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What are your thoughts on ratchets with quick release mechanisms? These ratchets typically have a lockable ball detent that requires a press on the back of the ratchet head to release a socket.
An accidental push of the release button can result in unpleasant consequences if a socket then falls into a busy workspace, such as an engine bay.
(The ratchet shown above is a new Wera 1/2″ drive ratchet, provided to me by KC Tool. Don’t forget about our KC Tool coupon!)
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But in other applications, the biggest risk is dropping the socket a short distance to your feet or the floor.
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Personally, I like quick release ratchets, especially when changing socket sizes often during a complex project that involves multiple fastener sizes. It also comes in handy when swapping through different accessories, such as extensions or adapters.
A project that doesn’t call for multiple socket sizes might still involve an extension, wobble adapter, universal, or size adapters.
Ratchets without quick release mechanisms still have ball detent retention mechanisms, but require more pulling to remove a ratchet. Those with quick release mechanisms might have stronger retention, until you press that release button even just a little bit.
What do you think – are they more of a convenience, or a liability?
Do you have a favorite?
