The Icon tools from Harbor Freight actually are pretty decent. On the plus side, you don't need to wait for a tool truck, you break something, you can just get it replaced at any Harbor Freight. Tekton flat out beats them all for their guarantee. It doesn't matter when you bought it, it doesn't matter if you bought it new, it doesn't matter if you have a receipt. If you break one of their tools, let them know. They might ask for a photo (everyone has a smartphone). They send you a new one immediately. One other nice thing is most of Tekton's sets are no-skip on the sizes so if you are OCD about that, you won't be missing the unicorn sizes with theirs.
I love my ICON sockets. I'm a rust belt diesel tech, I never feel bad hammering on an ICON socket. I'd cry if someone hit my snap on sockets with a hammer...
@@Tailgatesntoolboxes They are decent for what they are. If you're a home do-it yourselfer, They are fine, but then probably so are the lower priced lines. That doesn't apply to the Icon tool cabinets, those are every bit as good as the best any other company offers including Snap-On.
I'm a weekend worrier. Almost all my tools are Gearwrench, Icon and Tekton. They're similar in quality and price plus mostly made in Taiwan (I'm from Taiwan). In my opinion, hard to beat their quality for the price you pay.
I’ve been working as a service tech (oil, tires, brakes, alignments) for about a month and I bought a set of Walmart 1/2 inch sockets because I needed my own set to use at work. They’ve been doing pretty well considering they were like $20 and because they’re so inexpensive I haven’t been afraid to beat on them with hammers when dealing with swollen lug nuts. When they break I’ll probably go up to a tekton set.
Very nice and ya it's actually nice sometimes having cheaper versions of some tools so it doesn't hurt so bad when you have to beat on or modify a tool.
Solid advice, I’ve got everything from Pittsburgh Pro to Snapon in my tool box. I went from weekend warrior to Diesel Tech about 6 months ago an I’m slowly bringing home some of my… lesser quality tools but I’m in no rush. I’ve got Icon, Tekton, Snapon ratchets. Tekton, Duralast, Mac, Pittsburgh sockets. Craftsman, Icon, Gearwrench wrenches… before I started turning wrenches every day I didn’t see the big deal on Snapon but when you use them everyday…. It’s nice to have nice tools
Absolutely 👍 it all depends on how much they are used and how hard. Any tool can do a great job just depending on how much work is going to be done thank you for sharing your thoughts and the brands you use. I appreciate it 👍
I purchased the 566 piece set from Northern Tool of Klutch tools. And after daily use throughout the 2.5 years of my schooling in Automotive Mechanics and now continuous use at my marine mechanic job as well as my side mobile auto repair/service. They have stood up extremely well. And the best part of it is that I have no skipped or "unicorn" sizes that I have had to contend with
I own varied brands, however my new go to is KOKEN Japan. Their quality and economy is hard to beat. I will add that I own a TEKTON 3/8 ratchet and it’s my go to favorite. Very impressed with it!
Someone mentioned a great advice- Buy the cheapest and as they break, replace those specific with good quality ones. Thus you will not waste too much money on tools that you don't really use.
Yeah, but buying pieces individually usually means you are probably spending 2x more per piece plus the initial expense of what you bought. Just buy ones with a good warranty that will last long enough to warrant the hassle of swapping the parts.
I find the lower quality sockets like mastercraft will flex/stretch over a bolt and round it. Snap and matco will not flex under lots of stress. My first experience was not fun.
when I first started wrenching I was given a set of that dollar store socket set you were talking about ( again this was my first time ever touching a wrench 10yrs ago) my brother was guiding me over the phone how to take a starter out to replace it. literally the second bolt I tried to take out, the avail split and I busted my knuckles. sometimes finding the cheapest way out hurts. nowadays I have my Milwaukee guns and ratchets, tekton sockets/ratchets, and a couple snap on ratchets
I have an extended length handle 1/4 drive 120 tooth Gear Wrench ratchet I had used to remove the air filter housing on my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. I wanted to try it out and see just how tough it was. The bolt holding the housing was buried in dirt and leaves so I was certain it would break off in the process. It actually didn't break and the ratchet did remove it. It really impressed me. I used a mid length Gear Wrench 1/4 drive socket on it too. I'd buy Gear Wrench if I were going into automotive repair as a first timer and sleep well at night. I've pretty heavily invested in Craftsman and do have a lot of Pittsburgh. We do have a Harbor Freight that just opened in my town, so I'm set for damaged tools. I've had pretty good results with all of the sets I own and wouldn't hesitate using any of them for repair. My impact socket set is a set of Craftsman Evolv sockets I bought at Kmart when they still existed and Craftsman was still part of Sears/Kmart. I'm still using them.
If you don’t actually care about being USA made necessarily, and are ONLY concerned about the warranty, last year I did some testing with a few different old broken pieces I had around and the results were satisfying. I tried to bring some stuff to Lowe’s and they swapped out everything I asked for that I could just grab an individual of (no breaking up sets unless you bring the whole set). If you don’t have a Lowe’s nearby, I took some of the pieces Lowe’s only had sets of to Ace Hardware and the same rules apply, as long as they have it in stock you can swap no questions. I still had some things to swap and not everyone has those stores, so Craftsman also as a phone number you can simply text and send pictures to and you can just have them sent to your house the same as Tekton.
6:06 but sometimes the Icon will beat the Snap-On in torture test or not be very far behind. For the huge price difference they are really similar in strength.
The tools at walmart are awesome for when you're broke down in a walmart parking lot at 9pm and need tools on the cheap so you can get back on the road and get home. But That's about it.
Yeah the hyper tough is better than expected and is better than nothing especially in a bind. My Stanly rachet fell apart in my hand and I ended up getting the Walmart set and it was great. Now I use Master Force and HF since they both have lifetime warranty.
I'm wondering if Japanese brand Koken is sold in the US. It's popular here in New Zealand with guys in the auto trade, and is excellent quality, quite expensive but not as pricey as Snap On.
I Have had Gearwrench and tekton chrome sockets for 4 years now and finally am going to get snap on tomorrow when my dealer comes. The cheaper ones have gotten me to where I am now but they break, A LOT. Just cracked yet another 13mm using a ratchet today doing a bolt on wheel bearing.
I have the icon 3/8 shallow impact sockets the 3/8 chrome deep Quinn sockets and the 1/2 deep Pittsburg sockets I have been using them all for about a year and some change it was the cheapest way to go to start my cart at my shop but I haven’t broken any yet and haven’t had any fitment issues or rounded anything I’ve ran into issues with swollen lug nut caps but the snap on or Mac sockets wouldn’t fit either I have 19.5 sockets for those issues now
I have some of each of those except mac and silver eagle. If money was no object I’d have all snap on but gearwrench has done great for about 9 years and I really like the knurling for getting a socket off with greasy gloves on. Just got a 90 tooth today and it might be my favorite ratchet
A mechanic friend tells new mechanics, buy the better stuff at Harbor Freight. Use it till it breaks, then replace that tool, socket, wrench or whatever with the better tools from the tool truck, but only buy what you need. Sounds like sound advice.
In that last couple of years I've used a decent amount of Japanese tools and I must say I am always impressed with the quality of the tools. I think if you can find deals on them. They are definitely worth it.
First time someone actually taught me why the difference in price range. Now…as a normal Joe not even a DIY…Pittsburgh/Icon/Craftman will surely do. Thank you
My 1/4 6 point and 3/8 12pt shallows are Craftsman USA as are all my deep socket chrome. I have Tekton 3/8 shallow 6 point chrome and impact. My 1/2 deep socket and 3/4 shallow impact are Neiko. I do have Wera 1/4 sets for use around the house. Still a mystery to me, but I ended up with a 7mm Snap On 1/4 shallow socket in my Craftsman set (I bought the set new decades ago).
I have a mix of all brands and styles. My daily use is 1/4" drive. For shorts SO is it, old Craftsman deep wells are the best there. For home use on my motorcycles again, SO is it in 3/8" drive metric but the rest are an eclectic mix of brands. I have extensive selection of tools at home and work.
@@TonyTheTechnician My wife thinks A LOT OF bit for my needs...but she likes tools about as much as I do. I recently have been buying antique tools and restoring them. From rusty wrenches to wood planes and everything in between. Quite fun.
@@TonyTheTechnician I find some processes and skills doing those tool restorations that helps in my daily job, aircraft mechanic. My experiences there mean a 1999 Beechcraft is pretty damn new and I get to be the first guy to remove the engine for overhaul. It's not a simple process like on jets or turboprops, it takes a bit of skills and experience. I quite enjoy that work.
I'm a locomotive mechanic (heavy duty diesel) for my local transit agency, and half our shop uses gear wrench and pittsburgh, then you get some who are tool junkies and have the snap on and mac. The general consensus among my field is that the cheap stuff will undoubtedly get the work done, and it'll do it well, but the nice stuff just makes the job a little nicer, and in some cases less painful or strenuous. I fall somewhere in between where I have some of both, and specifically with sockets, I have Quinn and Icon. They both get the job done very well, and honestly not any better than the other. My ratchets however is a whole other story, night and day difference between the Pittsburg and Icon, small difference between the Icon and Snap on
I'm looking at the Dewalt 192 piece mechanic set. It's all mainly sockets,ratchets and extensions. Any thoughts on this set or Dewalt hand tools overall?
It's a great set. That's the set I have and have had it for 5 years. Held up very well the only thing I don't have are the ratchets. But all the sockets and everything have been great
I have the Tekton 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2" socket sets and really like them. You can buy them as a package on the website for $350. Plus youll get 10% back on your account to use toward future purchases.
@@TonyTheTechnician Thanks, somehow I had missed seeing that set. I just compared the sets. Beyond the difference in storage systems and a few accessories, they near identical in sockets. The rail set has more sockets in the largest 1/2" sizes (starting at 1 3/8 & 33mm and up), but the blow molded cases add ratchets, extensions, breaker bars, swivels. Considering the price jump, the blow molded cases seem like a better deal. Someone could buy aftermarket rails/socket holders for less money. Which for myself, I prefer a different style anyways. Thanks for the tip!
I'm the lead engine tech at a western states cat and I want to get some nice proto or Wright sockets but my Pittsburgh have lasted me 8 years. Don't lose them and regular use on a m18 high torque won't break them
Hey that gator grip got all the stripped bolts off my old motorcycle so it’s not a total waste. I would honestly say u need 1 in I’m your box there may b an occasion once or twice a year where it really helps u
I worked for the Craftman Tools back in the 1970s, they were good then. I use Mac tools for impact sockets and Snap-on 1/4 inch for electrical work and rebuilding carbs. If I see Mac or Snap-on trucks in gas stations I will always buy something.
Coming back to this. It occurs to me that someone starting out, Yeah buy really good stuff for the stuff you use all the time. Basically shallow and deep metric sockets and a set of good combo wrenches. Then everything else can be more economical and can be upgraded as necessary. Makes no sense to spend a ton of money on a tool you use one time.
I use the Quinn sockets for my ¼" drive set. I do like the color band that is on each socket noting whether it metric or SAE. Plus for around $20 for both metric & SAE sets, darn dirt cheap. With fastners that you can use a ¼" socket on, they usually aren't really "cranked" on there requiring a lot of torque that could break either your socket or fastner. Just saying...
Ya absolutely no problem with that. Agreed. You shouldn't have to worry about breaking the fastener or socket. If it's that tight for some reason it's easy to just step up to the next drive size 👍
Anyone know of store that has more individual pieces rather than the whole sets ? And has a wider variety to choose from ? Also anyone knows of where I can find a bit shorter length deep sockets ?
I’m a big tekton fan. I have their 3/8 deep and shallow sockets and they are great. The company seems like they really care about the customer as well. Will also be buying some capri tools in the future. Snap on is great, but their prices on a lot of stuff is just absurd and I can’t justify spending money like that at this point. Maybe one day.
The very cheap throw away sockets,I keep to modify.Grind them down for certain applications.Certain sockets,I buy Grey Pneumatic and Sunex if I don't use them a lot for impact sockets.
I have a box of them when I need the cheap throw away sockets.Modified one cutting a shallow socket more shallow for access to a bolt holding the a/c clutch in a Ford Taurus.Ground one down to get into a space getting on a bolt.Still have them both
all the vehicles I work I need short shallow, short, mid , and deep nothing like fighting a tight space where just the length of a socket will determine adding 6 hours of extra work.
Are you saging that gear wrench impact sockets are great? Cause im really confused what impact socket to but and tekton is not available on canada fuck
Craftsman used to THE toolset to buy when you got your first car. Unfortunately, with so many house brands (Husky, Kobalt, Hart) being warrantied for life, one can get more tools for the $$ as Craftsman.
Another great video. I agree with the craftsman. I have the old ones, and I am afraid of having to replace them with the cheap stuff that unfortunately I has to do. I mainly use my SK now which I was able to get a great deal on when tooltopia still sold SK. I actually used cheap sockets and dropped a tiny magnet in them and super glued them in and made my own diy magnetic sockets. They actually don't work that bad
Ya I would be afraid to warranty them too. And very nice. Sk makes some great stuff. That's smart I have a buddy that did the same thing with small magnets
Snapon has a *flute* in the semi-deep and deep sockets not sure why others don't (biggest issue) with others. Like the fastener falls down in the 'semi/deep' sockets and makes a fiasco using them. But it does seem like Gearwrench deep metric chrome sockets have a flute in them. Got SK (all mine metric) as work at Yam/Kawi shop they got a flute in them.
I'm curious where you would place Capri sockets in the lineup regarding quality. I have and love their impact sockets but I'm mainly deciding between Capri and tekton for chrome sockets if you have any recommendations?
Well that would depend on the situation, what kind of condition is the bolt, what access do you have, are you square on the bolt, how does the socket fit the bolt
Very nice. I have had good experiences with all of those as well except genius I've never owned and only used a couple of times but it's good to know they have worked well for you
@@TonyTheTechnician Genius still sells the 1/2 Semi deep thin wall impact socket set I got years ago. Cro-mo and have held up well; Albeit I don't use them as often anymore.
I use icon sockets. They are like 300 bucks for all the sockets you need. I only use Pittsburgh impact sockets cause they have held up perfectly and I have beaten on them
I have some sets of the mid range ones noted here. I would simply recommend getting the best set you can afford at the time you purchase. I have 6 different brands of sockets, chrome and impact and most of them were just the best deal for quality sockets I could find at the time.
Good content Tony. Honestly they all work, however long term finish, wear/ flaking of chrome etcetera all happens from use. Cheaper sets faster. Not a great surprise. Typically the reason for myself going with higher end is non size skipping. The one you don't have is always the one you need. LOL
Ton ive got hf impact sockets that I purchased way back wen hf was selling their products out of semi trailers i don’t know if u wer around then but yea I still use them snd they are worn quite a bit bit i tell u they are beast
People really throw hate at ICON. Yes they aren’t Snap On. But Snap On isn’t even the best. If someone thinks everything they make is the best… well they’re DUMB. That said ICON is a very high quality, middle of the road tool company that compares very comparably to Gear wrench and Tekton. All Taiwan based tool manufacturers 👍🏻
Great video honestly I have 1/4 long Pittsburgh pro sockets they done great for me no problems no complaints out of me out of those sockets are use them every single day as I am a auto tech
I got all Tekton sockets. So far there great. I had a issue with one of the sockets and it was a internal socket finishing issue. I took a picture and I got a replacement in 2 days. You just can't beat that warranty. Also I had the pittsburgh impact sockets and hated them. I would get them stuck on lug nuts on my father-in-law f250. I got the tekton impacts and they work amazing for the money. I use them all the time at salvage yard. Keep up the good work on the channel.
@@TonyTheTechnician I want to get a mobile set and I'm torn between the Craftsman Versastack and Milwaukee Packout sets. Gearwrench and Tekton are also on my radar, for their price and quality, but not as easy to roll around.
another good quality brand that I love because they're affordable made in the usa and durable asf is channellock. ive used theyre 6 point sockets and 3/8 ratchet for 3 years daily, ive abused this ratchet. and i mean i used to take pipes to the end of the ratchet as almost a wrench extender to brake super annoying shit as this was my only tool starting out and its great i lost the extension but none of my channellock is broken i want to switch my whole set up in hand tools to them
T-BONE!....LET'S GO!!!!!!!🏁 I have never broken a socket ever.... and I have everything from Pittsburgh and Tekton...To DeWalt sockets & some SnapOn sockets... I've never snapped one....I really feel going with Tekton and DeWalt for sockets is the best value and quality
I’ve heard that the icon tools are very close to tool truck, if not almost the same. And have had very good experience with modern craftsmen in regards to warranty’s. Also heard something about them being made in USA again
I would say you can use most icon tools in the professional field but I wouldn't compare them to the usa made Tool truck stuff. As far as Craftsman they have a hand full of socket sets that are made in the USA with global materials. But what really matter is what works best for your needs at the best price
Good post and topic Tony. I have a mixed bag of sockets, some of the older are craftsman, husky USA made and i do like snap-on it just bugged me that a 1/4 deep metric set was, at the time, 272. Bucks so i found a gearwrench set on sale and saved 250. Lol but thats a lot of money. I have never said "im glad i bought that cheep set of sockets"
Thank you!! Lol ya sometimes you have to decide if spending that extra money is necessary or not and finding the best ones that will work for you and at an affordable cost. Glad you found them and they work well for you
I know this is a little late but why do you bag on craftsman so much. They re- released their socket sets and alot of their other mechanics tools are made in Taiwan just like most of the other brands apart from us made tools. Just wondering.
I guess I don't mean to sound like I'm bagging on them. I just grew up using alot of Craftsman and was disappointed when they switched. And nothing is really wrong with any of the tools they make in Taiwan. Alot of tool companies do the same and have great tools. It's just a bad taste in my mouth bc I wish they were still usa made primarily. But the main thing is most of the tools are over priced unless on sale. So if I see a Craftsman set made in Taiwan and another brand that has a similar set and is the same quality or possibly better. Craftsman is usually the more expensive one of the two. So nothing wrong with a majority of Craftsman tools I just wish they would either bring the pricing down to the same as other brands or give the customers a reason to pay the slightly higher price by providing some tools made in the USA. Sorry that was long winded lol. Hopefully that makes sense
Hey Tony. Any thoughts on Sunex? I’ve heard they are good. I’m a technician working at a shop and I’m looking into buying socket sets but my wallet doesn’t allow me to purchase snap on. I need something in the professional area but somewhat affordable.
my 1/4 inch set is Tekton, my 3/8 inch set is Wera--- overpriced, and I'm leary that it may be weak, and my 1/2 inch is an old USA craftsman from about 1968, supplemented by SK Sockets--- maybe that makes me a hack. The Craftsman 1/2" I have had a 3 foot pipe on jumped on it, then with a clamp overnight after beating with a 32 ounce sledge, on a 1969 Chrysler Newport Tie Rod after heating, and penetrating oil. The ratchet was not phazed. I certainly would not try that nowadays. My Friend was smug, as he had a Renault R-10 where we could lift out the engine by hand, lol easy, but the transmission was a nightmare! OH we finally used a NAPA bolt cutter and we were both covered in rust flakes/powder by the time we got the Newport apart. We got it back together---- then the tie rod went. deja vu all over again
It definitely sucks when you lose one 1/4 socket and it cost you $25 for replacement because it’s a snap on they happen to one of my guys at work personally if you’re starting definitely go With the icon or Pittsburgh pro sockets if you lose one it’s not that expensive to get the replacement
I purchased a set of Craftsman sockets/wrenches over 30 years ago; they came in a cardboard box, if that tells you anything, lol. After years of use, I had one break, the deep-well 1/2 inch socket. Because my father-in-law was a Snap-On dealer, I was able to supplement my Craftsman's with a set of Snap-On ratchets, screw drivers, and pliers at cost, and have never had an issue; you can "feel" the quality as compared to the Craftsman ratchets. I don't make my living with my tools, but I've been wrenching all my life, my stuff, family stuff, friends, stuff, etc. "Oh, you know about engines", etc., etc. When my FIL passed away, I inherited a lot of his tools and his Snap-On toolbox. Anyhow, if I was starting out, and going to make my living with tools, I would look for a good quality set of sockets/wrenches, and supplement with Snap-On's; if I decided this is how I want to make a living, I'd invest in Snap-On's as my budget allowed. Time is money, and that includes going to Harbor Freight to exchange a tool, or getting one replaced on-line. With Sears gone, it is hard to warranty Craftsman; if you don't have a receipt showing you purchased it here, we won't warranty it; not sure that works for Snap-On tool trucks. Any who, that's my two-cents from a professional certified shade-tree mechanic, lol. Good luck!!
For a small town, I got an ACE and a NAPA. Most of my kit is Evercraft with some Craftsman or Duralast because NAPA has banker's hours. Ive been looking at Carlyle, but honestly some Proto or Williams is in the same price range.
I've been buying a lot of Tekton stuff lately. I have a lot of Sunnex impact sockets. I have craftsman usa, some Icon stuff. I have gear wrench also. I have been spending for the snap on flex ratchets because they are just so nice. It's funny when I open my socket drawer how you can see just how few of my sockets get regular use. Don't over spend for sockets. I can't remember the last time I broke a socket that was being used correctly. Pay up for quality ratchets. Just my opinion
I’m a green tech 3 years in at a Toyota dealership Ive been running a cheap set of 3/8 chrome Quinn deep sockets on my snap on electric ratchet for 2 years now and have yet to break one or have any problems somehow😂 but I decided to buy a set of 3/8 icon today just for the hell of it if I don’t like them I’m gonna move up to tool truck brand sockets I’ll comment back in a few weeks and give my opinion on the icon they definitely feel a million times better than the Quinn 😂 never gave it thought until the other day I went you know what I’m still using this 14 dollar socket set from harbor freight everyday for everything lol
Pittsburg pro is alright, icon actually surprised me decent stuff gets the job done. Craftsman USA made (old stuff) is great for the weekend warrior I would say it’s the best route. Matco is my favorite good tools can’t go wrong. Mac has some nice wrenches that are in my list. And snap on is king out of my pocket range but the best money can buy
so as a guy that has used tools as a DIY and in industrial settings i pretty much agree with you. i think for home the pitts stuff is fine. it has to do with the warranty more than anything. craftsman were the king but they are trash now. i have given up on turning in craftsman tools. harbor freight truly doesnt ask questions, it go in get and walk out. as you said yes we would love to use snap on but if you do not have a truck coming to you, its really off the list, same with mac and matco. i have bought a few tekton and they seems fairly good, do not have much use yet with them. i have a set of gearwrench ratchet wrenches and broke out the ratchet part. could not get anyplace to trade it in. napa wanted me to prove i bought it there. so i have ruled GW off my list. really all the sockets coming out for the DIYer are really pretty good and its gonna come down to who services your area. 30 years ago i was all craftsman, they use to take tape measures back, i traded in a bent punch, a chipped cold chisel, it did not matter if it said craftsman you were good but we all know that aint the case any more. like the video
I Just sold most of my snap on stuff and went with Tekton master set. Got a lot more sizes and some extra ratchets and still money in the bank. No snappy truck around here . the Snap on and MATCO are so overpriced .
They can be very expensive. It all just depends on the situation and what's best for you. Smart idea since you don't have a snap on truck around 👍 glad your enjoying them as well.
I am a 'once a month warrior' and therefore don't need any great longevity but what has made me hesitate to buy cheaper sets is that I have been told that higher brands (Snap On specifically) are less likely to slip. What level do you think you need to go to for the fitment or slippage issue?
Avoid the very cheapest. I am a serious do it yourselfer. I have many brands of sockets and wrenches as well as a couple of Snap On. The difference isn't that great between mid level DIY equipment and the tool truck stuff. Husky level is fine.
I bought a set of Coleman impact sockets from Walmart over 20 years ago. I've used them a lot and beaten the absolute hell out of them. Best $20 I've ever spent on tools.
Good review. I like texton Kobalt and gearwrench. Agreecwirh you about crapsman. Mac and snap on are food for speciality for speciality sockets. texton has the best warranty policy
If you are able to get your hands on them try the King Tony impact sockets, every single place me, any on my mates or old workmates have worked at least one person has had at least 1 king Tony impact socket. I think they German? Only reason I say that is cause that's where I think it's made because I'm in nz
Snap-on's motto: "buy once, cry once a month for the next decade"
😂👍😂
The Icon tools from Harbor Freight actually are pretty decent. On the plus side, you don't need to wait for a tool truck, you break something, you can just get it replaced at any Harbor Freight. Tekton flat out beats them all for their guarantee. It doesn't matter when you bought it, it doesn't matter if you bought it new, it doesn't matter if you have a receipt. If you break one of their tools, let them know. They might ask for a photo (everyone has a smartphone). They send you a new one immediately. One other nice thing is most of Tekton's sets are no-skip on the sizes so if you are OCD about that, you won't be missing the unicorn sizes with theirs.
Absolutely agree 👍 thanks for sharing your thoughts
I love my ICON sockets. I'm a rust belt diesel tech, I never feel bad hammering on an ICON socket. I'd cry if someone hit my snap on sockets with a hammer...
Absolutely
Sorry icon is over priced crap. I sold all my icon tools...i mostly had the rachets
@@Tailgatesntoolboxes They are decent for what they are. If you're a home do-it yourselfer, They are fine, but then probably so are the lower priced lines. That doesn't apply to the Icon tool cabinets, those are every bit as good as the best any other company offers including Snap-On.
I'm a weekend worrier. Almost all my tools are Gearwrench, Icon and Tekton. They're similar in quality and price plus mostly made in Taiwan (I'm from Taiwan). In my opinion, hard to beat their quality for the price you pay.
Weekend worried lol. That’s a new one
@@TadpoleTrainer He must be married....grin
I’ve been working as a service tech (oil, tires, brakes, alignments) for about a month and I bought a set of Walmart 1/2 inch sockets because I needed my own set to use at work. They’ve been doing pretty well considering they were like $20 and because they’re so inexpensive I haven’t been afraid to beat on them with hammers when dealing with swollen lug nuts. When they break I’ll probably go up to a tekton set.
Very nice and ya it's actually nice sometimes having cheaper versions of some tools so it doesn't hurt so bad when you have to beat on or modify a tool.
Walmart has a black oil filter claw that is amazing. I bought a snap on one too. Works way better. FYI.
Yup, buy cheap tools. If you break them, upgrade. I've been doing this for years. You would be surprised to see just how few you will replace.
Solid advice, I’ve got everything from Pittsburgh Pro to Snapon in my tool box. I went from weekend warrior to Diesel Tech about 6 months ago an I’m slowly bringing home some of my… lesser quality tools but I’m in no rush. I’ve got Icon, Tekton, Snapon ratchets. Tekton, Duralast, Mac, Pittsburgh sockets. Craftsman, Icon, Gearwrench wrenches… before I started turning wrenches every day I didn’t see the big deal on Snapon but when you use them everyday…. It’s nice to have nice tools
Absolutely 👍 it all depends on how much they are used and how hard. Any tool can do a great job just depending on how much work is going to be done thank you for sharing your thoughts and the brands you use. I appreciate it 👍
I purchased the 566 piece set from Northern Tool of Klutch tools. And after daily use throughout the 2.5 years of my schooling in Automotive Mechanics and now continuous use at my marine mechanic job as well as my side mobile auto repair/service. They have stood up extremely well. And the best part of it is that I have no skipped or "unicorn" sizes that I have had to contend with
I own varied brands, however my new go to is KOKEN Japan. Their quality and economy is hard to beat. I will add that I own a TEKTON 3/8 ratchet and it’s my go to favorite. Very impressed with it!
Very nice. I'm picking up some koken as well. I love the Japanese tools and the quality they produce.
@@TonyTheTechnician please do a review and comparison with other brands. This vid needs an update
Someone mentioned a great advice- Buy the cheapest and as they break, replace those specific with good quality ones.
Thus you will not waste too much money on tools that you don't really use.
Yeah, but buying pieces individually usually means you are probably spending 2x more per piece plus the initial expense of what you bought. Just buy ones with a good warranty that will last long enough to warrant the hassle of swapping the parts.
I have two craftsman ratchets and a metric craftsman rail from the 80’s. Been using them for advanced diy for forty years. Love them still.
I find the lower quality sockets like mastercraft will flex/stretch over a bolt and round it. Snap and matco will not flex under lots of stress. My first experience was not fun.
when I first started wrenching I was given a set of that dollar store socket set you were talking about ( again this was my first time ever touching a wrench 10yrs ago) my brother was guiding me over the phone how to take a starter out to replace it. literally the second bolt I tried to take out, the avail split and I busted my knuckles. sometimes finding the cheapest way out hurts. nowadays I have my Milwaukee guns and ratchets, tekton sockets/ratchets, and a couple snap on ratchets
Ya completely agree. Cheap will get you hurt and expensive can leave you broke lol. It's about finding that great quality at a great price 👍
I never give in to Strap-On unless I have to or a too good to pass up deal comes along.
I have an extended length handle 1/4 drive 120 tooth Gear Wrench ratchet I had used to remove the air filter housing on my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. I wanted to try it out and see just how tough it was. The bolt holding the housing was buried in dirt and leaves so I was certain it would break off in the process. It actually didn't break and the ratchet did remove it. It really impressed me. I used a mid length Gear Wrench 1/4 drive socket on it too. I'd buy Gear Wrench if I were going into automotive repair as a first timer and sleep well at night.
I've pretty heavily invested in Craftsman and do have a lot of Pittsburgh. We do have a Harbor Freight that just opened in my town, so I'm set for damaged tools.
I've had pretty good results with all of the sets I own and wouldn't hesitate using any of them for repair. My impact socket set is a set of Craftsman Evolv sockets I bought at Kmart when they still existed and Craftsman was still part of Sears/Kmart. I'm still using them.
If you don’t actually care about being USA made necessarily, and are ONLY concerned about the warranty, last year I did some testing with a few different old broken pieces I had around and the results were satisfying. I tried to bring some stuff to Lowe’s and they swapped out everything I asked for that I could just grab an individual of (no breaking up sets unless you bring the whole set). If you don’t have a Lowe’s nearby, I took some of the pieces Lowe’s only had sets of to Ace Hardware and the same rules apply, as long as they have it in stock you can swap no questions. I still had some things to swap and not everyone has those stores, so Craftsman also as a phone number you can simply text and send pictures to and you can just have them sent to your house the same as Tekton.
6:06 but sometimes the Icon will beat the Snap-On in torture test or not be very far behind. For the huge price difference they are really similar in strength.
The tools at walmart are awesome for when you're broke down in a walmart parking lot at 9pm and need tools on the cheap so you can get back on the road and get home. But That's about it.
Yeah the hyper tough is better than expected and is better than nothing especially in a bind. My Stanly rachet fell apart in my hand and I ended up getting the Walmart set and it was great. Now I use Master Force and HF since they both have lifetime warranty.
I'm wondering if Japanese brand Koken is sold in the US. It's popular here in New Zealand with guys in the auto trade, and is excellent quality, quite expensive but not as pricey as Snap On.
Ya we can find some stuff available here but ya like you said it is a bit pricey
Koken isn’t really that expensive. I don’t mind paying tool truck prices for made in Japan quality.
I Have had Gearwrench and tekton chrome sockets for 4 years now and finally am going to get snap on tomorrow when my dealer comes. The cheaper ones have gotten me to where I am now but they break, A LOT. Just cracked yet another 13mm using a ratchet today doing a bolt on wheel bearing.
Tekton has a super easy warranty, send a picture and they'll get you the item out that day.
👍👍👍
I have the icon 3/8 shallow impact sockets the 3/8 chrome deep Quinn sockets and the 1/2 deep Pittsburg sockets I have been using them all for about a year and some change it was the cheapest way to go to start my cart at my shop but I haven’t broken any yet and haven’t had any fitment issues or rounded anything I’ve ran into issues with swollen lug nut caps but the snap on or Mac sockets wouldn’t fit either I have 19.5 sockets for those issues now
I have some of each of those except mac and silver eagle. If money was no object I’d have all snap on but gearwrench has done great for about 9 years and I really like the knurling for getting a socket off with greasy gloves on. Just got a 90 tooth today and it might be my favorite ratchet
Very nice that's awesome and ya I know exactly what you mean
A mechanic friend tells new mechanics, buy the better stuff at Harbor Freight. Use it till it breaks, then replace that tool, socket, wrench or whatever with the better tools from the tool truck, but only buy what you need. Sounds like sound advice.
I’ve gone all SK and Wright for my sockets. US made, and they seem to work very well. My son got me a Mac ratchet for Xmas, it is legit.
Very nice. That's awesome
Where does Carlyle (Napa) fit in? Is it like Tekton?
Ya I would say it's right around that point as well. Great tools and usually for a good price
I think I would even place Carlyle slightly above tekton
Good review Tony! Tekton is hard to beat for the money.
Thank you. Agreed
So is Ares
so what do you think about japanese brands. like KTC, Nepros and Koken? they're not cheap either.
In that last couple of years I've used a decent amount of Japanese tools and I must say I am always impressed with the quality of the tools. I think if you can find deals on them. They are definitely worth it.
First time someone actually taught me why the difference in price range.
Now…as a normal Joe not even a DIY…Pittsburgh/Icon/Craftman will surely do.
Thank you
My 1/4 6 point and 3/8 12pt shallows are Craftsman USA as are all my deep socket chrome. I have Tekton 3/8 shallow 6 point chrome and impact. My 1/2 deep socket and 3/4 shallow impact are Neiko. I do have Wera 1/4 sets for use around the house. Still a mystery to me, but I ended up with a 7mm Snap On 1/4 shallow socket in my Craftsman set (I bought the set new decades ago).
Very nice. Thank you for sharing!!
Caterpillar is made by snapon for about a quarter of the price i would suggest researching how to purchase caterpillar sockets and tools
Matco still does make USA chrome sockets. People shouldn’t be getting Taiwan sockets on warranty replacements. If they are, it’s a mistake.
Yes they still have USA made sockets as well but curtain sets were made in Taiwan unfortunately
I have a mix of all brands and styles. My daily use is 1/4" drive. For shorts SO is it, old Craftsman deep wells are the best there. For home use on my motorcycles again, SO is it in 3/8" drive metric but the rest are an eclectic mix of brands. I have extensive selection of tools at home and work.
Very nice. A little bit of everything for all of your needs 👍
@@TonyTheTechnician
My wife thinks A LOT OF bit for my needs...but she likes tools about as much as I do. I recently have been buying antique tools and restoring them. From rusty wrenches to wood planes and everything in between. Quite fun.
Very nice that's awesome. I've always wanted to try that as well
@@TonyTheTechnician
I find some processes and skills doing those tool restorations that helps in my daily job, aircraft mechanic. My experiences there mean a 1999 Beechcraft is pretty damn new and I get to be the first guy to remove the engine for overhaul. It's not a simple process like on jets or turboprops, it takes a bit of skills and experience. I quite enjoy that work.
Very nice that's awesome. That all sounds complicated lol. I don't know anything about aircrafts.
I'm a locomotive mechanic (heavy duty diesel) for my local transit agency, and half our shop uses gear wrench and pittsburgh, then you get some who are tool junkies and have the snap on and mac. The general consensus among my field is that the cheap stuff will undoubtedly get the work done, and it'll do it well, but the nice stuff just makes the job a little nicer, and in some cases less painful or strenuous. I fall somewhere in between where I have some of both, and specifically with sockets, I have Quinn and Icon. They both get the job done very well, and honestly not any better than the other. My ratchets however is a whole other story, night and day difference between the Pittsburg and Icon, small difference between the Icon and Snap on
Take a shot every time he says “other than that” lol I love your content man thanks for the videos
Lol damn your looking at getting drunk fast 🤣 thank you
I'm looking at the Dewalt 192 piece mechanic set. It's all mainly sockets,ratchets and extensions. Any thoughts on this set or Dewalt hand tools overall?
It's a great set. That's the set I have and have had it for 5 years. Held up very well the only thing I don't have are the ratchets. But all the sockets and everything have been great
It's been said a million times, don't work for your tools, let them work for you. As always excellent video.
Absolutely agree. Thank you 👍
Good information, thank you! I've started picking up some of the Tekton stuff. I've been happy so far. My latest is a set of their angle wrenches.
Very nice. Glad you enjoyed and hope you like those wrenches. They are very nice and a great price
I have the Tekton 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2" socket sets and really like them. You can buy them as a package on the website for $350. Plus youll get 10% back on your account to use toward future purchases.
Ya that is a great set and deal. Glad to hear your enjoying them as well.
Oct 2023 (2 years later) and the full set is now $595.
@@nickway_ Ouch. Dont know that Id pay that much for them. I guess maybe if I wrenched for my job. But I only work on my own stuff at home.
That's if you buy them on the rails. They are 475 for the blow molded cases. But either way it's a big price jump from what they were.
@@TonyTheTechnician Thanks, somehow I had missed seeing that set. I just compared the sets. Beyond the difference in storage systems and a few accessories, they near identical in sockets. The rail set has more sockets in the largest 1/2" sizes (starting at 1 3/8 & 33mm and up), but the blow molded cases add ratchets, extensions, breaker bars, swivels. Considering the price jump, the blow molded cases seem like a better deal. Someone could buy aftermarket rails/socket holders for less money. Which for myself, I prefer a different style anyways. Thanks for the tip!
I'm old school. I bought a couple sets of pre-GreatStar SK sockets after the acquisition. At my age, I'm not likely to need any more.
I'm the lead engine tech at a western states cat and I want to get some nice proto or Wright sockets but my Pittsburgh have lasted me 8 years. Don't lose them and regular use on a m18 high torque won't break them
Shoot if you can save money and get by. Then that's all that matters. As long as it works for your needs 👍
I appreciate the tape price labels and the names so my add brain can remember which ones you're talking about
Lol I giggled it would help the viewers and myself haha. Glad you enjoyed
Hey that gator grip got all the stripped bolts off my old motorcycle so it’s not a total waste. I would honestly say u need 1 in I’m your box there may b an occasion once or twice a year where it really helps u
I worked for the Craftman Tools back in the 1970s, they were good then. I use Mac tools for impact sockets and Snap-on 1/4 inch for electrical work and rebuilding carbs. If I see Mac or Snap-on trucks in gas stations I will always buy something.
Coming back to this. It occurs to me that someone starting out, Yeah buy really good stuff for the stuff you use all the time. Basically shallow and deep metric sockets and a set of good combo wrenches. Then everything else can be more economical and can be upgraded as necessary. Makes no sense to spend a ton of money on a tool you use one time.
What is your option on capri
I really enjoy the capri tools. I have a decent amount of capri tools and have been very impressed with them.
@@TonyTheTechnician nice, I was thinking about getting a set of their sockets. Might be doing that soon enough
@dadirtydawg7789 ya I have a few socket sets from them and they have been great
Nice content! Can’t wait to get my Tekton socket sets!
Thank you. Hope you enjoy
Just curious where would you put Milwaukee chrome sockets on this ranking?
I like SnapOn ,Mac or Williams sockets for the smaller under 1/2 sizes. Cheaper sockets for the large and impact sockets work well.
Isnt quinn made in the same factory as gearwrench?
I use the Quinn sockets for my ¼" drive set. I do like the color band that is on each socket noting whether it metric or SAE. Plus for around $20 for both metric & SAE sets, darn dirt cheap. With fastners that you can use a ¼" socket on, they usually aren't really "cranked" on there requiring a lot of torque that could break either your socket or fastner. Just saying...
Ya absolutely no problem with that. Agreed. You shouldn't have to worry about breaking the fastener or socket. If it's that tight for some reason it's easy to just step up to the next drive size 👍
Anyone know of store that has more individual pieces rather than the whole sets ? And has a wider variety to choose from ? Also anyone knows of where I can find a bit shorter length deep sockets ?
I’m a big tekton fan. I have their 3/8 deep and shallow sockets and they are great. The company seems like they really care about the customer as well. Will also be buying some capri tools in the future. Snap on is great, but their prices on a lot of stuff is just absurd and I can’t justify spending money like that at this point. Maybe one day.
Completely understandable. Ya tekton and Capri make great tools for a great price and both actually care about the customers satisfaction
The very cheap throw away sockets,I keep to modify.Grind them down for certain applications.Certain sockets,I buy Grey Pneumatic and Sunex if I don't use them a lot for impact sockets.
Very smart. Great way to go about it. Don't want to cut or destroy anything expensive. 👍
I have a box of them when I need the cheap throw away sockets.Modified one cutting a shallow socket more shallow for access to a bolt holding the a/c clutch in a Ford Taurus.Ground one down to get into a space getting on a bolt.Still have them both
all the vehicles I work I need short shallow, short, mid , and deep nothing like fighting a tight space where just the length of a socket will determine adding 6 hours of extra work.
I needed some replacement sockets and our parts clerk got me a rail of Williams USA sockets and they seem really nice
Are you saging that gear wrench impact sockets are great? Cause im really confused what impact socket to but and tekton is not available on canada fuck
Honestly quarter inch I just use Walmart sockets. They came in deep and shallows no skips for like $9. They work
Craftsman used to THE toolset to buy when you got your first car. Unfortunately, with so many house brands (Husky, Kobalt, Hart) being warrantied for life, one can get more tools for the $$ as Craftsman.
Does Quinn skip sizes like Pittsburgh?
I've got a couple sets of Capri sockets. They look nice. What's everyone else's experience with them?
Another great video. I agree with the craftsman. I have the old ones, and I am afraid of having to replace them with the cheap stuff that unfortunately I has to do. I mainly use my SK now which I was able to get a great deal on when tooltopia still sold SK. I actually used cheap sockets and dropped a tiny magnet in them and super glued them in and made my own diy magnetic sockets. They actually don't work that bad
Ya I would be afraid to warranty them too. And very nice. Sk makes some great stuff. That's smart I have a buddy that did the same thing with small magnets
Snapon has a *flute* in the semi-deep and deep sockets not sure why others don't (biggest issue) with others. Like the fastener falls down in the 'semi/deep' sockets and makes a fiasco using them. But it does seem like Gearwrench deep metric chrome sockets have a flute in them. Got SK (all mine metric) as work at Yam/Kawi shop they got a flute in them.
Ya alot of company's are starting to incorporate that shallow broach into the deep sockets. Very handy feature
@@TonyTheTechnician Hoping more do, makes a huge difference.
Ya it really does 👍
Nice setup and content! No proto in your lineup? Where would you place them
Thank you and unfortunately not but they would definetly be on the professional end 👍
I'm curious where you would place Capri sockets in the lineup regarding quality. I have and love their impact sockets but I'm mainly deciding between Capri and tekton for chrome sockets if you have any recommendations?
Both great quality and options. I wouldn't be afraid to buy either I think you would enjoy either one.
when unscrew a bolt, it slip and damage the bolt head, whos fault? the bolt head or the socket?
Well that would depend on the situation, what kind of condition is the bolt, what access do you have, are you square on the bolt, how does the socket fit the bolt
I have Pittsburg, Tekton, Capri, Sk, Genius, Sunex, Gearwrench sockets...All work great. Pittsburg, Sk, Genius have had 10 plus years.
Very nice. I have had good experiences with all of those as well except genius I've never owned and only used a couple of times but it's good to know they have worked well for you
@@TonyTheTechnician Genius still sells the 1/2 Semi deep thin wall impact socket set I got years ago. Cro-mo and have held up well; Albeit I don't use them as often anymore.
@@sirkdopsah1081 very nice. Still good to know and glad they have worked well for you
I use icon sockets. They are like 300 bucks for all the sockets you need. I only use Pittsburgh impact sockets cause they have held up perfectly and I have beaten on them
I have some sets of the mid range ones noted here. I would simply recommend getting the best set you can afford at the time you purchase. I have 6 different brands of sockets, chrome and impact and most of them were just the best deal for quality sockets I could find at the time.
I'm looking to get some metric ko-ken shallow nut grip socket shallow set.
Ya I have heard they are nice tools. Never personally used them though
@@TonyTheTechnician They are amazing quality! Beyond even snap on. KOKEN invented the wobble extension tech and has a patent on it for years!
Good content Tony. Honestly they all work, however long term finish, wear/ flaking of chrome etcetera all happens from use. Cheaper sets faster. Not a great surprise. Typically the reason for myself going with higher end is non size skipping. The one you don't have is always the one you need. LOL
Lol absolutely agreed. You make a great point 👍
Ton ive got hf impact sockets that I purchased way back wen hf was selling their products out of semi trailers i don’t know if u wer around then but yea I still use them snd they are worn quite a bit bit i tell u they are beast
Very nice. I grew up in a very small town so while I was probably alive around that time lol I only found out about Harbor freight about 10 years ago.
I've got the icon impact sockets, used for a year so for so good
Very nice 👍
People really throw hate at ICON. Yes they aren’t Snap On. But Snap On isn’t even the best. If someone thinks everything they make is the best… well they’re DUMB. That said ICON is a very high quality, middle of the road tool company that compares very comparably to Gear wrench and Tekton. All Taiwan based tool manufacturers 👍🏻
Great video honestly I have 1/4 long Pittsburgh pro sockets they done great for me no problems no complaints out of me out of those sockets are use them every single day as I am a auto tech
Very nice. Glad you enjoy them
I got all Tekton sockets. So far there great. I had a issue with one of the sockets and it was a internal socket finishing issue. I took a picture and I got a replacement in 2 days. You just can't beat that warranty.
Also I had the pittsburgh impact sockets and hated them. I would get them stuck on lug nuts on my father-in-law f250. I got the tekton impacts and they work amazing for the money. I use them all the time at salvage yard.
Keep up the good work on the channel.
Very nice that's great to hear. Thank you for sharing and ya that warranty is awesome. Tekton is great about that!
Have you had any experience with Milwaukee? If so, where would you place them?
M12 line up yes. Hand tools very very little experience with them. Alotnof them seem to be good quality but a little high on price for what they are
@@TonyTheTechnician I want to get a mobile set and I'm torn between the Craftsman Versastack and Milwaukee Packout sets. Gearwrench and Tekton are also on my radar, for their price and quality, but not as easy to roll around.
Iv been replacing my kobalt stuff with usa made williams and they are great.
another good quality brand that I love because they're affordable made in the usa and durable asf is channellock. ive used theyre 6 point sockets and 3/8 ratchet for 3 years daily, ive abused this ratchet. and i mean i used to take pipes to the end of the ratchet as almost a wrench extender to brake super annoying shit as this was my only tool starting out and its great i lost the extension but none of my channellock is broken i want to switch my whole set up in hand tools to them
T-BONE!....LET'S GO!!!!!!!🏁
I have never broken a socket ever.... and I have everything from Pittsburgh and Tekton...To DeWalt sockets & some SnapOn sockets... I've never snapped one....I really feel going with Tekton and DeWalt for sockets is the best value and quality
Haha 👍👍👍 agreed most people could get by with those. Good quality and pricing.
I’ve heard that the icon tools are very close to tool truck, if not almost the same. And have had very good experience with modern craftsmen in regards to warranty’s. Also heard something about them being made in USA again
I would say you can use most icon tools in the professional field but I wouldn't compare them to the usa made Tool truck stuff. As far as Craftsman they have a hand full of socket sets that are made in the USA with global materials. But what really matter is what works best for your needs at the best price
Good post and topic Tony. I have a mixed bag of sockets, some of the older are craftsman, husky USA made and i do like snap-on it just bugged me that a 1/4 deep metric set was, at the time, 272. Bucks so i found a gearwrench set on sale and saved 250. Lol but thats a lot of money. I have never said "im glad i bought that cheep set of sockets"
Thank you!! Lol ya sometimes you have to decide if spending that extra money is necessary or not and finding the best ones that will work for you and at an affordable cost. Glad you found them and they work well for you
I know this is a little late but why do you bag on craftsman so much. They re- released their socket sets and alot of their other mechanics tools are made in Taiwan just like most of the other brands apart from us made tools. Just wondering.
I guess I don't mean to sound like I'm bagging on them. I just grew up using alot of Craftsman and was disappointed when they switched. And nothing is really wrong with any of the tools they make in Taiwan. Alot of tool companies do the same and have great tools. It's just a bad taste in my mouth bc I wish they were still usa made primarily. But the main thing is most of the tools are over priced unless on sale. So if I see a Craftsman set made in Taiwan and another brand that has a similar set and is the same quality or possibly better. Craftsman is usually the more expensive one of the two. So nothing wrong with a majority of Craftsman tools I just wish they would either bring the pricing down to the same as other brands or give the customers a reason to pay the slightly higher price by providing some tools made in the USA. Sorry that was long winded lol. Hopefully that makes sense
Hey Tony. Any thoughts on Sunex? I’ve heard they are good. I’m a technician working at a shop and I’m looking into buying socket sets but my wallet doesn’t allow me to purchase snap on. I need something in the professional area but somewhat affordable.
Yes indeed sunex and Grey pneumatic are great affordable sockets. They are a good choice
The ones I use are wera, Matco, sk, gearwrench, icon and sunex. Wera is favorite gearwrench is my favorite budget brand
Very nice. Thanks for sharing
my 1/4 inch set is Tekton, my 3/8 inch set is Wera--- overpriced, and I'm leary that it may be weak, and my 1/2 inch is an old USA craftsman from about 1968, supplemented by SK Sockets--- maybe that makes me a hack.
The Craftsman 1/2" I have had a 3 foot pipe on jumped on it, then with a clamp overnight after beating with a 32 ounce sledge, on a 1969 Chrysler Newport Tie Rod after heating, and penetrating oil. The ratchet was not phazed. I certainly would not try that nowadays.
My Friend was smug, as he had a Renault R-10 where we could lift out the engine by hand, lol easy, but the transmission was a nightmare!
OH we finally used a NAPA bolt cutter and we were both covered in rust flakes/powder by the time we got the Newport apart.
We got it back together---- then the tie rod went. deja vu all over again
It definitely sucks when you lose one 1/4 socket and it cost you $25 for replacement because it’s a snap on they happen to one of my guys at work personally if you’re starting definitely go With the icon or Pittsburgh pro sockets if you lose one it’s not that expensive to get the replacement
Haha ya that is very unfortunate
I purchased a set of Craftsman sockets/wrenches over 30 years ago; they came in a cardboard box, if that tells you anything, lol. After years of use, I had one break, the deep-well 1/2 inch socket. Because my father-in-law was a Snap-On dealer, I was able to supplement my Craftsman's with a set of Snap-On ratchets, screw drivers, and pliers at cost, and have never had an issue; you can "feel" the quality as compared to the Craftsman ratchets. I don't make my living with my tools, but I've been wrenching all my life, my stuff, family stuff, friends, stuff, etc. "Oh, you know about engines", etc., etc. When my FIL passed away, I inherited a lot of his tools and his Snap-On toolbox. Anyhow, if I was starting out, and going to make my living with tools, I would look for a good quality set of sockets/wrenches, and supplement with Snap-On's; if I decided this is how I want to make a living, I'd invest in Snap-On's as my budget allowed. Time is money, and that includes going to Harbor Freight to exchange a tool, or getting one replaced on-line. With Sears gone, it is hard to warranty Craftsman; if you don't have a receipt showing you purchased it here, we won't warranty it; not sure that works for Snap-On tool trucks. Any who, that's my two-cents from a professional certified shade-tree mechanic, lol. Good luck!!
Craftsman come out with the V series pro line of tools that is based off old school stuff but with a hudge price tag.
Ya I've seen them. I like the design of some of them but ya that price tag is a no go for me
For a small town, I got an ACE and a NAPA. Most of my kit is Evercraft with some Craftsman or Duralast because NAPA has banker's hours. Ive been looking at Carlyle, but honestly some Proto or Williams is in the same price range.
As long as it works for your needs 👍 and those are some good options
I've been buying a lot of Tekton stuff lately. I have a lot of Sunnex impact sockets. I have craftsman usa, some Icon stuff. I have gear wrench also. I have been spending for the snap on flex ratchets because they are just so nice. It's funny when I open my socket drawer how you can see just how few of my sockets get regular use. Don't over spend for sockets. I can't remember the last time I broke a socket that was being used correctly. Pay up for quality ratchets. Just my opinion
That's what I really want to know is how much difference is there in socket strength or design
Why are you not drinking that Tin Cup without mixing it? I didn't realized anyone mixed Whiskey... I'm confused.
That's what my good bourbon is for. I have 4 bottles for mixing and 63 bottles to enjoy straight
I’m a green tech 3 years in at a Toyota dealership Ive been running a cheap set of 3/8 chrome Quinn deep sockets on my snap on electric ratchet for 2 years now and have yet to break one or have any problems somehow😂 but I decided to buy a set of 3/8 icon today just for the hell of it if I don’t like them I’m gonna move up to tool truck brand sockets I’ll comment back in a few weeks and give my opinion on the icon they definitely feel a million times better than the Quinn 😂 never gave it thought until the other day I went you know what I’m still using this 14 dollar socket set from harbor freight everyday for everything lol
Take a good look at KOKEN Japan. Even better vs Snap Off and they are affordable. The Japanese make impressive tools.
I use Craftman sockets that ive had for 9 years and honestly I still have not broken a socket im about to upgrade all my tools to Tekton.
Pittsburg pro is alright, icon actually surprised me decent stuff gets the job done. Craftsman USA made (old stuff) is great for the weekend warrior I would say it’s the best route. Matco is my favorite good tools can’t go wrong. Mac has some nice wrenches that are in my list. And snap on is king out of my pocket range but the best money can buy
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Very helpful
so as a guy that has used tools as a DIY and in industrial settings i pretty much agree with you. i think for home the pitts stuff is fine. it has to do with the warranty more than anything. craftsman were the king but they are trash now. i have given up on turning in craftsman tools. harbor freight truly doesnt ask questions, it go in get and walk out. as you said yes we would love to use snap on but if you do not have a truck coming to you, its really off the list, same with mac and matco. i have bought a few tekton and they seems fairly good, do not have much use yet with them. i have a set of gearwrench ratchet wrenches and broke out the ratchet part. could not get anyplace to trade it in. napa wanted me to prove i bought it there. so i have ruled GW off my list. really all the sockets coming out for the DIYer are really pretty good and its gonna come down to who services your area. 30 years ago i was all craftsman, they use to take tape measures back, i traded in a bent punch, a chipped cold chisel, it did not matter if it said craftsman you were good but we all know that aint the case any more. like the video
Exactly. Completely agree with you. Definitely depends on your needs and what is easiest to access for you
I love the saying how a toolbox doesn’t make you money. Hate it when I see new guys who think that they need a snap on box for there first time.
I Just sold most of my snap on stuff and went with Tekton master set.
Got a lot more sizes and some extra ratchets and still money in the bank.
No snappy truck around here . the
Snap on and MATCO are so overpriced .
They can be very expensive. It all just depends on the situation and what's best for you. Smart idea since you don't have a snap on truck around 👍 glad your enjoying them as well.
Especially since Sunex makes their ADV impact sockets.
@@markarmstrong3394 Exactly!!! I love my SUNEX impacts! Things are bulletproof
What tools do you keep in your family vehicle?
My issue with many less expensive sockets is the excess lead in taper. They slip off and damage modern low profile fasteners.
I am a 'once a month warrior' and therefore don't need any great longevity but what has made me hesitate to buy cheaper sets is that I have been told that higher brands (Snap On specifically) are less likely to slip.
What level do you think you need to go to for the fitment or slippage issue?
Avoid the very cheapest. I am a serious do it yourselfer. I have many brands of sockets and wrenches as well as a couple of Snap On. The difference isn't that great between mid level DIY equipment and the tool truck stuff. Husky level is fine.
I bought a set of Coleman impact sockets from Walmart over 20 years ago. I've used them a lot and beaten the absolute hell out of them. Best $20 I've ever spent on tools.
Good review. I like texton Kobalt and gearwrench. Agreecwirh you about crapsman. Mac and snap on are food for speciality for speciality sockets. texton has the best warranty policy
Absolutely agreed. Thank you. And thanks for sharing your thoughts as well.
If you are able to get your hands on them try the King Tony impact sockets, every single place me, any on my mates or old workmates have worked at least one person has had at least 1 king Tony impact socket. I think they German? Only reason I say that is cause that's where I think it's made because I'm in nz
Oh ok awesome. I haven't heard of them. I'll have to look into them. Thank you