SEMI DEEP "MID LENGTH" SOCKETS Snap-On Mac, Matco Why would you need them?

[@chadwittman4446]

I have had my snap on semi deep 3/8 impact sockets for a little over 10 years now and I have to say, when it comes to 3/8, they are pretty much the only thing I use. They work for almost every application. Thanks CP for everything you do!! Awesome channel!

[@CPthetooladdict]

Appreciate the comment thats awesome to hear!!

[@russellpottenger8584]

I’ve only had my Snap on’s less than a year and after using them don’t know how I was able to get by without them.

[@nordicpride9708]

@@CPthetooladdictDoes MAC even sell the “intermediate” length 1/4 sockets in metric anymore??

[@xgcskiman]

I have super shallow/short/semi deep/deep in 3/8 and shallow/semi deep/deep in 1/4(all Snap-on) and I love having the options. No regrets.

[@aznprd2197]

Definitely a game changer when you have options to pick from

[@TrackstarBR]

Have a similar set up just not snap on. My budget won’t allow for a full range of tool truck sockets in all lengths. The option to use whatever size makes many jobs so much easier.

[@dillanbro7796]

Just missing the extra deep 3/8 as a HD diesel tech i need the 11 or 7/16 and 13 its worth it the rest are super optional ive needed a 10mil about one time in 10 years

[@Reid0225]

Yeah man I’m not a professional mechanic, but I have a full Snap-On box. Master 1/4” and 3/8” sockets, master wrench sets, 1/2”, 3/8” impacts and Wobbles. I’m still buying tools. There just nice and I need some tax write offs for my business but I’d still buy them anyways. I think most people who hate would love to have Snap-On but can’t justify it. Which is understandable it’s not cheap, but I think that’s where the hate comes from.

[@nordicpride9708]

@@Reid0225 You are spot on my friend! There are other brands that match Snap On (mostly what I own) Koken comes to mind and Wright tool, but it’s a very short list.

[@doctordiesel5467]

Using semis in 1/2 drive on diesels like for instance working around fan clutches 3/8 ones aswell working on exhaust manifold and turbo nuts on cummins isx semi deeps are a great friend to have

[@jasonheimlich6506]

Excellent point about the efficiency of the semi deeps !

[@CPthetooladdict]

Yes indeed!

[@potatoboy792]

A 1/2 inch drive semi deep works good for doing the airbags on some semi trailers. The 3/8ths set doesn't go up to the 1 1/8 or 1 1/14 that you need for some of them, but a deep socket will be too long to fit inside the frame rails after putting it on your impact. Semi-Deep 1 1/8 combined with a stubby 1/2 impact beats doing it with a ratchet.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Thank you for sharing

[@ralphlucas5057]

My first set of snap on sockets where semi deep. 25 years ago. They always seemed to be the perfect size. The best semi deep are the swivel ones.

[@ZEPHlNG]

Just bought a set today I’m excited to use them!

[@jonathansherwood5841]

My 1/4" and 3/8" drive Snap-On semi-deep sockets have been fantastic for both clearance and when you need that little extra to grab that bolt or nut. Sometimes a short socket and extension end up being the same length as the deep socket, so it would not fit anyway. Super handy when doing dash work or center consoles. 🐺🔧

[@mlieser1230]

I had a set of Snap On 3/8 metric chrome semi-deep sockets that I used regularly. I miss those sockets.

[@kylesonsalla7620]

I have a 1" long 1/4" extension, Craftsman USA, I also have a Craftsman USA 18" long 1/4" extension, and I use them all the time. Both are very handy. So yes, they do make them.

[@justintx75]

Great topic, I have using semi deep for over 20 years starting with a craftsman 3/8 drive set.

[@gregblau8082]

My 1/4" semi deeps are my go to. I sometimes need a shallow for clearance or a deep to get over an obstacle but it's a very comfortable socket depth 95% of the time

[@CPthetooladdict]

Absolutely mine as well!!

[@TrackstarBR]

I only have one set of snap on sockets and they are the 3/8 mid lengths. They are my go to for 90% of my work with a 3/8 ratchet. My budget only allows me one set of snap on sockets so I bought what I thought I would get the most use out of. No regrets there. Now I do have all the lengths covered like extra shallow, shallow, deep just with cheaper options such as sunex and husky. Which I’m pretty sure the husky are just rebranded astro nano sockets.

[@brycelund4112]

In 3/8s I’ve got nano, shallow, semi-deep, and deep. I’ve got Capri, Astro, and tekton. All lifetime warranty.

[@soledadmonstabreh]

I have different socket brands for super shallow, shallow, semi, deep, then snap on extra deep length sockets. I feel like different variety in brands help due to the fact not all socket lengths are the same which can help in tight spaces with these cars now days.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Great tip!

[@thomasperina2990]

Hello Fellow Toolhaulics and Friends: CP, you hit it right on the head again. I'm fortunate to have every semi deep socket Snap On manufactures. They have saved me countless times when little to no clearance is available. The Snap On quality is outstanding to say the least + their flank drive technology works exceedingly well. Another terrific video Mr. Chad. My best as always to you & Henry, TMP from N.J.

[@russellpottenger8584]

Thomas, I am in the same boat as you with the exception I haven’t pulled the trigger on the 1/2 drive mids in Snap on. Suming you have them are they worth taking the plunge in your opinion if you had to do it over again?

[@thomasperina2990]

@@russellpottenger8584 Good Evening sir. After many many years turning wrenches when I first started I had to settle for bottom of the barrel entry tools of which I sustained 2 severe hand injuries. You can't make money with severe hand injuries. Now I won't settle for less than the best. Snap On has never let me down. While watching CP'S channel I learned about Nepros ratchets. Recently I was using the first Snap On 3/8 drive ratchet I ¹purchased, that's 61 years old, when I noticed it beginning to bind internally. I called my Snap On dealer & he replaced it no questions asked. Can you imagine any other tool company replacing a 61 year old ratchet but Snap On did without hesitation. Sir that is the service, quality, & reliability we professionals pay for. Take care, TMP from N.J.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Great tip!

[@russellpottenger8584]

@@thomasperina2990 So much appreciate your input and wisdom Thomas. I’ve been building race engines for just over 40 years and have always relied on Snap on for my specialty tools. Through the years as discretionary income increased one of the areas that I’ve treated myself to was stepping up from my Craftsmen tools to the better USA tool truck tools. Maybe it’s a “Guy Thing” as my wife calls it, but there’s few things more satisfying than to have a well-made quality tool in your hands

[@thomasperina2990]

@@russellpottenger8584 Hello Russell, I appreciate your posting & I really enjoy speaking to seasoned professionals. I was building engines from my middle to late teens until the money angle came into play so I began doing race applications. Back then money was more available as long as you had a sponsor but after a while racing becomes such a cash suck that you end up with little money . I didn't have access to a dyno & as you know what works on paper doesn't happen in the real world so I was kinda behind the 8 ball so to speak & always playing catch up. Russell I've had access to to Mac & Matco a long time ago but tgere is no dealers in my area, Snap On is the king. If I may make a suggestion without being too forward sir. I don't know your financial situation so may I give you an alternative. In my honest opinion JDTCO are terrific people to deal with & has quality tools at reasonable prices. Some tools are Taiwan but I've never had a problem yet. I've enjoyed our conversation sir emensily 😊. Any questions you can hit me up here. Take care & stay safe, TMP from N.J.

[@russellpottenger8584]

This was a much needed video CP. I found Mid lengths being a game changer once I started using them. I have them both and Gearwrench and Snap on 1/4 & 3/8 metric and SAE. I prefer the broaching on the Snap on and I’m finding I’m grabbing deeps far less often. Appreciate you pointing out the options for 1/2 drives. As always appreciate the content. ~Russ~

[@CPthetooladdict]

Glad I could help

[@robertfrancis6967]

I got a set of snap on 3/8 semi deep 2nd hand in a package deal, they weren't anything I had any interest in purchasing but they were essentially free in the deal so whatever. Was planning on selling them or trading in for something else but gave em try on a job that I had to keep switching between deep n shallow n my backup ratchet was broke so running two ratchets too avoid switching back n forth was out so stuck a mid depth on and only on rare occasions did I need to use a standard depth ever again. They turned out to be the most used tool I never had any interest in before I used them and would strongly recommend picking up a set GearWrench has a high quality reasonably priced set, or as much as we all crab about Strap on in my opinion it is one of the few things that will not only pay for itself but actually make you money in a short time, some stuff that costs a fortune and gets used once every two years will be getting used by a grand child before it's use recovers it's cost

[@RJM_2023]

Use the 3/8 semi deep’s working on my oil burner. To get to the nozzle and swing out the door.

[@marktheaardvark7208]

Semi -deep are great, Sometimes nothing else will work, When you need them, you need them.

[@JakeNaughtFromStateFarm]

Got semi deep GP metric in 3/8 drive, Snap-on semi deep SAE in 3/8 drive, and SnapOn metric in 1/4 drive. I use the 3/8 semi deep all the time because they typically give me clearance and length at the same time. Occasionally, I will need stubby, shallow, or deep for whatever I’m doing. Typically, semi deep works and I’m able to do it without changing sockets. I’ve got the SnapOn 1/2 semi deep, bought them on sale a year or two ago. I use them a bit, but I can’t honestly say they’ve been super advantageous for anything. Typically when I use 1/2 drive, it’s gonna be on the outside, so there’s plenty of room and a deep Will work as well. It was more of a want than a need.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Absolutely fantastic advice!! I bought my snap sockets as well than lol smokin deal I believe 200 bucks

[@1pieman]

Never owned any i will now makes sense 👍👍

[@tedwilliams8766]

i have all three sizes in 1/4 and 3/8 in chrome and impact in snap on and matco adv and theyve been great. i keep random branded sockets and wrenches to cut up for special, one time use tools or if i need to make a wrench with a certain angle to get that one fastener i cant get to with other wrenches. making the tool you need is better and cheaper than buying a tool off the truck you may use twice but then you have that tool forever. having a hot glue gun for metal is a big plus to make that happen also.

[@danohstoolbox]

I have some old grey sockets that are semi deep that have worked for me for years

[@alainorozco8032]

I have the Matco, Snap on and Koken. I use them more than the shallow/standard lengths.

[@garrettreedy8539]

3/8 chrome semi deep were my first snap on purchase. Also my most used socket is recommend them to anyone. Hf icon just released semi deeps as well which may be a good alternative to some who like In store warranty

[@jonathonrossebo1783]

I can think of one place where semi-deep, 3/8" drive sockets might be useful. Brake boosters on 1973-87 Chevy/GMC, C/K series trucks. Or anywhere else the mounting studs for a brake booster are on the engine side of the firewall. Either that or deep offset box wrenches, or ratcheting combination wrenches.

[@norge696]

That's funny you made a video on this. I was thinking this the other day. Between shallow, semi, deep, SAE and metric. That's a lot of money in sockets. If I ever run across the need I'll buy a set.

[@CPthetooladdict]

I've actually gotten questions about these alot

[@notme6071]

As a heavy truck guy I might have to pick up the 1/2 mids I always grab deeps first because most of the time shorts won’t do it you just need that extra little bit of length. Reminds me of my ex wife.😂

[@paulmendenhall5226]

I have shallow deep and semi deep in 3/8 and 1/4 also have a old set of craftsman crome semi deep i really like but they didn't make them vary long and hard to come buy now i have a lot of the gp sockets and I like them because of the thin wall and the price

[@doctordiesel5467]

I have mac 1/2 semi deep sets aswell as snapon found them very handy on alot of application have several 3/8 1/4 sets in semi deep or mids as called by many

[@mlacher100]

I have the gearwrench ones 1/4" and 3/8" drive. I find myself going for the mids before I go for other sockets.

[@docshotrodnhobbies9019]

I always grab my mid length, 90% of the time it does everything I need. I have mainly the mac impact brand, but I have the SO mid flank drive for those stubborn bolts. For the junkyard I just use gearwrench mid's,mainly because if I loose em I'm only out $40. The only time I wish I had extra deep was a focus taillights. Speaking of which..wth did for deem it necessary to put a 60mm stud on a taillight 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@travismachado4666]

Thank you CP.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Very welcome

[@kevindavis6042]

Have you ever come across a stud in a tight space where a shallow socket is too short but a deep won't fit This is where you grab a semi

[@CPthetooladdict]

Exactly

[@ramtruck2011able]

That's the reason for semi deeps. Great video

[@shannondickenson8294]

That's the exact reason I have them as well.. I love options..

[@DonkeyHammer]

I use my semi deep /mid snaps about 95% of the time wrenching on the company aircraft. My shallows amost never get used. In fact, they're about 10+ years old, and they look brand new.

[@professordrmao6321]

Snap on does actually have an extra deep set, its 1/2dr iirc

[@CPthetooladdict]

I believe you are correct

[@shannondickenson8294]

Yes they do.. part number #s start out siml for sae , simml for metric.

[@agtech4580]

I use my semi deep’s for just about everything they are the first ones I grab for impact and ratchet

[@CPthetooladdict]

Great comment. I appreciate you sharing helps people out more than you know, buddy!

[@roycemartin9068]

I’m a mobile technician. I work on conveyor systems. I bought snap on semi deep impact sockets only instead of getting shallow or deep or both. The reason being that space and weight are a big factor considering I’m working out of my pickup truck and also semi deeps take care of situations where you would need a deep socket and also work much better clearance wise than deep sockets do. Sure it would be ideal to have every tool for every exact situation but being mobile and driving a Toyota Tacoma limits me.

[@everydayfleettech2286]

I use my SO 3/8 mid impacts for almost everything. Thinking about grabbing 1/4 mids

[@CPthetooladdict]

Buddy, I hope you are well. I've definitely been a fan of them since I owned them my most used sockets.

[@GarenP]

Tekton has a "Mini extension set" which will allow you to add 1" at a time to your extensions. This all reminds me of the Dewalt toolsets from one of your video's in December - the deep sockets are actually more of a semi-deep, so for someone who doesn't already have any of that size, that'd make a great "emergency" or additional set. The 192-piece set seems to have the least filler.

[@CPthetooladdict]

I think you are missing the point if you added a extension to a shallow it wouldn't give you the depth for a bolt semi deeps are to avoid extensions all together. The 1 inch and 3/4 inch are still to tall in most cases as well I have a mac 1 inch 3/8.

[@GarenP]

@@CPthetooladdict At about 9:14 in your video you said something like "They don't make 1" (or 1", 1/4") extensions", and my comment points out a (rare) product that does, which I think does add value to this discussion here. Clearance is my typical reason for using them.

[@timwindsor03]

Incredible video brother. Thanks for sharing. Keep the content coming. Hope you have an incredible night. Much love and RESPECT brother

[@CPthetooladdict]

Thanks! You too!

[@doctordiesel5467]

Use semi deep aka mid length more than most other sockets anymore in all drive sizes

[@gtcam723]

My father said he finds them to be almost do-all. I’d never owned any until recently when in the span of a week, I got a set of Icon (less the 8mm) for about $13 and then a new set of Snap Ons in Hi Viz foam. And then more recently also got the Snap On 1/4” (everything is metric)

[@djosbun]

I have the Snap-on semi-deeps in 1/4” and 3/8” and the 3/8” get more use than any other socket I use. I rarely use deeps, except for 1/2” drive.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Heck yes

[@nitrous07me]

Great video cp, & I agree semi deep sockets come in clutch sometimes

[@CPthetooladdict]

Yes they do

[@gilmansgarage6341]

Being exposed to Snap on deeps first.. I always thought Mac deep sets looked off with the big steps in lengths..they had mids before they were cool 😎..nice comparisons..Thanks Buddy..

[@CPthetooladdict]

💯

[@BySixa]

That flat ratchet is awesome. Definitely going to pick some up

[@CPthetooladdict]

You should!

[@ryanocampo2342]

My go to 3/8 sockets are semi deep, kinda meet in the middle situation

[@spacecat7247]

Answering your question..... I got a set of semi deep Craftsman sockets that are half Drive metric and standard from the early early 2000s.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Nice I bet those are Armstrong still?

[@spacecat7247]

@@CPthetooladdict yeah I don't know. I haven't used them much but I've got them. when they started making them i said you know what I'd better grab some. I don't know how much later they stopped making them

[@dillanbro7796]

3/8 wobble snapon semi deep sockets are game changers no lie

[@larryborkstrom3580]

Great topic

[@CPthetooladdict]

I thought it was fun!!

[@markm0000]

I would probably be just fine using mids for everything but I already have shallows and deeps.

[@dennisrieger1508]

I'm on my way of owning every type of socket set ,besides 3/4and 1inch

[@CPthetooladdict]

I'm just missing 1 inch lol

[@nordicpride9708]

What do you think about the old USA made SK 1/4 sockets? Found a set and curious vs Snap On. Thanks pal

[@tbobgaming4426]

After buying my semi deeps in metric and sae i havent touched my deeps in probably a year now

[@Tvlt_TheIntrovert]

Great content brother!

[@CPthetooladdict]

Glad you think so!

[@warrenblanchard889]

What’s up! WOOAHH! Great video as always brother appreciate your time

[@CPthetooladdict]

Thanks buddy appreciate 🙏

[@warrenblanchard889]

Always brother, my dynamic flare sockets were delivered today you still using yours? They should hold up for a weekend shade tree like me 😂

[@shepherdsfleetservicesllc8147]

Good video with some great points.

[@CPthetooladdict]

I'm glad you liked it, buddy. hope all is well

[@shepherdsfleetservicesllc8147]

@@CPthetooladdict things be better if work would come in

[@tonycroteau9264]

Great video CP 👍

[@CPthetooladdict]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@donmige81]

link for the genius 1/2 12 point?

[@CPthetooladdict]

www.ebay.com/itm/325569131114?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=ftjphnqHS22&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=negpgqo3r-c&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

[@donwendling7800]

CP, are the new Icon mid lengths any good?

[@CPthetooladdict]

I would not know, unfortunately. I only have sunex, and they are rock solid

[@shannonhinton4092]

I have the semi deep snap on in the 3/8 and that’s my go to for about everything now. I love them and they make my job easier, looking to possibly buy some of the koken nut grip sockets soon do they have mid length? As always CP u da man keep them videos coming brother!!

[@CPthetooladdict]

Yes they do and in 1/2 inch

[@daveguerrero93zj]

Astro makes these nano sockets that are super shallow with option to put a wrench on it they are bad ass and they hold up. 3/8 and half inch so far they are the shallowest sockets in the game my opinion

[@CPthetooladdict]

Yes I have them and the wrench

[@shannondickenson8294]

I think and I could be wrong but the Capri might be a bit shorter than the nano.. CP can you shed light to it?. I just got a metric set of the 3/8..

[@shannondickenson8294]

Great video topic CP

[@CPthetooladdict]

Much appreciated

[@stevenkimber4735]

Another great video 🌶️

[@CPthetooladdict]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@trenton12515]

CP I love the content. I would enjoy your opinion on carlyle tools from NAPA. I purchased all carlyle while in college. It was the best route price wise other than snap on or matco. After 10 years they have been great sockets and ratchets. Even the wrenches are great. What is your opinion?

[@CPthetooladdict]

They are almost identical to everything matco carries if you got the discount you did well

[@TooljunkieDave5215]

Hey co I’m looking at getting Mac sockets. But I see there’s deep and extra deep in one set, but they look exactly the same. I know Mac has different lengths. I’m commenting to ask if the extra deep smaller sockets are the same as the regular deeps of the bigger? If that makes sense

[@CPthetooladdict]

The deeps are shorter the extra deeps would be like normal my suggestion would to get the regular deeps and buy the individual extra deeps as you need them I've found the extra deeps over the years are not as useful as you mite think.

[@TooljunkieDave5215]

@@CPthetooladdict okay cool I was looking at a set of shallow and deep/extra deep impact sockets and the extra deep smaller sizes look exactly like the regular deeps of the bigger sizes. Part number is SXPM206PTR. They’re the American made ones I think. I have the ADV ones right now

[@kentwynne8526]

I love my sk 3/8 1/2 and 9/16 mids before they were cool

[@CPthetooladdict]

I have them also that was my first set

[@mcadam10]

Hey cp how do you consider the expert series by mac sockets was looking at a used set worth investing compared to tekton or craftsman ?

[@CPthetooladdict]

Not really worth the money imo

[@billbeckett1021]

I have a set of Matco Circa 1980s and the 6-13 are all semi deep. My Snap On semi deep go from 8-19 which really come in handy for those tight places.

[@tedmix8804]

Tekton sells 1 inch extensions I believe

[@CPthetooladdict]

No, they don't

[@nickshowsstuff435]

@@CPthetooladdict they 100% do the 3/8” part number is SHA11101 I remember seeing them in a email when they came out thought it was a little silly but also very handy. They’re like adapters that are the same size pretty much.

[@tedmix8804]

Tekton mini extension set check website

[@rtz549]

Tight engine compartments and having the most ideal socket size.

[@SpeedsterVlog]

[@CPthetooladdict]

Brother

[@davidwalle5025]

Good job cp

[@damnitdang]

The real rant that no one ever talks about is, Why the fuck company alwys make a 1/2" set with a fuckn 10mm! Who the fuck uses a 10mm with a 1/2" drive?

[@CPthetooladdict]

I've literally said this, and a bunch of diesel guys blew up the comments before. lol we definitely are on the same page, brother!! Lol

[@shannondickenson8294]

I agree but that being said I own it..😂😂

[@damnitdang]

@shannon dickenson lol mines came with a 10mm also. I would rather much have 14mm up and get 14mm-27mm or something. Not 10-24mm for basic kits lol

[@FinallyMe78]

I just wish more companies made semi-deep 3/8. For the US brands, Williams, Wright, Sk, Proto don't. You have to make the big jump in price. For Taiwan brands, I have only found Gearwrench and Sunex.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Check the links in the description I listed all capri and grey pneumatic

[@FinallyMe78]

@@CPthetooladdict thanks, and great video.

[@marko11kram]

kind of a luxery item IMO

[@genel4405]

I need those flat ratchets!!!! By the way….. I love my snap on mids❤❤❤

[@genel4405]

I those were ratchets😢,but still definitely want them! My BIG problem is I don’t like buying stuff online!! Guess I’m just old fashioned 😂

[@CPthetooladdict]

I understand 👍

[@TheDrumminjay]

Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Amen the creed!!!

[@NRP1991]

Man that’s a good topic. Not a very common topic. I have grey pneumatic semis. Actually started using them as a daily as of recently. 👍🏼 man

[@CPthetooladdict]

Absolutely it gets brought up more than you know I see it all the time

[@doctordiesel5467]

Mac still has them cp 10-19

[@CPthetooladdict]

Yes sk did the same as well

[@shannondickenson8294]

Sk is 8-19 actually..I have the set.i expanded it with snap on to 21mm

[@doctordiesel5467]

Let me clarify 10-19 midlength impacts still available in 1/2 drive usa made aswell

[@ToolDemos]

Here’s the danger with watching a CP video. He does a video about mid length sockets, and I end up buying the low profile socket levers he didn’t even talk about.

[@CPthetooladdict]

Lol, what are those? Sneaky

[@harrydickson4575]

👍👍👍

[@brick4321]

I found semi deep sockets are only useful for 3/8 drive and 1/4 drive

[@CPthetooladdict]

Agreed

[@idletime]

G'afternoon Chad ☕☕ 😎 ...

[@dillanbro7796]

As a diesel guy

[@wngimageanddesign9546]

If you're not wrenching for a living, mid-lengths aren't necessary. I've never ran into a situation where a standard or deep socket with the right extension haven't succeeded in my task. For 30 years working on motorcycles, cars and trucks.

[@CPthetooladdict]

That's actually a very opinionated statement and not at all factual, especially these days when one can buy a full set of deeps shallow and Mid-Length for $100 bucks and most sets run that without mid length sockets so it's a bonus in my opinion. So you would be a damn fool to not own them. Oh, and ps next time you change an oil pressure sensor that specialty socket is actually nothing more than a mid length your welcome.

[@shannondickenson8294]

I don't wrench for a living and iv had situations where mids were quite handy.. space issues..deep was to long shallow was to short. Semi deep fit the bill. Not a full true statement. It all depends on what a home guy actually dives in to.. 😊

[@CPthetooladdict]

Exactly, I agree this is not a black and white subject.

[@coarsethread7581]

Because tools