Ratcheting wrench sets accommodate the most common nut and bolt sizes, so you can complete auto repairs with less tools. These multipurpose wrenches also allow you to remove or tighten fasteners in tight spaces without having to remove the wrench after every swing. To help you discover the right set for your toolbox, we’ve listed our favorite ones here.
When you swing a regular wrench handle in one direction and back, the head also moves, so you have to remove the tool and reset to prevent movement. With a ratchet wrench, only the handle moves even when you swing back and forth, so you save time on removing and resetting with every nut and bolt.
Ratcheting wrench sets come in different-size heads that cover a wide range of fasteners. Handy storage bags help keep you organized and some come with labeled pockets for easier identification. Let’s take a look at some of your options.
ToolGuards 22-Piece Ratcheting Wrench Set
Best Roll-Up Storage
The ToolGuards’ ratcheting-wrench set is a 22-piece pack that includes both metric and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) measurements. Made of chrome vanadium steel, this wrench set is suitable for heavy everyday use in auto shops. When not in use, store the set in the provided roll-up pouch.
GEARWRENCH 13-Piece SAE XL Ratcheting Wrench Set
Best Handles
With this GEARWRENCH set, you’ll be able to reach any nook and cranny thanks to extra-long handles that are 40-percent longer than the average wrench. Each of the 13 wrenches provide Surface Drive technology to prevent your fasteners from smoothing out and rounding.
Apollo Tools 5-Piece SAE Ratcheting Wrench Set
Best Starter Set
The Apollo Tools set is the best starter’s set with five commonly used sizes: 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, and 11/16 inches. With chrome plating, heat-treated steel alloy, and thorough standard testing, these corrosion-resistant wrenches will last a lifetime for small repairs around the shop or as a backup set to your main toolbox.
Ratcheting wrench sets offer an easy way to tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. A nonmoving head mechanism allows you to get the job done without constantly removing and resetting your tool like you would with a normal wrench. With any of the tools on our list, both novice mechanics and experts in the trade will discover a set that matches their needs.
