I would have to agree with you here.  Sockets are sockets one you get past
the 12 point vs 6 point issue and the depth issue.  There is *no way* I
would use a cheap ratchet again.  I have used them for years (1/2" Entry
Level Craftsman, 3/8" Entry Level Canadian Tire), but once you use a *good*
ratchet you'll discover they are worth paying 5x as much for.  Currently I
am using a hard rubber handled Canadian Tire 1/2" ratchet - easy on the
hands (not as cold) and the return pressure is almost nill.  Although it is
not the most expensive I have seen it is as good of quality as the Snap On
or Mac Tools ratchet and I don't have to wait for the Snap On truck to come
by to give me a replacement *if* I ever break it.

At 09:50 PM 25/11/1999 EST, Stefan Weir wrote:
>In a message dated 11/25/99 9:46:06 PM Eastern Standard Time,
>mruskin@PANGEA.CA writes:
>
><< I use the Popular Mechanics brand available at Wal-Mart. They are SAE
> approved, chrome vanadium, very nicely finished, meet proper hardness specs,
> and are half the price of the similar Sears Craftsman. Even cheaper when on
> sale (Boxing Day - a great time to buy) >>
>
>I have used the Popular Mechanics stuff sometimes too.  The sockets are
>great, but the ratchets are JUNK.  I would always prefer a Craftsman ratchet.
> My .02.
>
>Stefan Weir
>
>

--   David Marshall -                    - Quesnel, BC, Canada   --
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