Best Flex Head Ratchet? Let’s settle this!
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- Опубликовано: 8 июн 2024
- Snap On, ICON, MacTools, GearWrench 90 and 120, Olsa Tools, Craftsman, Duratech, DeWalt, Crescent, Tekton, Wera, Stahlwille, Nepros, Proto, Kobalt. All 3/8 ratchets tested until failure. Ratchets compared for working arc swing, back drag, handle to ratchet head slop, and directional switch force to change directions.
I bought all of the ratchets and all of the supplies used to test 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):
Olsa Tools: amzn.to/44SK205
Craftsman: amzn.to/43EoEtN
GearWrench 90: amzn.to/3KbrKyO
GearWrench 120XP: amzn.to/43DEZPl
Duratech: amzn.to/3YkWZxf
DeWalt: amzn.to/3Y3rdEw
Crescent: amzn.to/3OpFaJW
Tekton: amzn.to/3O8TLYU
Wera: amzn.to/44ENZFt
Stahlwille: amzn.to/3Y78urQ
Nepros: amzn.to/3OnGtsJ
Proto: amzn.to/3rIypdr
Kobalt Model #81747: Available at Lowes
MacTools: Available online at the MacTools store
Snap On: Available online at the Snap On store
ICON: Available at Harbor Freight
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 
Хобби
I am so happy to hear that manufactures are reaching out to make improvements. never stop doing these!
Thanks!
Yeah so glad! I trust these reviews more than anything else, it's so good knowing he buys everything himself too. Even if they say they are impartial I really struggle when a review starts with "Thanks to X company for sending this thing to me"
They would be fools if they didn't with a subscriber base of of over 3 million and episode views exceeding that. If I was a tool maker I'd be reaching out.
I've been waiting for the day that they started to
Ik zou de vergelijkende testresultaten van de fabrikanten zelf wel eens willen zien, en of ze hierdoor ook hun productieproces gaan verbeteren.
This is one of the few channels that holds manufacturers accountable for their products. That's why they reach out and it's good to hear you're one of the few people in this world actually making a difference for everyone on a large scale. Thanks for everything you do.
No problem!
This! He deserves to hear this every time.
Canned spray foam?
Adhesion
Dry time
Insulation effectiveness
@@ProjectFarm
@Matco & @CornWell
Manufacturers dont have to be held accountable for their tools when the junk cost less than a case of beer and carton of cigarettes.
These type of people are not intelligent enough to realize that a high quality tool will last for generations when used with common sense.
They will still last 40years when not maintained and used with cheater pipes.
If you have thick feels then watch my 40 year old ICON vs Snap On review.
You will see that this channel caters to the people my video is meant to educate.
Don't ever buy anything without checking PF 1st.
I don't....
No
or do your own research...
@@hondaboi8195 what do you think searching for other people's reviews is.....
or do you expect him to go buy every ratchet he can & do the tests himself?
absolute goober
@@hypnotiq no but dont get your whole opinion from one guy, do your reserach go talk on forums to get other people povs not relying on one guy, he isnt goona review everything in the world, youre not goona wait for him to review a particular thing to get it, what if he never does a review on it are you never goona buy it just cause he didnt review it? no you do your own research and find out if its worth buying it or not.
Having used flex head ratchets in tight clearance areas, I think the direction switch tightness is a good thing. It can minimize unwanted switching.
Thanks for the feedback.
Exactly that the issue I've had with kobalt ratchets.
Uh it’s 12:07 pm and no new video. I demand a refund.
I agree with you. I have an older snap on ratchet and it's way too easy to switch directions with.
@@rcannon409
You can change the gears. It's easy. They get worn down a bit. Especially when you use the ratchet to break bolts free. Get the snap on truck to warranty it. He will probably do it for you on his truck.
I love how you keep your videos "mean and clean". Straightforward without fluff. And I appreciate how you refrain from editorializing all the time.
Thanks!
So true, but I like the quips; 'happy to snappy' here, I think.
The fact that tool makers contact you and reference your channel is a huge compliment. With people working together, we can seriously make so many things better for everyone.
Good Point!
They don’t have a choice. Channels like this have a big impact on what people buy.
@@xaphan8581They absolutely have a choice. Case in point - Lockpicking Lawyer & Master Lock.
Oh, they reach out all right. But it's to offer marketing opportunities (we'll pay you to feature our product and parrot these talking points) and non-committal statements (ie: I've passed your results onto our engineering team so they can use it to further improve our products. We always stand behind our tools 100%!). I doubt any make any product improvements unless it results in a lower manufacturing cost. The only time I'd see a manufacturer actually changing their product would be the occasional independent companies that make it into the videos. Certainly not Snap On, Dewalt, Milwaukee, Stanley, Harbor Freight, and so on with the soulless corporations.
Thankfully he ignores the marketing offers.
Sometimes it changes the market! A price can go way up or way down is what usually happens.
'Snap On snapped off' never gets old.
Thanks for the feedback.
never stops happening either...
Snap On loosing the girlie calanders, the looser CEOs, and licensing to costco had nothing to do with it ..
Dude. How cool is that? You have manufacturers reaching out to you in order to see how they can improve. Todd, you are invaluable Sir. Thank you for the videos. This channel is legit my go to 🙏🏼
Thanks!
Something to note, even though it may be more difficult to change directions with a greasy finger... If you're pushed tight against something else, a harder directional switch is better. If the back of the ratchet is against a plastic panel, having it suddenly change from loosen to tighten can be an issue. So the force needed to change that being higher isn't necessarily a bad thing
Thanks for the feedback.
I agree with that. I went straight to the comments to write something similar to what you already said haha.
I have a couple 1/2 drive craftsman ratchets and if a gust of wind blows that ratchet will change direction
That was my comment also, but using my hand to hold it on the bolt or nut when upside down.
That's exactly what I was thinking, I've accidentally changed the direction lever on my socket wrench quite a few times.
I love the ratchet episodes.
Thank you and hope you enjoy the video!
@@ProjectFarmnew ratchets have grease stuck in the teeth so you can't check backdrag until you rotate it both directions slowly , and then reverse direction to lock the pawl into the teeth grooves. To displaced the new ratchet grease.
I know just wish they had Koken in the test
Thank you for including tekton. For someone who lives in Alaska, their warranty process (only requiring photos for replacement) is great at saving money on shipping.
You are welcome!
Been using my icon non stop for about 4 months now and its been absolutely fantastic! For the price plus the warranty you cant beat it.
Thanks for the feedback.
@@ProjectFarmFlare wrench comparison?
are you using any of the ICON torque wrenches? Thinking of picking up the ICON split beam 1/2"
@@reikasdad as a matter of fact I am! Torque about 15-20 car’s wheels per day. It’s a solid torque wrench. Again couldnt be happier with the price and quality
@@tundras4ever552 thanks for the response! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a 20% off coupon for blk friday (I'm canadian, so I need the coupon to offset the currency). Like you, it will see pretty much the same amount of usage per day. Thanks again
Exciting to hear the manufacturers take these types of review testing seriously. Customers are surely benefitting from your work. VERY IMPRESSIVE! Thanks again for another great one!
You are welcome!
Love your “VERY IMPRESSIVE” comment. I watch all of these videos even though I only use a fraction of the equipment that is tested.
Always impressed to see you breaking some high quality "Dream" tools to see their real limits.
I break them at work😂
Thanks!
Right? Nothing I love more than seeing a Mac crack. 😂
The only Dream tools I see anymore are Snap On, SK and to some degree Olsa.
Mac has long since fell off the boat and is more on par with what Matco peddles.
Not shocked Snap-On wasn't the winning tool. I love their hand tools but they are out paced and at this point I purchase to support Pat the seller and nothing more. My final purchase will be an over priced ToolBox as a thank you for everything Pat has done for me.
Agreed! Point of failure is also very nice to know, the ratchets failing at the 3/8 drive at a reasonably high torque value seems ideal. A 3/8 steel square of that cross section can only handle so much torque just based on geometry, you can maybe boost it a little with the alloy/heat treat but realistically they should all fail around the same spot torque wise. If I am trying to put 250-300 lbf-ft through my 3/8 ratchet then I’m already being a yahoo, hahahaha.
Wow, ICON really stepped up their game in the market. Good to see the flagship of harbor freight hanging in there with the expensive stuff at a 1/4 of the price
Thanks for the feedback.
Icon tools are actually pretty awesome. Due to some theft, my personal box and it's contents were stolen and I needed to rebuild and went with an icon line up of tools (not all, but most) and I have nothing but positive things to say. I broke a set of pliers and took it back to HF for an exchange and got a new one, no questions asked.
@@c.shoefishI’m a weekend warrior so I can’t justify the cost of Snap On. That being said, I love the ICON line of tools! They have been great to me!
I appreciate all the criteria you test. It allows end users to purchase based on their particular needs. I’ve been subscribed for years and I will always search your videos before buying something new. The double stick tape test has been the most useful to me. I use the winner frequently. Thanks again Todd.
You are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.
It's not just the fact that carrying out these tests makes this channel amazing but simply having the creativity and mechanical aptitude to even think of these tests. Really a great channel!
Thanks!
Yes, just thinking up a test and then coming up with a measurable means to do it ....VERY IMPRESSIVE!
And the amount of money spent!!...🫡
When you have tool companies using you channels for research and development you know your doing it right keep up the great work love the videos
Thanks, will do!
Your work on tools and equipment is second to none, in evaluation and description. I have watched many of your videos and they are most excellent, thank you..👍
Thanks so much!
I just started building up my tools collection, so I'm quite grateful for your videos. Thank you so very much for all the work you put into them.
You are welcome!
Great content as always. I picked up a 1/2, 3/8 and 1/4 set of Gearwrench 90T last year and they are absolutely fantastic. Just as described and tested by you.
Thanks!
Also picked that set up its great, got it for $130. Specifically the one with the rubber grips
Great test. One thing I differ opinion on is the directional switch. I don't want it impossible to switch but I do want some good resistance. I can't stand when it switches direction too easily.
I agree 100%. The only downside to a stiff switch is that they can occasionally tear a nitrile glove, but I can live with that over the frustration of accidentally switching direction in use. Can you say "knuckle buster"?
Thanks!
Thank you. I love my GW 120 and 90. I love it when your teats confirm my opinion.
I have the Wera, and while it may not be perfect, I love it. It's very versatile and I use it in lots of odd circumstances. Being able to use it like a ratcheting screwdriver is great too
Thanks for the feedback.
I don't think the Wera belonged in this test. The design is radically different than the others and fits a different purpose. BTW, I have three variants of the Wera.
Super true. It’s called a roto head ratchet. They’re my favorite. All of the companies on this list make that style as well. They just don’t have the locking mechanism. It’s not super important though since the torque passes through the center of the head rather than through an off centered joint.
Yes, that is another reason I much prefer roto-heads to flex heads..I have some flex heads, but I rarely use them...they usually wind up frustrating me more than anything...clearance issues, flopping around, wobbling off the fastener...I usually wind up tossing them away in frustration and getting out my roto-heads...I don't care for flex-head ratcheting wrenches for the same reasons...
I like wera 1/4" tools for my motorcycle. Low torque on most fittings and the compact, short size has advantages, too.
Great video as always. I specially enjoy your handtool reviews. When it comes to ratchets, there is just one rating system, which I do not fully agree with personally. When it comes to the force needed to change direction, lighter is not always better in my eyes. I remember several situations, where on hard to reach places, my ratchet changed direction due to a too light direction switch. So when I change direction, I prefer that it stays like it is and not accidently changes on its own even if that means more force need to be applied with my finger. Keep up the good work!
Very good point. I think the back drag test is the other I don't fully agree with. Not because I don't think it's important, I just think it's something that changes considerably as a ratchet gets used and breaks in. Some of the quality ratchets didn't do well with this test but likely because they are more precise fit and will loosen up when used a while.
Thanks, will do!
My favourite part of these videos, “we’re going to test that”
Product developers world wide shudder and don’t know why!
Thank you very much!
Mine too!
Oh no, they know why they're shuddering..... Because he's going to find their lies.
Thank You very much again! These videos you make also make my life easier when considering what products to buy! Thank you so much for taking the time and doing the research to bring us these great product videos!
Absolutely top notch testing ! Always amazed at the thoughtful presentations you have in your videos. Glad manufactures do see the Value in your testing !! All the best to you and your.
Thanks!
That back drag test was my favorite part of the video. I would have never come up with a way to test that, but you did. That is crucial because in a tight situation, you can't get your hands in to hold the socket. Great job!
This is always my least favorite part of using a ratchet!
I've found myself with EVERY ratchet (fine AND coarse) having to compensate for this!!!
Thanks!
Yep. I hate frikin backdragg
You and your team continue to be an improving force on the world of tools and appliances besides giving consumers great advice or direction. It is very much appreciated!
Have a great week
Thanks!
I'm pretty much sold on all ICON tools at this point. I've been using Pittsburgh Pro ratchets for 15ish years now and I still have a 1/2" flex head that's seen some shit. I've put 300ftlbs of torque on that bad boy dozens of times now and it's still kicking. I've started buying the icon equivalents and they are definitely just as tough if not more. Can't beat them in terms of bang for buck and these videos just keep proving it.
Thanks for the feedback.
Thanks for the info you give and the test you do not just price, but durability and also the what they proclaim to advertise. Makes shopping more easier. Keep up the good work man
Thank you!
Great video... We need you to test different 1500 w heaters and find out once and for all if some actually produce more heating capabilities or if 1500w is 1500w no matter what!!
Thank you for the video idea!
yeah for real. i buy them all the time for work and they either don't get very hot or they quickly stop working from steel shop dust exposure.
From actual real world experience I found wrenches similar the Wera gimbal type style are more practical and safer to use because they are much less likely to tip off the bolt or nut head.
There’s no need to test that. Physics guarantees that :)
(To clarify- If it takes 1500W from the wall, it comes out as heat. It may not use 1500W, but that’s a diff story). Efficiency is a completely moot point as they are essentially 100% INefficient.
@@ProjectFarm Yes winter time and heater videos are very helpful.
As an owner of snap on ratchets, I will say they are definitely strong, i was able to lift myself up with a drain plug and my ratchet didn't even care. As far as being oily, I've never struggled to flip the reverse switch on mine. A great video, I can't wait for the next round!
I second this.
Thanks!
@@rogerstlaurent8704 Or buy GearWrench and don't cry at all? The only "Pro" thing about Snap-on or Mac is the price tag.
I'm impressed that you, as a cat, use tools and have excellent communication skills.
The video I been waiting to see! Awesome videos! Great tests and real life scenarios of usage. Been so busy with life I didn’t notice you uploaded! Even on tools I do not use in my trade I always watch. Whenever it comes to really tight spaces I just use my converted 1/4 bodies to 3/8 anvils and it does wonders! Was hoping to see matco.
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
I do most of the work around the house and cars myself, and since I found this channel years ago I have been using it as a reference to what tools and products to buy before heading to the store or ordering online.
Thank you, sir.
You are welcome!
I’m not sure anyone realizes or appreciates just how incredible you are and just how detailed and organized you must be to produce these amazing videos!!! Very impressive!!
Thanks!
I’m with this guy! I would love to see a video about how you make your videos. A kind of behind the scenes of everything.
This comment is sort of annoying. Apologies for my call out. But like, yeah totally nobody among his millions of viewers realizes or appreciates Todd's testing... Come on man grow up and quit riding his nuts.
Todd's amazing. No need for superfluously hyperbolic comments. all they do is cheapen everything he works towards
@@Mike-sy6oyThis is one of those “better to not say anything” momenta your parents should have taught you about growing up. Let me compliment the guy. Jeez. ✌🏼
@Mike-sy6oy
Looks like somebody didn't get their "atta boy" pat on the back today, and felt like simultaneously lashing out and talking about nuts at the same time.
Odd choice.
Go touch grass.
I've got a couple test ideas.
1. Pipe cutters. Either the ratcheting cutters for PVC, or the clamp style with the cutting wheel.
2. This might be too expensive to be practical, but I would absolutely love a video on rotary cutters. I bought a 5' County Line from tractor supply around 2 years ago, and a lot of the time I feel like I should've spent extra for a Woods or Bush hog, but I've never actually run either of them.
Love your videos!
I used to build the County Line brush cutters. There's nothing really wrong with them but they could use more bracing.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Another excellent video. You are doing a great unbiased review/testing. Actually, your testing of any product is amazing and beyond any review service out there. People, do not rely on the internet, nearly all write-ups are biased. They will appear to be unbiased, but that's the point...to guide you to a certain product they are peddling. This man's videos are the best source as you get to see the testing in real time. Thank you for that!
Thank you!
As always your videos are very informative. And I love the depth you go to test everything
Thanks!
I have the Snap On version that I purchased about 40 years ago. It broke after a few years and it was repaired upgrading the single pawl with a dual pawl. Never failed again. I don't use it much anymore, maybe every few months if that, but it sure is valuable when needed.
Thank you for sharing!
Despite some drawbacks, the Craftsman and the Wera impressed me. They outcompeted in many areas that I felt were pertinent.
Agreed. The Craftsman one impressed me. Wasn't expecting it to perform as well as it did.
Thanks for the feedback.
I own the Gearwrench and the Wera. I keep the Gearwrench in my truck and the Wera in the house. I know how to use my tools, so the drawbacks on the Wera isn't really a problem.
Also have to agree about the Craftsman hopefully that might be a comeback to good quality tools ??? For the Duratech or Duracrap just walk away from that tool brand
In the back drag category, Craftsman was nearly last. That's important in tight spaces where you can't get your hand in there to hold it. A deal breaker for me.
Great video, subject, testing, and commentary, Thanks, Todd!
I have an ancient (over 40 years old) no-name, made-in-Taiwan flex head ratchet that has been abused all its life. It's still in one piece and working to this day.
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
Love your experimental setups. I really wish I had had your help in some of my labs in the past. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for the feedback!
The gearwrench and tekton rachets have very stable detents on the angle head which is quite useful when trying to get into tight areas with an extension and socket where the Icon head is floppy with weight on it.
Thanks for the feedback.
My Gearwrench flex head flops around like an overcooked piece of spaghetti and it has always been that way. Okay I'm exaggerating, but I hate to use it because of how sloppy it is.
Arent there screws you can tighten?
Would love to see ball peen dead blow hammers. I think 36oz is pretty standard. There's plenty of cheap Chinese brands, Tekton, Estwing, Eastwood, Harbor Freight, Trusty Cook, Snap On, etc. Rebound, head durability, handle durability, and any other metric you can think of.
Keep up the great work!!
Thanks, will do! Thanks for the suggestion.
That is a SOLID idea I have some that the head gets smushed or mushrooms, would be a cool test.
@@drscopeify yeah I've been pretty satisfied with the Trusty Cook hammers, but they're the only ones I've ever owned. All the tool junkies swear that nothing is better than Snap On and all the DIYers swear by Tekton so I'd love to see how they stack up.
Your hard work and dedication deserves more. Keep up the good work, and thank you.
Thanks!
I own two of those Kobalt ratchets. A 3/8" and that 1/2". I have already warranted the 1/2 with the original receipt and Lowes took all my drivers license info and were rude about it. I bought both ratchets last fall. Lowes convinced me to buy my tools anywhere else and Kobalt taught me to be any other tools. Icon here I come.
Thanks for sharing.
I find the resistance to switch between lock/unlock is better if it is tough to move. As the item wears it will become easier and often can switch direction while ratcheting.
yes a ratchet that reverses direction unknowingly is very annoying .
Thank you for sharing!
Thanks to project farm I’ll never have to suffer from buying inadequate tools or products. A million thanks!!!
You are welcome! Positive feedback like yours is highly motivating to keep on reviewing products!
I do appreciate your videos so much they have guided me in the right direction and saved me from wasting money
Thanks so much! Glad to hear!
I always look forward to your reviews. All excellently done. Thanks for helping pros and diy er's alike pick the right tools
Thanks and you are welcome!
I really like my Icon Flex head, it’s affordable and tough. It’s served all my needs perfectly.
Thank you for sharing!
I have the Wera ratchet and I've been really pleased with it. I don't have to deal with super tight confines, but I often need the angle adjustment. I really like the low back drag! Probably not the best choice for someone wrenching on cars though, that handle is definitely very large.
EDIT: I use mine in a machine shop, where you sometimes need to get a bit creative with fixturing.
I do HVAC and i that ratchet with the shallow sockets. It’s pretty handy but i rarely use it after i got the klein flip socket that go in my impact
I'm a bike and small engine mechanic, and it is my most used socket tool.
Thank you for sharing!
I have 8 different ratchets from different companies, lengths, sizes, it's always good to have long handles too so you can reach deep inside the car, behind dashboard makes life soooo easy. I get them on eBay mostly.
I am not surprised that the MAC ratchet failed under load so soon. I had one a few years ago and got tired ofnit keep breaking on me everytime i try to break a stubborn bolt.
I switch to an walmart brand and to my surprise it held up pretty good for over three years until i broke it by putting an impact on it.
Now I used the Snap-On ratchet and so far its holding up wonderfully. And this test proved it.
Thank you PF ❤ for this demonstration
You are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.
Yep I just had this conversation at work. Every mechanic brought out a 3/8 Mac ratchet they love, but all were broken. Teeth stripped out. Ive beat hard on my Mac 3/4" with no issues. ratchets are like pussy, they all good, but there is one you always crawl back to.
Amazing work. The test you provide is very worth the time. Thanks so much!
Thanks and you are welcome!
This is my introduction to Olsa. And I'm impressed with the performance! It always hurts when tools meet the early end of life. But that is critical data! We want strength in our tools. It can save a knuckle from time to time.
Thing is you will never need a ratchet to be able to withstand anything over 200 ft pounds and most of the time 100 ft pounds is plenty..Breaker bars are for extra tight fasteners,not ratchets.
Such a fantastic test. Clean and mean. No apologies for speaking the truth. Your dedication to honest and fair reviews is UNSURPASSED!
Sir, you put in so much work into these reviews. I hope you know your viewers appreciate it soo very much. Thank you again and keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do!
Always enjoy your videos and I have listened to your recommendations. Thanks for your advice.
Thanks!
LOVE these videos. SO useful, SO well constructed, SO well delivered. Ratchet ordered. Three MILLION subscribers - CONGRATULATIONS.
Thank you!
I use my 3/8" and 1/4" ratchets to earn a living. I've been weaning myself off of the tool trucks the last few years. I have been very pleasantly surprised by the durability of the Icon ratchets I own. I've been an auto tech for 30+ years and I still have original American made Craftsman stuff that I use. As always, GREAT video!!!! Keep them coming!
Thanks, will do!
I watch this guy before I buy ANY tool. Thank you for all the testing and graphs you make. Really helps me decide what I wanna buy
Thanks and you are welcome! Glad to hear!
Same, makes it easy for DIY to Pro to get the best product balancing needs and cost.
I don't own one of these, but I like the idea of how they work and what they can do.
I appreciate the time and effort to make these videos. The information is valuable and I've used your tests to make better purchases.
Thank you!
Thanks and you are welcome!
Im a big fan of the channel and your unbiased real world test. I have used your results several times when making purchases. Thank you for taking the time to test all these products
Thanks and you are welcome!
I've got an Olsa swivel head ratchet. It's amazing! I was worried it wouldn't hold up well to torque, but this thing is a beast.
Great feedback on the Olsa Tools and very good purchase decision. They've built the ratchet to beat and I'm hoping that the other manufacturers work to improve the design of their ratchets. Competition is great for consumers!!
The Olsa is identical to the SK SP90s. I had a 1/4 and 3/8s flex-heads, and didn't get the 1/2 before SK overhauled itself for the worse. The Olsa has completed the set and its the same in every way (aside from logo) @@ProjectFarm
@@ProjectFarm I'm always happy to support American made. When I need to replace the rest of my ratchets, Olsa will be my choice.
Enjoy watching your videos over the years. You do an awesome job with your tests and I wish you continued you success! I have purchased items based on your reviews, thanks again!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I always love the hand tool reviews. And waiting for a socket testing video. Good job keep it up!
Thanks, will do! Thanks for the suggestion.
Another great review. Thank you for the effort and care you put into these.
I have an old harbor freight low profile flex head ratchet that is one of my favorite ratchets. It's the thinnest one I've ever seen, long handle, and has held up to a good amount of force over the years. A number of times it has barley fit in a place letting me get something unbolted without having to take apart something in the way.
So there are arguably better ratchets out there for day to day use, but I'm really glad I have this cheap one in my tool box because sometimes it's the only one that can do the job.
Not disagreeing with anything you said, just sharing that is always good to have a couple of tools with special qualities like being the thinnest adjustable head, in this case. Doesn't matter if another ratchet is better in every other way if it doesn't fit.
:)
I am always amazed by the amount of information you generate per show. Wow. A great big thanks for doing it. I hope you had a little fun along the way.
Thank you!
I just recently got a flex head snap-on ratchet at a yard sale and came to see how it held up, great review as always!
Thanks!
so sorry to hear about your cat, appreciate you putting this video out there. lots of good info in here, hopefully gonna make it out this year
I think the thing that sets the Wera apart and makes it hands down the best for some people is that it's the only one that can truly go vertical. So it needs the smallest space 360° around the bolt. The others need upwards of 2"+ in at least 180° around a bolt
Agree, vertical drive, great grip and good quality for not so much money!
Thank you for sharing!
Love those Wera ratchets so much that i got the 3 most popular sizes. Do like the colour coded sockets too. Otherwise high quality stuff you buy once, unless it gets stolen heh.
When you need to go vertical you use extensions. They are available in many lengths. You can also get universal joints to help you get into tight spaces.
Wera ratchets are my daily drivers. Having the pivot right at the axis of rotation makes a difference in how much torque you can get into the fastener. And, as mentioned, being able to pivot in line with the fastener can be a handy feature (acting as a sort of ratcheting screwdriver.)
It would be helpful to test the durability of the finishes as well. I have a couple of icon ratchets along with a handful of other cheap brands, and the 1/2” icon has started rusting with almost no use. It’s the only one in my collection to do that.
Warranty that sucker cause the plating shouldn’t be that bad, even for Hf
That would be a good test to include
@@lumpofnicoal8381 does HF even pay their OEMs for that kind of quality control? 😏
Just snap it and take it back for a new one.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Please keep these ratchet videos coming. They are my absolute favorite tests. I bought the Cresent flex head after how well the standard model did in the previous test. Kinda surprised that it didn't perform that well. It does feel cheap though.
Thanks for the feedback.
Great review. Thank you for your time and effort.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Thanks for all you test for us!
My pleasure!
Socket removal force weeks be a nice additional category. I like having a socket release button. It's annoying when sockets get stuck inside a tight storage, out are too hard to pull off the ratchet.
Definitely this!!!
Having a quick release socket option is so important to me. Sometimes the ratchet won't let go of the socket very easily. Would've liked to have seen that test.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Yea. I've been using my managers snap on locking flex until I move my box into the shop next week. The socket is super hard to remove from the S-O. On my MAC flex it comes off easy in all conditions, even greasy hands. The S-O I have to use a flat head to pry them off sometimes, especially with grease.
You have the best, most thorough test methods! Great job!
Thanks!
I am also happy to hear that manufacturers are reaching out and listening to help improve their products.
Thanks for the feedback.
Saved my Sunday, always love a PJ upload. I've got a Mastercraft (Canadian brand) flex head and it's fantastic. Such a useful tool in tight spots.
Thank you very much!
Great Test. I’m amazed how much information you can get into a 15 minute video. Thanks for the Videos. I appreciate what you do.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Watching destructive tool testing is always interesting. Great informative video! Thanks for helpful info!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I dream of a day when your channel is so successful that you can test equipment. "Today, we're going to find out which backhoe is best!"
That would be awesome!
Case Construction King is the best. Just don't get the AC option. It always leaks. Although maybe they've fixed that now?
Glad to see craftsman still making good tools even after their change of ownership.
Craftsman is a brand they don't really make anything. They put their branding on tools others make.
Thank you for sharing!
@@1pcfred True, but the Craftsman tools are made to their specifications and quality standards. That is true of many of the products you buy and use every day.
You’re watching a tool video so I assume you know Craftsman is junk right?
@@teamdada2194 Craftsman hand tools are better than most of what is available in retail outlets. Now if you want to spend 3x the price and buy from a tool truck have at it.
I enjoyed this video I work on cars a lot and a good flex head is a must I always watch your videos to see what tool is the best I really enjoy your videos you really help me out a lot when I need to buy a tools.
Thanks!
Another great video! I bought a Duralast flex head ratchet about 10 years ago and use the heck out of it, it's been great. Your testing is fantastic.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Good morning everyone !!!
Have a great Sunday!!!!!
Good morning!
Right on time. I was going to suggest this. THANK YOU!
Perfect timing! Thank you!
Very informative. Thank you.
You are welcome!
YOU AND YOUR SHOW IS THE ONLY ONE I TRUST ON HONEST AND ACCURATE TESTING AND REVIEWS. GREAT JOB.I HAVE SENT YOUR LINK TO OTHERS AND THEYNOW WATCH YOU.
Thanks!
I use the icon every day at work. It's been great. I had the Allen screw get loose and fall out. I lost the Allen on the shop floor. I took it back and got a new one exchanged.
Thank you for sharing!
This is great! I own one of these, and it performed well. You gave us a lot to think about before making a choice on the next flex-head ratchet. Thank you.
You are welcome!
Your presentations are the high point of my weekend, thanks Todd! Awesome video, can't wait to see the part two cummins video.
Thanks !
this videos are so well made, that I dont even need to seep up to 1.5x!!
Love the back drag test!
seconded. It's a critical factor for me.
Thanks!
Love this shootout! I would've liked to see Matco tools in here as well. I also think the direction switch should be interpreted differently; I prefer the heavier switches so they don't switch automatically. My Snapon ratchets never switch directions on their own, but my Matco and Husky ratchets sometimes have a mind of their own, especially when the backing plate gets a little oily
Thank you for sharing!
Yes. A stiff reversing lever is preferable because it is less apt to reverse accidentally. As long as you can move it when needed.
Yup, i was always fighting with my Craftsman ratchet esp as it got older
Matco uses gearwrench ratchets so technically he did use matco
Don't buy into the tool truck hype. Don't pay for the tool trucks mortgage. Matco, snap-on etc don't actually make anything. They rebrand other tools
The attention to detail is second to none, amazing how many were tested!
Thanks!
Good comparison, thanks for testing those and sharing the findings!
Thanks!