Socket sets include a variety of sizes to fit the nuts and bolts for your repair job. However, not all sets are created equal. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting your dice set for your toolbox.
a good alloy
Alloys are mixtures of a metal and another element that are brought together for a specific purpose. For example, steel is an alloy of iron and carbon; which of course has many applications, from kitchen utensils to hand tools. However, there are even steel alloys to perform different tasks. Chrome vanadium steel is often used in sockets. This alloy is known for its high strength and durability.
Impact vs Standard
Does your repair job require an impact wrench? If so, be sure to purchase sockets that are designed for impact applications. Impact sockets are designed to withstand the high torque created by impact tools. It might seem like common sense, but a lot of people use standard sockets with impact tools. These sockets often fail and parts break and can endanger your safety.
Metric and SAE units
Having the correct size socket is very important. Some socket sets come only in SAE sizes (inches) and others are in metric sizes (millimeters). Some games have both. Think about where the product was built, as foreign products tend to use metric nuts and bolts, while US products may have inch-based sizes. An alternative is to purchase a metric and SAE set to cover both.
unit size
The size of the craps unit you choose should be determined by the type of work you’ll be doing and the team you’ll be working on. A drive ratchet and socket set will be the most versatile and suitable in most applications. If you intend to do a lot of work on small items (¼” drive) or large items (½” or ¾” drive), then you should purchase a socket set with a drive size more suitable for that size of work. When purchasing a large socket set, it will likely come with more than one size of ratchet and socket.
Deep vs. shallow well
One of the great benefits of a socket wrench set is that the actual head of the bolt fits sideways into the ratcheting tool. That helps users get into tight spaces. But a shallow socket head may not be able to fit into some spaces. Deep well sockets are for applications that require a longer socket for bolts that are deep inside. Think about how long the socket heads need to be to access specific bolt locations and choose socket sets accordingly.
six or twelve points
You need to understand that there are six-point and twelve-point sockets. The points refer to the total number of angles cut in their sockets. Its twelve points will work well for home projects and common repairs. However, if you plan on working on motorcycles, lawnmowers, and vehicles, then you probably want the six point sockets. The reason six points work better in these situations is because they have thicker walls and can apply a greater amount of torque. Most sets today have six prongs, but twelve prong products have some advantages to offer. For example, a point of twelve will give you twice as many starting positions.
The case
The only other topic to cover is the case that keeps your plugs organized. When looking for a set to buy, you will find that they come in different cases. Most are made of blow molded plastic. It’s true that some cases are significantly stronger than others, and the level of durability you need in a case depends on where you’ll be using it. Also, you get what you pay for. If you choose to spend more money on a high-quality set, you will most likely automatically get a very durable case. Please note that most large complete sets do not come with a case due to the weight of the set. For sets of that size, it’s ideal to purchase a rolling metal box with drawers for organization.