1/4" Roto Ratchet Comparison

A look at some 1/4" drive roto ratchets.

[@zachb4651]

I like that you put each of brand ratchets with its matching socket. Nice little detail.

[@survivalSC]

Yes it’s called severe OCD

[@JUSTINATV]

I have the ¹/⁴ Pittsburgh. I've had it for about 5yrs now. I started using that ratchet every single day back in July. It works great day in and day out. Its probably my favorite 1/4 ratchet.

[@MarkFox]

Those ones are definitely the value leader and work great

[@thebackwoodsmechanic5029]

Prices all vary but with 1/4" drive the Pittsburgh is perfect for anyone doing alot of work with 1/4" drive fasteners that don't wanna spend a fortune, but the handle is wider & shorter. Carlyle has the smoothest count , tight arc, the Icon & Gearwrench are similar but some people like the smooth chrome of the Craftsman. Good video dude

[@Nift502]

Pittsburg is great for the price

[@chowtownpiper]

Bought my first one 20 plus years ago from the snap on truck, I have to say it's a great ratchet.

[@MarkFox]

You don't remember what you paid for that 20 years ago do you? I owned the SnapOn one myself about 15 years ago and just can't remember what the cost was.

[@chowtownpiper]

@@MarkFox unfortunately the only thing I remember was my 50 dollars a week payment to snap on.

[@rodneyfields4081]

I think I paid $67.00 in 2001 for my black handled flex head 1/4 inch ratchet.

[@MarkFox]

@@rodneyfields4081 That sounds about right to me for 2001.

[@Rondingo100]

Bought my Snap On over 30 years ago, still works great!

[@jsoda41]

The Pittsburgh pro green one and call it a day. Lifetime warranty, great price and pretty strong for 1/4”.

[@MarkFox]

It is a good choice!

[@bobbygarrett9588]

The Carlyle is the best,hands down! It’s so awesome. I just bought one for my granddaughters first birthday. No kidding! Thanks Mark.

[@MarkFox]

I like it as well just wish they didn't put a quick release button on it.

[@ClientGraphics]

Great video Mark. I really liked the thumbnail it looked great 👍🏻

[@MarkFox]

Thanks, I have to keep finding uses for this $1K camera lens

[@tooolboxx]

I ordered the GW two piece set through Home Depot last week; it was $26.72 plus tax. Nice set. Thanks for the video, Mark.

[@MarkFox]

I had to look at my Sears purchase history but I paid $25.94 for my set. Today it shows for $60.78! www.sears.com/gearwrench-81223-2-piece-cushion-grip-roto-ratchet/p-SPM7665316828?plpSellerId=Tool%20Shack&prdNo=6&blockNo=6&blockType=G6

[@Crusty_Otter]

Thanks for the great video and comparisons. I only recently discovered the roto/swivel head ratchets and decided to research them further before buying, you've been a huge help in that regard and I can see where they'd be really useful. My wife surprised me at Christmas and offered to buy me the bottom tool chest of my choice since I needed more storage space. I ended up getting a 26" U.S. General, it's great for the amount of usable floor space I have and way better Q.C. than what Craftsman is putting out now. I've still got a HF gift card to use up so I'll be going check out the Pittsburgh Pro and Icon ratchets today - this from an "Old School" Craftsman owner.

[@MarkFox]

I won twice as many 1/4 roto's today, I don't think you will be disappointed with the Harbor Freight toolchest.

[@Toolaholic7]

Ace Hardware stores sell Craftsman too.Craftsman is coming back to USA made in 2021.I have that Pittsburgh Pro ratchet in 1/4,3/8 and 1/2 drive and all have been good to me.Warrantied the 1/2 drive once and was simple.Go to the shelf getting the replacement going to the cashier desk walking out with a new ratchet.

[@MarkFox]

Do you find the 1/2 model useful? I rarely use 1//2 drive to begin with and I don't think I would use this style of ratchet in 1/2 drive.

[@danh2134]

The 1/2 drive is great when working on brakes

[@Toolaholic7]

I use it once in a while for spots where a flex head won't fit in

[@fastcamo]

I like the Carlyle but that finish on the icon looks top notch, thank you for the video

[@MarkFox]

I would chose the Icon over the Carlyle personally just because the Icon does not have a quick release, very little difference between 90 and 100 teeth in these models.

[@gimmesomesugar]

Nice collection. I love roto ratchets!

[@MarkFox]

They are my favorite style for sure.

[@johngibson3594]

Nice review mark thanks for sharing

[@MarkFox]

Thanks for watching John!

[@miguelmendez4718]

Great comparison, I have Carlyle set and I always grab 1/4 roto ratchet. Great for for zipping out dash screws in tight areas.

[@MarkFox]

Between the Carlyle and Icon I would grab the Icon first just because it doesn't have a quick release button, that's just my personal preference. Not much difference between 100 & 90 teeth.

[@miguelmendez4718]

Mark Fox I saw Carlyle changed the new roto head ratcheting mechanism maybe a different supplier. Mines Carlyle roto head set has blue aluminum anodized quick release button like Matco rebranded roto head 100 tooth ratchet.

[@MarkFox]

I noticed the blue quick release button on the new ones last time I was in NAPA.

[@AzTurboMini]

@@MarkFox The Carlyle is now $60 on sale. Have they gone up in the past 2 years or have they always been at this price point?

[@javyLSU1]

Great video Mark, thanks for sharing. I own the Carlyle 1/4 and 3/8 swivel head models, they are my favorite ratchets.

[@MarkFox]

The Carlyle seems to be a favorite of many from the responses I'm reading here

[@wayneo7307]

WOW , The Carlyle 1/4" Roto Ratchet is $60 and 3/8" is $76 !! At My Napa/Sanel Auto Parts . I'll Pass ! Nice or Not Too Expensive for Me !

[@jadeolin8514]

@@wayneo7307 napa runs sales all the time, they are very reasonable on sale

[@kingsporttoolreview8703]

3 names for that style of ratchet. Roto Head Ratchet, Swivel Head Ratchet and Electricians Ratchet.

[@kcuhc84]

Swivel heads are great. Took the intake manifold off the wife's car this weekend. Ended up using only one swivel head ratchet, a couple of extensions and sockets for the whole job.

[@MarkFox]

I do find them very convenient as long as the fit into the area I'm working in.

[@wayneo7307]

Nice Review Mark . I'm A Newer Sub . Seen Some Of Your Videos Before But Subbed A Little While Ago . I Like The Tool Reviews .

[@MarkFox]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@towboatjeff]

I was in Rural King the other day and their starting to sell craftsman tools now also.

[@MarkFox]

My local Rural King also stocks Tekton and Dewalt hand tools as well.

[@towboatjeff]

@@MarkFox same at mine, I love Rural King.

[@jameslawlor1404]

Very nice on the old harbor freight blanket

[@MarkFox]

That indeed is a Harbor Freight moving blanket!

[@MrSupernova111]

Nice review! I recently picked up the Olsa roto ratchet set (1/4, 3/8, 1/2). Haven't used it yet but it has a nice overall feel to it and a lifetime warranty. The ratcheting function feels a bit rough but maybe I need to lubricate it. The quality seems pretty good but its a specialty ratchet which I only intend to use on bolts in tight spaces that don't require huge amounts of torque. These type of ratchets could have saved me a lot of headache in the past. Cheers!

[@MarkFox]

I own 11 of this style ratchet now (in 1/4" drive) and use them whenever possible. I also purchased that 3 piece Olsa kit and have been happy with it so far.

[@MrSupernova111]

@@MarkFox . That's awesome! Thanks for the feedback!

[@markquinlan6406]

Merry Christmas Mark.

[@MarkFox]

Same back to you Mark!

[@gregblau8082]

I got the Pittsburgh just to see if it's something I would use. It's definitely not a go to but when the situation comes up it's pretty handy and no issues with the quality. By the way thanks for the Vessel megadora advice. Should be here tomorrow.

[@MarkFox]

I think the Pittsburgh Pro is the best value for sure. I bet you will love those new Vessel Screwdrivers

[@bandy435]

👍my favorite ratches style

[@MarkFox]

Not my favorite style but definitely useful.

[@jocarr1791]

I just bought the same Pittsburgh Pro today and i noticed the direction selector is backwards on yours too...

[@mdlee52]

That little Craftsman looks pretty nice.

[@MarkFox]

It is nice and I was surprised on the quality of the fit and finish for sure!

[@kennethstephens8046]

Sk used to make a roto ratchet in the USA. Sometimes you can find them on eBay.

[@MarkFox]

I did know that SK also made one but haven't ever handled one.

[@WesB1972]

SK- Wayne invented this style ratchet.

[@lsutigers324]

Great content as always....I know you shut down your snap on patronage a while back but their 1/4” roto really is one of their tools that are close to justifiable in price...good video nonetheless

[@MarkFox]

I owned the SnapOns in both 1/4 & 3/8's, I don't think they were any better then the Carlyle or Icon models I own today.

[@rogerfluhr5652]

I ordered a Carlyle, which arrived today. The backdrag was terrible.....very disappointed. Went to Harbor Freight and bought the Icon 1/4 swivel. The backdrag was better, but I suspected it was dry. I open and lube all my new ratchets as most come that way. Opened this one up, SuperLubed it and.....voila! Excellent. You can't do that with the Carlyle and you'll pay much more for it.

[@MarkFox]

I think they updated the Carlyle so it can't be opened up any longer.

[@rogerfluhr5652]

@@MarkFox You're correct on that, Mark. But...they (NAPA) sent a silver button one with dust on the packaging. Clearing out older stock? In any case, the backdrag was VERY bad and couldn't be fixed. Much happier with the Icon I bought later in the afternoon. Especially after opening and lubing it. Not on a Koken level, but real nice for the price.

[@Flockingtheherd]

I like the vessel swivel head ratchet

[@MarkFox]

It's pretty nice but some of the others are at the same level for a lower cost. I've actually got a few more since this video and should do another comparison.

[@donaldhollums3278]

I have the Gearwrench version in the 3/8” drive and the Carlyle 1/2” drive and two other Carlyle ratchets. The 1/4” and 3/8” Carlyle version will be added soon.

[@MarkFox]

I don't own any 1/2 drive versions of this ratchet, just can't think of a use for it in the 1/2" drive size. I do have a few of the 3/8 models though.

[@donaldhollums3278]

I’ve mainly used the 1/2” for brakes and suspension work. The ratchet head of Gearwrench 3/8” has a lower profile, but I like the 100-tooth count of the Carlyle versions and I like my other Carlyle ratchets anyway.

[@fordmustangjaime]

My favorites are the SnapOn and Craftsman for not having quick release. The Carlyle I have is very stiff and theres no way to open it and service it like the Craftsman and icon. Pittsburgh Pro(same as tekton) is the best bang for your buck.

[@MarkFox]

It's nice to have choices for sure.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Howdy Mark great comparison video, I have a thing for these ratchets also. I been searching on ebay then found a brand britool that has a roto ratchet that is the size of these but has the 3/8" drive head, I happened to pick up a 2nd snap on version that was used I plan to make into a bit ratchet since they make a new kit. Whats your beef with the quick release? I think I might like that idea a little more since a 1/4" socket can be a pain to get off when its all greasy lol.

[@MarkFox]

No real beef with quick release, just prefer ratchets with out it. The Britool model sounds like my Vessel model.

[@akbychoice]

Easy to disassemble ratchets to clean and lubricate.

[@vf5126]

I advise anyone considering a roto-head to carefully feel for sharpness on the split portion of the handle. I ordered one online that was so sharp I had to sand the slot edges, scuffing up it’s chrome finish. Several ratchets you’ve shown here appear to also have sharp slot edges..

[@MarkFox]

I've never noticed any sharp edges in use and have never been cut by any of them.

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

Master Mechanic was another tool brand but I'm not entirely sure if they're still around. Some of their stuff was made in the USA. Too bad SK doesn't make these style of ratchets.

[@MarkFox]

Master Mechanic is the True Value hardware store brand, I worked at one back in the 80's when I was in high school. Most of it was made in the USA back then but I'm sure it's all China/Taiwan today.

[@Anonymous..VQ3.5Lg35]

I think i like napa’s the best then icon but im from Canada so I would have to order icon ratchet, looks like I’ll be going to napa!

[@vlogoween1013]

if you search Pittsburgh Pro ratchet $5 coupon, you can get that Pittsburgh Pro for under $10 ! and don’t forget to use a free item coupon with it to up your value

[@thinman8621]

Most of them look like they could have all come off the same assembly line. I have the green handle Pittsburgh. Works well enough but, in my view, back drag is too heavy.

[@MarkFox]

The Pittsburgh wins on price for sure. The good thing is you can check them in store and find a decent one.

[@soggykid5580]

I have the Pittsburgh 1/4 inch and the only problem I have is that it switches from left to right while turning sometimes. Does anyone else have this problem? Maybe my item is deflective.

[@MarkFox]

Take it back and trade it for a new one, they do have a life time warranty.

[@mikebaker3662]

Mark I st have missed it. What was the tooth count on the Craftsman ?

[@MarkFox]

72 Teeth on the Craftsman, seems to be pretty common on this style.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Now if you take all those apart I wonder which ones will work with each other and I wonder which ones work with S-O.

[@MarkFox]

I would guess some of the 72T models would be interchangeable.

[@johndavis1217]

"I only have six of these". How many 10mm's do you have Mark?

[@MarkFox]

Probably around 100 10mm tools now I'm guessing.

[@frankvanalthuis1867]

They are best for tight confines. Wouldn’t want any kind of soft grip on mine. Less is more

[@MarkFox]

There seems to be a style of these for all taste.

[@maxnovo625]

Can anyone help me with the info on which 1/4 swivel head ratchet has the lowest back drag? Maybe snap on? I wish koken made one.

[@MarkFox]

Koken does make them in 3/8" drive but not 1/4" drive. Lowest backdrag in 1/4" in my examples would be the Carlyle model.

[@rachavya]

Kudos for providing a very useful video. Only one recommendation next time you record such a one: Provide an indication of socket wobble for *all* ratchets being shown. You had the good idea, but weren't consistent. Other info possibly of use to your subscribers (which as of today includes me): 1. The world of 1/4-inch is a low torque world, so when deciding what to purchase I recommend buyers worry more about functionality, availability and price than strength. 2. I strongly agree that the ability to spin the ratchet like a screwdriver is a great advantage of this design. 3. Arguably the best spinning roto ratchet in the world is made by Wera. Search for Wera Zyklop speed ratchet. All sizes come with a plastic sleeve that supports easy spinning. 4. When working with 1/2-inch-drive sockets, a roto ratchet can actually be useful, but it had better be strong. If strong, such a ratchet can be inherently more stable than a flex head when you consider how the handle's torque is communicated to the ratchet mechanism. Those who seek a bombproof 1/2" roto should look at the Wera 05073262001 8000 C Zyklop, which I own. It is pricey, but essentially unbreakable. Your grandchildren will enjoy it long after you've gone to tool heaven. 5. When I need to buy Wera tools, I find Chadstoolbox is consistently the least expensive source. No, I am not affiliated with them in any way other than being a steady customer. Nor am I a Wera stockholder. 6. Aside: For the professional mechanics and tool aficionados among your subscribers, I recommend the following exemplary socket-and-ratchet manufacturers, some of whom might not offer roto ratchets: Ko-ken (Japan), Wera (Germany), Wright Tools. Japan's Nepros brand is arguably the best on the planet, but Ko-ken is often more functional and invariably less expensive. Snap-on and other tool-truck brands are undoubtedly great, but I can buy as good or better for less if I stick to my favorite three manufacturers. Wright is 100% USA-made, which is not a factor for me, but might very reasonably be for your fans. I would have mentioned Gedore and other German brands, but haven't bought anything from them. They definitely ought to be considered.

[@MarkFox]

I have owned the Wera Zyklop 1/4" drive model and ended up giving it away. for my uses the handle was way to large along with the ratchet head to be useful for getting into tighter areas ( motorcycle fuel systems) and I found it to be gimmicky for my personal uses.

[@MrSupernova111]

@@MarkFox . I love the honesty! I'm not a big Wera fan either and there are lots of online reviews of people calling out Wera's spotty quality control. And yes, they are massively overpriced.

[@mrweisu]

Why do you guys hate quick release that much? I thought it makes life much easier. Thanks

[@MarkFox]

If You're working in a tight area it's easy to hit the button on the back of the ratchet and have the socket fall off.

[@22Platypus]

@@MarkFox That almost never happens to me, but what does happen, is I can’t get the socket one handed, especially when my hands are oily, so the quick release helps with that.

[@craigjorgensen4637]

Probably all made in the same factory with minor cosmetic differences.

[@MarkFox]

I think many of the 72T models probably are myself.

[@waynecox5138]

I have wera and Icon. Gearwrench is in the main.

[@MarkFox]

I think the Icon has a little smoother action then the GearWrench in the 2 that I own

[@BMfins]

Do you collect tools?

[@MarkFox]

Sort of but also use them daily, I like a lot of different choices

[@wayneo7307]

That's Part of the Fun of Working with Tools ! My Favorite Gift over Anything , You Guessed It ! Tools ! Over the Years You Will learn you Never Have Too Many ! Run out of Space Keep Upgrading .

[@jamescooper8107]

Awesome

[@MarkFox]

Thanks for watching!

[@JS-tu1ti]

I have the Carlyle 1/4” and 3/8” models. They are excellent. We got the Gearwrench set at work. They were both broken in less than a month.

[@MarkFox]

Did they try and warranty the GearWrench models? Just curious what the process was like if so.

[@JS-tu1ti]

Mark Fox I have been working on the other side of the business. I will ask on Monday. I am not sure if they tried to warranty them or not.

[@wayneo7307]

The Carlyle 1/4" "Roto " Ratchet is $60 !!! At My Napa/Sanel . I'll PASS !! HS! I'll Check Others !

[@JS-tu1ti]

Wayne O I would agree. It is definitely worth waiting / looking for deals if you want to buy Carlyle stuff.

[@RaoulThomas007]

Wayne O Carlyle prices are very variable. This is the Holiday pricing (the highest). We need a video on how Carlyle dreams up their pricing because I can’t figure it out! 25% Discounts appear from time to time. Maybe ICON will force them to offer more promotions!

[@chrisjones6165]

When Menard's shut down the USA made tools for most part I really stopped buying them. Didn't buy much prior but was disappointed to no longer see the made in USA on them. For cheap I'd go Pittsburgh and use the 5$ off coupon. Better I'd go Carlyle and best would be the snap on

[@MarkFox]

I don't think it was Menards choice, I think it had to do with Apex shutting down Armstrong and then Menards could not find another US manufacture willing to produce for them. That is a total guess though. I did notice many of the MasterForce Screwdriver sets still had Made in USA on them and they look like Pratt-Read models.

[@chrisjones6165]

@@MarkFox I totally agree with you on that. I do like how they have one of the best selections on bigger individual sockets. I think may have been up to inch and a half

[@jimgeipel7820]

What no tekton?!

[@MarkFox]

I think the Tekton and Harbor Freight Pittsburgh Pro are the same just like the composite ratchets. I'm not 100% positive about that but they look identical except for the handle color