hand tool question

[buffett1]

In your opinions which is better to have regarding sockets...6 point or 12 point. I have heard that the 6 pint are stronger but the 12 point break easier but fit things easier as well. Any input?

[fisherguy]

Re: hand tool question

My opinion is what you have already stated, but my experience is limited to backyard mechanics. Someone with more mechanical experience should be able to give an opinion based on a greater amount of experience.

[billygoat]

Re: hand tool question

I personally like a 6 point, tend to get a whole lot more bite and don't end up stripping bolt heads, but I have double sets of both and can't say that I use one more than the other... just depends on the job.

[whitetailkiller]

Re: hand tool question

i've done my share of automotive work (plus some other kinds of work with tools) i buy 6 point only... jmho

[elkoholic]

Re: hand tool question

For use around the home a twelve point set will probably be up to most tasks and is a better cost investment. When it comes to professional use a six point set is a must, but not always required for the job at hand. They both will break with enough force and I never told the Snap-on man I used a three foot cheater bar when I broke a $20.00+ socket. As far as the socket fitting the bolt or nut, simple, use the right size.

[archerjg]

Re: hand tool question

Each has their own use and place in the tool box. The six point grabs the sides of the nut or bolt and the 12 point grabs the corners, possibly causing it to round off. We use both when fixing equipment.

Archerjg

[Tominator]

Re: hand tool question

they make 12 points?

j/k--personally have only used 6, but i'm pretty much a mechanical moron.

[billkay]

Re: hand tool question

6pt for sockets and 12pt when getting wrenches that may be needed in tight spots. The 12pt will be much easier to get on the nut/bolt and be able to make smaler moves.

[HuntingInMaine]

Re: hand tool question

I don't use tools often, but did take a materials testing class in college and scientifically, the 12 point should be better because there are more contact points to spread out the pressure. But after reading that so many have broken more of them then the 6 point, I wonder..... So much for science! LOL

[LifeNRA]

Re: hand tool question

[ QUOTE ]

I personally like a 6 point, tend to get a whole lot more bite and don't end up stripping bolt heads, but I have double sets of both and can't say that I use one more than the other... just depends on the job.

[/ QUOTE ]

Me too!

[snapper]

Re: hand tool question

[ QUOTE ]

the 12 point should be better because there are more contact points to spread out the pressure.

[/ QUOTE ]

That would be true if you were using it on a 12 sided bolt head. When the bolt head is only 6 sided...the 12pt. will still only contact at 6 points.

I prefer 6 points because it seems I'll eventually round the head or the inside of the socket of a 12 piont.

[wtnhunt]

Re: hand tool question

I prefer a six point socket. They are far less likely to round the corners of the nut or bolt you are working with.

Never had any problems with any Craftsman or snap on sockets or wrenches breaking in 6 points, but did break a 1 3/4 inch 12 point cheapy socket once working on a tractor.

[Shaun_300]

Re: hand tool question

hey boys. here's the mechanic here well heres what i have learned. 6 point, you use when possible, they are the best socket because they do not round off the edges of the fastener. but, if you have limited space to use your ratchet, u have to go with a 12 point, because it is twice as easy to get the socket on the fastener and you have more room to ratchet. but, i would definetly get 6point sockets before you buy 12 point sockets hope this helps!