Around 1997, my Dad gave me a black plastic boxed set of Craftsman ratchets, 1/4”, 3/8”, and 1/2” ratchets, and many metric and standard sockets along with the replaceable bit black handled screwdriver. I still have it to this day, and it has been used quite a bit over the years. The black plastic box insert was always a struggle to stay in when you opened it! Over the years, I believe i warrantied out the 3/8” and the 1/4”, can’t recall exactly what caused them to fail, but in hindsight, it probably was user error on my part as I often assumed ratchets were a little stronger than they probably were. The warranty replacements may have been refurbished themselves, as I believe at least one of the ones they gave me had some kind of white sticker on the handle. I’ve lost and/or broken several of the sockets along the way, but I still have most of them. I recently completely disassembled, cleaned, and regreased the 1/4” and the 3/8” as they weren’t working right, and now they work just fine. Overall, at pushing 30 years old, the kit has held up just fine and I’d say it was a great value. I’ve gotten into vintage Snap-On items recently, acquiring several of the 71 series and also some of the old style “midgets”. I really like the fact that you can rebuild even the vintage Snap-Ons with the modern kits and I like the way the Snap-Ons screw apart vs. my 90’s Craftsman style with the thin plate and the ring clips. That said, it seems hard to justify the way higher retail price of the Snap-On tools, but they seem like the Buck or Case knives of the knife world, whereas Craftsman would have been the Camillus or Schrade level. All good knives in their times, but obviously, the Buck and Case items were more expensive and typically held their value way better. As much as I like the mystique of Snap-On, I have to tip my hat to my long term Craftsman set as being a very memorable companion on many car repairs and other projects over the years. They have wrenched on Datsun, Nissan, Pontiac, Toyota, Mercury, Jeeps, Honda and Volvo cars over the years and probably other brands and other non-car items too. Thanks for putting this detail-oriented video together and creating a forum for us all to share our thoughts and opinions on these classic American tools. 🇺🇸 🧰 🔧 🛠️ 🪛 🇺🇸
Excellent video! I wish I was smart enough to buy some of these old ratchets when I used to come across them in yard sales back in the 60's and 70's. They were practically giving them away! Who knew!
Years ago when I used to own a transmission shop, a customer abandoned his old contractor van. After my mechanic's lien went through, I started cleaning trash & junk out of the van, and then found a 1/2 inch RHFT that has a couple of patent numbers on the handle, along with the year 1971 on it. I can only assume that's the year the ratchet was made, but that's a guess. After using it a few times, I came to love it's quality and ruggedness like any old tool made in America should be. I keep it well greased with my other prized hand tools, in an organized tool chest.
I used my father's for years then actively looked for them, now I have a couple of full sets. In my opinion, one of the thoughest and most smooth fine tooth ratchets made.
Great video, thank you for all the research. Learned more about craftsman ratchets then I have ever known. I have used craftsman tools since my Father gave me my first set when I was 17 in 1985.
I inhereted the Craftsman stainless from my grandpa. I really like the handle and how it is slightly tapered. It's very comfortable to use vs my current half inch Craftsman ratchet I got in a current 142 piece kit
Hey... I have a 1/2 BE female switch it out and over to reverse ratchet you said was a 1939 year only. I found it at a flea market in Michigan about 1999. It was in a Craftsman tool box with a complete socket set, with the underline Craftsman name. Extentions, slider bar, and some older wrenches too. I believe it was/is almost a complete set. Where can I find a 1939 catalog pdf? Do you want pictures of it to verify the build?
I went and took some pics of the ratchet and toolbox. It has a large rivet where the "single" was in the catalog pic but 2 more up further horizontal. Craftsman with BE stamped up on the head. Made in USA on neck, other side has J-S Forged further right 4-43. So.... I guess it was made in 4-43?? How do I send you pics??? Also, on the square you remove to other side it has MADE IN U.S.A. stamped on it.
I found a similar ratchet on ebay. This one is a Circle H (Not BE) but the rivets, and other stampings are similar. Vintage Craftsman Tools Circle H 1/2" Drive Ratchet T-S 5-46 USA Works! No Plug 183471206466 So I guess mine is not the 1939 ratchet, but assuming from 1943?
Thanks Carol. I'm currently working on publishing a book with Sears & Stanley Black & Decker as well as a "reboot" of the Craftsman Ratchet History series. After many delays, I'm hoping to have things rolling out sooner than later.
I found 8 socket (non sequential) Craftsman “Circle H” socket set at an antique store for $12. Thanks to your videos I can better understand these vintage Craftsman tool, and how to restore/clean them. Thanks for taking the time to make these interesting videos!
Hi Ben! Thank you for the encouragement! I really appreciate it! I have a new series on the way! It is a reboot of the old one that will be jam packed with a lot of new information and ratchets! ^_^
Hello I got a question for you I just bought an amber handle craftsman underline BE ratchet for $30 + $7 shipping and it's a 1/2 you only showed a 3/8 is it still rare and did I get a good price? what is it really worth and how rare is it I got it to collect and it took me 7 months to find one and I'm proud to own it the collor is great even blue stripes but has a small chip out of it but oh well it works great and has a very odd reverse switch.
Value is based on condition condition of the amber handle, the color, and if the blue stripes are intact. If you are missing a chunk off of your amber handle it is generally considered less desirable; however, remember that something of this niche also has personal/intrinsic value as well!
I have a 3/8" long head BE ratchet with the reversing knob and fixed male drive. The odd thing about it is that it does NOT have the "BE" stamp on it. The front and back plates have the plain text circular "CRAFTSMAN" stamping but that's all. Is that unusual?
I never thought about collectors and tools. I just inherited 4 generations of tools. I was trying to find out how to clean them. I probably have a gold mine. I have never seen so many wrenches, ratchets, you name it. And this was just his shop at home. I have a lot to investigate!
What about the round head quick release thumb wheel ratchet with the black and gold Craftsman decal on the head ? I see these on eBay often enough but I don't know how long they were made for and when. I'm thinking 90's, but they're all EE code which I can't remember the era of offhand.
@49:50... Craftsman used that same box-head pattern in their 3/4" drive ratchet for several decades including recently. It is one of the better ratchet designs that Sears sold in my opinion though I like the Proto and Armstrong with the reed type pawl better. I have used this older style Craftsman in the 1/2" drive size and believed it to be a well designed tool. Do you know who made this for Craftsman? @56:00... You are correct about this round-head fine tooth ratchet. It was one of the best products that Sears ever offered. S-K still offers a similar ratchet without the release feature. You showed this 3/4" drive ratchet branded as Craftsman (1939-1951 as you say) that S-K still offers today. S-K has not changed that design much for many decades because there is no need to. The newer S-K round-head ratchets (last 50 years or so) have larger radius bevels around the handle/head and handle/grip transition which is about the only difference.
I've got a 1/4 drive round head there you call round non fine tooth. I love it. It is finer than the teardrop 36 tooth mine comes in at 45 tooth. I've only ever seen the one came in a small set my mom got for me at 16th birthday to keep in my car. Would love to own the 3/8 and 1/2 in that round head version.
You are right. He did say that, too! I always got a kick out of former President Clinton saying he "couldn't recall" having interactions with, as he called her, Ms. Lewinski.
I recently picked up a Ratchet that was my Brother in laws favorite. A thumb wheel ratchet I don't see listed in your video. This has begun my collecting of Craftsman ratchets/tools. Learned a lot from your video. will continue to watch and look for new ones. Thanks
Yes, I did forget that one in the video. This wasn't meant to be a all encompassing list of every ratchet. If you are interested learning the history of the thumb wheel ratchet among others, you might want to check out my channel. I have history videos and tear downs of each family.
I just inherited a craftsman 1/2 ratchet -v- 44978. Should I attempt to take apart and clean or just spray some lubricant and use? Don't use tools very often so it'll be sitting for a while.
Its never a bad idea to check on the condition of the internals of a tool prior to putting it into use. I have a video up on how to disassemble the RHFT Craftsman ratchet you mentioned having. They are a bit more complicated to work on than some of the other Craftsman ratchets out there, but the return on the time invested, especially for this specific ratchet, will pay you back several times over with ease of use and longevity of the internals.
I have a 71 piece Limited Edition GearRatchet Socket System, with the hole through design...I no longer see them anywhere. I know it's not vintage, but how bizarre that they are no longer available.
Your knowledge is amazing. Is there a video what is older. I have V, VW, one line and two line. Also what about dating Craftsman screwdrivers??? Any videos???
I'm just getting warmed up. The new series I'm working on will demote this one to the level of Fischer Price. No, I am not going to be doing any studies on any non-mechanized screwdrivers.
You have a valid point there; however, the reason I didn't do so was because I already displayed that on this video: ua-cam.com/video/Ml_ajghfIG0/v-deo.html If you check it out, you'll get to see the opposite side. The "rare to common" video was meant to be a companion film to support the individual ratchet videos in the series. Think of it as a quick guide rather than a definitive one. In the coming months, I should have my "reboot" of the series close to or complete. You'll get to see a much better presentation of these ratchets as well as their business end. ^_^
That Craftsman Ready Ratchet would have been a great item for a toolbag being carried in the car with the sockets stored in the handle. I'd love to find a set of those, but I don't see them anywhere.
I have a craftsman be ratchet I seen one in this video and he says it's one of the most rarist ones I have been trying to find more about it. I can't post a pic of it or I would
I'm not sure which at the start of this video is the rarest, but I'll tell you the one in the front left (full polished 90T I believe) at the beginning of the video is rare. I just don't want to drop like the $150-200 on ebay for it.
Yes and no. At the time the video was made, you could literally buy each size directly off of the Sears or Sears Outlet websites. Even then, they were VERY expensive to buy. Currently, due to their strange history, I would agree that their rank has probably improved; however, I can tell you that there are even rarer pieces than what I originally displayed. I will mention this in the upcoming "reboot".
At 51:55 the 1/4 ratchet.... I have one that I can't get to reverse direction and don't have very good positive engagement in the direction it's stuck in.... anyway to service them? or any help/information would be appreciated thanks.
Yes, there is a way to service these ratchets, but it isn't easy. The means of troubleshooting your problem by means of UA-cam will be difficult, since I don't have your ratchet on hand. If I had to guess, I'd say that your pawl spring is likely toast. The pawl spring sits inside of the "crescent moon" shaped pawl and that little nub (the bearing) that sticks outside of it. From my experience, either due to nearly 100 years of crud, mechanical failure, or seizing, these 1st gen 1/4" ratchets suffer engagement issues due to that reason. Interestingly, these were able to be repaired back in the day, where Sears had spare parts on hand to do so. It would require basic machining to bore out the 3 old rivets holding the retention plates in place and using a press to fit new ones. While you won't be able to get a hold of OEM replacement parts from the 1930s/1940s, you should be able to find rivets that should do the job today.
Here’s a question in the comments for ya- I’ve gathered that the letters determine where the tool was made, but do they have any bearing on value, or are the numbers the only thing people go by? Btw, thank you so much for creating & posting these clear, well done, informative vids!! I’m just now getting into collecting & starting to watch them all each night! 🙂
The simple answer is: it depends. If you are talking about the wildly variable T#3, V(A-Z), etc., as found on the 4th Generation Raised Panel "Tear Drop" ratchets, then, no, that pretty much doesn't affect value at all. However, if you are talking about specific markings on the RHFT and/or the 3rd Generation Raised Panel "Quick Release" ratchets, then, yes, markings on those do matter. This is a topic that I will touch on a little more on the "reboot" videos. My focus wasn't specifically on that, at times, minor variations on the panel markings; however, there are collectors out there that do want specific markings as they indicate the 1st run / 1st release of those types of Craftsman ratchets. In those instances, very good to mint examples are worth significant money. Thank you for your support! I'm hoping that the "reboot" that I've been promising, despite the many delays, will be something people find educational, worth their time, and, now, a little more entertaining! ^_^
That same ratchet is my absolute favorite design of any I’ve used which includes dozens of craftsman’s and snap on and sk and proto of all those brands and many more this is my favorite design I’ve ever used
40:03 stainless vs lifetime ratchets I could not find the Lifetime ratchets in the catalogs and as a result I suspect that these were either only sold in stores after the stainless versions ran out, or they were the "warranty replacement ratchets", if a stainless one was brought in, or both. An unfounded persistent rumor has it that these ratchets were fragile and were thus quickly warrantied out of existence. However, these ratchets had a five-year run matching the 5-year run of the exclusive Quick-clean/Quick-release ratchet. If I recall correctly the stainless ratchet got it's patent specifically because it was designed to be tougher. I never could find any proof that there were actual documented issues with the tool.
Hi Steve! "Truth travels slowly when rumors have wings of gold". This is a great adage. Under normal circumstances, I can completely agree with that, and, from what I have read from your response, you would too. I've been working on a "reboot" of this series for the last 5 years. During this time, I've had the opportunity to talk with the very engineers that designed these tools at Easco and even the marketing team that sold them to Sear during the Easco to Danaher acquisition. Unfortunately, those rumors have a distinct foundation that I will be discussing within the "reboot". The metallurgy was a constant problem and hemorrhaging money for both Sears and Easco/Danaher. For some customers, depending on what was going on with your specific tool, you got a great example that lived up to the hype. For most, their examples suffered from serious issues that crippled their tool. That is about all I will get into now. I am sorry to break the bad news a second time. -_-
The one you called rare at the beginning is a through body. If you look at the lower corner of the picture you see the letter H you needed that piece as well.
To my knowledge Sears tool printed catalogs were available until at least 2012, I dont know about the digital versions, do you know where I can get these?
@@shieldcracker unfortunately, this platform is kind of hard to offer certain kinds of direction. The easiest way to talk with me on a consistent basis is through a Facebook group called "Craftsman Conjecture Club". From there, I can connect you with the information you are looking for. ^_^
@@shieldcracker Yeah, I went underground for a few years and reemerged with a few other cool chaps through a Facebook parody page. I did not expect to find a perch there, but, for now, those in the group are having a good time. To me, that is what counts. The group is not necessarily set up to field deep dive questions into the brand, as it is more of a light-hearted jape on the culture manifesting itself with the Craftsman brand these days. You can PM me should you have a specific question. If the data is fair game, I do not have any problem sharing what I know. Outside of any rules mandated by Facebook itself, there is nothing governing anyone. A few common forums many haunt have stagnated for quite a while. They do have their place, since the staying power and access of their collective knowledge is usually better. In contrast, pages like Facebook stir the pot faster and more frequently, but the robustness of archived information may be much poorer. Hence, the emphasis of the page is satire rather than on staunch information exchange. ^_^ For lack of a better option, it looks like a strange digital wolf will keep on dredging up something interesting to talk about. Yet, it is still a work in progress...
Item ‘B’ ratchet 1/2” reversible 1/2” socket stud labeled Craftsman with the ‘C’ underlining Craft and stamped BE underneath Craftsman. Please contact me if you are interested. I bought one at a garage sale.
Hello! Thanks for reaching out! If you can send me some means of reaching out to you, I can email you directly. I'd like to see what you are talking about.
40:03 Stainless vs. Lifetime. Your claim is that the Stainless is catalog only. I don't think so, because I purchased my Stainless 3/8" ratchet back in the 80s at a store. I have never purchased anything from a Sears catalog.
Actually, I would agree with this. You are correct. I didn't do a very good job of elaborating on quirks within Sears and how they dealt with supply chain management back in the day. Yes, items that were deemed catalog exclusive or even catalog heavy did end up in stores. In a nutshell it had to do with liquidation or overstocking. I will be talking about this in the "reboot". Great statement! ^_^
That very first ratchet they still make, but not to craftsman the pin at the left-hand side goes in there to hook it to a socket and you flip it over to change directions and go to Harbor freight they got them
56:10... I have that ratchet in half inch and the one to its right in quarter inch...I also picked up a Cornwell JR1 3/8" ratchet.... Cool video...👍 Also..no Craftsman Evolv?.. I have a nice 3/8" example..buttery-smooth 👌
Hi, Craig! ^_^ No, the Evolv series is not here due to it being foreign made; however, I will indirectly discuss the imported Craftsman ratchets, in brief, through the series "reboot". I'm glad to hear that you have a few of these. I'm like you. I also like Cornwell.
+John Gibson We are down to the wire. I'll wrap up the few history/repair videos we have left and get the conclusion up. I'm hoping to have everything finished soon.
Here’s a question. I’m collecting and trying to finish off my dads v series collection. I’m doing pretty good too! Just missing a few main parts then I need to look into screwdrivers and pliers… but anyways. Is there a list of all the v series tools? I dunno what kinda package my dad would have bought back in the day but I’d like to get most the stuff for the set. Still need t handles… have none. Need v series speed bar. Only have an E series… Need a 3/8 breaker bar And need several wrenches… But yeah a list of everything including pliers and specialty tools would be handy so I could start checking them off the list. How many styles of ratchets are there in v series? I have quite a few now but I have a complete baby rattle set and a few round head fine tooth. Is that the only 2 types that were v series? Need a 3/8 round head!!! Lol Did craftsman have socket rails back then? Cuz that’s what I need next. Prolly have 200+ v series sockets and another 100+ E series…
Unfortunately, a comprehensive list of everything that was made for the =V=, -V-, and series after does not exist. This is why programs like the one you have seen and the "reboot" I am working on exist. They are here to help people understand portions of particular groups/families but not survey the whole thing. Perhaps there is someone else out there working on lists of wrenches, sockets, and other pieces. To date, I am not 100% sure if someone is doing that...
Im going to have to rip my 1/2" apart and count the teeth. I knew it wasn't a flying V and the lever is broken but it looks just like the one you have.I bet its the 57-59. Thanks!!!
In general, a lot of unique things that came out in 1939 only existed for one year, for no other reason than wwii, and the changes in manufacturing. In Europe and England it's more common to have very rare 1939 items because they were unprepared and had their heads in the sand the prior 10 years and the war hit them as a sudden surprise. Items such as cars like the Bentley Mark 5 were abruptly aborted and never restarted. But in USA too I imagine since January 1940 we were providing "an arsenal for them as well as for ourselves" our machine shops and factories were taken off of civilian goods and switched over to war materiel.
Hello my friend. This last year was a bit tough, as I was out of commission for nearly 3 1/2 months due to injuries. I anticipate things will start rolling out in about 18 months...hopefully.
Say bro I have one u didn't show u kinda had one it's where u had 6 right before the uncommon, it's a year drop and only goes 1way,it has like a dress but than gets fat at bottom and it has 11748 L-AC with craftsman on the very bottom
Gee if someone really wants some of those ratchets.. I have some of the lock on style ones in 3/8" and 1/2" I would sell them as long as I get enough money to upgrade to something a bit better. I wanted to buy some of those Professional grade ratches, I only have them in 1/4" but don't see much of Craftsman anymore. I guess I could check with Lowes or Ace Hardware.
@@ZGoddessLola I received some of my tools from the people that either literally designed them or some incredibly high up people within Sears. Yet, free tools from the dumpster is not bad either. It is hard to beat free.
Thank you for reaching out to me! I've been meaning to get back into making videos, but I've been further collecting missing USA made Craftsman ratchets and further refining the research. Unfortunately, I can't say I'm surprised that Craftsman was sold. Eddie Lampert has been running Sears into the ground for over the last decade and a half. Given the severe financial woes Sears is facing now and in the future, it is unlikely that even the sale of Craftsman will buy much more than a year or two maximum for the company.
Sears never made anything, they used contracting companies. I'm more interested in WHO made their tools and in what chronological order. Companies like New Britain gave Sears their name in dependable tools.
The putting together of Sears and Kmart was so stupid ...wasnt going to work and didnt. Now Sears is on the ropes so dont get your hopes up about any warranties in the future. Sry it is what it is. Just check to see what Warren Buffett has to say about the retailer and what happened to him in the 70's that is very similar.
This vid could have, should have, been way shorter. It is so long that there were multiple commercials (distracting from the vid). So, who really has time, or patience to watch a 59-minute u-tube?
I appreciate the feedback, but no one is forcing you or anyone else to sit through the video in its entirety. You do have the ability to skip around to find what you may need. I always get a bit of a chuckle when I see these kind of comments. ^_^ Yet, I do realize that this and other videos of this series are imperfect. I'm hoping to remedy these issues with the series "reboot".
![Craftsman Tools - USA History: Round Head Fine Tooth [RHFT] Ratchets](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/fY3QwOUgdkQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![Craftsman Tools - USA History: Round Head Fine Tooth [RHFT] Ratchets](/img/tr.png)
Around 1997, my Dad gave me a black plastic boxed set of Craftsman ratchets, 1/4”, 3/8”, and 1/2” ratchets, and many metric and standard sockets along with the replaceable bit black handled screwdriver. I still have it to this day, and it has been used quite a bit over the years. The black plastic box insert was always a struggle to stay in when you opened it! Over the years, I believe i warrantied out the 3/8” and the 1/4”, can’t recall exactly what caused them to fail, but in hindsight, it probably was user error on my part as I often assumed ratchets were a little stronger than they probably were. The warranty replacements may have been refurbished themselves, as I believe at least one of the ones they gave me had some kind of white sticker on the handle. I’ve lost and/or broken several of the sockets along the way, but I still have most of them. I recently completely disassembled, cleaned, and regreased the 1/4” and the 3/8” as they weren’t working right, and now they work just fine. Overall, at pushing 30 years old, the kit has held up just fine and I’d say it was a great value. I’ve gotten into vintage Snap-On items recently, acquiring several of the 71 series and also some of the old style “midgets”. I really like the fact that you can rebuild even the vintage Snap-Ons with the modern kits and I like the way the Snap-Ons screw apart vs. my 90’s Craftsman style with the thin plate and the ring clips. That said, it seems hard to justify the way higher retail price of the Snap-On tools, but they seem like the Buck or Case knives of the knife world, whereas Craftsman would have been the Camillus or Schrade level. All good knives in their times, but obviously, the Buck and Case items were more expensive and typically held their value way better. As much as I like the mystique of Snap-On, I have to tip my hat to my long term Craftsman set as being a very memorable companion on many car repairs and other projects over the years. They have wrenched on Datsun, Nissan, Pontiac, Toyota, Mercury, Jeeps, Honda and Volvo cars over the years and probably other brands and other non-car items too. Thanks for putting this detail-oriented video together and creating a forum for us all to share our thoughts and opinions on these classic American tools. 🇺🇸 🧰 🔧 🛠️ 🪛 🇺🇸
Excellent video! I wish I was smart enough to buy some of these old ratchets when I used to come across them in yard sales back in the 60's and 70's. They were practically giving them away! Who knew!
+GMP Lynbrook Yeah, the same could be said about nearly every USA tool brand. It is getting harder to find American made tools even at yard sales...
Years ago when I used to own a transmission shop, a customer abandoned his old contractor van. After my mechanic's lien went through, I started cleaning trash & junk out of the van, and then found a 1/2 inch RHFT that has a couple of patent numbers on the handle, along with the year 1971 on it. I can only assume that's the year the ratchet was made, but that's a guess. After using it a few times, I came to love it's quality and ruggedness like any old tool made in America should be. I keep it well greased with my other prized hand tools, in an organized tool chest.
Gen X Murse70 these were new to me also, found at a yard sale. Love mine, great feel to them
I used my father's for years then actively looked for them, now I have a couple of full sets. In my opinion, one of the thoughest and most smooth fine tooth ratchets made.
Great video, thank you for all the research. Learned more about craftsman ratchets then I have ever known. I have used craftsman tools since my Father gave me my first set when I was 17 in 1985.
I inhereted the Craftsman stainless from my grandpa. I really like the handle and how it is slightly tapered. It's very comfortable to use vs my current half inch Craftsman ratchet I got in a current 142 piece kit
Thanks for the awesome videos. I am just getting into collecting. This helps a lot!
No problem. That is what it is here for!
UA-cam sent me back here....I guess Al Gorythm thinks I failed for first class. This is a great video, I don't mind taking the class again.
This is a really funny comment! I'm digging it! ^_^
Hey... I have a 1/2 BE female switch it out and over to reverse ratchet you said was a 1939 year only. I found it at a flea market in Michigan about 1999. It was in a Craftsman tool box with a complete socket set, with the underline Craftsman name. Extentions, slider bar, and some older wrenches too. I believe it was/is almost a complete set. Where can I find a 1939 catalog pdf? Do you want pictures of it to verify the build?
I went and took some pics of the ratchet and toolbox. It has a large rivet where the "single" was in the catalog pic but 2 more up further horizontal. Craftsman with BE stamped up on the head. Made in USA on neck, other side has J-S Forged further right 4-43. So.... I guess it was made in 4-43?? How do I send you pics??? Also, on the square you remove to other side it has MADE IN U.S.A. stamped on it.
I found a similar ratchet on ebay. This one is a Circle H (Not BE) but the rivets, and other stampings are similar. Vintage Craftsman Tools Circle H 1/2" Drive Ratchet T-S 5-46 USA Works! No Plug 183471206466 So I guess mine is not the 1939 ratchet, but assuming from 1943?
Thoroughly enjoyed your video..... Im hooked!
Thanks Carol. I'm currently working on publishing a book with Sears & Stanley Black & Decker as well as a "reboot" of the Craftsman Ratchet History series.
After many delays, I'm hoping to have things rolling out sooner than later.
I found 8 socket (non sequential) Craftsman “Circle H” socket set at an antique store for $12. Thanks to your videos I can better understand these vintage Craftsman tool, and how to restore/clean them. Thanks for taking the time to make these interesting videos!
Hi Ben! Thank you for the encouragement! I really appreciate it!
I have a new series on the way! It is a reboot of the old one that will be jam packed with a lot of new information and ratchets! ^_^
very cool video brother i have a few craftsman ratchets
Incredible video young man , very thorough, I still use my “old school” Craftsman ratchet from 2007
Thank you Bryan. This is just the beginning. ^_^
I have been working on the "reboot" to this series for the last several years. It will be wild ride!
Hello I got a question for you I just bought an amber handle craftsman underline BE ratchet for $30 + $7 shipping and it's a 1/2 you only showed a 3/8 is it still rare and did I get a good price? what is it really worth and how rare is it I got it to collect and it took me 7 months to find one and I'm proud to own it the collor is great even blue stripes but has a small chip out of it but oh well it works great and has a very odd reverse switch.
Value is based on condition condition of the amber handle, the color, and if the blue stripes are intact. If you are missing a chunk off of your amber handle it is generally considered less desirable; however, remember that something of this niche also has personal/intrinsic value as well!
very nice video ,i am also vintage craftsman ratchet collector
+craftsman tools Awesome! If you would like to talk about anything feel free to shoot me a private message.
I have a 3/8" long head BE ratchet with the reversing knob and fixed male drive. The odd thing about it is that it does NOT have the "BE" stamp on it. The front and back plates have the plain text circular "CRAFTSMAN" stamping but that's all. Is that unusual?
Rip the craftsman professional tool belt. A ghost in this world
I never thought about collectors and tools. I just inherited 4 generations of tools. I was trying to find out how to clean them. I probably have a gold mine. I have never seen so many wrenches, ratchets, you name it. And this was just his shop at home. I have a lot to investigate!
Tools are very important
Sentimental value
& tool History
They don't sell for that much
Unfortunately, they aren't crazy valuable. I'm going through the same thing from my grandfather's estate, everyone wants to low-ball.
@jessekooistra6200 exactly. If mine had sentimental value I would keep them
What about the round head quick release thumb wheel ratchet with the black and gold Craftsman decal on the head ?
I see these on eBay often enough but I don't know how long they were made for and when.
I'm thinking 90's, but they're all EE code which I can't remember the era of offhand.
I have a 1/2 drive Chrisman ratchet box head female in a set Grandpa had it.
Awesome! It may not be refined, but it definitely can get the job done! ^_^
Thank you for sharing!
There is a guy on the Craftsman tool Collector's board with a Flying V torque wrench. His name is Brandon Combs
@49:50... Craftsman used that same box-head pattern in their 3/4" drive ratchet for several decades including recently. It is one of the better ratchet designs that Sears sold in my opinion though I like the Proto and Armstrong with the reed type pawl better. I have used this older style Craftsman in the 1/2" drive size and believed it to be a well designed tool. Do you know who made this for Craftsman? @56:00... You are correct about this round-head fine tooth ratchet. It was one of the best products that Sears ever offered. S-K still offers a similar ratchet without the release feature. You showed this 3/4" drive ratchet branded as Craftsman (1939-1951 as you say) that S-K still offers today. S-K has not changed that design much for many decades because there is no need to. The newer S-K round-head ratchets (last 50 years or so) have larger radius bevels around the handle/head and handle/grip transition which is about the only difference.
wow never knew snap on made any tools for craftsman. the second ratchet in video is on eBay right now was at 50ish you need to check it out!
Can you provide a link? I'm having a hard time finding it.
I've got a 1/4 drive round head there you call round non fine tooth. I love it. It is finer than the teardrop 36 tooth mine comes in at 45 tooth. I've only ever seen the one came in a small set my mom got for me at 16th birthday to keep in my car. Would love to own the 3/8 and 1/2 in that round head version.
Excellent video! BTW it was Ronald Reagan who said "At the present time I cannot recall." LOL😁
You are right. He did say that, too!
I always got a kick out of former President Clinton saying he "couldn't recall" having interactions with, as he called her, Ms. Lewinski.
I recently picked up a Ratchet that was my Brother in laws favorite. A thumb wheel ratchet I don't see listed in your video.
This has begun my collecting of Craftsman ratchets/tools.
Learned a lot from your video. will continue to watch and look for new ones.
Thanks
Yes, I did forget that one in the video. This wasn't meant to be a all encompassing list of every ratchet.
If you are interested learning the history of the thumb wheel ratchet among others, you might want to check out my channel. I have history videos and tear downs of each family.
I have been enjoying your videos, very enlightening. still don't see the thumb wheel though.
ua-cam.com/video/SPKF0TfZtCk/v-deo.html
I just inherited a craftsman 1/2 ratchet -v- 44978. Should I attempt to take apart and clean or just spray some lubricant and use? Don't use tools very often so it'll be sitting for a while.
Its never a bad idea to check on the condition of the internals of a tool prior to putting it into use.
I have a video up on how to disassemble the RHFT Craftsman ratchet you mentioned having. They are a bit more complicated to work on than some of the other Craftsman ratchets out there, but the return on the time invested, especially for this specific ratchet, will pay you back several times over with ease of use and longevity of the internals.
I have a 71 piece Limited Edition GearRatchet Socket System, with the hole through design...I no longer see them anywhere. I know it's not vintage, but how bizarre that they are no longer available.
Why dont you have a craftsman thumb wheel ratchet. Best craftsman ratchets in my opinion
ua-cam.com/video/SPKF0TfZtCk/v-deo.html
Awesome video 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you Blake. There is more to come, despite the wait. ^_^
Your knowledge is amazing. Is there a video what is older. I have V, VW, one line and two line. Also what about dating Craftsman screwdrivers??? Any videos???
I'm just getting warmed up. The new series I'm working on will demote this one to the level of Fischer Price.
No, I am not going to be doing any studies on any non-mechanized screwdrivers.
Why didn't you show the business side of the premium grade Craftsman 1/2inch?
You have a valid point there; however, the reason I didn't do so was because I already displayed that on this video: ua-cam.com/video/Ml_ajghfIG0/v-deo.html
If you check it out, you'll get to see the opposite side. The "rare to common" video was meant to be a companion film to support the individual ratchet videos in the series. Think of it as a quick guide rather than a definitive one.
In the coming months, I should have my "reboot" of the series close to or complete. You'll get to see a much better presentation of these ratchets as well as their business end. ^_^
I have a 1948 boxhead with a number 7 At the end of the neck.
That Craftsman Ready Ratchet would have been a great item for a toolbag being carried in the car with the sockets stored in the handle. I'd love to find a set of those, but I don't see them anywhere.
They were released only in test markets in the U.S. and with a full, yet limited, release in Canada, eh. ^_^
great video loads of research. tHanks
Believe it or not, this is only the beginning... ^_^
@@GearWolf Very cool. Looking forward to more.
I have a craftsman be ratchet I seen one in this video and he says it's one of the most rarist ones I have been trying to find more about it. I can't post a pic of it or I would
I'm not sure which at the start of this video is the rarest, but I'll tell you the one in the front left (full polished 90T I believe) at the beginning of the video is rare. I just don't want to drop like the $150-200 on ebay for it.
Yes and no. At the time the video was made, you could literally buy each size directly off of the Sears or Sears Outlet websites. Even then, they were VERY expensive to buy.
Currently, due to their strange history, I would agree that their rank has probably improved; however, I can tell you that there are even rarer pieces than what I originally displayed.
I will mention this in the upcoming "reboot".
At 51:55 the 1/4 ratchet.... I have one that I can't get to reverse direction and don't have very good positive engagement in the direction it's stuck in.... anyway to service them? or any help/information would be appreciated thanks.
Also. Is Craftsman the only brand of ratchets you collect? If not what other brands are you collecting?
Yes, there is a way to service these ratchets, but it isn't easy. The means of troubleshooting your problem by means of UA-cam will be difficult, since I don't have your ratchet on hand.
If I had to guess, I'd say that your pawl spring is likely toast. The pawl spring sits inside of the "crescent moon" shaped pawl and that little nub (the bearing) that sticks outside of it. From my experience, either due to nearly 100 years of crud, mechanical failure, or seizing, these 1st gen 1/4" ratchets suffer engagement issues due to that reason.
Interestingly, these were able to be repaired back in the day, where Sears had spare parts on hand to do so. It would require basic machining to bore out the 3 old rivets holding the retention plates in place and using a press to fit new ones.
While you won't be able to get a hold of OEM replacement parts from the 1930s/1940s, you should be able to find rivets that should do the job today.
I collect everything. I just focused on Craftsman since no one else had done it before.
Here’s a question in the comments for ya- I’ve gathered that the letters determine where the tool was made, but do they have any bearing on value, or are the numbers the only thing people go by? Btw, thank you so much for creating & posting these clear, well done, informative vids!! I’m just now getting into collecting & starting to watch them all each night! 🙂
The simple answer is: it depends.
If you are talking about the wildly variable T#3, V(A-Z), etc., as found on the 4th Generation Raised Panel "Tear Drop" ratchets, then, no, that pretty much doesn't affect value at all. However, if you are talking about specific markings on the RHFT and/or the 3rd Generation Raised Panel "Quick Release" ratchets, then, yes, markings on those do matter.
This is a topic that I will touch on a little more on the "reboot" videos. My focus wasn't specifically on that, at times, minor variations on the panel markings; however, there are collectors out there that do want specific markings as they indicate the 1st run / 1st release of those types of Craftsman ratchets. In those instances, very good to mint examples are worth significant money.
Thank you for your support! I'm hoping that the "reboot" that I've been promising, despite the many delays, will be something people find educational, worth their time, and, now, a little more entertaining! ^_^
Gear Wolf Thank you so much for the reply! I’ll be looking forward to the new vids!! 🙂
Left, third up I loved that ratchet, the round slim end let you get a small breaker bar on it, they traded it for an old school one ugh
That same ratchet is my absolute favorite design of any I’ve used which includes dozens of craftsman’s and snap on and sk and proto of all those brands and many more this is my favorite design I’ve ever used
40:03 stainless vs lifetime ratchets
I could not find the Lifetime ratchets in the catalogs and as a result I suspect that these were either only sold in stores after the stainless versions ran out, or they were the "warranty replacement ratchets", if a stainless one was brought in, or both.
An unfounded persistent rumor has it that these ratchets were fragile and were thus quickly warrantied out of existence. However, these ratchets had a five-year run matching the 5-year run of the exclusive Quick-clean/Quick-release ratchet. If I recall correctly the stainless ratchet got it's patent specifically because it was designed to be tougher. I never could find any proof that there were actual documented issues with the tool.
Hi Steve!
"Truth travels slowly when rumors have wings of gold". This is a great adage. Under normal circumstances, I can completely agree with that, and, from what I have read from your response, you would too.
I've been working on a "reboot" of this series for the last 5 years. During this time, I've had the opportunity to talk with the very engineers that designed these tools at Easco and even the marketing team that sold them to Sear during the Easco to Danaher acquisition.
Unfortunately, those rumors have a distinct foundation that I will be discussing within the "reboot". The metallurgy was a constant problem and hemorrhaging money for both Sears and Easco/Danaher.
For some customers, depending on what was going on with your specific tool, you got a great example that lived up to the hype. For most, their examples suffered from serious issues that crippled their tool.
That is about all I will get into now. I am sorry to break the bad news a second time. -_-
The one you called rare at the beginning is a through body. If you look at the lower corner of the picture you see the letter H you needed that piece as well.
To my knowledge Sears tool printed catalogs were available until at least 2012, I dont know about the digital versions, do you know where I can get these?
Yep.
@@GearWolf Where?
@@shieldcracker unfortunately, this platform is kind of hard to offer certain kinds of direction.
The easiest way to talk with me on a consistent basis is through a Facebook group called "Craftsman Conjecture Club".
From there, I can connect you with the information you are looking for. ^_^
@@GearWolf Now I know what Sears meant when they launched the C3 platform ;)
@@shieldcracker
Yeah, I went underground for a few years and reemerged with a few other cool chaps through a Facebook parody page. I did not expect to find a perch there, but, for now, those in the group are having a good time. To me, that is what counts.
The group is not necessarily set up to field deep dive questions into the brand, as it is more of a light-hearted jape on the culture manifesting itself with the Craftsman brand these days. You can PM me should you have a specific question. If the data is fair game, I do not have any problem sharing what I know. Outside of any rules mandated by Facebook itself, there is nothing governing anyone.
A few common forums many haunt have stagnated for quite a while. They do have their place, since the staying power and access of their collective knowledge is usually better. In contrast, pages like Facebook stir the pot faster and more frequently, but the robustness of archived information may be much poorer. Hence, the emphasis of the page is satire rather than on staunch information exchange. ^_^
For lack of a better option, it looks like a strange digital wolf will keep on dredging up something interesting to talk about. Yet, it is still a work in progress...
Item ‘B’ ratchet 1/2” reversible 1/2” socket stud labeled Craftsman with the ‘C’ underlining Craft and stamped BE underneath Craftsman. Please contact me if you are interested. I bought one at a garage sale.
Hello! Thanks for reaching out!
If you can send me some means of reaching out to you, I can email you directly. I'd like to see what you are talking about.
40:03 Stainless vs. Lifetime. Your claim is that the Stainless is catalog only. I don't think so, because I purchased my Stainless 3/8" ratchet back in the 80s at a store.
I have never purchased anything from a Sears catalog.
Actually, I would agree with this. You are correct.
I didn't do a very good job of elaborating on quirks within Sears and how they dealt with supply chain management back in the day. Yes, items that were deemed catalog exclusive or even catalog heavy did end up in stores. In a nutshell it had to do with liquidation or overstocking.
I will be talking about this in the "reboot". Great statement! ^_^
you speculate alot . awesome video!
That very first ratchet they still make, but not to craftsman the pin at the left-hand side goes in there to hook it to a socket and you flip it over to change directions and go to Harbor freight they got them
56:10... I have that ratchet in half inch and the one to its right in quarter inch...I also picked up a Cornwell JR1 3/8" ratchet....
Cool video...👍
Also..no Craftsman Evolv?.. I have a nice 3/8" example..buttery-smooth 👌
Hi, Craig! ^_^
No, the Evolv series is not here due to it being foreign made; however, I will indirectly discuss the imported Craftsman ratchets, in brief, through the series "reboot".
I'm glad to hear that you have a few of these. I'm like you. I also like Cornwell.
Thanks for another great video
+John Gibson We are down to the wire. I'll wrap up the few history/repair videos we have left and get the conclusion up.
I'm hoping to have everything finished soon.
that one that you said is the rarest i have a freind that has that same ratchet but in half inch
nice video!!!!
Deff time for a reboot the rarity of these is certainly pretty off ive had a bunch of these and I don't even collect craftsman
Here’s a question. I’m collecting and trying to finish off my dads v series collection. I’m doing pretty good too! Just missing a few main parts then I need to look into screwdrivers and pliers… but anyways. Is there a list of all the v series tools? I dunno what kinda package my dad would have bought back in the day but I’d like to get most the stuff for the set.
Still need t handles… have none.
Need v series speed bar. Only have an E series…
Need a 3/8 breaker bar
And need several wrenches…
But yeah a list of everything including pliers and specialty tools would be handy so I could start checking them off the list. How many styles of ratchets are there in v series? I have quite a few now but I have a complete baby rattle set and a few round head fine tooth. Is that the only 2 types that were v series? Need a 3/8 round head!!! Lol
Did craftsman have socket rails back then? Cuz that’s what I need next. Prolly have 200+ v series sockets and another 100+ E series…
Unfortunately, a comprehensive list of everything that was made for the =V=, -V-, and series after does not exist.
This is why programs like the one you have seen and the "reboot" I am working on exist. They are here to help people understand portions of particular groups/families but not survey the whole thing. Perhaps there is someone else out there working on lists of wrenches, sockets, and other pieces. To date, I am not 100% sure if someone is doing that...
Im going to have to rip my 1/2" apart and count the teeth. I knew it wasn't a flying V and the lever is broken but it looks just like the one you have.I bet its the 57-59. Thanks!!!
Groovy!
Idk how im just seeing this video. I got gifted some -v- stuff and was wondering. Thank u
i have a few different ratchets i have a video on them along with a orginal palm ratchet from the 50s
In general, a lot of unique things that came out in 1939 only existed for one year, for no other reason than wwii, and the changes in manufacturing. In Europe and England it's more common to have very rare 1939 items because they were unprepared and had their heads in the sand the prior 10 years and the war hit them as a sudden surprise. Items such as cars like the Bentley Mark 5 were abruptly aborted and never restarted. But in USA too I imagine since January 1940 we were providing "an arsenal for them as well as for ourselves" our machine shops and factories were taken off of civilian goods and switched over to war materiel.
Correct! ^_^
How about a 3/8inch sparkplug tee handle ratchet?? Eck usmc
We'll get to that one in the "reboot" of the series.
Gearwolf, just checking in on your ETA for next video?
Hello my friend.
This last year was a bit tough, as I was out of commission for nearly 3 1/2 months due to injuries.
I anticipate things will start rolling out in about 18 months...hopefully.
@@GearWolf Jesus…….good luck with your recovery
@@ts6640 Thanks. It has been an interesting time, ha-ha! ^_^
I was here to flipped them over. It was a bummer that just showed him from one side should’ve slowly rotated
I have a circle H1/4 inch reversable ratchet 3 rivets the switch to reverse it is in the handle are you interested it’s in great shape
No thank you Joe. I'm good to go.
Say bro I have one u didn't show u kinda had one it's where u had 6 right before the uncommon, it's a year drop and only goes 1way,it has like a dress but than gets fat at bottom and it has 11748 L-AC with craftsman on the very bottom
Could you clarify that? I am not sure I understand what you wrote.
Gee if someone really wants some of those ratchets.. I have some of the lock on style ones in 3/8" and 1/2" I would sell them as long as I get enough money to upgrade to something a bit better. I wanted to buy some of those Professional grade ratches, I only have them in 1/4" but don't see much of Craftsman anymore. I guess I could check with Lowes or Ace Hardware.
The new china version still great in quality. They have passed a lot
Of tests with out braking
Yes, they have come a long way.
Ultimately, the situation revolves around personal choice. I will discuss this more during the upcoming "reboot".
Where did you find these parts of history, for real 😊
If I told you, you may not believe me, ha-ha! ^_^
@@GearWolf I found some of my tools in the trash. Impress me 😊
@@ZGoddessLola I received some of my tools from the people that either literally designed them or some incredibly high up people within Sears.
Yet, free tools from the dumpster is not bad either. It is hard to beat free.
What's ur thoughts on Sears selling craftsmen?
Thank you for reaching out to me! I've been meaning to get back into making videos, but I've been further collecting missing USA made Craftsman ratchets and further refining the research.
Unfortunately, I can't say I'm surprised that Craftsman was sold. Eddie Lampert has been running Sears into the ground for over the last decade and a half. Given the severe financial woes Sears is facing now and in the future, it is unlikely that even the sale of Craftsman will buy much more than a year or two maximum for the company.
Look like you hit the nail on the head. Filed for bankruptcy 10/15/18. About a year and a half from selling Craftsman to SBD!
I HAVE A SET OF VINTAGE CRAFTSMAN WANT TO BUY THEM???? WRENCHES, SOCKETS WHOLE THING
Sure! I'd like to see what you have. How do I get a hold of you?
GIVE ME AN EMAIL TO WRITE TO THANKS
SEND ME AN EMAIL AND I'LL CONTACT YOU THANKS
You guys remember UA-cam's private messaging? LOL
I have a non reversible female half inch drive circle H ratchet that is the same as your 1/4 inch but 1/2 drive
Hi Stone! Could you post a video of it so I can see it? Let me know when it is up! ^_^
Sears never made anything, they used contracting companies. I'm more interested in WHO made their tools and in what chronological order. Companies like New Britain gave Sears their name in dependable tools.
If you check my channel, you can have access to that information quite easily.
My brother has that tool
The putting together of Sears and Kmart was so stupid ...wasnt going to work and didnt. Now Sears is on the ropes so dont get your hopes up about any warranties in the future. Sry it is what it is. Just check to see what Warren Buffett has to say about the retailer and what happened to him in the 70's that is very similar.
Am from the future
Both gone
Lowe's bought Craftsman
You’re missing one
Many are missing. That is why we are working on a reboot! ^_^
My name is Mark I have that ratchet b do you a value
Hi Mark.
Send me an email at gearwolfofficial@gmail.com
If you can send me a few photos, I can evaluate your tool for you.
This vid could have, should have, been way shorter. It is so long that there were multiple commercials (distracting from the vid). So, who really has time, or patience to watch a 59-minute u-tube?
I appreciate the feedback, but no one is forcing you or anyone else to sit through the video in its entirety. You do have the ability to skip around to find what you may need. I always get a bit of a chuckle when I see these kind of comments. ^_^
Yet, I do realize that this and other videos of this series are imperfect. I'm hoping to remedy these issues with the series "reboot".
i have a old school Craftsman flex ratchet head is that any good its part # is -VV-42794
Its a great tool. Take care of it, and you will get a lifetime of use from it!