Snap on/Blue Point/SK Tools?

[MosportGreen66]

Hi Guys,

Curious - what are you using? What do you like the best? If you don't want to blow the budget on Snap on, is Blue Point a good second?

I've been using SK for years and love them but would like to know what you think?

Thanks,
Dan

[PeteLeathersac]

'

Blue Point is Snap-On, SK also a lot of other brands are good tools but don't have features some Snappy tools do.
Snap-On Sockets/Wrenches are usually thinner than others so fit where others won't.
Drive a Snappy socket onto a stripped head and you'll get it off, others often crack when subjected to the same stress.
Note Snappy 6-Point tools have reliefs at corners so flat edges drive bolts/nuts without stripping...lots more but you need to decide whether worth the extra dough as a lot of offshore stuff is pretty good for most tasks.
Techs working flat-rate really do need Snappy but hobbyists can usually get by without also have time to spare when difficulties arise.
I've never loved Snappy Ratchets but one of my fav' tools are their Battery Pliers which have amazing grip so useful w/ other difficult tasks like door pins etc.
If on a budget, best buy 6-Point Snappy Sockets/Wrenches + a few of their specialty tools and good brands of other stuff.
If paying immediately/not on account, Snappy guys often take less if your offer fair also used Snappy Tools are a deal if what you need available.

Happy wrenching!

~ Pete


.

[67 Nova Boy]

I use Snap On mostly...better tools I think. I do have some Craftsman tools but will go to Snap on more and more. Can be pricy on certain tools...I do have a few of the Matco tools that are good as well and a little cheaper then Snap on.


Sk tools been around a long time and do have some open end/socket wrenches. 6 point all the way for anything though.

Dave
67 Nova Boy

[napa68]

I'm a Snap On guy. I had SK for many years but started to switch over after my first set of Snap On line wrenches. Like mentioned before, you can get Snap On's into some tighter spaces. Added to that, I do not have near the problems with damaged fasteners anymore.

Yeah, it's expensive. Damn expensive. Considering what I am working on, it's an investment that continues to pay back.

Tim

[Lynn]

Lots of discussion on hand tools at the garage journal web site.
Snap on haters and snap on lovers in every thread.

IMHO, the ONLY reason to hate Snap on is the price. I have Snap tools that I bought in 1972. I used them professionally until 89.

Always a chance you can find a used set of wrenches.

If buying new, search CL, ebay and even this site. Someone just sold a set of SO wrenches here in last week or two.

If I were starting a set of tools, I would buy a set of combination flank drive Snap on from 5/16 to 7/8. Bigger than 7/8 and the extra meat isn't nearly as important, as there is normally not a really confined space you are working in.

I would also buy a set of Snap on 6 point sockets in the same size range, or whatever else range you find a deal on.

Proto makes good tools. In fact, I have a set of Proto screwdrivers that I prefer over the Snap on screwdrivers. I don't think Craftsman are nearly as good as they were decades ago. I haven't looked at SK lately.

[McCune]

A 37 pc TORX and Hex bit socket driver set is on sale from Snap On. This month it will only set you back 963.90 instead of the regular price of 1134.00.

[mssl72]

That's too much!!

[Lee Stewart]

Was given a 1/2" drive socket set made by Sears Craftsman on my 18th birthday. 52 years later, I still have it. Works like a charm, just like it did on day one.

[BJCHEV396]

I have Snap-On tools that I've used since 1970 when I worked in service stations.And unfortunately have lost a few also.Lotsa used Snap-Ons available on Ebay for a fraction of their original cost.When my dad passed I inherited his tool box.When I do anything on my Camino I tend to use his tools,makes me feel good.

[Too Many Projects]

As for Blue Point, they're NOT lifetime warranty, like Snap-On. They, also, seem to come from China more and more now. I have a mix of Matco, Snap-On and a few Mac tools. Some old Craftsman that are worn out, but not worth trading in, as everything Craftsman now comes from China and are crap compared to the tools they sold years ago. Nothing wrong with SK tools either, but I don't see them sold in my area anymore.
If you are using them in a hobby capacity, Blue Point should be fine with a cost savings.