated USA made ratchet. SK as a whole is a vastly underrated USA company. I really wish that they could figure out how to cater to the professional technicians by providing a truck and a dealer yet still being more competitive that Snapon in price. I really want to see them survive and thrive amid the hordes of offshore stuff invading our industry. I don’t want to see another USA company bite the dust. We’ve lost too many already.
I have to say, looking at it again (and I'm building a home/charity box in the near future, my choices will be slightly different...When it comes to big boy 1/2" ratchets, I have a 27" Cornwell flex head that I LOVE. I got it on sale half off, it's not fine tooth but it handles the abuse. I find their square comfort grip slightly awkward compared to a round grip, but it's actually big enough to fit my hand. At the same time, I build my second box, I'm going with a Matco 30" locking flex head, just for the locking feature. My Cornwell is not very often used, but I've walked it in a circle to bring out bolts that my very high torque 1/2" air impact would NOT turn. But, that's in shop conditions on a lift. Some of the situations I've found myself in at home, side work, charity work, I'm not able to anywhere near walk or sit under a vehicle, and that locking head as opposed to a ball detent is a big plus for me. I'm mostly a Snap-On guy as far as ratchets, but their big flex head with no locking feature is alright in 3/8" (and I've used it everywhere from ultra tight diesel oil and fuel filters to alignments in tight spots where a wrench is too short to keep ahold of) but I've seen guys smack themselves in the face with it when it flexed when they did not want it to. Great ratchet, great design, but if I have a flex head that big I want SOMETHING to keep it from flexing instead of turning under torque. That said, I own a fistful of Snap-On ratchets, but I started out with Gearwrench in my box. I finally brought my 120XP 3/8" home when I upgraded about a month ago. The Matco action is very similar in feel, slightly less positive on the click, but so is the Snap-On. I still have a Gearwrench standard length 1/2" drive and use it regularly. I can't knock any of the aforementioned lines as a whole. I love the feel and simplicity of the Gearwrench, but the Snap-On feels SO much better overall. I've even compared the swing angle, and the Gearwrench won out over the 3/8" Snap-On brand new off the truck, BUT, the comfort grip and the feel are superb in comparison. I'm not even devoted to comfort grip. I enjoy feeling the click (and the "It's 'bout to shear off!" through the handle and the comfort grips dampen that) but all my bigger ratchets are comfort grip for a reason. All that said, even the coarse tooth Cornwell isn't bad. Yeah, I got burned when I was in training by the swing angle, would've preferred anything fine tooth (and they make them) but they're still quality. If I can put my 300 pound body weight on it and break the bolt loose instead of blowing the gears out, it's tough. It's not the best feel, it's not the most elegant, but by golly it's good. For situations where swing angle isn't an issue I'd run a Cornwell coarse tooth any day, but those situations are seldom. On sale, for a general use ratchet, great deal for the money! I have a soft spot for them though, their factory is an hour drive for me. Ohioan pride, man. A ratchet is one of the most personal choices a technician can make. One size may never fit all. Just respect your fellows, help them if they're struggling, and stand as a brotherhood. We're all in this together, and we're all different.
No insult intended but that old craftsman is considered a fine tooth as opposed to the clunky 32 tooth tear drop craftsman ratchets. I have that exact 1/2 round head craftsman ratchet and I use it as much as I use my snap on flex head 3/8
DIY Misfit "Mechanic" unless he only showed us a few of his ratchets and still has some he doesn’t even have that many. Some guys at my work have like 20+ ratchets. It’s ridiculous
I'd like to add a few comments about the Craftsman standard round head fine tooth (RHFT) ratchet that you held up a few times. My standard 1/2" RHFT is approximately 10.25" long. They also sold a non-locking flex head RHFT that was approximately 16-3/8" long, and it would at least be somewhat closer in length to those that you currently prefer--and definitely longer than the standard RHFT that you displayed. My 3/8" RHFT flex head is approximately 11-1/4" (also longer than the standard 1/2" RHFT). My standard 3/8" RHFT is approximately 6-3/4", while my standard 1/4" RHFT is approximately 5-1/4". The flex head design offers only 3 useful detent positions, whereas most flex ratchets today offer more. The RHFT swing arc is crude compared to most current designs, but they can still get the job done in many situations. When I got my first set of tools, Craftsman was the highest brand that I aspired to at the time. Over the years, I've learned that some of what they sell is good quality, while other things not so much. I've tried out a lot of Craftsman ratchets over the years, and the RHFT is the only one that I've kept in my collection. I do like the fact that they are all metal, and I also find the knurled thumb wheel to be helpful under certain circumstances. Certainly, there are better ratchets out there these days from an overall standpoint. I've tried out a lot of other brands, and I've currently settled on Carlyle comfort grip as being my preferred make these days, but I still find occasional uses for my Craftsman RHFT collection. Thanks for the video, as it was helpful to me.
almost exclusively i use my matco electric ratchet. Other than that i have a non comfort grip matco 88 3/8. For bigger things i have a Mastercraft 1/2" ratcheting breaker bar that ive been unable to break, while ive broken 30 of their regular breaker bars. I can almost do it on demand, haha.
Mike is right everyone, their is a difference in the Tool Truck Ratchets compared to the Hardware store Versions. Some of my favorite Ratchets are Snap On and SK. But now that I have looked at the 88 Tooth Locking Flex by Matco I think I will pick one up. Plus I borrowed a real long 1/2 flex Mac Axis Ratchet awhile back to break loose a support bar bolt to the bumper of a Bus while replacing a A.C. Compressor and it worked great, going to get one of those too. Man tools are addicting,lol.
busjockey1 I own two Mac axis ratchets now and they’re absolutely awesome. Own a 1/4” matco flex that’s great as well. But.. for the money I’ll stick with Mac considering their same style (features) ratchet (1/2” 26” long) is much cheaper. I’d still like a snap on hard handle but I’ll wait to find one on eBay when I get the extra cash
I can attest to the long handle Cornwell 1/2 being strong. I’ve thrown the cheater bar on it many times and gone to town on some big fasteners. I’ve had the handle flexed out some much it looked like it was going to break. It’s the older course tooth design, but man is it strong. I typically use it on big stuff that I can access with 3/4” stuff. My only complaint is the course tooth design, but then again that’s probably where the strength in the drive comes from Would love to get some more Snap On stuff. But that would require us to have a truck in our area again.
bosborn1 that older course tooth (30 I think) style is one of the smoothest ratchets I I’ve ever used. I have a regular length 1/2 Cornwell I got off Garage Journal that I don’t use much but won’t part with. Those handles are made to fit perfectly in cheater pipes lol.
I could not find a Snap On dealer in my area. I called Snap On and they would not tell me the dealer for my area. They said I should buy from their online store. :(
I prefer the Matco 3/8 locking flex head myself. The exact ratchet you were holding. That’s by far my favorite and most used ratchet. I also have the 1/4 and 1/2 and love them as well.
Ratchets have come a long way and you definitely get what you pay for. I have 30 ratchets and seem to like the newer Snap On. Overall I find the SK round head to be an excellent tool to use.
You're 100% right about personal preference being key. Can't comment about an auto repairman's needs, but for marine diesel engines I prefer Gray Tools. Tooth count is relatively low but strength and dependability are high (warranty service is unavailable at sea!). Check out their 14.5" 1/2" drive flex-head (part # 8799F).
I got all the same stuff plus more from all brands tool truck....but that old craftsman I got that one from my grandfather...same one and it actually fine tooth compared to rest...I know that click noise...anyway my point....before I could afford fancy tools I use to put 4 foot pipe on that same wrench and never broke it.....it tuff..yea handle short...it is...thinks for reading bro...have great day
I’d put my 24” gearwrench 1/2” locking flex head ratchet up to a snap on or matco ratchet all day everyday day. That thing can handle some serious torque
Locking flex head matco ratchet all the way I bought fixed ratchets when I first started and I think I use them for a month and then never ever got used again
Why no warranty? Snap On.. guarantee for life they should have given you a new dual 80.. I just exchanged 2 old low Tooth long flex 3/8, no issues and you buy a lot more than me.. mail OT in if needed they will mail you a new one.. it's Snap On after all
I love my old plastic handle Mac 1/2 in drive. I have the old style 3/8 drive and 1/4 in drive Snap On love them to. I haven't had a chance to get my hands on the comfort grip. I probably won't retired old school and still use them. Great video my friend keep up the great work see you in the next video
Im a gearwrench guy myself. As a lube tech/ first year I have a Mac 3/8 flex fine tooth comfort and really enjoy it as pretty much my go to, however my 84t gearwrench is there for the oil filter and if it gets covered in oil, it actually has made it as quiet/smooth as the the mac 😂. Cant step up to a snap on yet....it just too much $ for now but ill get there...
You should mention 1/4" drive handles with the 3/8" drives in them. I have the SK 45173 and the flex head snapon fcf72. They both come in handy a LOT to get into tight spots when you need a 3/8 drive socket
Tbh, i love snap’s ratchet, they feel the best, ive tried macs, grip is too small and the ratchet drags more than the snap. I would love to try out matcos ratchet
Good tutorial, FRM. Nice to see a tech in the trenches telling it like it is. BTW, how many ratchets do you own sir? Cuz that looks like quite the collection you have there.
Just spent over 200 on milwaukee extended and stubby ratchets. Only ever spent $6 on a craftsman offset flex head and will never spend another dollar on them until milwaukee comes out with their version. I want something worth its money but not made of gold.
the only thing i use my standard length 1/2" ratchet for is putting a 1/2 inch socket on to loosen up chrysler jeep dodge drain plugs. it really doesn't have a purpose anymore. i have a 3/8 1/2 socket but i just use the half for w/e reason.
I used to think bent handle ratchets were pointless too until I bought one. I've owned snap on, sk and gearwrench versions. It clicks as you start using it everyday how much it could have helped you in past jobs... Can use as a speeder handle, helps keep ya straight when using deep sockets and keeps your hand away from things in alot of tight situations. I find they pair best with a set of semi deeps 👍
I was sponsored by napa at some point. I have a handful of durlast and ever craft ratchets. I work on heavy equipment and don't really see any step up really from durlast 90 to some of the tool truck brands . It seems to be diminished returns .
John Long I'm with you. It's annoying to deal with a ratchet that won't ratchet back. 8 appreciate my vintage ratchets because they're work in just enough to have very low drag on the gear.
I have a duralast 19” 1/2 drive flex head ratchet. There one of the few brands outside the tool truck that I like. Not as good as snap on long handle ratchet on but for those on a budget I think it would work fine until you were able to switch over to the good ol’ happy- snappy
I've got the comfort grip matco locking flex head 1/2 inch that's the size of that snapon. I love that damn thing. Great or doing eccentric bolts on alignments when they are really stuck
The old snap-on 36 tooth ratchets have possibly the most durable design ever in a ratchet. And Snap-On still sells them under their Willaims and Blue-Point brands. Williams for standard and Blue-Point for quick release versions. The action is coarse so it doesn't feel as smooth as a dual 80 or other high tooth count ratchet, but it's beefy internals make it the king of brutes, especially in 1/2" drive.
I use that exact ratchet myself. I love it. The locking swivel is the best part. And just like yours I abuse the hell out of it. Never had a problem with it.
I still have my craftsmen ractchets and use them a lot, upgraded to various brands over the years but still why in the hell does craftsman still use thd hard square handle design so uncomfortable
You wanna something wild. I spent a bunch of money on buying snap on ratchets. I have always wanted snap on ratchets. I agree a lot of things from snap on are way over priced, and there are so many options outside of snap on for other things, but snap on ratchets are hard to beat. So I took the plunge. I saved my money, and invested into buying snap on ratchets in the sizes and lengths I have become used to having. Well wouldn’t you know it, I still find myself reaching for my Pittsburgh Professional red soft grip flex head ratchets over the snap on ones. It’s crazy, but there is real truth to putting the ratchet in your hand before you buy it.
Craftsman ratchets are not good for everyday use, they are good for the backyard\weekend warrior there even cheap & affordable to have a spare emergency tool kit to throw in your vehicle Incase your travelling or have car problems there tool kits are affordable yes but not for heavy use HOWEVER i went the cheap route & bought every chrome socket size both in SAE & Metric to use turning a ratchet at work due to how damn expensive matco/snap on chrome sockets cost!!! However i have all the basic size impact socket sizes both metric & sae from matco... I knew i had to get my moneys worth with the impact sockets vrs going the cheap route... You get what you pay for.. However I've had all my chrome craftsman sockets for a year now & use them daily.. Never had any issues with them or had to warranty any of them but i use them for there soul purpose & know there limits... Its how you use or abuse your tools... Bugs the living hell out of me when some one barrows my tools & returns them all oily/dirty... OCD kicks in.. Keep your tools clean & organized.. Makes work alot smoother, faster & tells alot about a person whose neat/organized vs sloppy & careless
Don’t buy online?? You order it test fit and finish in your hand for a few minutes, hours or days (I am not saying to actually use it in the shop) and then put if you don’t like it then returns are generally free on many web sites.
I don't really like flex head in 1/2. If I'm using a half, it's usually a long handle half in a breaker bar type situation and I don't want it moving when I grunt on it and also don't want to break it at the flex. I have a long handle comfort grip Carlyle that is a beast for that scenario. If I need bigger than that it's time for my 4ft 3/4 drive breaker bar. You usually just don't need to ratchet stuff in half drive.... you're usually breaking it loose then switching to a faster tool once it's free.
I have the Matco locking 3/8 flex head too and love it.My go to ratchet most of the time now.I broke it once so far and glad I bought a second one later.Broke off the drive part off using it on a fill plug in a rear end.Did get it warrantied,a ratchet repair kit was put in it and been good to me even more now.
Now waiting on Matco changing the route for the new dealer to come in.Had it set so she came in on Wendsdays and there was a problem with that.My dad and I are gone on Wendsdays and told their district rep this
That old craftsman is awesome, I love having the thumb wheel attached to the anvil. I like the hard handles on the screwdrivers but not on the ratchets so much. Actually I use the ratchets with no comfort grip or anything 'fancy' on the handle, but I don't do it 12 hours a day either.
Yup bro that Craftsman is awesome most people don't realize that there real fine tooth 45t x2 after you lube them right OMG there buttery smooth and fuck if you can find one that is a flex head dam there pricey for being 40 years old and dam near bulletproof
I'm a backyard mechanic and switched over from Craftsman rachets to Capri. Happy with those, but still lacking. I am wanting those long handled Matco flexhead in 3/8 and 1/2 inch. I'll have to chase down a Matco truck if I see one.
Just looked at that ez red 1/4 ratchet! Seems like a handy tool! I love ratchets ahah! 😂 too many too choose but i found extendable locking, flex head, with quick release with comfort grip!
I’m not a full time mechanic (own a side business) and I own a lot of brands…not a tool truck fan boy by any stretch, that said you won’t beat MATCO or Snap On regarding ratchets.
Nice suggestion to try the feel of the tool. The biggest problem I see right now is the crap sold in auto parts stores. Usually it is packaged in plastic so you can’t tough it. I have not seen a rubber handle ratchet in a long time. Maybe I can find one on Amazon in 3 minutes and I can return it if I don’t like it. Choices….
I'm surprised your go too would be a Matco. Not to trash them but I can't stand them because they're way more coarse then the snap on. Even our old Matco dealerthat works at our shop now uses snap on ratchets. But your right, it's the guy swinging it.
I sold my flex head comfort grip snap on. it was terrible. the grip would slide off and they would not warranty it. I got the Pittsburgh HF one and LOVE it. after years of use it got gritty so I went to HF and they gave me a new one. those snap on comfort grips are not comfy when it slides off and you get hurt. I have been a prof mechanic for 25 years and would encourage anyone to try the Pittsburgh ratchet. I like them much better than snap on and they have a much better warranty not to mention way cheaper.
Like yiu I've got a huge selection of 'odd' ratchets and always git asked why do yiu need those, why not just use a regular one... I don't struggle like they do, I don't get stressed like they do and I book time more than they did.
Use the Snap On extra long in 1/4, long in 3/8, and Matco long locking in 1/2 (17”). Love the Matco except it’s not a CG. Wish it were but I got a good deal on it. The only thing about Snap-On drives me nuts esp 1/4 is needing a screwdriver to pop the sockets off. My favorite 1/4 is a round head SK. Those roto heads are great. Under dash & I like them to spin in torx bits, sometimes out when concerned about impact. I’ve got about 20 other ratchets most of which I didn’t really need but wanted lol.
in terms of half inch long handles i can say without a doubt mac made the strongest. its been tested on video aswell here on youtube by a few channels. i cant attest to the newest line of there ratchets tho. there newest rbts wrenches are superior to anything else on the market and over 100 cheaper than snap ons flank drive plus wrenches, i wasnt the biggest fan of the i beam design but its grown on me.
Sorry Gear Wrench way better ! Without the price and Stronger ! I've seen the digital Tork meter test on many of these ratchets and Matco broke before Snap on , Gear Wrench .
When I need high torque I go for the breaker bar over a long half inch drive ratchet. Otherwise I would end up breaking that half inch ratchet you bought off the tool truck.
But for the young mechanic starting out harbor freight has good flex head ratchets for good price and they hold up until you can get a name brand ratchet! I have the three flex head ratchets for harbor freight and the same ones in Mac axis USA made and I’m using harbor freight ratchet to see if the can handle everything I put them through and it’s been a year and My Mac axis ratchets are still brand new!
Gearwrench 120xp 1/2 flex head is a beast! I've had mine with a 6 foot cheater pipe on it. A minimum of 320nm to break axle nuts free. They're tough
I've grown to love the flex head's myself. When I use a non flex head ratchet, it just doesn't feel right anymore. Excellent vid, FRM.
instablaster
Unless you need to break torque on something, than it is the other way around.
That's actually the pinnacle of craftsman ratchets you had. Lol
I still use those old double paw craftsman today.... 32 years later still good as it was in 1988
Very robust
Rhft are nice
Jeffcuevas I agree bro I still use and prefer them over my dual80’s snapons and also still use my old Mac low tooth rats as well they and my craftsman are beasts I’ll put them up against any of todays rats
Honestly the Pittsburgh pro long handle soft grip flex head 3/8’s ratchet has been great for me. For $26 it’s a steal. I’ve had it maybe 6 months and I have no complaints as far as daily use. The only thing people really complain about is the switch is backwards from most other ratchets but it never bothered me.
I agree.... I got me the duralast comfort grip n it works great.
Forged Steel Wrench I own several duralast ratchets and I’ve never seen a soft grip. Is that something they sell online only ? Ive been keeping an eye out for one because I’ve heard a couple people say they have one but so far the store that is in my area doesn’t have one.
@@Lasurge1982 did you ever find what you were looking for? LoL
My buddy has a Pittsburgh and I grabbed it and felt sick, snap on ftw
They dont make duralast soft grip handles
I've always liked the original style naked handle/bare steel type. Dont soak up fluids, but just fits my hand better.
But to each his own.
Hey Flat Rate Master, you can "swap" a modern comfort soft grip (round profile) on your 3/8" Flex-head ratchet with the red acetate handle. In other words you can interchange the hard handle for the comfort grip: part no. [FH936-12].
No the shank is too big
@@danieltubbs458 You're correct.
I'm a big fan of ratchet diversification. For years I used 4 or 5 but as I'm in the trade longer I've found that instead of struggling it's much easier to have a broad range of options. I know I'll catch some flack for that but its better efficiency. I think obviously knowledge is key to success but if you don't have the tools to do the job, knowledge is kinda an afterthought.
I prefer my Snap on Ratchets but have found gearwrench makes a nice one and husky as well. Don't own any Matcos so can't say either way. Great video
I have also heard gear wrench ratchet’s for the money or actually very good,,,,I’m going to check out their 120 xp for3/8 inch ratchet and a quarter inch ratchet The gear wrench 120 XP half inch flex head Ratchet has a five star rating for well over 1200 people on Amazon for $44.97 I thought it was very impressive,,,if I had seen that before I purchased my snap on dual 80 half inch long reach flex head ratchet I may not have purchased it and I may have just bought a full set of the gear wrenches 120 XP ratchets instead,,, however I already purchased the half-inch flex head snap on dual 80 long reach on eBay for $214.50 it will be here by the end of this week or sometime early next week it’s brand new I purchased it from eBay,,, I may buy the gear wrench 120 xp 3/8”inch and 1/4” ratchet’s also
Gearwrench 120 tooth ratchet I would put it up against snap on or matco any day....its a tuff ratchet Man!!
GREAT VIDEO I HAVE WATCHED THIS PARTICULAR ONE MORE THAN ONCE on the ratchets good to hear it coming from you a true professional one who uses them everyday for years . I saw a open end electric ratchet on a mega factory episode one time think it was a Porsche factory . It may not be in the hands of consumers as of yet but I must believe someone somewhere is working on it . In the life of a mechanic without the enjoyment of using are tools there is only the bills to pay . Thanks again for the professional look at these tools and please keep the the videos coming .
I made a promise to myself to buy less off the tool trucks. Two things that I'll always buy off the truck tho is snap on wrenches and ratchets
Great topic, I fell in love with Snap-on 23 + years ago never look back. Love my old plastic handles hate new comfort grip even though I own a couple. Could not agree more you said.
Thanks for the review. At 8:34 you displayed the 1/2" drive Craftsman ratchet briefly. The one feature I do like about it is the knurled thumb wheel. Because the head is relatively large, it can sometimes be difficult to use the thumb wheel, especially if you are forced to hold the ratchet in an awkward position. But, I find the 3/8" ratchet is much easier to use the thumb wheel with because the head is smaller. I also have some Tekton ratchets with a thumb wheel, and the wheel is located above the head instead of below it, which for me is generally more convenient. I like this feature because it allows me to turn the nut by fingertip, which can be convenient if the nut is spinning too freely to generate enough friction to resist against the ratcheting mechanism. Otherwise, there's no ratcheting action until there's sufficient resistance to turn the nut.
Only thing I would add to this list is a big long 1/2" breaker bar
Good video, I personally use only Dual 80's and have 80% of the entire range, plus all the comfort grip round heads.
Making flatrates and speed, the last thing you want to fight is your ratchet causing back drag, or a ratchet that won't hold the torque, or a ratchet that isn't long enough.
As a technician, you make paycheck by using your hands. A weekly Snap-On repayment beats busting your hands and quitting the career, what sort of job you can do without your hands.
There comes a time when your up or below the engine bay and need to view specific things when your turning the crank and you do not have time to raise or lower the hoist nor a second person. These small things such as ratchet selection, there is a difference.
I hope you’re right because I just ordered the long reach dual 80 flex head 1/2”inch flexible head ratchet it cost me with tax and shipping $214.50 I got it from a seller on eBay brand new coming from Florida
@@william38022 Its a steep investment, but point is there, you pay for the service with your local truckie. He will go out of his way to repair it (if your truckie has the parts and can get it quick enough).
It beats hitting toolstore in your spare time when you could have to spent it with your family. Buying from online is a mixed bag, its basically undercutting your truckie. Its not fair to ask someone that hasn't made money from you to repair something that he never sold you.
The best thing you can do in this case is to keep it maintained once awhile (clean, gut everything and re-lube with Superlube).
Make sure the cover plate is fully seated and I recommend a bit of medium strength loctite on the cover plate screws (I had a F80 cover plate movement).
Know the limits of each tool, if there is visible rust etc, douse it with penetrant for a bit before you try.
As always, work smarter and minimise injuries.
FYI: Where I'm at (OZ), I paid much more than that for these ratchets.
You sure about that strength comment ? Check out ave right here on TH-cam . He has a ratchet strength test video that might surprise you. Btw he is completely uninfluenced by any brand sponsorship .
Public internet one will find (oh guy that uses profanity in every other word). NO thanks, a man can't control his *filthy mouth* not going to take any advice.
@@mt1885 results are results
@@tylerrussell6415 NO they are not man that can't control his speech like that is no results.
Aris Torm somebody cant handle the truth!
I have almost the same 3/8 Matco as my primary and love it. You make an excellent point about holding the tool to know if it works.
U forget to to mention speed handles 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
I’m with you on this FRM, I am always using a 3/8” ratchet, especially the flex heads. And the longer you do this, the longer the ratchet you reach for.
LOL, Sucks getting old:(
My fav ratchet is my 2 foot snap on locking flex head 1/2" When I whip that thing out you know shit is going to get done!
I have the same ratchet as you... I love that friggen thing... just like you.. when that comes out .. something’s gunna move or get snapped off ... don’t think I’ve come across a bolt/nut I couldn’t budge with that thing..
When my M18 Fuel 1/2" high torque 2763 model (1st Gen) couldn't snap my torsion bar bolts you bet this thing broke them right in half!
Jursaw I believe it.. snapped many a frozen fastener with that ratchet
Mac's new fine tooth ratchets are awesome, probably my favorite. That long Snap-on 3/8 flex head is awesome too, I picked one of those up awhile back.
I haven't had a Mac Dealer since 2005, so I know very little of what Mac is offering now a days
Thumbwheel ratchets...when you can't spin the fastener with just your fingers or the socket...you know those ones that are too loose for a ratchet but too tight for fingers...lol
Honestly my favorite rachet it the s&k roundhead with the knurled handle
tyler henry It’s a vastly underrated USA made ratchet. SK as a whole is a vastly underrated USA company. I really wish that they could figure out how to cater to the professional technicians by providing a truck and a dealer yet still being more competitive that Snapon in price. I really want to see them survive and thrive amid the hordes of offshore stuff invading our industry. I don’t want to see another USA company bite the dust. We’ve lost too many already.
Love my classic S-K 3/8” ratchet. I’ve had it about 60 years and I bought it used.
I have to say, looking at it again (and I'm building a home/charity box in the near future, my choices will be slightly different...When it comes to big boy 1/2" ratchets, I have a 27" Cornwell flex head that I LOVE. I got it on sale half off, it's not fine tooth but it handles the abuse. I find their square comfort grip slightly awkward compared to a round grip, but it's actually big enough to fit my hand. At the same time, I build my second box, I'm going with a Matco 30" locking flex head, just for the locking feature. My Cornwell is not very often used, but I've walked it in a circle to bring out bolts that my very high torque 1/2" air impact would NOT turn. But, that's in shop conditions on a lift. Some of the situations I've found myself in at home, side work, charity work, I'm not able to anywhere near walk or sit under a vehicle, and that locking head as opposed to a ball detent is a big plus for me. I'm mostly a Snap-On guy as far as ratchets, but their big flex head with no locking feature is alright in 3/8" (and I've used it everywhere from ultra tight diesel oil and fuel filters to alignments in tight spots where a wrench is too short to keep ahold of) but I've seen guys smack themselves in the face with it when it flexed when they did not want it to. Great ratchet, great design, but if I have a flex head that big I want SOMETHING to keep it from flexing instead of turning under torque. That said, I own a fistful of Snap-On ratchets, but I started out with Gearwrench in my box. I finally brought my 120XP 3/8" home when I upgraded about a month ago. The Matco action is very similar in feel, slightly less positive on the click, but so is the Snap-On. I still have a Gearwrench standard length 1/2" drive and use it regularly. I can't knock any of the aforementioned lines as a whole. I love the feel and simplicity of the Gearwrench, but the Snap-On feels SO much better overall. I've even compared the swing angle, and the Gearwrench won out over the 3/8" Snap-On brand new off the truck, BUT, the comfort grip and the feel are superb in comparison. I'm not even devoted to comfort grip. I enjoy feeling the click (and the "It's 'bout to shear off!" through the handle and the comfort grips dampen that) but all my bigger ratchets are comfort grip for a reason.
All that said, even the coarse tooth Cornwell isn't bad. Yeah, I got burned when I was in training by the swing angle, would've preferred anything fine tooth (and they make them) but they're still quality. If I can put my 300 pound body weight on it and break the bolt loose instead of blowing the gears out, it's tough. It's not the best feel, it's not the most elegant, but by golly it's good. For situations where swing angle isn't an issue I'd run a Cornwell coarse tooth any day, but those situations are seldom. On sale, for a general use ratchet, great deal for the money! I have a soft spot for them though, their factory is an hour drive for me. Ohioan pride, man.
A ratchet is one of the most personal choices a technician can make. One size may never fit all. Just respect your fellows, help them if they're struggling, and stand as a brotherhood. We're all in this together, and we're all different.
Thanks for this
Do you indeed handle over 400lbs nuts or bolts at your shop? I liked the snap on 1/2" long handle you showed at the end.
No insult intended but that old craftsman is considered a fine tooth as opposed to the clunky 32 tooth tear drop craftsman ratchets. I have that exact 1/2 round head craftsman ratchet and I use it as much as I use my snap on flex head 3/8
Hi, I'm the Flat Rate Master, and I'm addicted to ratchets. You get a thumbs up, and help yourself to the coffee and donuts. 👍
DIY Misfit "Mechanic" unless he only showed us a few of his ratchets and still has some he doesn’t even have that many. Some guys at my work have like 20+ ratchets. It’s ridiculous
I'd like to add a few comments about the Craftsman standard round head fine tooth (RHFT) ratchet that you held up a few times. My standard 1/2" RHFT is approximately 10.25" long. They also sold a non-locking flex head RHFT that was approximately 16-3/8" long, and it would at least be somewhat closer in length to those that you currently prefer--and definitely longer than the standard RHFT that you displayed. My 3/8" RHFT flex head is approximately 11-1/4" (also longer than the standard 1/2" RHFT). My standard 3/8" RHFT is approximately 6-3/4", while my standard 1/4" RHFT is approximately 5-1/4". The flex head design offers only 3 useful detent positions, whereas most flex ratchets today offer more. The RHFT swing arc is crude compared to most current designs, but they can still get the job done in many situations. When I got my first set of tools, Craftsman was the highest brand that I aspired to at the time. Over the years, I've learned that some of what they sell is good quality, while other things not so much. I've tried out a lot of Craftsman ratchets over the years, and the RHFT is the only one that I've kept in my collection. I do like the fact that they are all metal, and I also find the knurled thumb wheel to be helpful under certain circumstances. Certainly, there are better ratchets out there these days from an overall standpoint. I've tried out a lot of other brands, and I've currently settled on Carlyle comfort grip as being my preferred make these days, but I still find occasional uses for my Craftsman RHFT collection. Thanks for the video, as it was helpful to me.
almost exclusively i use my matco electric ratchet. Other than that i have a non comfort grip matco 88 3/8. For bigger things i have a Mastercraft 1/2" ratcheting breaker bar that ive been unable to break, while ive broken 30 of their regular breaker bars. I can almost do it on demand, haha.
Mike is right everyone, their is a difference in the Tool Truck Ratchets compared to the Hardware store Versions. Some of my favorite Ratchets are Snap On and SK. But now that I have looked at the 88 Tooth Locking Flex by Matco I think I will pick one up. Plus I borrowed a real long 1/2 flex Mac Axis Ratchet awhile back to break loose a support bar bolt to the bumper of a Bus while replacing a A.C. Compressor and it worked great, going to get one of those too. Man tools are addicting,lol.
busjockey1
I'm with ya, I love my snap on ratchets especially this long 3/8 flex head green hard handle but I can't stand snap on soft grip.
busjockey1 I own two Mac axis ratchets now and they’re absolutely awesome. Own a 1/4” matco flex that’s great as well. But.. for the money I’ll stick with Mac considering their same style (features) ratchet (1/2” 26” long) is much cheaper. I’d still like a snap on hard handle but I’ll wait to find one on eBay when I get the extra cash
The matco locking flex head 3/8 88 tooth ratchet has become my go to. The Pittsburgh 3/8 flex head has been good for me for years surprisingly
I thought this was the Yankee Marshal for a second
I can attest to the long handle Cornwell 1/2 being strong. I’ve thrown the cheater bar on it many times and gone to town on some big fasteners. I’ve had the handle flexed out some much it looked like it was going to break. It’s the older course tooth design, but man is it strong. I typically use it on big stuff that I can access with 3/4” stuff. My only complaint is the course tooth design, but then again that’s probably where the strength in the drive comes from
Would love to get some more Snap On stuff. But that would require us to have a truck in our area again.
bosborn1 that older course tooth (30 I think) style is one of the smoothest ratchets I I’ve ever used. I have a regular length 1/2 Cornwell I got off Garage Journal that I don’t use much but won’t part with. Those handles are made to fit perfectly in cheater pipes lol.
I could not find a Snap On dealer in my area. I called Snap On and they would not tell me the dealer for my area. They said I should buy from their online store. :(
I prefer the Matco 3/8 locking flex head myself. The exact ratchet you were holding. That’s by far my favorite and most used ratchet. I also have the 1/4 and 1/2 and love them as well.
Awesome video! Keep up the great work
I have the big daddy 1/2 snap on flex head and I use it to torque turn 6.0L head bolt and have only broken it once
Great video! I have the locking flex Matco's in 1/4, 3/8 & 1/2 and they are my favorite and my 3/8 gets used the most! Keep up the good work
Ratchets have come a long way and you definitely get what you pay for. I have 30 ratchets and seem to like the newer Snap On. Overall I find the SK round head to be an excellent tool to use.
You're 100% right about personal preference being key.
Can't comment about an auto repairman's needs, but for marine diesel engines I prefer Gray Tools. Tooth count is relatively low but strength and dependability are high (warranty service is unavailable at sea!). Check out their 14.5" 1/2" drive flex-head (part # 8799F).
I got all the same stuff plus more from all brands tool truck....but that old craftsman I got that one from my grandfather...same one and it actually fine tooth compared to rest...I know that click noise...anyway my point....before I could afford fancy tools I use to put 4 foot pipe on that same wrench and never broke it.....it tuff..yea handle short...it is...thinks for reading bro...have great day
That was my go to ratchet for years
I’d put my 24” gearwrench 1/2” locking flex head ratchet up to a snap on or matco ratchet all day everyday day. That thing can handle some serious torque
How many pounds of torque do you thing it could handle? I have the same 84 tooth one but never did anything beyond brakes.
Locking flex head matco ratchet all the way I bought fixed ratchets when I first started and I think I use them for a month and then never ever got used again
Why no warranty? Snap On.. guarantee for life they should have given you a new dual 80.. I just exchanged 2 old low Tooth long flex 3/8, no issues and you buy a lot more than me.. mail OT in if needed they will mail you a new one.. it's Snap On after all
Just never bothered to change them in, as they sit in my box and i just never remember them
You made some good points here. I like the idea of the locking flex head. I don't own one yet so maybe that will be in my future. Thanks.
Snap on have locking flex head
I bet I feel better in your hand than any of those ratchets
fuzzy wuzzy that's just wrong lol !!
I bet it all depends on who is where and what end they are looking at.
fuzzy wuzzy I bet he's got a bent shaft
Ha !
I bet it feels better until you release the schmoo...
My USA made half inch craftmans actually lasted longer than my snap on it was my go to and did all the work i needed it to !
I love my old plastic handle Mac 1/2 in drive. I have the old style 3/8 drive and 1/4 in drive Snap On love them to. I haven't had a chance to get my hands on the comfort grip. I probably won't retired old school and still use them. Great video my friend keep up the great work see you in the next video
Im a gearwrench guy myself. As a lube tech/ first year I have a Mac 3/8 flex fine tooth comfort and really enjoy it as pretty much my go to, however my 84t gearwrench is there for the oil filter and if it gets covered in oil, it actually has made it as quiet/smooth as the the mac 😂. Cant step up to a snap on yet....it just too much $ for now but ill get there...
Gearwrench is really the best bang for the buck these days in my opinion.
What about those dollar tree 3/8 ratchets? they're only $1.06 out the door.
Just like the wrenches... variety is key.
The bent-handle and offset-handle snap-on 3/8s ratchets are awesome once you get used to them. I preach for them now lol
After 20 plus years of wrenching, snap on wins the ratchet category. I only buy old school handles, I love the hard plastic handle ones.
"She left me with my stubby in my hand"
She loves my extended reach flex head
Good video Mike, but you make it look cold in Georgia. 😁
My sister and niece cancelled Christmas because they got snowed in last month. 🤣
I think starting out the Proto pearheads are by far the best deal, but God I love those Matco flex heads with the grip
You should mention 1/4" drive handles with the 3/8" drives in them. I have the SK 45173 and the flex head snapon fcf72. They both come in handy a LOT to get into tight spots when you need a 3/8 drive socket
Tbh, i love snap’s ratchet, they feel the best, ive tried macs, grip is too small and the ratchet drags more than the snap. I would love to try out matcos ratchet
Good tutorial, FRM. Nice to see a tech in the trenches telling it like it is. BTW, how many ratchets do you own sir? Cuz that looks like quite the collection you have there.
That was most of them, but not all
Just spent over 200 on milwaukee extended and stubby ratchets. Only ever spent $6 on a craftsman offset flex head and will never spend another dollar on them until milwaukee comes out with their version. I want something worth its money but not made of gold.
Other than a 1/2 inch long handle I will never buy a ratchet without a flex head. Love my 3/8 Snap on flex head, I prefer metal over the comfort grip
Really good video brother! So I guess I’m not the only guy to have a ratchet fetish 🤤
Darwin W yeah I bet you got a stubby tool
the only thing i use my standard length 1/2" ratchet for is putting a 1/2 inch socket on to loosen up chrysler jeep dodge drain plugs. it really doesn't have a purpose anymore. i have a 3/8 1/2 socket but i just use the half for w/e reason.
I used to think bent handle ratchets were pointless too until I bought one. I've owned snap on, sk and gearwrench versions. It clicks as you start using it everyday how much it could have helped you in past jobs... Can use as a speeder handle, helps keep ya straight when using deep sockets and keeps your hand away from things in alot of tight situations. I find they pair best with a set of semi deeps 👍
I was sponsored by napa at some point. I have a handful of durlast and ever craft ratchets. I work on heavy equipment and don't really see any step up really from durlast 90 to some of the tool truck brands . It seems to be diminished returns .
Working in crammed engine bays, low back drag is one of the most important features for me. It ranks up there with feel.
John Long I'm with you. It's annoying to deal with a ratchet that won't ratchet back. 8 appreciate my vintage ratchets because they're work in just enough to have very low drag on the gear.
John Long I agree the new Mac and snap on are the best w that by far.
YOU need to test out the RATCHET and have a SERVICE REP for it. If your wrenches ain't turnin you ain't earnin!!!
I have a duralast 19” 1/2 drive flex head ratchet. There one of the few brands outside the tool truck that I like. Not as good as snap on long handle ratchet on but for those on a budget I think it would work fine until you were able to switch over to the good ol’ happy- snappy
He who dies with the most ratchets wins.
I've got the comfort grip matco locking flex head 1/2 inch that's the size of that snapon. I love that damn thing. Great or doing eccentric bolts on alignments when they are really stuck
After 40yrs wrenching I've got quite a collection also, and yeah I have one of those Snap On hard handle ratchets.
The old snap-on 36 tooth ratchets have possibly the most durable design ever in a ratchet. And Snap-On still sells them under their Willaims and Blue-Point brands. Williams for standard and Blue-Point for quick release versions. The action is coarse so it doesn't feel as smooth as a dual 80 or other high tooth count ratchet, but it's beefy internals make it the king of brutes, especially in 1/2" drive.
I use that exact ratchet myself. I love it. The locking swivel is the best part. And just like yours I abuse the hell out of it. Never had a problem with it.
I still have my craftsmen ractchets and use them a lot, upgraded to various brands over the years but still why in the hell does craftsman still use thd hard square handle design so uncomfortable
Yes it is. But they have made many ratchets over the years without it, for example, their professional line.
You wanna something wild. I spent a bunch of money on buying snap on ratchets. I have always wanted snap on ratchets. I agree a lot of things from snap on are way over priced, and there are so many options outside of snap on for other things, but snap on ratchets are hard to beat. So I took the plunge. I saved my money, and invested into buying snap on ratchets in the sizes and lengths I have become used to having. Well wouldn’t you know it, I still find myself reaching for my Pittsburgh Professional red soft grip flex head ratchets over the snap on ones. It’s crazy, but there is real truth to putting the ratchet in your hand before you buy it.
Craftsman ratchets are not good for everyday use, they are good for the backyard\weekend warrior there even cheap & affordable to have a spare emergency tool kit to throw in your vehicle Incase your travelling or have car problems there tool kits are affordable yes but not for heavy use HOWEVER i went the cheap route & bought every chrome socket size both in SAE & Metric to use turning a ratchet at work due to how damn expensive matco/snap on chrome sockets cost!!! However i have all the basic size impact socket sizes both metric & sae from matco... I knew i had to get my moneys worth with the impact sockets vrs going the cheap route... You get what you pay for.. However I've had all my chrome craftsman sockets for a year now & use them daily.. Never had any issues with them or had to warranty any of them but i use them for there soul purpose & know there limits... Its how you use or abuse your tools... Bugs the living hell out of me when some one barrows my tools & returns them all oily/dirty... OCD kicks in.. Keep your tools clean & organized.. Makes work alot smoother, faster & tells alot about a person whose neat/organized vs sloppy & careless
Don’t buy online?? You order it test fit and finish in your hand for a few minutes, hours or days (I am not saying to actually use it in the shop) and then put if you don’t like it then returns are generally free on many web sites.
I don't really like flex head in 1/2. If I'm using a half, it's usually a long handle half in a breaker bar type situation and I don't want it moving when I grunt on it and also don't want to break it at the flex. I have a long handle comfort grip Carlyle that is a beast for that scenario. If I need bigger than that it's time for my 4ft 3/4 drive breaker bar. You usually just don't need to ratchet stuff in half drive.... you're usually breaking it loose then switching to a faster tool once it's free.
I have the Matco locking 3/8 flex head too and love it.My go to ratchet most of the time now.I broke it once so far and glad I bought a second one later.Broke off the drive part off using it on a fill plug in a rear end.Did get it warrantied,a ratchet repair kit was put in it and been good to me even more now.
I finally Broke mine last week, I would have bought a second this week, but he didn't have it in Orange so I will wait till he does;)
Now waiting on Matco changing the route for the new dealer to come in.Had it set so she came in on Wendsdays and there was a problem with that.My dad and I are gone on Wendsdays and told their district rep this
That old craftsman is awesome, I love having the thumb wheel attached to the anvil. I like the hard handles on the screwdrivers but not on the ratchets so much. Actually I use the ratchets with no comfort grip or anything 'fancy' on the handle, but I don't do it 12 hours a day either.
Yup bro that Craftsman is awesome most people don't realize that there real fine tooth 45t x2 after you lube them right OMG there buttery smooth and fuck if you can find one that is a flex head dam there pricey for being 40 years old and dam near bulletproof
@@emmanuelortiz2490 I've got a 1/2 flex rhft. You wanna buy it?
@@themonolithian how much
I'm a backyard mechanic and switched over from Craftsman rachets to Capri. Happy with those, but still lacking. I am wanting those long handled Matco flexhead in 3/8 and 1/2 inch. I'll have to chase down a Matco truck if I see one.
Just looked at that ez red 1/4 ratchet! Seems like a handy tool! I love ratchets ahah! 😂 too many too choose but i found extendable locking, flex head, with quick release with comfort grip!
I really like your video.......thanks for being respectful as well as informative
Never realized there was so many variations of the different ratchets. Great in depth video .
Comfort grip prohibits cheater pipes tho..
I’m not a full time mechanic (own a side business) and I own a lot of brands…not a tool truck fan boy by any stretch, that said you won’t beat MATCO or Snap On regarding ratchets.
Nice suggestion to try the feel of the tool. The biggest problem I see right now is the crap sold in auto parts stores. Usually it is packaged in plastic so you can’t tough it. I have not seen a rubber handle ratchet in a long time. Maybe I can find one on Amazon in 3 minutes and I can return it if I don’t like it. Choices….
I'm surprised your go too would be a Matco. Not to trash them but I can't stand them because they're way more coarse then the snap on. Even our old Matco dealerthat works at our shop now uses snap on ratchets. But your right, it's the guy swinging it.
88 tooth for the Matco vs 80 for Snap On, so technically the Matco wins, but all comes down to feel, and personal preference
Flat Rate Master, you should try one of the new SK teardrop ratchets. That's the next one I want to get
I love the Matco ratchets but it is definitely all personal preference but the locking flex heads are great.
I sold my flex head comfort grip snap on. it was terrible. the grip would slide off and they would not warranty it. I got the Pittsburgh HF one and LOVE it. after years of use it got gritty so I went to HF and they gave me a new one. those snap on comfort grips are not comfy when it slides off and you get hurt. I have been a prof mechanic for 25 years and would encourage anyone to try the Pittsburgh ratchet. I like them much better than snap on and they have a much better warranty not to mention way cheaper.
Like yiu I've got a huge selection of 'odd' ratchets and always git asked why do yiu need those, why not just use a regular one... I don't struggle like they do, I don't get stressed like they do and I book time more than they did.
Use the Snap On extra long in 1/4, long in 3/8, and Matco long locking in 1/2 (17”). Love the Matco except it’s not a CG. Wish it were but I got a good deal on it. The only thing about Snap-On drives me nuts esp 1/4 is needing a screwdriver to pop the sockets off.
My favorite 1/4 is a round head SK.
Those roto heads are great. Under dash & I like them to spin in torx bits, sometimes out when concerned about impact.
I’ve got about 20 other ratchets most of which I didn’t really need but wanted lol.
My favorite ratchet is a 3/8 locking flex head from Husky, all chrome, perfect length, only husky tool I own, cost $32
3/8 locking Flex head
in terms of half inch long handles i can say without a doubt mac made the strongest. its been tested on video aswell here on youtube by a few channels. i cant attest to the newest line of there ratchets tho. there newest rbts wrenches are superior to anything else on the market and over 100 cheaper than snap ons flank drive plus wrenches, i wasnt the biggest fan of the i beam design but its grown on me.
Snap on didn't warranty there tool. Wtf. Time to change. Carlyle, tekron has no skips, shit even Craftsman can be exchanged forever!
Sorry Gear Wrench way better ! Without the price and Stronger ! I've seen the digital Tork meter test on many of these ratchets and Matco broke before Snap on , Gear Wrench .
For 3/8 and below, Matco are my go to ratchets. But, for 1/2 and up, mac is my go to.
Comfort grip is great but imo they tend to dissolve with all the wear and tear. I go with no comfort grip as well to put a cheater bar when needed.
When I need high torque I go for the breaker bar over a long half inch drive ratchet. Otherwise I would end up breaking that half inch ratchet you bought off the tool truck.
But for the young mechanic starting out harbor freight has good flex head ratchets for good price and they hold up until you can get a name brand ratchet! I have the three flex head ratchets for harbor freight and the same ones in Mac axis USA made and I’m using harbor freight ratchet to see if the can handle everything I put them through and it’s been a year and My Mac axis ratchets are still brand new!