Dewalt announced on social media that they have come out with new non-slip hex bit sockets.
These sockets will be available in 3/8″ drive and at least 3 set configurations:
- 6pc 3/8″ metric set
- 6pc 3/8″ SAE set
- 12pc 3/8″ set
Dewalt says that these sockets are available now.
We asked Dewalt for more information, but they have not yet responded. At this time, the new Dewalt hex bit sockets do not appear on their website or at any retailers.
I was able to find an image of the 6pc SAE set via Google cache, but the model number doesn’t cross-reference to any listings.
Some of Stanley Black & Decker’s other brands, such as Proto and Mac, offer hex-drive tools with similarly modified shapes. The main selling point is in the tools’ ability to remove damaged fasteners, but they can supposedly also be used for installation tasks.
The new Dewalt hex bit sockets strongly resemble the new Craftsman V-Series hex bit sockets that launched at Lowe’s in late 2021.
The Craftsman 12pc SAE and metric set is priced at $65, and so I would expect for the Dewalt set to be priced around the same.
Update: We came across listings on Acme Tools.
Dewalt DWMT17001 3/8″ 6pc Metric Set – $50
Dewalt DWMT17000 3/8″ 6pc SAE Set – $50
Dewalt DWMT17002 3/8″ 12pc Set – $90
If you want both sets, you might want to opt for the Craftsman V-Series set instead, assuming there aren’t any appreciable product differences – which there doesn’t look to be.
From the product listings, these are made in Taiwan.
On a personal note, I’m a bit annoyed. I recently purchased the Proto sets, and while they have longer bits, I was surprised that i) they weren’t made in the USA, and ii) there are now nearly identical Craftsman and Dewalt sets that cost a lot less. Ah well, maybe the 7th size and longer shaft length will come in handy.
