12 or 6 Point Sockets,? Not so simple answer.
Which sockets should you buy? Generally you would want the 6 point sockets because the 6 point sockets are stronger than 12 point sockets. Also 6 point sockets are less prone to rounding off bolts or nuts because a 6 point socket will grip the bolt or nut better than a 12 point socket. But there are situations where the thinner walled 12 point socket will get in tight areas that a 6 point socket can not. So a quality 6 point socket set with socket walls that are designed thinner than most 6 point sockets would be your best choice. Rather than buying a extra 12 point socket set, it most mechanical situations, an amateur week-end DIY mechanic would be better to but a 6 point 1/4 inch drive socket set. The smaller 1/4 inch 6 point socket set can get into tighter places than a 3/8 inch drive 12 point socket set. But since the 1/4 inch drive is weaker than a 3/8 inch drive racket and socket set, you would want to get a quality USA made 1/4 inch drive ratchet and socket set. The USA made 1/4 inch drive ratchet and socket sets often contain some bigger socket sizes like the 15 mm, 9/16 in and 5/8 in sockets. The higher quality 1/4 drive ratchets and sockets can handle these larger sized sockets and it does come in very handy when working on today’s modern engines with cramped engine compartments and front wheel drive (FWD).
Post time: Jun-12-2017