Tools of the Year 2021: Ratchets & Sockets

We searched the latest innovations from manufacturers for a tool chest of necessities on the farm and ranch.

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Published on September 21, 2021

This is the Ratchets & Sockets category of the exclusive Successful Farming "Tools of the Year" program to highlight innovations and must-have tools and shop supplies for your farm operation. These tools will help you get the job done.

Our editor selected one tool as an "Editor's Choice" and other tools as "Recommended" in Power Tools; Hand Tools; Ratchets & Sockets; Metalworking; Shop Supplies; Lighting; Workbenches & Tool Chests; and Shop Essentials.

Here is the list of the 2021 winners in Ratchets & Sockets.

Ultimate Ratchets for Tight Spaces & Fast Work

The double-pawl design of GearWrench's 120XPTM ratchet bars provides 120 ratcheting positions, making them ideal for working in tight spaces. Two pawls alternately engage a 60-tooth gear, providing a swing arc of just 3°.

The teardrop-shape low-profile head and flush-mounted on-off switch make a slim profile. The flexing head offers nine locked positions as well as an unlocked option. The tool comes in lengths ranging from 5 inches to 24 inches as well as with ¼-, 3⁄8-, and ½-inch drive sizes.

The ½-inch drive model 81304P retails for $83.86. Go to gearwrench.com.

6-Point Sockets Are Impact Hardened

Milwaukee's Shockwave deep-well impact sockets are fabricated from high-strength forged steel for heavy-duty use.

The sockets' nonslip hex geometry prevents socket and fastener rounding while the dual-hole design and ring groove allow for easy socket attachment and removal. The impact extensions provide access into hard-to-reach places, while universal joints feature a 15° or 25° swivel for better access.

For maximum versatility, impact socket adapters and reducers allow users to convert their tool for usage with different drive size sockets. Shockwave sockets are available in ¼-, 3/8-, ½-, ¾-, and 1-inch drives. A set of ½-inch drive SAE sockets retails for $74.99. Go to milwaukeetool.com.

Mini Ratchet Set Is Ideal for Small Spaces

Designed for electricians but also useful for mechanical work, Klein Tool's Mini Ratchet Set features a slim-profile ratchet with ¼- and 5/16-inch dual-drive heads and socket adapter.

The 72-tooth ratchet only needs a 5° sweep to engage bits. Features include a finger loop for on-hand driving, ¼- and 5/16-inch nut drives, ¼-inch drivers, ¼-inch adapter, and four drive bits (#1 and #2 Phillips, 3/16-, and ¼-inch slotted).

The model 65200 has a list price of $20.96. Go to kleintools.com.

Gearwrench-Bolt-Biter — Gearwrench Bolt Biter.

Bolt Biter Sockets

GearWrench's Bolt Biter extraction sockets have a bidirectional design for removing or tightening damaged fasteners. A tapered entry design enables the sockets to readily seat on damaged fasteners.

Sets are available for ½- and 3/8-inch drives. A 28-piece set of ¼- and 3/8-inch drive SAE and metric sockets retails for $157.40. Go to gearwrench.com.

See all of our categories of Tools of the Year winners: