Ratchet wrench - features of choice

Fasteners are the main element in cars, metal and wooden structures. These include: bolts, screws and nuts. Thanks to fasteners, structural integrity and precise functioning of components, machine wheels, engine mounts and lifting mechanisms are achieved.

When servicing components and assemblies, you have to unscrew or tighten fasteners, and you can’t do this without a special tool. A wrench or ratchet will do the job. The second one greatly simplifies the work today.

Advantages of using a ratchet wrench

Using this tool provides a number of advantages, including:

1. To tighten or unscrew the fastener, you will need to turn the ratchet with a little force. This allows you to work with large bolted connections (where maximum effort is needed);
2. Replacing a wrench with a ratchet increases productivity;
3. The tool in question copes better with the task when working with bolted connections in hard-to-reach places. Nothing can be said about the classic analogues. The ratchets cope with the task even when it is not possible to throw the wrench.

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.

Ratchet wrench device

Steel is used for manufacturing:

• chrome vanadium;
• stainless;
• chrome molybdenum;

which gives the tool mechanical strength and resistance to corrosion.

The design of the wrench involves a handle and a head with a ratcheting mechanism, thanks to which the fasteners are unscrewed without tearing off the tool. The rotating mechanism is located in a closed mouth. The mechanism rotates in one direction or in two. In the first case it is a one-way key, and in the second it is a two-way key.

Socket set for ratchet wrench

The direction of rotation is changed by a switch, which can be a disk or a flag. The presence of a gear with teeth (24-72) ensures rotation. The greater the number of teeth, the smoother the operation of the tool.

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.

Types of ratchet wrench

Two tool options have been developed for working with fasteners:

1. Cap . Outwardly similar to a classic box wrench. Equipped with two working parts, different in size. This is convenient if during work you need to change the key to a larger one without interrupting the process. The ring ratchet has found application in car repair and maintenance. The presence of thin walls of the head of the wrench (for example, Jonnesway W681415) allows the tool to get into hard-to-reach places and transport nodes.
2. Socket tool . This is the most popular type of wrench, with a square slot for heads for fasteners.

In addition, ratchets are divided into 4 types, taking into account the size of the nozzles:

1. 1⁄4
   — the size of the nozzles is 4-14 mm. The tool is used when working with small-sized threaded connections located in hard-to-reach places;
2. 3⁄8
   – head size 8-22 mm. These are not particularly popular, but in vain. Craftsmen recommend confidently buying such tools for work at home and for repairing a passenger car;
3. 1⁄2
   — size 8-22 mm. This is a popular type of key. But you need to work with it carefully, especially when tightening 8-10 mm nuts. If you do not calculate the force, there is a risk of breaking the thread or head of the fastener;
4. 3⁄4
   — size 19-46 mm. This is the largest tool that has become widespread in the manufacture and repair of heavy equipment and large structures.

How to choose a ratchet wrench

If a DIYer often uses wrenches, it is best to purchase a tool set. Typically, such a set includes 10-12 keys of various sizes. The larger the key, the larger the ratchet at the end, and vice versa. Very small instruments are not equipped with a ratchet, because this is not necessary. Unscrewing and tightening small nuts and bolts is easy and does not require physical effort to turn the key.

When purchasing a set of tools, you should pay special attention to the manufacturer. It is better to give preference to domestically produced tools, since in this case the diameter of the key will not diverge from the diameter of the fasteners. In addition, the factory packaging of domestic tools clearly indicates the main technical characteristics: the length of the key, its width and thickness, the diameter of the ratchet and working surface, the material from which the tool is made.

The surface of the wrench should be shiny. If there are signs of incipient corrosion on the surface (brown spots), it is better to refrain from purchasing. When turning, the ratchet wrench should not make squeaking or other extraneous sounds. A high-quality tool rotates around its axis quickly and calmly, and there is no need to apply additional physical effort to the rotation.

If a tool is made of high-quality metal, its service life is practically unlimited. However, recently a lot of Chinese products made from low-quality alloys have appeared on the domestic market. Typically, such sets are sold at low prices at stalls, on trains and in underground passages. Don't be tempted by the low price. Firstly, dubious metal alloys quickly rust, and the tool becomes unusable. Secondly, these alloys can be toxic.

A ratchet wrench is a very handy thing . Even a beginner or high school student can easily handle this tool. A ratchet is a device that makes work much easier and helps tighten nuts quickly, efficiently, and tightly. In order for the key to serve the household for many years, you should give preference to models from well-known companies and purchase the tool only in specialized, preferably branded, stores. You can also order this “magic wand” via the Internet, with delivery via courier or by mail.

How to use a ratchet wrench

To ensure that the tool lasts as long as possible, follow the safety recommendations:

1. It is prohibited to use a lever to create additional force;
2. It is prohibited to use auxiliary spacers between the edges of the fastener and the key. This option is possible when the required tool size is not available;
3. At the end of the work, wipe the key with a rag;
4. It is allowed to work only with working tools. When the ratchet tool is broken due to wear or increased permissible pressure, then such a wrench cannot be used.

Recommendations for selection

Before finding out how much a ratchet costs and where to buy such a tool, you need to determine the main selection criteria. In this case, it will not be superfluous to take into account the recommendations of professionals. They will help you understand what to look for and how to avoid mistakes when choosing.

Recommendations for selection:

1. First of all, consider the material of manufacture. The best option would be models made of alloy steel, carbon steel and chrome vanadium steel. Each of the listed options has its pros and cons, so the choice of one of them depends on the personal preferences of the buyer and the expected operating conditions of the keys.
2. When choosing ratchets, pay attention to their seating square. The type and size of fasteners that can be unscrewed/tightened with a key depends on it. The most common models are with landing square values ​​of ⅜”, ¾”, ¼”, ½”, 1”.
3. When buying a key of any type, consider its length and weight. The functionality of the tool and its scope of application depend on the value of the first parameter (for example, long models are advisable to use for unscrewing nuts inside the mechanism, and compact ones - outside or in narrow places). The weight of the product affects the ease of use and ease of carrying it in the pocket of work clothes.
4. Do not forget about such an important parameter as the number of teeth. The most commonly used are 24-tooth and 72-tooth models. The former turn the nut more strongly, but increase the amplitude of the movements performed, while the latter do the opposite. The choice of one of the options depends on the personal preferences of the master.
5. When choosing, pay attention to the quality and design of the locking mechanism. It must consist of a gear and a bushing, which is pressed against the key drum with a special plug, and must also be made of durable material.
6. An additional advantage of any model will be the presence of several useful functions. These include the presence of a head reset button (for quickly replacing working elements) and a reverse flag (for switching the tool to reverse mode).
7. We advise you to buy ratchets only in well-known stores and on popular online sites. This approach will significantly reduce the likelihood of fraud and loss of large amounts of money.
8. Read customer reviews before placing an order. They will help you learn about the pros and cons of the chosen tool. In addition, they often contain useful information that cannot be found on the Internet.

Infinitely variable ratchet drives

Recently they have been offered by many manufacturers. Such a mechanism, with rare exceptions, does not switch and is equipped with a reversible connecting profile. When working in confined spaces, such drives, especially those with a short handle, are quite convenient. Stepless mechanisms can be divided into models with a lift of about 3-5° and models with zero lift. Some drive models have a ratcheting mechanism. In them, the direction of rotation is switched on using a ring or slider on the handle, and in such a way that this can be done with the fingers of the same hand in which the drive is located.

Many drives are equipped with a mechanism for rigidly securing the attached head or adapter. The mechanism is turned off by pressing a button on the top of the drive head.

A number of drive designs have a knurled rotary ring, which allows you to quickly “tighten” or “tighten” the fastener with your fingers, which is often more convenient than repeated turns of the ratchet, especially considering that at the beginning of tightening there is no resistance of the fastener sufficient to engage the ratchet mechanism. .

The handle of the mechanism can be made of metal or plastic or in combination with rubber for greater ease of operation.

Models with an extended handle allow you to develop more torque with less effort.

Some manufacturers offer actuators with a swivel head-handle or a curved handle to allow operation in hard-to-reach areas.

Also, drives with a shortened handle are designed for working in hard-to-reach places. They can be either with a hinge (like the one shown on) or with a straight handle. Compact models with a stepless mechanism are especially interesting. They allow you to work in very tight spaces, when even a short handle can only be turned a few degrees.

Main selection criteria

There are a lot of shops that sell hand tools, but they have one thing in common: they won’t give you any, absolutely no useful information on keys! Therefore, you need to learn how to choose the keys with the maximum chances of a successful result. First we need to think: what do we expect from any set of this tool? There are few basic requirements here:

• maximum service life;
• transmit torque to the nut or bolt as best as possible;
• safety and ease of use;
• the most convenient access to hard-to-reach places.

Torque

This is a physical vector quantity that determines the rotational action on a rigid body.
The moment of force is determined by the formula: M = Fхd, where:

• F is the force acting on the body;
• d—power lever.

That is, in order to have the greatest torque, you need a maximum handle length d, to which you apply maximum force F - this directly depends on the physical strength of a person. In order to transmit this torque as much as possible, the key must fit tightly to the nut, without deforming itself and without deforming the nut. For this purpose, the working surface must have the greatest possible contact with the nut and sufficient hardness of the surfaces that interact with the nut.

The deviation of the working surface dimensions is standardized; for union nut sets there is a special table of possible deviations. Each wrench in the set must be marked and match the size of the bolt and nut heads. The instrument must be marked as follows:

• indication of steel grade;
• diameter of round spline nuts or throat size;
• manufacturer's trademark.

As a rule, the surface is additionally treated with a special coating, which gives the product better corrosion properties and an attractive appearance.

Near each working part there should be a digital size designation. The number displays the size in millimeters between the inner edges of the hexagon for which a specific key is intended.

Two main indicators of the key: surface hardness and throat size can be determined independently. For this you will need a needle file and a caliper. Using a caliper you can determine the size with an accuracy of 0.05 mm, and then you need to use a needle file to try to grind off the ring of the spanner. If it slips along the ratchet ring, then the steel is hard enough; if chips appear, then the steel is soft and unsuitable for the tool. The question here is that sellers will not allow you to sharpen a set of tools that you have not yet purchased.