Introduction
in this video, we talk about the differences between snap on sockets and craftsman sockets. honestly you will be surprised about my answer. now snap on is a well known brand but it doesn't hold up the way I expect a very expensive tool to hold up. I've been using my craftsman sockets for a long time even longer than my snap on ones and I don't ever have problems with them.
usually cheaper sockets tend to have thicker walls on them due to the fact that the heat treatment on them isn't the best. the thicker walls provide a sturdier barrier for them to have more strength. the snap on sockets have a better heat treat thus allowing them to get away with thinner walls.
now my problem with the snap on sockets is that they break a lot, ever since I've owned snap on sockets they tend to crack or shatter. why does this happen I am not 100 percent sure. when switching back over to my craftsman socket, it tends to handle the pressures that the snap on socket couldn't endure.
trying to return or exchange a snap on item when snap on trucks aren't around is pretty difficult, I end up turning towards my friends who have access to the truck to warranty out my tools. as for craftsman or harbor freight it is as simple as just walking into the stores and getting your warranty. all in all the most sockets that have broken with me is always snap on, other than that I have never had a craftsman or harbor freight socket break.
Video
What is going on guys welcome back to the channel? And today we got a different episode for you all so it's.
Another tool episode.
But on this tool episode, we are going to be talking about the difference between a snap-on socket as versus a craftsman socket or any other sockets out there.
And um, my opinion is going to surprise you, uh with it.
Because everyone knows that snap-on is a very well-known brand and it's a great brand.
But to me there are some issues so let's jump right into it.
Alrighty guys.
So here we go here is a snap-on socket.
Here is a craftsman socket.
I don't think I have a semi-deep in this.
Yeah, I don't think I have a semi deep, but they're, both 17 millimeter and they're.
Both generally the same thing.
Now I like craftsman sockets, I like harbor freight sockets, but mostly I use my craftsman sockets why? Because one it has thicker walls.
But for some reason on this particular snap-on and craftsman one, they both have the same size walls if you can see, okay and, um, usually the cheaper brands have thicker walls, because the steel is a little bit cheaper.
The heat treatment is a little bit cheaper, it's, not it's, not properly heat-treated.
So it needs thicker walls.
So it doesn't collapse or break the snap-on ones.
The heat treatment is a lot better.
So they can afford the thinner walls to hold it from breaking.
But here is the issue that I have.
So I've been using snap-on sockets before, and they always get like this let's see if we can get that to focus for y'all, where is that? Um, right? There come on focus focus.
I don't know, if you guys can see that very well, but right there there's a little crack on this side right here.
So every snap-on socket that I've owned these types, especially for some reason they tend to crack they tend to chip.
Now, I don't know, if it's the change in the cold weather when I'm using them, and they don't hold up the way that I need them to which is very dangerous, because when you're trying to break something loose or, um use this for an application or tighten something.
And it breaks in your in your hand or on your ratchet, you your fist can go flying into something.
And you hurt yourself, you break your big fist.
You break something you hurt yourself bad now, I'm sure craftsman sockets I'm, sure every socket cracks and fails and breaks.
But I personally have never had an issue with my craftsman sockets.
Now, a lot of the times I alternate I use snap-ons or I use my craftsman, whatever I have accessible at the moment.
Majority of the time though I'm, always using my craftsman sockets.
These sockets that I have here on the craftsman side has been with me since 2011, maybe even longer, no since 2011.
These have been with me so it's been about 10 years since these have been in my possession and not once have they chipped cracked or anything.
The only reason why I had to replace one was because I lost it, and if you can guess right, it's, a 10 millimeter, everyone always loses their 10 millimeter.
So we're gonna put this back.
So I don't lose it because I hate losing tools and um, as you can see in my drawer setup, right there.
I have everything in a specific order now I'm.
I always like keeping my tools in order because I always like knowing where my tools are as for the snap-on sockets, every single one of these for some reason crack.
And I always find myself having to go back on the tool truck and getting them replaced.
So I don't know if it's just they're not making it as good as they used to before, um, I never used to have issues with them until off lately.
And I just that's, why I'm always turned off from from snap-on.
I feel like they're so overpriced for no reason, and they don't hold up like they used to.
Now.
One thing I can say about snap-on, that's, really good that I I tend to run into is certain bolts and nuts using a craftsman socket.
Sometimes if it's a rusty bolt, the craftsman socket would slip and round it off a little bit if you run into a rusty bolt.
The first thing you should do is if you have snap-on sockets, they have a better grip for some reason.
And I guess it's the way they design it, and it does break them loose.
Now my way around that is, if I have a rusted socket, I'm, sorry, if I have a rusted bolt, and you know, let's say, it is let's say, for example, it's a four mil.
Okay, you have a bolt, that's, four, mil, just crap, whatever.
And you put this on here and it's rounded and can't get off.
I would use the next alternative, which is a five thirty seconds.
I would not go.
I would not go down to a three.
I don't even know if they make three, but it's, just for reference.
I would go to the fractional side, um, the standard size, which is, uh 5, 30 seconds and it.
It gives you an extra grip it's a little bit tighter.
And what I would do is take a extension, put it on the socket and tap it down with a hammer to fit snug on that.
And then I would break it loose that's, how I get rid of that's, how I get all my rusted bolts and stuff out whenever you run into problems that is the way that I recommend that you do this.
You use a fractional socket, a standard size socket.
So you know, you have 10 mil, you use the standard size, and then you use a extension little hammer tap it down, make sure it's snug, put your ratchet on take your time and break it loose.
You know, soak everything in pb blaster or a penetrant before you try to mess with rusty bolts and everything will be good.
But that's.
One thing I do have to say about the snap-on ones they tend to break everything loose that I needed to, um.
But for some reason they keep snapping, they keep.
They keep cracking, and I don't know, why it's usually the steel, uh, it's, usually the chrome, plated ones, um, I've never had problems with any other sockets from snap-on actually, it's, usually the semi-deep ones that I have the issues with.
And they just shatter in my hands.
For some reason I don't know why other than that get what you guys want like, I've always said and preached is go to the store that's most affordable and gives you lifetime.
Warranty people, usually settle for the snap-ons and stuff because one they are good quality stuff.
They are super expensive, but they don't have to go out to get them fixed.
The truck comes to their workplace, and they get it fixed, but like people who are in my situation who no longer work for someone or doesn't have a truck that comes by, you know, I have to go out my way now to find a truck, or I have to go out my way to see if one of my friends or someone could go return it for me, or I can just contact snap-on and get it done last time.
I contacted snap-on to get something done, it was hell and I still haven't gotten it done.
So I ended up giving it to a friend, and he got exchanged for me, and it worked well like that.
But, um, usually like I said, I use my craftsman.
I use my harbor freights, and they don't shatter on me, uh, for some reason I just have better luck with those and that's.
Why I'm always preaching that you don't need to go out and buy these expensive, expensive stuff when you can get basically almost the same thing for half the price and the same warranty to me there, that's, just a win-win to me in my opinion.
So, um, I hope you guys enjoyed this really really really really really quick video.
And um with that being said, I'm gonna go.
But uh, before I said, I got good news.
My engine is finally finished so I'm gonna head over there and pick that up.
So very soon more engine, build videos will be coming.
And there is a secret thing I'm working on in the mix with the avalanche and you're gonna have to guess what that is so just throw your guesses in the comment section below, um, if you want if you want and maybe eventually soon one of these days, I will show you all what it's going to be, but with that being said, peace out guys and I'll see you all for the next video.
FAQs
Is Craftsman owned by Snap-On? ›
Craftsman is a line of tools, lawn and garden equipment, and work wear. Originally a house brand established by Sears, the brand is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker.
Why are snap-on sockets better? ›Snap-on Flank Drive sockets move the contact away from the corners with a radius for better flat-to-flat contact and up to 20% more turning power. A thinner socket improves access in tight areas; reduces breakage and chance of injury.
Is Snap-On the best tool brand? ›Snap-On enjoys a high reputation as the most popular tool truck brand, making its stops at shops around the country. Craftsman still holds a place in many folks' hearts (and toolboxes) as one of the best blends of quality and price available.
Who manufactures snap-on sockets? ›Snap-on Industrial is a division of IDSC Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information and systems solutions for professional users performing critical tasks.
What tools are as good as Snap-On? ›Headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Snap-on also distributes lower-end tools under the brand name Blue-Point. Their primary competitors include Matco, Mac Tools, and Cornwell Tools.
Does NASA use snap-on tools? ›When NASA decided to build its flagship rocket, Ares I, they used the industry's flagship tools. Snap-on supplied the tools to build the next generation rocket that will support the International Space Station – and send Americans back to the moon.
What are the strongest sockets? ›6-point sockets are sturdier than 12-point sockets because they have thicker walls. These sockets are best for high-torque applications, but they are also the most commonly used of the two types. Six-point sockets apply force to the flat sides of the fastener, making them less likely to slip off of rounded edges.
Which electrical sockets are best? ›Which Sockets Are Best? White moulded electrical sockets are still by far the most popular. Within this there are square edged or rounded edged switches to choose from depending on the style required. Then there are the decorative sockets in a range of different finishes and styles.
What brand is comparable to snap on? ›Snap-on Tools competitors include BorgWarner, Husqvarna, ITT Corporation and Stanley Black & Decker. Snap-on Tools ranks 1st in Product Quality Score on Comparably vs its competitors.
What is the number one tool brand in America? ›What is the best tool brand? The Lifestory Research 2022 America's Most Trusted® Power Tool Study found the most trusted brand among people considering the purchase of a power tool brand was Dewalt.
What tool brand is the same as snap on? ›
Blue-Point and the Snap-on Wrench Company merged to become Snap-on Tools, Inc. in 1930. Blue-Point now represents an even broader array of high quality products for professionals perceived as providing a great value.
Where is Craftsman sockets made? ›All Craftsman sockets and wrenches are proudly made in the USA.
Are Harbor Freight tools made by snap-on? ›Snap-On is an independent company with no affiliation to Harbor Freight, although they overlap in their product lines. Snap-on is part of Snap-on Incorporated – a public company that uses the symbol SNA. The company has been around for over 100 years, and it continues to be a top-quality tool brand.
Is Kobalt owned by Snap-On? ›Danaher Corporation acquired Kobalt Tool Manufacturing in 2003, and JH Williams became Snap-On. Lowe's switched manufacturers again in 2011, to Nevada-based JS Products, which still manufactures the products today.
Why are snap on tools more expensive? ›Because Snap On Tools are the highest quality tools anywhere that are made to last a lifetime for professionals, who use their tools a lot.
Who makes snap on tools now? ›Snap-on Industrial Brands, historically J.H. Williams Tool Group, is a division of American hand tool manufacturer Snap-on that makes and distributes tools to industrial markets. In addition to the Williams brand from which it originated, the group includes Bahco and CDI Torque Products.
Who owns the most snap-on tools? ›| Stockholder | Stake | Total value ($) |
|---|---|---|
| The Vanguard Group, Inc. | 12.13% | 1,598,101,525 |
| BlackRock Fund Advisors | 5.48% | 722,273,097 |
| SSgA Funds Management, Inc. | 4.16% | 547,898,140 |
| Geode Capital Management LLC | 2.52% | 331,447,426 |
Since 1920, Snap-on has been the leader in the professional tool industry. Our products are universally recognized by professionals as the absolute highest quality available.
Who makes Mac and Snap-On tools? ›| Great to work with. | |
|---|---|
| Formerly | Mechanical Tool and Forge Company |
| Number of employees | 2,300 |
| Parent | Stanley Black & Decker |
| Website | www.mactools.com |
If you're wondering “is Craftsman a good brand?” the answer is a pretty simple “yes”. While they might not be quite as reputable as other brands like DeWalt, Mikita, or Milwaukee – their quality is similar to Kobalt tools.
Who has the best plug sockets in the world? ›
The U.K. plug is designed so that the grounding prong is slightly longer than the prongs responsible for transferring current. Like a tumbler in a lock, this grounding prong is responsible for “unlocking” the socket, giving access to the more dangerous live and neutral terminals.
What is the most popular socket? ›The most commonly used types are 8 mm, 10 mm and 14 mm sockets.
What is better 6 point or 12 point sockets? ›If your fastener is 12-point, which is somewhat uncommon, then you must use a 12-point tool. For 6-point fasteners, a 6-point tool is your best choice. Matching up the points between the tool and fastener means that you will maximize the surface area of steel in contact, making the tool less likely to slip or fail.
Is a 12 point sockets better? ›The additional points make these sockets easier to connect with the heads of fasteners. This is ideal if you are trying to work on a fastener that is hard to see or you cannot see at all. 12 point sockets are also great for use in tight spaces as they allow you to connect to a fastener at more angles.
Which socket has more gripping power? ›If you're doing any heavy wrenching, go with the six-point socket. It's much less likely to slip off a stubborn fastener or round over the corners because it maximizes contact with the surface area. A six-point socket can also withstand higher torque.
What is the safest socket type? ›Power outlet type G has three rectangular prongs that form a triangle, it is in no doubt that the type G plugs are the safest in the world, however have often been described as being 'hulking', 'cumbersome' and 'bigger that the appliance they're connected to' (being from the UK I can confidently say this is a SLIGHT ...
How do I choose a socket? ›Smaller sockets are typically used for smaller drive sizes, while larger sockets are used for the larger drive sizes. If your socket set is limited to one drive size, choose a right drive size to cover the majority of sockets. The smallest and largest drive sizes both deliver useful work, though.
Why isn t Snap-on sold in stores? ›Snap-On prefers to sell its tools from trucks near its primary customers, mechanics working in auto repair shops, so it can provide discounts to these customers. Snap-On's business model excludes retail stores on the belief that most customers will not pay Snap-On's prices.
Are Matco and Mac tools the same? ›Originally Matco was the box manufacturing division of Mac Tools. However, they have not been associated with Mac since Matco Tools was formed in 1979. Former corporate owner Danaher spun off several subsidiaries, including Matco, in 2016 to create Fortive.
Who makes gearwrench tools? ›Apex Tool Group, LLC, based in Sparks, Maryland, manufactures leading hand tool brands including GEARWRENCH®, Crescent®, Wiss®, and Lufkin® and is one of the largest worldwide producers of industrial hand and power tools, tool storage, drill chucks, chain, and electronic soldering products.
What is the best tool brand right now? ›
- Makita Tools. Makita is the first power tool brand on our team's list not for its higher price tag, but for its quality construction. ...
- Dewalt Tools/Black & Decker Brand. ...
- Milwaukee Tools. ...
- Ridgid Tools. ...
- Bosch Tools. ...
- Craftsman Tools/Black & Decker. ...
- Kobalt Tools. ...
- Ryobi Tools.
Yes, Craftsman and DeWalt are Owned by Stanley Black & Decker. Stanley Black & Decker (SBD) turned heads when it bought Craftsman Tools in 2017 after Sears closed 235 stores in 2015. The company owns many brands, however. Dating back to 1843 with a man named Frederick Stanley, the company quickly formed its roots.
What power tool company sells the most tools? ›Black & Decker leads the pack with a 14 percent market share and $7.14 billion in sales. Techtonic, which rounds out the Big Four controlling companies, has a 9.88% market share with $6 billion in sales.
What are Snap-On sockets made of? ›By making them from a steel alloy that's become the gold standard, that's how. This special blend of steel allows for a higher heat treat than average steel - meaning each tool gets a specified hardness for the right toughness and strength you need in each application.
Who is Milwaukee tools owned by? ›Milwaukee Electric Tool is a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI), ttigroup.com. Founded in 1985, TTI is a leading marketer, manufacturer and supplier of home improvement and floor care products, employing over 20,000 people worldwide.
Is Craftsman owned by Lowe's? ›Stanley Black & Decker has chosen Lowe's as the next retail destination for its Craftsman brand, which it bought from Sears Holdings earlier this year. Sears had controlled the iconic tool name for 90 years. Now, Craftsman is looking to grow with its new owner through other retailers.
Is Craftsman made in USA now? ›FORT MILL, SOUTH CAROLINA WITH GLOBAL MATERIALS
Proudly Manufacturing Select CRAFTSMAN® V20* Drills/Drivers, Impact Drivers and Hammerdrills using global materials.
Sears Craftsman products (and others) that are produced by Western Forge are marked with a "WF" on them. In 2007, the company was acquired by MW Universal.
What is the lawsuit against Harbor Freight and Snap-On? ›The company sued Harbor Freight in California for selling floor-jacks that were "substantially identical in shape and appearance." The plaintiff claimed that sales of the knock-off, which sold for less than half the Snap-On price, amounted to patent and trade dress infringement as well as unfair competition.
Is Snap-On made in USA? ›Snap-on currently makes many of its ratchets, wrenches, screwdrivers, roller cabinets, sandblasters, and certain diagnostic tools in its Kenosha, WI manufacturing facility.
Who bought Harbor Freight Tools? ›
Eric Smidt is the owner and CEO of Harbor Freight Tools which he co-founded with his father, Allan Smidt, in 1977. Under Eric's leadership, Harbor Freight Tools has become the leading discount tool retailer in the United States with over 1,400 stores and 25,000 associates nationwide.
Is Craftsman or Kobalt better? ›Kobalt is better than Craftsman as it provides strong warranties and design. Craftsman is the better choice for woodworkers looking for accessible tools and replacement parts. The products are like other brand, available at Lowes stores and licensed retailers.
Is Lowes phasing out Kobalt? ›Although some Kobalt items will be replaced by Craftsman product, Lowe's continues to be committed to the Kobalt brand. We will continue to have a large selection of Kobalt items to purchase both in store and online.
Did Lowes buy Kobalt? ›Kobalt is a line of hand and mechanics' tools, power tools, and tool storage products owned by the American home improvement chain Lowe's.
What company owns Craftsman? ›Yes, Craftsman and DeWalt are Owned by Stanley Black & Decker. Stanley Black & Decker (SBD) turned heads when it bought Craftsman Tools in 2017 after Sears closed 235 stores in 2015. The company owns many brands, however. Dating back to 1843 with a man named Frederick Stanley, the company quickly formed its roots.
Who owns Craftsman mowers now? ›In addition, Stanley Black & Decker had the option to acquire the remaining 80% of MTD starting July 1, 2021, which it did on August 17, 2021. Furthermore, with the acquisition of Craftsman by Stanley Black & Decker, the brand's products are now produced by MTD through this partnership.
What tool company owns Snap-On? ›Snap-on Industrial Brands, historically J.H. Williams Tool Group, is a division of American hand tool manufacturer Snap-on that makes and distributes tools to industrial markets.
What company bought Craftsman? ›Five years ago, when Stanley Black & Decker acquired the Craftsman tool brand from Sears, they pledged to focus on USA production.
Is Craftsman still made in USA? ›We're proud to continue expanding our U.S. manufacturing footprint with our factory in Fort Mill, South Carolina. There, our workers make select V20* power tools with global materials and take pride knowing they're part of the CRAFTSMAN family.
Did Lowes and Craftsman split? ›Lowe's to sell Craftsman tools, broadening distribution beyond Sears. Stanley Black & Decker has chosen Lowe's as the next retail destination for its Craftsman brand.
Is Craftsman lifetime warranty? ›
FULL LIFETIME WARRANTY
If the product fails to perform for any reason, we will replace it. Note: Same warranty for all new CRAFTSMAN® models (Model # starting with “CMHT”) and older models (Model # starting with “9”). No proof of purchase required.
All Craftsman mowers are made by MTD.
Who owns Cub Cadet? ›John Deere is made by John Deere. There are several hundred names that can be found on the side of an MTD product, but MTD does not make any AYP, Noma, Dynamark, or Sears product.
Who is Snap On Tools biggest competitor? ›Snap-on Tools competitors include BorgWarner, Husqvarna, ITT Corporation and Stanley Black & Decker. Snap-on Tools ranks 1st in Product Quality Score on Comparably vs its competitors.
Who is Harbor Freight owned by? ›Eric Smidt, Owner and Founder. Eric Smidt is the owner and CEO of Harbor Freight Tools which he co-founded with his father, Allan Smidt, in 1977. Under Eric's leadership, Harbor Freight Tools has become the leading discount tool retailer in the United States with over 1,400 stores and 25,000 associates nationwide.
Are Harbor Freight Tools made by Snap-on? ›Snap-On is an independent company with no affiliation to Harbor Freight, although they overlap in their product lines. Snap-on is part of Snap-on Incorporated – a public company that uses the symbol SNA. The company has been around for over 100 years, and it continues to be a top-quality tool brand.
Are Craftsman Tools any good? ›If you're wondering “is Craftsman a good brand?” the answer is a pretty simple “yes”. While they might not be quite as reputable as other brands like DeWalt, Mikita, or Milwaukee – their quality is similar to Kobalt tools.
When did Craftsman stop being made in USA? ›2012 (10.5 Years Ago) – Sears discontinued Craftsman Professional and many USA-made hand tools. At this point it seemed that Sears and Craftsman had shifted their priorities.
Who is carrying Craftsman Tools now? ›- Lowe's. ViewView.
- Ace Hardware. ViewView.
- Atwoods. View.
- Blain's Farm & Fleet. ViewView.
- Amazon.Com. View.