75ZT Community

Raistlin · Posted 02 May 2014, 14:23 #1

Which is the best sort of socket set please?

PaulT · Posted 02 May 2014, 17:16 #2

I would go 6 on the basis that there is greater contact with the nut

Duncan · Posted 02 May 2014, 17:19 #3

I would go with six point too. I have both and have not had problems with stripping using the six point but have with the 12. Yes, the six point has less flexibility in getting the socket on, but a decent ratchet deals with that. It's only an issue when you are using a fixed breaker bar, but then the extra contact of the six point is more important anyway.

Raistlin · Posted 02 May 2014, 19:03 #4

Makes sense but, oddly, the 12 point sets cost more than the 6 point.

Duncan · Posted 02 May 2014, 19:44 #5

Perhaps 12 point are becoming rarer, because they are less popular?

dattrike · Posted 03 May 2014, 08:44 #6

I bought a set of these
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Sealey-AK2791 ... 48608d83f2
they grip the flats not the edges.

PaulT · Posted 05 May 2014, 14:29 #7

I always think that thew problem of gripping on the flats is that there is a tendency for the nut to distort putting greater pressure on to the thread hence making it harder to remove.

Duncan · Posted 07 May 2014, 17:02 #8

PaulT wrote:I always think that thew problem of gripping on the flats is that there is a tendency for the nut to distort putting greater pressure on to the thread hence making it harder to remove.

While I understand you point, my experience is if the nut is stiff or tight enough for that to have been a problem, a 12 point would just round it anyway. I haven't experienced any problems using 6 point in this way.

Incidentally, something I've learnt. Often a nut will crack off, but then seize, even if you have cleaned the thread as best as possible. A bit of lubricant, and working the nut backwards and forwards, as though cutting a thread with a die, helps a lot.

Raistlin · Posted 07 May 2014, 18:29 #9

Six-sided it is then chaps

Thank you

75ZT Community

75ZT Community

Twelve or six point sockets? by Raistlin