The best ratchet sets of 2024
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There are many types of wrenches, each with its own unique set of features and use cases. Ratchet wrenches, or ratcheting socket wrenches, are what you reach for when you need to loosen and tighten bolts, nuts and other fasteners. They are easy to use and are compatible with different socket sizes. Ratcheting wrenches are versatile tools and essential to any toolbox. Some features to consider when shopping for a ratchet set are measurement system (metric or SAE), drive sizes, construction material, head style, grip style and swing angle. Read on, for more answers to frequently asked questions about ratchet sets. But first, here are the best ratchet sets currently for sale online.
This Neiko Ratchet Wrench Set is a 3-piece set that provides leverage and turning power into tight and small spaces. These dual-direction ratchets have forward and reverse switches so you can easily change directions while using them.
Key Specs
Drive Sizes: ¼”, ⅜” and ½”
Quantity: 3-piece set
Material: Vanadium steel
Head Style: Fixed square
Swing Angle: 3.6°
Position: 100-tooth operation
$29.99 at Amazon
The DuraTech Stubby Ratchet Set uses a 90-tooth head to increase precision and only needs a 4° swing arc to operate. The quick-release button on the mini ratchet can lock the socket in place to stop it from falling off.
Key Specs
Drive Sizes: ¼”, ⅜” and ½”
Quantity: 3-piece set
Material: Polished alloy steel
Head Style: Hex
Swing Angle: 4°
Position: 90-tooth operation
$27.99 at Amazon
This WorkPro 3-Piece Ratchet Set is great for DIY projects around the home, in the garage or for automotive repairs. The ergonomic rubber handle is made of Tri-material designs with anti-slip properties so it won’t fatigue your hand during extensive use.
Key Specs
Drive Sizes: ¼”, ⅜” and ½”
Quantity: 3-piece set
Material: Alloy steel
Head Style: Fixed square
Swing Angle: 5°
Position: 72-tooth operation
$69.97 at Home Depot
This Husky Ratchet Set features an ultra-narrow 3.6” swing arc that makes it easier to access fasteners that are difficult to reach. A lifetime warranty is included with your purchase of this set.
Key Specs
Drive Sizes: ¼”, ⅜” and ½”
Quantity: 5-piece set
Material: Black finished steel
Head Style: Pear head
Swing Angle: 3.6°
Position: 100-tooth operation
$129.18 at Amazon
The GearWrench Flex Handle Set is a more expensive option for a ratchet set but its high-quality features make the price worth considering. The teardrop low profile design and flush-mounted on/off switch make it easier to reach tight spaces. The ratchet heads using this enclosed design make it extremely resistant to dirt infiltration.
Key Specs
Drive Sizes: ¼”, ⅜” and ½”
Quantity: 4-piece set
Material: Alloy steel
Head Style: Flex
Swing Angle: 4.3°
Position: 84-tooth operation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a ratchet wrench?
A ratchet wrench is a tool that tightens and loosens nuts and bolts while allowing you to pivot the tool back and forth to turn the socket while keeping the wrench in place.
What size ratchet wrench should I use?
The most commonly used ratchet sizes are ¼”, ⅜” and ½” drives. ¼” drive ratchets are great for taking apart small screws for projects around the house. ⅜” drive ratchets are intended for automotive repairs while ½” drive ratchets are for automobiles as well as motorcycles.
Ratchet wrench vs socket wrench
Ratchet wrenches use sockets with different sizes built into the tool. On the other hand, socket wrenches are a type of torque wrong that has interchangeable sockets that can be removed and replaced to accommodate whatever size nut or bolt you are working on.
