My Opinion: Flex-Head Ratchets VS Fixed Head

[@gtcam723]

I’ve concluded that I really prefer locking to the non-locking flex head. Especially when there is going to be more force involved.

[@duncanbowtell2607]

Just as some feedback: the advice is good, but you are going to lose your audience with the initially slow delivery.

[@IamBA.]

painfully slow delivery

[@madman3826]

The sockets you use make a big difference as well.

[@ZGoddessLola]

If I was just starting, with tight budget and with the knowledge that I have today, I would buy only locking flex head ratchets.

[@MUHAMMADAMIN-gy5mk]

TONE Flexible Ratchet

[@scientist100]

true but the issue with that is that it forces you to be at a certain angle, otherwise the locking mechanism needs to be deactivated.

[@MrGamer-lz6ci]

Why do use a quarter inch ratchet more than 3/8

[@mg8718]

Never used a flex head ratchet once in 30 years.

[@aaron___6014]

35 years, same. It must be a trend.just use a swivel or joint.

[@nestorrangel6288]

Will a swivel head do the same job as a flex head? Or why do u recommend one over the other, im looking forward to buy some to work on my own car

[@SuperTrent131]

It all comes down to personal opinion. I actually have tried the the matco locking flex head and I've been liking it more then the others. I've always stayed away from the locking flex heads due to the lever being bulky but the matco has a sleek and flush design it gives you best of both worlds. I dont like the swivel head on anything over 1/4" in my opinion nice ratchets though

[@nestorrangel6288]

Thanks man, now i have a better idea on what to purchase next!

[@stephngibson5517]

I have the snap on 18 inch 3/8 Flex head (FLLF80) bought that instead of getting a big 1/2 Flex head and am looking for a good all around ratchet that is not 18inches long and am in between the FL80 or FLF80 idk if I should get another flex head or just get a normal fixed FL80 since I have the FLLF80

[@SuperTrent131]

I've been using non-flex lately. I have one locking flex and it's nice to have a little of both but my most used ratchet is the non-flex. Obviously certain applications need one or the other but i seem to always grab non-flex more

[@jdm68]

SuperTrent131 I’ve been an apprentice for a little while now, and I was wondering if you could give me an example where a fix head is better than a flex head. Most applications I’ve gotten away with a flex and hadn’t really needed a fixed head I’m just wondering as I progress through the trade where a fixed is better.

[@SuperTrent131]

@@jdm68 I have found the non-flex works best when you're applying a lot of torque and maybe you don't have an impact yet or maybe you can make an impact fit I prefer the non-flex. I know I've had experiences where I was in a weird spot with my longer flex and as I was loosening the fastener the odd angle started to slip and I didn't see it and busted my knuckles. So I've used the non-flex and you'll start noticing a little better if it's not staying straight on. I know sometimes it's just an opinion but you will find instances where the no flex will come in handy. As you progress honestly (this is coming from working flat rate) impacts will replace hand tools-for the most part. All about beating the clock and flagging as many hours as you can

[@jdm68]

SuperTrent131 thanks for the reply. That makes sense I don’t see many techs using hand tools very often. Although taking in to account what you said about non flex allowing more torque, I’ve seen a couple techs trying to do work in the engine bay for example where an impact won’t fit and they used a ratchet to get to a starter or alternator. I guess if the bolts are rusted and you need the extra torque and are afraid the flex head won’t provide enough of the pin might break they’re very useful. Would this situation make sense or would a flex still be better? I am asking primarily because I plan on staying in the trade for a long time and I want to know if it’s worth spending the money to buy some flex heads, if from what is sounds like ratchets in general are rarely used.

[@SuperTrent131]

@@jdm68 I definently wouldn't worry about the pin (talking trusted brands of course) . But sometimes sticking a long ratchet in a tight area you don't want any flex. But other times I know personally I couldn't live without my flex. You can get by but sometimes instead of making your job harder on yourself it's better to have a little variety on your hand tools. I wouldn't say buy every size flex head but a good 3/8 flex head would be a good universal ratchet to try out

[@thebackwoodsmechanic5029]

Flex heads are great Go To ratchets,

[@mikeaze423]

Buying metal ratchets is better than buying human ratchets

[@sicmike2g]

Get to the point bro