Offset Handle Ratchets

[The Critic]

They appear to be an inverse of the old-school “spark plug ratchet.”

Truthfully, I did not know this existed. I can see this design being useful for some repairs. Does anyone use this style of ratchet on a regular basis?

 

[NYEngineer]

I have one. I may even have two. Honestly, I haven't used em a lot.

 

[Hootbro]

I never found a real world need for a spark plug style ratchet.

The only thing that comes to mind this Snap On inverse bent handle ratchet maybe handy is on strut tower top bolts from the wheel well side.

 

[IndyIan]

If you aren't changing recessed spark plugs, it seems to me that a flex head ratchet wrench does most of the same things? I do use mine a fair bit in some tight areas.

 

[lbhsbz]

Just use a mid depth or a deep socket on a normal ratchet.

Flex head ratchets are stupid IMO. Swivel heads are great.

 

[Trav]

They appear to be an inverse of the old-school “spark plug ratchet.”

View attachment 242939

Truthfully, I did not know this existed. I can see this design being useful for some repairs. Does anyone use this style of ratchet on a regular basis?

I don't own one and from the picture the form doesnt have me running out to buy one.

 

[04silverado6.0]

I have several old spark plug ratchets that i use often. Plug changes, fluid changes, great for breaking loose a tight drain plug without busting the knuckles up.

 

[RyanY]

Just use a mid depth or a deep socket on a normal ratchet.

Flex head ratchets are stupid IMO. Swivel heads are great.

I agree that swivel heads are superior to flex heads overall, but I don't think I would go so far as to say the flex heads are stupid. I have encountered a few situations where the swivel and normal ratchets would not work, and a flex was the only option (i.e., the rear motor mount on my Honda Odyssey).

 

[D60]

I agree that swivel heads are superior to flex heads overall, but I don't think I would go so far as to say the flex heads are stupid. I have encountered a few situations where the swivel and normal ratchets would not work, and a flex was the only option (i.e., the rear motor mount on my Honda Odyssey).

Meh, some like blondes, some like brunettes. For whatever reason my primary ratchet in 1/4" drive is my Carlyle swivel head. I just love that thing.

But I have the same ratchet in 3/8" and can't stand it. I much prefer my Dual 80 flex head.

Why? I dunno, why don't I like onions??

There's no right or wrong answer. You do you. I guess I identify as non-binary because I like swivel head in one size but flex head in another. I'm super progressive.....