While reading on GJ, these three posts came to my attention:
I personally did not own any semi-deep sockets until last week, but there have been many instances where it would have been less cumbersome to use a socket that was longer than a shallow, but shorter than a deep. Mainly for clearance purposes.
Thoughts?
Referenced Threads:
Deep sockets are a waste in 99/100 cases, once you have semi deep you almost never "need" a true deep socket on modern applications.
Lug-nuts or sparkplugs are special applications iMHO and warrant special sockets anyways. Engines are too compact and engineers too cost, space,and weight conscious to use fasteners with stupid amounts of un-used threads etc. Mid deeps are light, more portable, packable more maneuvarble, easier to handle etc.
Alot of shallows are too shallow for my taste unless obstructions are a specific issue. Lastly, 3/8 semi-deep is same as 1/2 shallow in terms of form factor so it often saves you switching over a drive and lets you keep a lighter, thinner and easier to handle ratchet.
I find the mid length sockets easier to manipulate than shallow sockets. especially pulling off smaller sockets, with greasy hands. The little extra length, of the semi-deep sockets, are easier to turn by hand also. The shallow sockets are often too short to get a grip on, without an extension, when turning by hand.
There are times where a deep is too tall to fit, and a shallow is not deep enough. Many of these times a ratchet wrench could also be used, or either end of a combo wrench.
I use my semi-deeps and swivels 99% of the time.
Shallow and deep impacts have became my "specialty" sockets for that 1% of the time where access is an issue, such as engine mounts and crank pulley bolts.
I personally did not own any semi-deep sockets until last week, but there have been many instances where it would have been less cumbersome to use a socket that was longer than a shallow, but shorter than a deep. Mainly for clearance purposes.
Thoughts?
Referenced Threads:
Are Mid-depth Sockets Useful??
I've got complete sets of standard depth and deep sockets, but have never used the mid-depth sockets. I see that the NAPA Carlyle mid-depth sockets are currently on sale and I'm wondering how useful you all find these mid-depth sockets...
www.garagejournal.com
1/2 Drive- Semi deep impact sockets?
Yes, yes, I'm aware Snap-on makes them. I have a few. But I'm looking for a different brand, a bit cheaper. My go-to suppliers would be Sunex/GP; however, I can't find anyone who makes them. Low demand, I guess? :dunno: 1/2 drive, Semi-Deep, Impact (no use for chrome) - Who makes them...
www.garagejournal.com