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These tools help you DIY like a pro.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
The size markings are small, which some might have issues seeing clearly.
Made from alloy steel and backed by a lifetime guarantee, it can be used forjust about any repair.
It contains a variety of six-point sockets in standard, deep, and universal sizes.
Credit: Amazon
It also has multiple extensions in different sizes to increase your sockets reach.
The edges are beveled to quickly align the fastener to the socket.
The case is made from heavy-duty plastic with secure clasps that prevent the pieces from rattling around.
Credit: Amazon
Its a basic set which may feel limiting for serious DIYers.
Additionally, the plastic storage case helps you keep everything organized.
Becauseit only has a 38-inch drive size, you may have to buy extra sockets for some jobs.
Credit: Amazon
The 49-piece set is made from durable alloy steel and crafted in the United States.
Although Its expensive, it has a lifetime warranty and polished chrome finish thatprotects it from corrosion.
You may wind up spending more on additional sockets.
Credit: Lowes
While its a great starter kit, experienced DIYers may want more specialty tools.
It is a great set to have in your home or car trunk in case of an emergency.
One ratchet has 180 teeth.
Credit: Amazon
A high tooth count helps minimize arc swing for precise movements and more control.
Its also beneficial when you dont have much working space.
The set also includes assorted specialty bits, hex keys, and other accessories.
Credit: The Home Depot
Its wrenches offer more leverage due to a long panel design, which makes fasteners easier to remove.
Sizes are clearly imprinted on the tools.
Plus, it comes in a hard plastic case, which wont crack easily.
The limited scope of the tools included makes it less versatile.
This 23-piece Dewalt socket set is designed for heavy-duty tasks.
Made from heat-treated stainless steel, the sockets are incredibly strong and durable.
The set includes a ratchet with 72 teeth and a 5-degree arc swinghelpful when working in tight spaces.
Sizes are stamped on each tool, and the sturdy case stacks with other Dewalt kits.
Because of the limited scope, these sockets arent the most versatile for everyday home repairs.
But forusing power toolsor exerting high pressure, its a useful set tohave in your toolkit.
Its quite expensive for a 36-piece set.
It also contains 38-inch drive impact wrenches, drivers, and ratchets for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts.
The case is also stackable, which is handy if you own multiple sets.
Although pricey, its backed by a lifetime warranty.
Backed by a lifetime guarantee, it should last for many years.
The most common socket set types are shallow, standard, deep, impact, and insulated.
Standard socket sets are versatile.
Finally, there are insulated sockets, which are a must forworking with electricitytoprotect against shocks.
The most common drive sizes are 14-, 38-, and 12-inch.
For most DIY jobs, youll want to look for 14- and 38-inch sockets.
For tasks that need more torque such as car repairs or maintaining lawn equipment, 12-inch sockets will work.
Your Questions, Answered
What are six-point sockets used for?
For household work, a 38-inch drive set with six-point sockets is a good choice, Moinzadeh says.
It provides a balance of strength and many uses for most domestic work and basic car maintenance.
When should you use a 12-point socket?
A 12-point socket is ideal for tight spaces, specialized fastenings, or hard-to-reach fastenings.
Can impact sockets be used in place of standard sockets?
Because they are typically much thicker than standard sockets, they might be unable to fit into tight spaces.
Standard sockets are generally better for hand tools and specialized work, Moinzadeh says.
