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Best 3/8 Ratchet

The best 3/8 ratchet is a must-have in many circumstances. It shouldn’t miss from your home, even if you have no DIY skills. That’s because a ratchet helps prevent calling a handyman even for the minor repair, by giving you the right means to deal with a stubborn bolt or fastening a nut.

When it comes to choosing a model, there are plenty of options. Ratchets come with slim profiles, swivel heads, and a ton of other features that may make or break the deal.

Here's a list of Best 3/8 Ratchet

But if you’re not an experienced contractor or DIYer, how to choose the best tool for your needs? We know it’s hard, that’s why we’ve tested and rated some of the best ratchets on the market. Check out our top picks, but first, learn what to look for before buying.

How to Choose a 3/8 Ratchet

Buying a ratchet is perhaps one of the most exciting moments in a handyman’s life. But before hitting the market, you must learn what features to look for. Don’t worry; it’s actually easier than it looks.

Type

Picking a grout removal tool starts with choosing your favorite type. There are essentially two. Manual grout removal tools and their electric counterparts.

  • Materials: A good ratchet must be made from durable materials. Most of them are made of either chrome vanadium steel or chrome molybdenum steel. Both materials are sturdy and durable, while the chrome finish ensures rust resistance over the time.
  • Grip: Like with any tool, a comfortable grip is a must. Some ratchets come with soft grip handles while others are just ergonomically shaped. We recommend the tools with soft grip, as they are more comfortable to maneuver in low temperatures.
  • Profile: Whether it’s a bolt under the sink or a nut on your tire, reaching it easily is essential. That’s why it is essential to invest in a tool with a slim profile that can easily reach in constricted spaces. A swivel head could be another feature you might like.
  • Teeth: All ratchets come with a wheel that has a lower or higher number of teeth. They determine the fastening speed, so getting a tool with more teeth is essential. Perhaps the best ratchets are those with 72 teeth.
  • Sockets: Preferably, you should invest in a ratchet compatible with a wide range of sockets, as this guarantee suitability for more applications. A quick release feature is important if you don’t want to lose ages when switching from one socket to another.

Why 3/8 Inches?

You now know how to choose a ratchet, but maybe you want to know why to invest precisely into a 3/8 inches ratchet. There are other options out there too. In fact, you could choose a smaller a bigger type if you wish. But to make you understand why the 3/8-inch is the best size, we must talk a bit about all of them.

  • ¼-inch ratchets: Are the smallest. They obviously pair with smaller sockets and are ideal for the precision dismantling of components on the workbench. However, they are rarely employed in other applications.
  • ½-inch ratchets: Are considered the biggest. They are used for nuts and bolts 10mm and up, mostly in the automotive industry. Bigger ratchets do exist, but they are typically employed in the construction of trucks and tanks. Therefore they are rarely used in a home environment.
  • 3/8-inch ratchets: Are the mid-size tool everyone needs. They can drive sockets of all sizes, are big enough to support higher torque, yet small enough to reach inside confined spaces. Most of these tools come with fixed heads and are similar to the other sizes, but there are also swivel head ratchets designed to allow greater flexibility when working in tight environments. Undoubtedly, the type of ratchet anyone needs.

With all these in mind, let’s now find out which is the best 3/8 ratchet on the market. Check out our top picks below to find your preferred model.

Top 5 Best 3/8 Ratchets


1. WORKPRO 3/8-inch Drive Quick Release Ratchet

WORKPRO Drive Quick Release Ratchet

Highlights

  • Lock-on push button
  • 72 fine-tooth design
  • Contoured cushioned grip handle
  • Socket set
  • Quick release

Construction

Arguably the best 3/8 ratchet on the market, the WORKPRO boasts a durable construction consisting of a reliable resin handle and chrome vanadium steel body. Besides the ratchet, you’ll also get a set of 12 sockets made from the same material.

Convenient

Using this ratchet is a breeze. The unit has a convenient lock-on push button and quick release designed for a fast changing of the sockets. Handling the ratchet is also comfortable thanks to the contoured cushioned grip handle.

Overall Assessment

Sturdy, durable, and reliable, this 3/8 ratchet is a must-have in a contractor’s or DIYer’s arsenal. It boasts multiple features, it’s easy to use, and comes with a set of 12 sockets that bring further value for money. No doubt, a ratchet to consider, that also comes at a more than convenient price.


Stanley 91-929 Ratchet

Highlights

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Made from forged steel
  • Pear head
  • Slim profile

Easy to Use

Designed with amateurs in mind, the Stanley ratchet is ridiculously easy to use. It comes with an ergonomic handle and a thumb-operated reverse switch mechanism that ensures a quick change of sockets.

Professional Grade

Designed with users of all levels in mind, this ratchet incorporates professional-grade features, including a slim profile and small 7-degree arc swing for easy access to those hard to reach fasteners.

Overall Assessment

Despite lacking a soft grip feature, this 3/8 ratchet is still ergonomic and comfortable to handle. Ideal to use for most applications and designed for professional users, this tool promises years of dependable use. It also comes at an attractive price point, just what you need from the best value pick.

Stanley 91-929 Ratchet Video Review


TEKTON Ratchet

Highlights

  • Offset handle
  • 72-tooth oval head
  • 5-degree arc swing
  • Forged head
  • Quick-release feature

Design

At first glance, the TEKTON ratchet seems to be made from plastic. However, under the resin sleeve hides a durable chrome vanadium steel core that offers dependability to the tool. Compatible with a range of sockets, this ratchet is a must-have in your arsenal.

Price Point

Ratchets are typically inexpensive pieces of equipment, but this one is even cheaper.  It comes at a more than attractive price point and boasts universal compatibility. Perfect to use by pros or amateurs; this tool will definitely bring you years of dependable use.

Overall Assessment

Built with the inexperienced users in mind, this dependable ratchet comes with an offset handle that gives extra clearance to the fingers and a slim design that reaches even the remote fasteners. The high-impact composite shell adds further value, staying comfortable even in cold temperatures.


TEKTON Swivel Head Ratchet

Highlights

  • Round swivel head
  • 5-degree arc swing
  • Forged head and body
  • Molded handle
  • Non-slip grip

Swivel Head

Another entry from TEKTON, this round swivel head ratchet brings versatility to the table. You can use it even in the tighter spaces without compromising on comfort. Besides the 270-degree swivel, the ratchet is also compatible with most types of sockets.

Construction

Made from high-quality materials, this ratchet boasts a forged and heat-treated head and body constructed in chrome molybdenum steel. The material is resistant to corrosion, while the plated chrome finish adds the wow factor to the tool.

Overall Assessment

Comfortable to handle and designed for all types of users, this ratchet comes with a comfortable molded handle with soft grip; a lock-on push-button ensures a quick fix and quick release of the sockets while preventing dropped sockets. Moreover, the 72-tooth round head needs only a 5-degree arc swing.


DeWalt DWMT71804 Ratchet

Highlights

  • Slim head
  • 5-degree arc swing
  • One-hand operation
  • High-torque ratcheting
  • Directional lever

Slim Profile

Designed for unrivaled maneuverability in constricted areas, this 3/8 ratchet by DeWalt boasts a slim head and even slimmer handle profile. Despite not coming with a soft grip, the handle is ergonomic and comfortable to hold.

Quick Release

Built with performance in mind, this tool comes with a quick-release socket-change button that allows for a quick and hassle-free change of the sockets. You can easily operate the tool with just one hand, while the provided torque is absolutely impressive.

Overall Assessment

Undoubtedly one of the best 3/8 ratchets on the market; this tool is perfect for beginners and appeals to professionals alike. A 5-degree arc swing and comfortable design allow you to use it in most circumstances.


Conclusion

Whether you have to deal with car tire fasteners or are a contractor in need of a reliable tool, the best 3/8 ratchet is a must-have in your arsenal. There are many models to choose from, yet getting the one that’s right for you is often a hassle. Nonetheless, I know hope you now know which are some of your best options.


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