Swivel ratchets

[pwd72s]

Not that I am endorsing harbor freight...just picked this video to illustrate one of the advantages. I've had an SK (#3870) 3/8" drive for years. Metal knurled handle. It's been often the one I choose. I know, "comfort grip" seems to be the current fad, but I still like all metal for easier cleanup.

So, if anybody here building their tools selections...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS-AGcd3K3w&ab_channel=Predictionpain

[fastfredracing]

I have some 1/4 " snappies in that style of ratchet . I kind of like them, but I always seem to reach for the more traditional flex head styles , maybe it is just what I am used to .

[matthewb0051]

I have a 3/8" similar to OP with 18ish inch handle from HF with head that pivots (not swivel). Love that thing. Only complaint is the little grub screw likes to back out occasionally.

[pwd72s]

Originally Posted by fastfredracing

I have some 1/4 " snappies in that style of ratchet . I kind of like them, but I always seem to reach for the more traditional flex head styles , maybe it is just what I am used to .

What I like about swivel over flex is that the swivel angle to the fastener remains pretty constant, while it varies with the flex. On the other hand, the flex fits in tight spots better. Even though I have pretty much quit wrenching, think I might go swivel in 1/4" and 1/2" as well...not $nappy tho. I'll confess to being a bit of a tool junkie, but I'm also a cheap bastid. Looking at Tekton, but those have the "comfort grip". Attractive price though. NOT Chinese...Taiwan.

[rusnak]

HF Icon flex head is pretty good. I still reach for the Nepros and Facom 3/8" flex head probably 90% of the time, and either Stahwille or Hazet 1/2" close to 10%. Rarely I need something with a 3/4" or 1" drive, and those are all Wright tools.

[GH85Carrera]

The rear left rear manifold nut on my El Camino just gets loose a bit from driving. None of the others move. So every oil change, I give it a little snug down. My swivel ratchet make it really easy to get the socket on it, and a little yank, done.

[craigster59]

I also get a lot of use out of my bent handle flex head ratchets.

[stevej37]

^^^ that is one nice looking ratchet.

[stevej37]

My SK ratchet has the best handle I've ever owned.

[gtc]

I have some similar Wera ratchets. They are pretty handy.
https://www-de.wera.de/en/great-tools/zyklop-speed/

[island911]

Originally Posted by pwd72s

... I've had an SK (#3870) 3/8" drive for years. Metal knurled handle. It's been often the one I choose. ..

Same here. I also have the HF version but the SK is always my go-to. ~40 years on now.

For 1/2" drive HF has a cool telescoping ratchet. Which is my go-to for breaking lugs and such loose.