Best 3/8 Ratchets - Top Picks, Reviews & Complete Buying Guide
by Scott Miller Updated on
The need for a good ratchet always exists as this is a versatile and extremely useful tool.
It is a tool that every person can use when something should be done in the household so having a good ratchet is a very necessary component of your tool set.
We have to mention that not all ratchets are created equal and good, so you might need to devote some time to go through different models and figure out which one suits you best.
If you want the best 3/8 ratchet, you are in the right place.
We have made a list of the best models currently offered on the market and we give you the opportunity to get acquainted with all the advantages and disadvantages before making your ultimate buying decision.
If we speak about the best of the best, then we cannot but say that the Tekton model rightfully deserves this position.
It is attractive, durable, and high performing 72 tooth oval head tool which requires only 5 degrees of swinging arc.
It possess the lock-on, quick-release drive tang which is there to prevent dropped sockets, and the moly ratchet gear which delivers up to 2,340 in.-lb. of torque.
Being that it is a high performing tool, it exceeds the expectations.
It does much more than could possibly think that a ratchet would perform.
Being that the ratchet is a simple tool the great thing about this model is that users did not mention any noticeable flaws.
This tool comes at affordable price and is definitely our top pick.
The Craftsman is the second ratchet on our list which is famous for being designed so that the accessing of tight slots is as easy as possible.
It is slick and efficient wrench designed to make maneuvering tight spaces a little bit simpler.
Users claim that the tool is durable and resistant to rust and that it managed to do thousands of jobs, so if durability is a big concern to you, this model is a good ratchet for you to consider.
As it is not our top pick, there has to be something wrong with this tool.
And, yes, this is not a perfect tool due to the quick release component.
Users claim that this feature is prone to getting stuck which causing frustration.
We can conclude that this is an affordable option for the casual user.
If you plan to use the ratchet at home, then you should not go for pricey options as a simple and affordable tool is sufficient and would do the job well.
So, we suggest you take a look at the Tekton 1457.
You should know that this is a simple tool, not designed for heavy duty tasks, but still has a lot of benefits to the casual user.
It comes with a comfortable grip which is great even in cold weather.
The steel of the tool is coated in a scratch resistant composite shell.
The Tekton 1457 is designed to provide easy access to tight spots which makes it a great value for money.
However, it is not on the third place without a reason.
It is a little bit inconsistent and difficult to turn.
This can be a problem for people using it frequently, but for an occasional user this is an excellent buy.
This unit comes with versatile shape, quick release function, steel frame and ergonomic handle.
When you know all this, you might think that it is an amazing tool and it catches your eye.
Besides all these features, this ratchet is not among the top three, and that is due to the fact that it is difficult to be used consistently for extended periods of time and it is prone to getting dinged up.
It is definitely not a bad tool and comes at affordable price, but there are still better options.
The last one on the list is the Titan Tools 12045-a unit.
There are many reasons why it is on this place on the list.
Firstly, let’s mention some positive facts about this ratchet.
It comes with a comfort grip, a thirty six tooth gear for high torque operation, and an extra-long offset so that you can have an easy access to hard to reach fasteners.
Now, the weakness is the handle area which tends to break off even after light use.
This is of course a big issue and it is not what you expect from a tool.
Once you get this tool, do not get surprised if you end up disappointed.
We suggest you to avoid buying it and get something equally priced, but not of low quality.