Thanks, headed to sears

 

So what you are saying TUCCI is, don't necessarily judge a tool by what it cost.

The bolt in the vise is a good idea for a test DRIVE... I'll remember that. Good idea! Maybe I'll test drive the HF $12.99 TW!

 

BE ADVISED, Craftsman torque wrenches do NOT carry the lifetime warranty like some of their tools still do, and it typically cost more to get one fixed than it does to just buy another one. I've had issues with three craftsman wrenches. You may not be a pro mechanicic but it is still cheaper in the long run to buy a professional torque wrench once than it is to buy several of a lesser quality. MAC, SNAP-ON,Blackhawk, or similar would be my recommendation, they do have a lifetime warranty.

 

Proto, cheap version of Mac. $250 and you could have all three wrenches you need.

 

ive got the better craftsman ones in both 3/8 flb and the in lb one too...works great and didnt break my bank..i got the in lb one this black friday for 39 reg 79!

 

+1!!!

Had a couple of Crapsman ones go bad on me, and will never get another. Years ago, that name meant something, but like most things now, it has gone down the crapper or to China. Same thing.

I over-torqued a few bolts over the years with them waiting for the click only to realize too late that click wasn't coming. Son of @#$%^&!!!

fabrik8r has is right. It's worth springing for a couple good torque wrench.

 

I've read several threads about torque wrenches, but I've rarely seen recommendations for an exact model and where it can be purchased. When someone recommends a brand, there are usually dozens of wrenches to choose from and unless you really know what you're looking for, it's mostly confusing. Some recommendations for exact makes and models would be very helpful.

Also, I think I saw someone refer to a pro-quality wrench that can do both the ft-lb and in-lb ranges. Does that sound familiar to anyone? Are there disadvantages to going with something like that?

 

FWIW I got the 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2" wrenches at HF and Northern tool. Reasonably priced and good for occasional use. If I used for a living, I would have better quality. As a bit of advice, if the required torque is low, as in inch pounds, don't put your shoulder into it, just in case the wrench malfunctions. Used to be full time with the National Guard and they had a torque wrench calibrator that I checked other wrenches with.

 

bought mine at northern tool. On sale for 29.99. 3/8 drive 5-80ft lbs. click type

 

Snap-On for me. Yes, they are high $$$, but I know when I grab it, that it's going to work, and work properly.