Bits and Sockets Guide. Marking of all sockets and bits

A ratchet is a special wrench that is widely used in various fields of activity. It is used to tighten and unscrew nuts during the repair of cars, machine tools and other devices, as well as during construction and assembly work.

According to buyers, the popularity of these product models is explained by their ease of use, wide functionality, and good performance characteristics. In addition, such a tool has a low price and is accessible to everyone.

Types of ratchets

Before choosing a ratchet, you need to determine what types of this hand tool there are. In most cases, craftsmen divide all models into 6 categories depending on the type of structure. Representatives of each of them have unique advantages and disadvantages, and are also suitable for performing a certain type of task.

Classification by type of construction:

1. Reversible. This type of ratchet gets its name due to its reverse function. It allows you to screw and unscrew fasteners without moving the tool from one face to another. The reverse is turned on and off using a special core located in the central part of the key.
2. With swivel head. Products of this type are the most versatile. They are equipped with a special head that rotates in different directions and allows you to unscrew fasteners located at any angle to the master. This structural element is often supplemented with a spring ball that holds the working head of the tool.
3. Telescopic. Ratchets belonging to this type are equipped with a telescopic handle. Its presence allows the user to independently choose the optimal length of the tool and reach any structural elements.
4. Shortened. Products of this type are ideal for working in confined spaces. They are equipped with the shortest possible handle, thanks to which the master can get to fasteners located in narrow places.
5. Reinforced. These tools stand out for their durable construction. Thanks to it, craftsmen can make maximum efforts to unscrew damaged nuts (for example, those covered with rust), without fear of the key breaking.
6. Articulated. Models of this type are similar in appearance to keys with a rotary mechanism. Their difference lies in the presence of a movable hinge located between the handle and the working head of the tool. It allows you to tilt the working part at any angle and reach hard-to-reach fasteners.

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And there are also “twelve-sided” key heads. Why they are called that is the same Russian mystery as “fifteenth radius tires.” After all, the key has exactly twenty-four corners and edges! If the nut or bolt is hexagonal, then there are no significant advantages of one profile over the other. The first one seems to be more reliable, but the second one is more convenient to use. But on some cars there are bolts (for example, in the flywheel mount) with a 24-point head. You can't take them with a hex wrench! When buying a set, choose the most complete one, even with unpopular 16, 18, 21, 23 mm heads - tomorrow they may come in handy. In addition to standard height heads (37–38 mm), there are also extended heads (70–80 mm), with a range from 12 to 36 mm. In our experience, heads of 12, 13, 14, 17, 19, 22, 24 mm are most often used.

Due to the dense arrangement of components and assemblies, bolts with an internal hexagon appeared.

Popular manufacturers

If you don’t know which brand of ratchets is best to buy in a store or order online, you need to use the recommendations of experienced craftsmen. Most often, they advise choosing models from well-known brands that have a good reputation and supply high-quality products to the domestic market.

Best manufacturers:

• Sibirteh (Russia);
• Delo Tekhniki (Russia);
• Gross (Germany);
• Matrix (USA);
• BERGER (Taiwan);
• Ombra (Netherlands);
• ZUBR (Russia);
• JONNESWAY (Taiwan).

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TORX wrenches for ½ inch square start at size T20, the largest is T70. The internal profile of the bolt is marked in five units, with the exception of T27. There are similar bolts, but with a pin in the center, but the range is not wide: from T20 to T40. If you already have ¼" square TORX sockets, there is no need to duplicate them. Head heights 58–60 mm and 120–140 mm.

And this is a key for an external TORX.

Best ratchets for 2022

Without knowing which ratchet is best to buy, you need to study the ratings of quality tools in advance. It contains reviews of popular models and descriptions of the best new products.

Inexpensive products

The popularity rating is headed by ratchets from the budget category. They are distinguished by their low cost (from 100 rubles), simple design and availability in most specialized online stores. In addition, such products are of good quality and work reliably for a long period.

Sibrtech 14009

This reversible ratchet is the best in the budget segment. It is made of chrome vanadium steel, which is characterized by high strength and durability.

The model has a standard ½” square fit. Among other positive aspects, the masters highlight the presence of 72 teeth, ease of use and the presence of a rubberized handle. The latter does not slip even from wet hands, which increases user comfort. The only significant drawback of Sibrtech 14009 is not the highest build quality.

Sibrtech 14009

Advantages:

• Low cost;
• 72 teeth;
• Comfortable handle;
• Ease of use;
• Material of manufacture.

Flaws:

• Low build quality.

Gross 14086

This German-made tool is a reversible type product. It is equipped with a 72-tooth ratchet mechanism and a ¼” square drive. The model has a compact size and weighs only 132 g. Thanks to this, you can always carry it in your work clothes pocket and store it even in the smallest tool box.

Despite the relatively low cost, Gross 14086 is made of chrome vanadium steel, which does not lose its strength properties throughout the entire period of use. A good addition would be the presence of a quick head reset function.

Gross 14086

Advantages:

• 72 tooth ratchet mechanism;
• Compactness;
• Ease of use;
• Assembly;
• Price;
• Quick head release function.

Flaws:

• Difficult to find on sale.

Matrix 14015

This ratchet from the American company Matrix attracts attention with its low cost and functionality. Its main feature is the elongated handle. This increases the weight of the tool, but allows it to be used to reach all hard-to-reach fasteners.

Matrix 14015 is made from chrome vanadium steel. The product has a standard square fit and is also characterized by reliable operation over a long period. Other advantages include high-quality assembly and the presence of a comfortable handle.

Matrix 14015

Advantages:

• Long comfortable handle;
• Standard landing square;
• Reliability;
• Durability;
• Chrome vanadium steel.

Flaws:

• Heavy weight.

Delo Techniki 608745

This reversible model is made of chrome vanadium steel. It is characterized by wear resistance and good strength properties. The product is equipped with a thick plastic handle. It fits comfortably in the hand, which increases user comfort.

The Technique Case 608745 stands out for its compact size. Thanks to this, the tool is used in narrow places where getting to the fasteners is quite problematic. The only drawback of the product is the lack of lubrication of the ratchet mechanism elements.

Delo Techniki 608745

Advantages:

• Assembly;
• Compactness;
• High level of user comfort;
• Durability;
• Comfortable handle.

Flaws:

• Lack of lubrication on the ratchet mechanism elements.

AvtoDelo 39744

This inexpensive reversible ratchet is one of the most versatile in its price range. It is equipped with a handle of optimal length (150 mm), allowing you to use the tool in any hard-to-reach places.

The model is made of high quality chrome vanadium steel. This material has excellent strength characteristics and is considered the most suitable for making different types of keys. In addition, users note the durability of the product and its ease of use.

AvtoDelo 39744

Advantages:

• Low cost;
• Versatility;
• Optimal handle length;
• Ease of use;
• Strength.

Flaws:

• None.

Middle class products

The best in terms of price and quality ratio are the middle class models. Such ratchets are present in the range of most domestic and foreign manufacturers. In addition, they have excellent performance characteristics and reliable operation over a long period. To purchase models of this type you will have to spend from 1000 to 2000 rubles.

JONNESWAY R2902

This model of the JONNESWAY brand is the leader of the middle class. It has a neat appearance and is equipped with a comfortable handle. The latter has a rubber pad that increases user comfort and prevents the tool from slipping out of your hands.

JONNESWAY R2902 is an easy to use tool. It has a standard landing square and a handle of optimal length. Buyers also note the high quality of the ratchet mechanism and the presence of a special hole for hanging the ratchet on a belt.

JONNESWAY R2902

Advantages:

• Assembly;
• Appearance;
• Comfortable handle;
• Ease of use;
• Acceptable price.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Gross 14070

This ratchet is one of the best in terms of price and quality ratio. It belongs to reversible models equipped with a telescopic handle. The latter allows the user to independently choose the optimal tool size, changing the length from 305 mm to 445 mm. Among other important characteristics, it is worth highlighting the presence of 72 teeth and a standard ½” seat square.

The key is made of chrome vanadium steel. Thanks to this, it has high strength and works reliably over a long period. The only disadvantage users cite is the heavy weight, which is explained by the considerable dimensions of the product.

Gross 14070

Advantages:

• The optimum ratio of price and quality;
• Telescopic handle;
• High quality ratchet mechanism;
• Reliability;
• Ease of use.

Flaws:

• Heavy weight.

Stels 14030

This model from Stels is a typical representative of middle class ratchets. It combines compactness, high build quality and relatively low cost. In addition, the product is equipped with a durable ratcheting mechanism and a comfortable handle with rubber pads.

In their reviews, customers praise the Stels 14030 for its curved shape. This makes it easier to reach hard-to-reach fasteners and unscrew them without applying excessive force.

Stels 14030

Advantages:

• Acceptable price;
• Durable ratchet mechanism;
• Curved shape;
• Comfortable handle.

Flaws:

• Weight.

BISON 27731-3/8

This reversible type tool is popular among beginners and experienced craftsmen. It is made from high-quality chrome vanadium steel, due to which it has excellent strength characteristics and a long service life.

ZUBR 27731-3/8 has a length of 200 mm and a landing square of ⅜”. It is equipped with a comfortable rubberized handle that does not slip even from wet or very dirty hands. A pleasant addition will be the reliability and durability of the working mechanism.

BISON 27731-3/8

Advantages:

• Versatility;
• Structural strength;
• Rubberized handle;
• Reliability.

Flaws:

• Not identified.

Ombra 281402

This ratchet from the Netherlands is ideal for home and professional use. It is equipped with a high-quality ratchet mechanism and is made of durable chrome vanadium steel.

Ombra 281402 combines an affordable price and decent quality. It fits comfortably in the user's hand and works reliably for several years. Other positive aspects include the compactness of the model and its light weight.

Ombra 281402

Advantages:

• Compactness;
• Acceptable price;
• Reliable ratchet mechanism.

Flaws:

• Difficult to find on sale.

Expensive tool

Craftsmen who use ratchets for professional purposes try to choose premium models. This tool is made from high-quality materials, therefore it is distinguished by reliable and durable operation in the most extreme conditions. The average price of these keys is 3-5 thousand rubles, and the maximum reaches 15,000 rubles.

JONNESWAY R2904

This expensive reversible model is universal. It allows you to tighten or unscrew nuts with different threads (right-handed and left-handed). The model has a durable design. It is equipped with a 36-tooth gear wheel, which provides multiple increases in rotational force without the user applying excessive force.

JONNESWAY R2904 receives a lot of good reviews from craftsmen. They praise the product for its comfortable operation in any conditions, safety and the ability to be stored suspended.

JONNESWAY R2904

Advantages:

• Versatility;
• Multiple increase in rotational force;
• Lots of positive reviews;
• Hanging storage;
• Comfortable work.

Flaws:

• Price.

JONNESWAY R3504

This ratchet from JONNESWAY will be indispensable for beginners and professional craftsmen. It has a ½” square fit, so it is suitable for work with the corresponding socket heads.

The tool is compact. Thanks to this feature, it can be used in confined spaces. Among other important points, buyers highlight the presence of a 72-tooth ratchet mechanism and a comfortable plastic handle. The latter lies comfortably in the hand and does not slip out of it.

JONNESWAY R3504

Advantages:

• Suitable for beginners and professionals;
• Standard landing square;
• 72 teeth on the ratchet mechanism;
• Comfortable plastic handle.

Flaws:

• Price.

JTC AUTO TOOLS 5029

This ratchet is suitable for loosening and tightening fasteners in any hard-to-reach places. To do this, it is equipped with a telescopic handle and a rotating head. The latter is complemented by a movable hinge, which ensures rotation of this element in different directions. This design feature makes it possible to work even with fasteners located at an awkward angle to the master.

JTC AUTO TOOLS 5029 is equipped with a wide plastic handle. There is a special hole at its end that allows you to store the tool suspended. A bonus will be the relatively light weight of the product, which is rare for models with a telescopic handle.

JTC AUTO TOOLS 5029

Advantages:

• Swivel head;
• Telescopic handle;
• Ease of use;
• Storage in horizontal or vertical position.

Flaws:

• Overpriced.

ROCKFORCE RF-802423D

This expensive, but high-quality ratchet is suitable for use at home and in production. It has 30 teeth and is equipped with the proprietary ROCKFORCE /1/60 floating mechanism. The presence of the latter greatly simplifies and speeds up the installation of threaded connections.

RF-802423D is compact and lightweight. It has a comfortable handle with a hole at the end. Thanks to this, the product does not slip out of your hands and is easily stored hanging.

ROCKFORCE RF-802423D

Advantages:

• Branded floating mechanism;
• Ease of use;
• Compactness;
• High quality build.

Flaws:

• Price.

Kraftool 27798-1/2

This model from the German brand Kraftool is used primarily for professional purposes. It is equipped with a telescopic handle that allows you to reach fasteners located in the most difficult to reach places. Kraftool 27798-1/2 is made of durable and wear-resistant chrome vanadium steel.

It is also complemented by a reliable ratcheting mechanism and a comfortable rubberized handle. Among other advantages of the product, buyers note ease of use, versatility and durability. The only drawback is the high cost.

Kraftool 27798-1/2

Advantages:

• Telescopic handle;
• High quality material;
• Comfortable handle;
• Versatility;
• Durability.

Flaws:

• Price.

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For them, the ½ inch standard covers sizes from 3 to 19 mm. It's better to buy a set right away. The kit usually includes 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12 mm heads. There are also 7 mm - for brake bolts of some foreign cars, and 13 mm - for draining oil. In addition to hexagons with a height of 58–60 mm, there are elongated ones up to 100–140 mm. Sometimes these are exactly what you need.

Fasteners with a TORX head are often found on foreign cars, but they are no longer alien to the domestic auto industry.

How to choose the right product

Everyone's selection criteria are different. Some choose expensive products for professional use with additional functions, while for others it is enough to purchase a budget option for home use. Which company is better, everyone chooses for himself. Experts recommend paying attention to the following nuances:

1. Material of manufacture. Chrome vanadium or steel is mainly used. Their strength does not allow the tool to deform under significant loads. The coating perfectly resists rust, even if you have to work in conditions of high humidity.
2. Length and weight. They depend on the tasks assigned to the device and the scope of use.
3. Standard size. If you make a mistake with it, you won’t be able to achieve a positive result. It is better to purchase several different models at once.
4. Handle. The thickness of the coverage area should exceed the equipment itself. Knurling will make it possible to manipulate the device if your hands are oily.

Any product can be ordered online in an online store or visited a specialized retail outlet. Experts advise choosing the second option. It's more reliable. There you can see the entire range presented, ask the price, learn about new products from a professional sales manager, and get practical advice. Before encountering an online store, it is worth reviewing reviews of the products offered, making sure of the integrity of the supplier, so that for good money you do not get a disposable Chinese counterfeit made from material of dubious quality.

Additional accessories

The use of socket heads presupposes the presence of other tools that will speed up the process and make it easier. Such additional devices are considered to be:

• ratchet;
• knob;
• extension.

There are several ratchet options:

1. Caps. Mounted directly on the head. Provides the ability to connect other extension cord components.
2. Keys. Used to detach fasteners. They will help secure socket heads with any shank.

Ratchets quickly and efficiently cope with the task - unscrew and tighten parts in hard-to-reach areas.

The main task of the wrench is to unscrew or tighten threaded connections. They are also used to break screeds. The parameters depend on the landing square.

Rating of quality T-drivers

Such models are characterized by the presence of a floating head. Its position is adjusted manually. Area of ​​application: hard-to-reach areas where the open-end wrench shows its complete ineffectiveness. Used for replacing car wheels.

NORGAU 550 mm N2187-550 063981550

A popular model from one of the best domestic manufacturers. The product is assembled in Taiwan. Used for working in hard-to-reach areas. Can be used in conjunction with socket-type heads with a 1-inch seat size. For manufacturing, a high-strength alloy based on chrome vanadium steel is used. The length of the product is 55 cm. The presence of chrome plating is noted. Weight – 3.89 kg.

Average price – 9702 rubles.

NORGAU 550 mm N2187-550 063981550

Advantages:

• wear resistance;
• quality of material;
• for different types of heads;
• ability to operate in hard-to-reach areas;
• compliance with DIN3123 requirements.

Flaws:

• high price.

Berger BG BG2113 3/4 inch 450mm

This product is equipped with a sliding type head. The tool is characterized by increased ease of use. Allows you to work with almost any fastener. During operation, some effort will be required. The length of the device is 45 cm. It is based on the use of chrome vanadium steel. Dialectical spraying is not provided. The stated landing square is ¾ inches. There is also no hinge mechanism. Weight – 1.4 kg. An excellent product from a time-tested Russian company, which is considered one of the best on our market.

The cost of the new item is 1655 rubles.

Berger BG BG2113 3/4 inch 450mm

Advantages:

• build quality;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• compactness;
• high strength alloy.

Flaws:

• lack of dialectical overlay.

Stankoimport CS-34.51.18 3/4″, 450mm

With this popular model, the user can easily transfer the required torque to the fastener used. The product belongs to the specialized category. Due to its ergonomic shape and anti-slip coating, the device can be used with both hands. Length – 45 cm. A hinge mechanism is not provided, as is a dielectric coating. The stated landing square is ¾ inches. Weight – 1.36 kg.

You can purchase the tool at a price of 1190 rubles.

Stankoimport CS-34.51.18 3/4″, 450mm

Advantages:

• presence of satin and chrome plating;
• increased service life;
• compactness;
• time-tested domestic manufacturer;
• functional.

Flaws:

• lack of dialectical overlay.