Best Ratchet (Round 2)? Let’s Settle This! Snap On, Proto, Matco, FACOM, Gedore, Nepros, Crescent
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- Опубликовано: 13 май 2023
- Snap On "Gearless", Hazet, GearWrench XP120, FACOM, Matco, Teng Tools, Crescent, Ko-Ken, Stahlwille, Craftsman, Duratech, Nepros, Capri Tools, Gedore, Asahi Lightool, Proto. Ratchets compared for size, working arc swing, handle width, back drag, directional switch performance, and maximum torque or failure load. I bought all of the ratchets to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel.
➡ Thank you for supporting the channel through memberships:
/ @projectfarm
➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel through Patreon: / projectfarm
➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
➡ Merch: project-farm.com
➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: / @projectfarm
➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
GearWrench 90 tooth from Round 1: amzn.to/3vDHhQ7
GearWrench XP120: amzn.to/3QdzHoG
FACOM: amzn.to/3VLACOz
Teng Tools: amzn.to/3jQy4RS
Crescent: amzn.to/3idpBHT
Ko-Ken: amzn.to/3iawkCz
Stahlwille: amzn.to/3WIUbIA
Duratech: amzn.to/3vDWeli
Nepros: amzn.to/3ComyUe
Capri Tools: amzn.to/3Z97FPm
Gedore: amzn.to/3GmWAlk
Asahi: Available from multiple online retailers
Proto: Available from multiple online retailers
Matco: Available online at the Matco store
Hazet: Available from multiple online retailers
Craftsman: Available at Lowes
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC 
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I love how tight these videos are. No wasting viewers time but still providing all the info we need, not only to evaluate the tools but to see the testing methodology and decide if we trust the results, which I generally do.
Thanks!
👍
The tests are more "real world" which makes them more helpful as well.
There is one more test that needs to be done.
Can it be disassembled for cleaning?
I have a few different hand-me-down brands, and I almost always have to take them apart and clean the crud and rust out of them.
I generally scrap them if they have broken teeth, or if they are worn to bits, but at least I make the attempt!
But this is exactly what we want.
That's why, this channel has a solid reputation. Wouldn't wanna see a change in the way this content is made.
Always solid.
*You can do in 15 minutes what others couldn't due in an HOUR! You value our time, you are 100% on your game, my hat is off to you sir, you are my go to source for product testing in the shop! KUDOS!!!!!!!*
Thank you!
8min at 2x how i watched it.
Your comparisons have absolutely ZERO waste time. Its usually a whole load of information packed in the least amount of time possible. And I REALLY appreciate that!!! Keep up the good work
Thanks, will do!
Love you video!
What I really love about your videos is the brains it takes to actually develop these tests and the doovas that you use to test them. I'm really glad your videos are worthwhile and you have such a large following which helps you pay for these expensive tools. Thank you for your videos, the time invested and the complete development of your testing apparatus, you deserve all the best life has to offer, a great channel my friend, a truly great channel.
Thanks and you are welcome!
One of the only channels that isn't 50% filler content for runtime. The tests are solid and you provide great information. Really useful as a technician still trying to fill his box
Thanks!
That's how you know it's a channel from a man for men
Spot on
Typically I'd need to bounce thru filler, but here, no way.
It's edited so sharply, ... concisely showing each offering, precisely at the relevant moment of interest.
Results displayed via bar-graph numbers, then ultimately summarized.
All the good stuff.
Did you mean 70-95 % filler?
Most creators just want to hear themselves talk, and talk, and talk.
"We're gonna test that"...probably the favourite saying of many viewers Todd, the work you do is incredible as far as testing goes. Keep up the good work sir.
“We’re gonna test that 👊😤.” Goes so hard.
I always look forward to it 😂
Thanks, will do!
"We're gonna test that" "Let's get this out onto a tray" and "Nice click out of 2, nothing on 3" are top tier RUclips quotes.
I've been using Ko-Ken tools for nearly 20 years, and I have to say they are absolutely amazing. I've never had any issues with them and they have always been reliable. In fact, I would buy them again in a heartbeat! It's also pretty cool to know that New Zealand, where I am, is the first export market for Ko-Ken in 1957.
Thanks for sharing.
Japanese, Swiss and German tools and machines are the best in the industry. So good they are in their own category!
Yeah i like koken but it wasn’t anything special in this test. Nepros was even worse. Just shows they are not worth premium some retailers are trying to charge for it.
@@FierceFurious For Premium French Facom and German Hazet seems to be very good.
Ultra premium SnapOn is only for pro or industrial sectors, cause price is high
@@Science-sans-conscience Stahlwille (German) did better than Hazet. Look at the chart. I like both but am more partial to Stahlwille.
Very good video! Thank you! I bought my first ratchet gear wrench in 1961 from FACOM and was
told by the dealer, that it would last, almost forever! Well, we are in 2023 now and it is still
functioning 100%! Meanwhile, I have bought others from German manufacturers, who have
completely specialised on such wrenches. Some offer even 96 teeth and are very affordable
because of the big numbers produced.
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
Your tests are all info, no filler, no wasted motion! Thanks Todd, your channel is a blessing!
Thanks so much!
No wasted motion........unlike some of those ratches har har har.
Amen!!!!!
Crescent made an incredible showing here. Much respect for such an inexpensive tool
I really like Crescent.
I miss their old tools but the new Crescent gets a bad rap. It's still a decent tool to have and use.
Thanks for the feedback.
I had two of them that literally fell apart.
@@greenidguy9292 the gearwrench 90t gets rated good in his reviews. Fair enough. My first hand experience is they're junk. After driving to home depot twice within a year to get a free replacement. I 100% ditched gearwrench ratchets. MATCO and Koken all the way.
Great video Todd. Love that little twinkle in your eyes when tools are about to meet their maker! Out of all seriousness though, the failure testing is a super important part of your testing protocols. I see both professionals and back yard mechanics like myself commenting in here. The information you give all of us helps us make educated purchases.
Thanks!
I was happy with my Crescent tool set before I saw this, now I'm very happy. For the few light duty things I use it for, it's great value for money. I was actually surprised to see how well it actually did. Impressive indeed.
Thanks for the feedback.
@@ProjectFarm Thanks for the feedback.
I just posted the same thing I work in Steel Mill and I break or lose tools constantly but I need one that hold up at really cheap price Crescent is the way to go.
As an aircraft professional I would love to see a safety wire plier show off. As someone who has used them for years it took A LOT of money to find my everyday plier and can save new mechanics some money! Whats really important with safety wire pliers is, the grip strength, how long the cutter stays sharp, and how good the mechanism is made for the actual twisting if you get dirt/ debris in it!
Thanks for the video idea.
Hands, duckbill pliers or Milbars get it done
@@Zakk900No one cares what you want.
Your tests are way better than what manufacturers do.
Thanks!
Better than Consumer Reports!
The best tests are real life tests, normally I'd say if you buy a Ratchet that is being used in the commercial environment rather then the "Harbor freight" stuff (what you have in the US as "consumer line"), you could really see if it's good or trash. if some Mechanic is using a Stahlwille Ratchet all day, all week, throughout the year while working on huge Diesel motors and it performs well.. you'd know that if you are purchasing one of those, they will (with proper maintenance) outlast you
Always marvel how these videos are put together! Hardest working RUclipsr out there im sure of it! and ZERO bullshit, just right to business. You need to trademark "We're gonna test that" love it hearing it! Keep up the awesome content
Thanks, will do!
I truly appreciate you taking the time out to test all these tools. Please keep up the great work.
Thanks, will do!
I just want to say thank you for being so receptive to feedback. I know I was one of the people who asked for a retest with koken and nepros ratchets a month back. I'm extremely grateful for your channel and how much work you put in to your content!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Me too! Love koken and nepros
I've been a jet engine mechanic for over 50+ years and it really comes down to how a ratchet or tool " feels". I've used them all over the years. Some guys like more teeth, lighter weight, smooth handles etc... It goes on forever. There have been times tools from China out performed the top American brands. Showy tools and big names are not always the best ones. It takes years to find what works for you on the job. You at least show mechanics an idea what is out there with your testing and reviews. Great video.
Thanks!
Which Chinese tool outperformed a top American brand. I have been using tools for well over 50 years also and I have never, ever seen a tool from China outperform an American tool. Never.
Wrong. It does not come down to """"feels"""". That wishy washy subjective stuff won't fly. If a car has many situations with low clearance. There is ONE ratchet which will do best and the others will trail behind it.
@@LTVoyager Not all tools are created equal. Just because it carries a fancy brand name and looks pretty does not always mean it's a better quality tool. With 15,000+ tools in our jet engine shop we have seen and used tools from around the world. Just because it's made in china don't rule out it's quality outright. We had no name Chinese sockets and wrenches last for years and a Snap-On brand tool last for one job. I worked for Grumman Aerospace's Main Gas Turbine Division in N.Y building F14's, A6E Intruders, and flight prototype powerplants. Who made the tool or where it was made did not mean anything to us. If it performed well for the job we used it.
@@LTVoyager Bros so old he can't even read "Made In China" on his hand tools anymore.
I really liked the Ko-ken. In each test it performed pretty good and it's affordable.
Thanks for the feedback.
I have the Litespeed version. Love it. Have a set of industrial Ko-Ken sockets... very precise.
These video from this channel are all pure informative, valuable information. No fluff. When you need a product review this is the go to spot.
Before purchasing anything I check this channel hoping for a review.
Thanks for the feedback.
VIDEO IDEA: Dry-pouring concrete slabs is pretty popular right now. I think an awesome video would be you testing the strength of dry pour concrete slabs versus mixing it wet. Then doing a bunch of scientific experiments to see which one is stronger when driving over it with a car, drilling into it, etc.
Thank you for the video idea!
@@ProjectFarm yeah this would be a great episode!
I love this video idea id also love to see coilated roofing guns i use bostitch but the mataebo ones work in the cold where the bostitch doesnt
There are testing procedures for concrete outlined by ACI. You would need a certified testing lab to do the test for results to be valid.
@Dominique Naomi Oh, I have a feeling our man here can come up with a few ways to confirm real-world performance for us.
You're really ratcheting up the competition with this video!
lol. Nice!!
Boooo
You'll make a great father.
@@ProjectFarm D B really swung it out of the arc with that one ;)
Yep 👌🏻
You do an excellent job getting into detail about pretty much everything, including where the products were manufactured.
Thanks!
I own a original Gear wrench set, and a tone of Craftsman I acquired from safety awards back in the day when sears was the store to buy from! Never had one fail, I still have one my dad own from way way back! You put them thru the paces I wouldn't do! Your great!
Thanks! Nice!
I'd love to see a comparison between ceramic spray wax like you tested before against ceramic coating, like the tiny bottles that cost $100+. Thanks for a great video as always!
You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
@@garetht677 Some sprays last 8 to 12 months. You can find these tests already on youtube channels. There is one called ScottHD that I believe has the most non-biased results out there. (Most others get paid by the company to promote their products. He does not.)
I feel that the directional switch being a little tight is a good thing, doesn't easily switch mid ratcheting if hit by mistake.
yeah, that's the only critique I had about this test. nothing infuriates me more than ratcheting in a tight spot (I'm an aircraft mechanic) and I suddenly go from tightening to loosening without realizing.
Yeah, I get sick of it auto-switching on me.
@@cinnabeard seriously, everytime I use a ratchet it never fails that it happens to me at least one time.
I agree, i feel like the midrange on that test would be desireable, snapon gearless just seems a little tight (based on what my brain processed from the data presented to me)
It luckily never happened to me because 1. I dont use them more than once or twice a week and 2. The Kraftwerk ratchet kit i have seems quality, not that loose on the directional switch but not tight either
Agreed. I hate having my ratchets switch direction while I'm using them because the switch is rubbing against something. Stiffer is better.
Great video Todd, still surprised at how well the GearWrench performed even in round two! Thank you so much for everything you do!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I've been a service tech in ag for 24yrs. I have collected alot of different brands of ratchets over the years. Matco has the best feel to me, but the Snap-on are defiantly stronger, no doubt. Thank you for your videos, I enjoy them and trust your testing!
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
In what way are they defiant? Do they defy tough treatment?
Great follow up to the ratchet evaluation. A new recommendation. Braided fishing line. 30lb. Break strength, abrade resistance, stretch, etc.. "We're going to test that!" Would expand your viewer base (which continues to grow) into fishing searches.
Thank you for the video idea!
Even monofilament 8lb test for the casual weekend fishermen!
Rated pound strength means nothing because I can take a lariat rope and rate it at 30 lb strength and it’ll beat every line on the market. Manufactures rating are irrelevant if one company makes a really thick 30 lb line vs another company’s thin 30 lb line. The only true test is matching very similar diameters. Power Pro Maxcuatro gets my vote if diameters are matched equal. It’s thin and strong. Thin matters when your comparing handling characteristics.
I'd love to see what he builds to test how well it casts!
@@jamesbarron1202 thicker line can be nice if you're jigging in rock pinnacles
Here's an idea: Test out manufacturer warranty hurdles meaning see which manufacturer backs it's product with quick painless service of slow teeth pulling painful service. As far as which type of product, I think something with a lot of competition and value. Your videos are the best! Thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the video idea.
I'm guessing he's not using the warranties as a moral choice since he intentionally broke all the tools.
You think marketing people from these brands don't watch his videos? He would have to have someone else do the claims for it to be fair. Given the amount of tools he breaks, that's asking a lot.
So happy to see my two favourites: Hazet and Nepros do so well. Great test video. Really enjoyed it.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed!
My favorite ratchet is still a 10 year old small ratchet that I've bought for $4.50 at Harbor Freight.
I also have some aviation (hi-lok) roller ratchets that I prefer over any of my Craftsman or Snap-on ratchets, and those weren't that expensive either.
Thanks for the feedback.
You can always tell a German ratchet from a distance, they don't bother with polishing. I've had the Stahlwille shown in this test for 8 years now. It's my default ratchet that I pick up to do anything and it's been flawless. Really pleased to see you testing the Japanese ratchets though, I've been looking at them for a while.
Thanks for sharing.
Before the Internet and knowing stuff from Japan/USA, polished tools were considered cheap shit in Germany.
The polishing and chrome plating helps with cleaning, so it is a nice touch. on the other hand when you have no chrome plating there is no chrome to get worn out and peel off.. my Stahlwille is like you said not polished, but as long as I give it a good clean by the end of each usage, it stays clean.
@@davideyt1242 stahlwille and others are chromed too, but they are just not polished. I think it is just cheaper or they think with oily hands you will have a better grip.
@@dirtyhands8351 I think chromed tool that are oily have less grip.
In regarding to Stahlwille, I have three of their Ratchets (different sizes) and I am sure they are not chromed, they are more likely brushed finish. I am in Germany, so I am not sure, maybe there is an export version? like there are some US made products here that are slightly "changed" because of some regulations or marketing
Man, that was some valuable tools destroyed! And yet again, an $14 underdog came up on top in value category. Great job, PF!
I love my 3/8" Gear Wrench 120, Its my Go-To ratchet in my professional tool box. Interesting to see the double stack internals. Also neat to see how it stacks up against the competition.
Thanks for the feedback.
I just found this channel. Love your work man. Straight to the point, objective fact. Seriously well done.
Welcome! Thanks so much!
Man. That $14 Crescent is kicking butt. It may not be #1, but what a value for performance!
For work any ratchet here would get the job done. But some are sexier than others are.
Thanks for the feedback.
I got a couple Crescent sets from sam's club forever ago (maybe 20 years ago?) when I started driving to work on my car. Really good stuff for what you pay.
Honestly cheap ratchets can be great. My favorites of all time are the composite Pittsburghs from Harbor Freight. They're $14-17, non-conductive, light, have decent ratcheting mechanisms, and are so much stronger than you'd expect. I've put a breaker bar on them and hit it with a hammer before. I've also put a breaker bar on them and pulled it with a ratchet strap. Haven't broken one yet.
@@cybercheese2212 When he still had his garage a mechanic friend of mine had a go-to composite handled Pittsburgh Pro he loved a lot. It was a 3/8 model with the black and gray composite handle. With all of the cheater bars he used on it he literally bent it into a horse shoe and it still worked. It eventually gave up the ghost but it slowly evolved from a boomerang into a horse shoe before doing so. He got his $17 out of it that's for sure. Some of his Snap-On wrenches on the other hand were a different story. He literally broke two ratchets and three combination wrenches working on my old Silverado. That truck was a wrench eater and it had expensive taste. 😁
I'm curious if any of these companies have watched your videos and improved on anything based on your results. I'd pay for a documentary about your impact on the designs of consumer products you've reviewed lmao!! Great work sir! We don't deserve the effort you put into these videos, but we are all thankful I am sure!
Great point! I wonder about this too.
I've thought about tracking how many things go out of stock or increase price within a week of a PF uploading. I've watched it happen a few times but some data on it would be cool to see.
The Lock Picking Lawyer is constantly exposing pathetic lock designs which seem to never be improved and manufacturers just ignore him. I would HOPE that tool manufacturers could show more respect to consumers (and testers!) and actually respond with improvements AND respect for great channels like Project Farm!
I know Torque Test Channel has made an impact on manufacturers. So much so that Astro has taken him on their workforce to help design better tools. Astro sells some tools to snap on and matco for rebranding, so it would appear that they are actually watching. Project farm has made a huge impact on the youtube community that you can go to other channels and hear about him. Project Farm, TTC, VCG Construction, AVE, Tool Shop Reviews, and some new comers like Mastering Mayhem are changing the way people consider buying tools. I'm sure the companies are watching
They already know what their stuff can do. Not everyone is shooting to be the best. Some are more value oriented. Really any of these tools would function for its intended purpose.
This is by far one of your best tests and videos yet. And it's also extremely relevant. I work on cars and absolutely hate sloppy ratchets. Thanks for proving the teeth count was largely a gimmick. I'm not through the video yet but I hope to see my Wera ratchet there
Thanks!
Love these videos. Some I watch just for how well done they are in terms of data and testing methodology. Love it.
Thanks!
I am really proud, that you actually tested Hazet. Big thank you!
You are welcome!
@@ProjectFarm …and I am glad you chose the HP (HiPer / High Performance) version of it, instead of the SP (Standard Performance) version, to give the line-up a good chance, since, at least in Germany, the price difference between the SP and HP sometimes is not even existing. :)
Always excited to see a new project farm! Thank you so much for tlall the effort you put into these!
Thank you and hope you enjoy the video!
I enjoyed round one and this new round continues the quality of testing. Here's what I know about ratchets from my own experience. Arc swing is very important when working in a tight spot. Head size (both diameter and thickness) also matter. Then there's reversing force (to move the lever) - you don't think of it until you find a tool which requires too much force! Finally, maximum torque - I've broken ratchets by putting a pipe on the end or hitting the handle with a hammer. I think we're lulled into thinking these things are indestructible due to the heft - they definitely aren't.
This video nailed all the test parameters I've found in real life. Great job!
Thanks!
Actually testing how well these companies handle the warranty would be helpful.
Some makers would probably say (after looking at the broken tool sent in by ProjectFarm), "You obviously used a cheater bar on this."
Tool companies are not dummies.
That might be a bit beyond the scope of what Todd does. Especially since it's subjective based on which customer service rep you talk to, which store/vendor/dealer you talk to, what you say, how you say it, and what was actually wrong with the product.
He should be up front about how he broke them and still see what the company does or says.
Old school guys never return a tool if they destroyed it. But I really do miss the Sears craftsman era
@@GiuseppeGaetanoSabatelli I have done a lot of customer service in my time and it comes down to company ethos and systems in place. A forward thinking company aces customer service because they know that it is cheaper to be good at it (efficiency) and that it is the best way to get the best marketing (word of mouth).
Customer service is a team effort with someone in charge and a management to report to. It can be seen as a cost and outsourced or placed at the heart of a company, so problems with products are instantly identified. If it takes four weeks for warranty tickets to be picked up then that is a month of useless product going out the door (in the case of a design failure).
I would test customer service for warranty on things like how long it takes to fill in the form, how long it takes to get acknowledgement, how long it takes to get a meaningful response and how much information needs to be exchanged to get to the decision point.
As well as warranty there needs to be an enquiry that goes outside of customer service, for example if you wanted to represent the brand in a different market then the customer service team would need to put you in touch with sales, outside their department.
The other test is the 'fan boy' letter, where you choose to write in to 'not complain'. Perhaps it is a tip for using the product or an update to the instructions that you wish to add. For example, you might have a workshop full of Snap On but can't get the T Shirt from the man with the van. You could beg for one with the C.S. team, offering to pay for whatever they have, saying it is for the shop manager's birthday. A bit contrived, but fine if you do give the T shirt to your shop manager and he wears it as often as he can.
You will need different IP addresses and writing styles because a C.S. pro will spot such things.
A shout out to Stahlville for making all their product’s reparable. Their quality is top notch. We need more companies to do that rather than cheaply made junk you break & just replace. It’s better for the consumer & the planet.
I concur, I prefer American brands but my second choice behind Matco is Stahlville.
Thanks for the feedback.
Hazet is repairable also I believe.
oh man I just wrote a comment mentioning Stahlwille, it is really remarkable when you buy a Ratchet from them, you get a small leaflet / instructions, where there is an exploded-view of how the ratchet is built so that you can disassemble and assemble it, and each part has a part number that can be ordered as a replacement part if needed
I once found a 1/4'' ratchet from Hazet that didn't seem to work. I opened it, cleaned it, a little drop of oil, and it worked like it was new.
I think, when we buy tools that cost some money repair-ability and availability of parts becomes important. Many people want tools they can use for decades and maybe even hand them over to their kids some day.
Dude, if more people knew how valuable your channel was, you would have 5 million subscribers!!! Amazing channel and this ratchet test was extremely valuable information for guys like me who cannot afford "Snap On" tools. Thank you!!!!!
You are welcome!
This is what RUclips was intended for I believe.
Dad gave me a snap on ratchet, after his retirement from being a mechanic with highway maintenance co. . Snap on sale said it was 1953 , they installed a new ratchet mechanism no charge, said it was still on warranty, i was impressed. Great job an you’re test, methods,,
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
I bought my indexing matco 88 when it came out in 2007ish. Served me well all these years and just had it replaced under warranty due to the locking index wearing out. The ratchet was still 100% functional. Definitely one of my best tool purchases
My most expensive single hand tool I've ever bought was a really long, indexing head 1/2" drive Matco Ratchet. I love that ratchet, man. No RAGRETS on that purchase
Was looking for this comment. I have the Matco 88 and it has been my go to ratchet for everything. I love that tool. It's done pretty much all of my brake jobs and much more. It just doesn't stop.
Thank you for making sure your tests are accurate and real world. I cannot begin to imagine how much time and work goes into each of these video gems. Great job!!!
Thank you!
@@ProjectFarm
I totally agree with CS.
Have you made a video showing how you make them?. It'd no doubt make us fans appreciate your effort all the more.👍🏻
Thanks for the thorough testing really helps to pick up a tool for a long term!
You are welcome!
I would love to see a comparison between breaker bars. It seems a simple tool, but prices vary with a factor 10.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Oh, I'd love a breaker bar test. I blew up my last two and don't really like any of the options I see on the shelves, they all seem like the same two designs, either a forked handle or a big knobby thing on the end. The fork ears broke on mine, and I twisted the drive off on the knobby style one.
It’s amazing how articulate and informative your test continue to be, and you continue to expand your creativity with each test. Another great video, thank you
Thank you for sharing!
Very unsurprised the Japanese ratchets did so well. Japanese tools are hidden gems. They truly just feel different in some way too. The generally small head sizes and low back drag make them especially useful for working on modern vehicles. I'll definitely be buying more Ko-Ken and Tone among other brands.
Thanks for the feedback.
I too vouched for Koken
These things are tough as nail not to mention their excellent sockets.
I have been abusing mine to hell and back for 10+ years, haven’t skipped a teeth
I would argue that Japanese tools are actually very well known gems. Particularly the precision tools.
@@dejectedfrogcat2840 Not in the USA. I would guess that at least 90% of mechanic shops and even home shops do not have any Japanese made tools aside from maybe some old stuff from back when they made our cheap imported tools. Most people have never heard of Ko-Ken, Tone, or KTC for example.
Have a ton of nepros stuff and never been let down.
Another first rate test video! Just what we all want to see. Thank you.
I do think it would have been very interesting to find out what brand was actually prepared to replace their product (even though I myself would also not accept the replacement) it would be good information to have. Surely there would be some questions as to how and why the tool failed (and I’m sure there are people that would be dishonest about it) Testing out the warranty would have been a great little bonus if you didn’t have to lie about it or perhaps just be forthcoming after the fact🤷🏽. 😉
Thanks and you are welcome!
I've had an old school Craftsman 3/8" ratchet that has held up 30+ yrs ( Not daily use but a few times per month ). Based on your study I bought a Gearwrench 90 3/8" to see how I like it. Thank you sir for being so thorough!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
The new craftsman 3/8 is just not the same. The build quality is solid but the internals fail alot. I've gone through 2 and my current is jamming
While I agree that you shouldn't claim warranty coverage when you deliberately break something, I do think it would be valuable information to try and contact all of these different manufacturers, simply say you broke the ratchet by applying too much torque, and see how they respond. Tools often get broken for legitimate reasons, and warranty coverage is important-- especially for the more expensive items.
Thanks, as always, for your outstanding testing, Todd! We appreciate you more than you know!🤘
That reminds me of the waterjet channel when they were still good. they cut a chainsaw in half to see the inside and then brought it back to the store, saying it broke. the store employee totally freaked out because the thing was cleanly cut in half. 😂
@littlebr4d
That is a good suggestion. If you don't have good customer service than you have nothing.
To me customer service is one of the most important part of any company.
@@marshallcollins8634 Yep. I don't work with mechanical tools anymore. But way back in the day (50 years ago) I always bought Craftsman tools. Not the classiest, not the "sexiest", but Sears had a very good "No questions asked" guarantee. A friend put a pipe extension on a 1/2" breaker bar and bent it. He took it back to Sears. The sales rep said, "No human hand did this!" And then quietly turned and went into the back storeroom to fetch a brand new breaker bar for his customer! 😁
Koken Japan is one of the best ratchets made. The Z series. Awesome feel, small heads. Low back drag. Nice.
Thanks for the feedback.
Agree. I have the old version one, not as smooth, but it's been very reliable since I bought in 2005
Yes, in the 'real world' Koken ratchets are fantastic to actually use.
Also, you can buy 6 Koken ratchets for the price of one snapon
They also had the best extensions out of all the ones I've tested, tolerance wise. And I'm an aircraft engineer so I've tested a lot of quality tools.
More perfect test fixtures! My fav was the destructive torque load test. Kinda missed the Harbor Freight ICON ratchet; I am happy w/ my new 3/8 and 1/2" models. Thanx again!
You are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.
Love that you tell us where the tools are made - it matters for a lot of reasons.
Thanks!
I really appreciate this channel. The testing is very extensive, and the videos are straight to the point.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Honestly I think returning them for warranty should be part of the testing because some brands are going to hassle you over the returns.... Which is especially critical when you're talking about a $200 ratchet or so... It's definitely a factor
Agreed, he doesn't have to go through with it just test if they actually will and if they do just give them away.
You're not wrong that testing the warranty is a valid point on the value of anything.
However, how do you come up with a valid test? Warranties normally cover only "normal use" of a tool. Any product he tests to destruction is not tested under "normal use". He always goes to extraordinary lengths to intentionally destroy many of these product. So the manufacturer is certainly within their rights to refuse a warranty return since the use is by definition extra-ordinary.
I hear for warranties Tekton is good, Gearwrench warranty is good if you can get ahold of them, Husky (HD) is good, Craftsman can be hit or miss on the store, and those are the only tools I have experience with. Maybe a survey could be done.
Besides manufacturing defects if you break tools that's on you.
Dude your videos are awesome. I’m sure it’s a ton of work but you really put together a great video!
Thanks!
Great video, love to see some testing of the pass-thru ratchets and sockets. The pass-thru sets are great for tight places and a reduced number of sockets because no need for deep sockets. I find myself using them more often on my motorcycles. By the way watching all your videos from a Starbucks in Bangkok, Thailand. Originally from Charlotte NC.
Thanks! Thanks for the video idea. Thanks for sharing.
The only test I disagree with is the amount of force to change the directional lever. I personally like a stiff lever so it isn’t accidentally switched. This actually just happened to me. While working in a tight space I had to grab the ratchet by the head to swing it back and forth and I kept switching the directional lever with the base of my fingers.
This, exactly. High switching force is good not bad.
In a tight spot, the long handles aren't a plus either.
Thanks for the feedback.
The funny thing is that most of these ratchets are under warranty. Some companies would say “good for you have another one” others, “you broke it sorry”. Great video!
I'd definitely be like "yeah I wanted to know what your tool would take and snapped it will you honnor the warranty? At least for the snap on that was quite a firework xD
Sears would give a replacement rebuilt ratchet no questions asked
Thanks for watching!
Fantastic video as always.
I usually don't think about these things when buying a ratchet, but if I had a bunch in front of me and had these kind of results to pull from, the least important for me would be sheer strength. I always grab my breaker bar for something that needs more than one arm to break loose. Maybe a good option for a video. After breaking a bolt or nut loose I switch to a ratchet or 1/4" impact driver if I got the space to save time. I've put a socket adapter on a screw driver many times just to save time and I don't have room for a drill. Or a 1/4" ratchet.
I use a Pittsburg ratchet btw. I liked the handle.
Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.
I bought the Gearwrench 90T about a month ago, mainly because of Todd's recommendation. Great ratchet and really liked it. However, yesterday I took delivery of the Koken new 90T version of the 3/8 ratchet. Returned the Gearwrench today.....the Koken is that good. The backdrag is a wonder. I improved it even more by opening the ratchet after delivery. The anvil teeth were bone dry (I suspect that is common with new ratchets). Hit it with Superlube and that improved the already low back drag. I had to do that as well when the Gearwrench ratchet arrived and improved its back drag. But I was accumulating more ratchets than I'd use, so returned the GW. Thanks for these great videos, Todd!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
On the directional switch performance, I've found the ones with the light pressure, change direction on me from just a slight bump. I've lost a lot of knuckle skin because of that.
Thanks for watching!
I am from Germany, and I use the champion of the first round. (GearWrench 90) You will find SnapOn parts in your workshop for years to come 😀
Thanks for the feedback.
Excellent video, mister. Straight to the testing, nothing I don't need to know.
Thanks!
Great reviews i really enjoyed it the facom is made in France. have you considered doing a tests on hole saw notchers im thinking about maybe getting one and well you're reviews and tests have become a gold standard for my shop tool acquisition program
Thanks again for all you do for you tubes gearhead community
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
I'm a simple man. I see Project Farm uploading a new ratchet test - i hit like.
Thank you very much!
I have the full line of Nepros ratchets. They are some of the best all around I’ve used and these tests prove it. Not to mention they are very pretty
Thanks for sharing.
whats ur favorite anime?
These videos are so detailed and the testing rigs are a work of genius.
I watch your videos to fall asleep. It's comforting. Informative. And I end up watching something else cause this keeps my interest of my brain too much but definitely relaxes my body lol
Thanks for watching!
Never thought to ask to review all these because it's too expensive or difficult to compare like this - but you did it! Puts to bed so much subjective feelings on how much better one is over the others. Amazing as always Todd. Thanks for having the stomach to destroy such nice wrenches for us :)
Thanks! Thanks for watching!
This was a long awaited video!
I don’t want to complain at all, but I personally would have rather seen a traditional “dual 80” mechanism snap on ratchet tested instead of the gear-less one. That being said, I’m beyond impressed at how much torque the gear-less snap on tool before blowing up.
Can’t wait to see what’s in store for next week!
Thanks!
I have the 88 tooth Matco, albeit with the 12" handle (part # BFR158LFG), serves me well, but nice to see the other options. Good to know it will snap at around 280ft-lbs, considering I've definitely applied more then that before... Amazing video as always!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Same I have the 12” Matco as well and I use it religiously. I’ve used it on 1/2” drive applications and amazed it hasn’t broke but it I’m sure it’s getting there
Amazing video! Enjoyed every second watching! Appreciate that you also considered foreign tool brands. Since I am from Europe and using mainly Stahlwille and Hazet, I know now how they compare to US and japanese tool brands. I am looking forward to see Stahlwille and Hazet in your future comparisons when it comes to mechanics hand tools.
I’ve been watching your videos for a long time and there hasn’t been a single time you haven’t delivered us amazing content. Thank you Todd, for everything you do for us!!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Hands down the best review channel on RUclips!! I don't have to adjust the play speed or skip to the point.
Thanks!
You're just the best channel, when it comes to tools...and what to buy, when in doubt.
🖖🤘👍👍👍
Thanks!
This has become my favorite channel, a ton of useful information in under 20 minutes!
Thanks!
You raise the bar for other RUclips creators. Well done as always!!!
Thanks!
I bought the Gear Wrench (from round 1) and really like it. I'm impressed that it did well in this round too.
Thanks for sharing.
Absolutely love how much you respect the viewers time. Top notch content.
Thank you!
Rechargeable headlamps and disposable respirators would be a nice video for those of us who frequent attics. I love this channel, thank you for all the good content!
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
Agreed on the headlamps/flashlights!
I like these hand tool comparisons.
I have had craftsman forever but rarely use them.
If I worked with them everyday I’d like a little more hand friendly shape.
Great point! I have a lot of Craftsman tools too. I really like the GearWrench 90 tooth ratchet.
Ton of work! Thanks!
You are welcome!
Damn, that is impressive. I love the testing methodology, and provided that each one is representative of the brand, I really appreciate the understanding that can be gained from these kind of tests. As another viewer mentioned, if you are a pro and need something specific, it makes sense to shell out more as an investment. But the Crescent looks fantastic for the cost and performance!
Thanks!
No way hahah! I watched the first round video just today because I'd been thinking about ratchets, and I was imagining you doing a round two! That was quick! Thanks! There are so many ratchets on the market and you can't tell how each will actually perform without them being tested
Thanks for watching!
What's most impressive is how you come up with all of your testing methods... simply amazing! ❤😂
Thanks!
A breaker bar comparison would be amazing. (Neiko, Tekton, SnapOn, etc..)
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for all your hard work a great testing solutions.
You are welcome!
Love your videos. As always, thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Always top notch testing. Thank you for adding to your previous tests.
Thanks and you are welcome!
For anyone who's curious, FACOM is a French brand, and as far as I know their wrenches are still made in France. They were bought out by Stanley Black and Decker in the late 90s- early 2000s, and some of their products now are made overseas. However, their European tools are very high quality. If you walk into a pro garage in France, you'll see a lot of FACOM tools. They're seen as "tool truck company" quality over there and in my experience they are.
Thanks for sharing.
I believe that the old English brand Britool now falls under the Facom name? I always got bought Facom/Britool socketry as a kid, and I never had issues with any of it!
Great test ! Thanks.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Another awesome and interesting test! Thank you
Thanks and you are welcome!
If this ever has a revisit it would be great if we could see a Cornwell in the mix, it's what I use daily and just want to see how it holds up to the rest of the bunch. Even if that never happens, I want to say thank you for all the work you put into all your videos, millions of people rely on you as their sole source of information regarding items they're thinking about spending their hard-earned money on. Not only that, but it's amazing how entertaining you make it. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, and I'm sure I'm not just speaking for myself when I say that.
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
I second that. Cornwell has been great for me. Also it would be great to see Williams Industrial Tools rachets included as well.