Snap-on is know for its quality and warranty, even if the price tags on its tools can be somewhat expensive.
Snap-on tools are arguably the most well-regarded among automotive professionals nationwide, rivaling MAC tools for placement in professional shops and NASCAR and Indycar garages. The quality and pedigree of Snap-on’s equipment comes at a cost, however, with even many of their most basic tools carrying hefty prices.
Snap-on’s name comes from its pioneering product, the world’s first interchangeable socket set, which was a revolutionary development when founders Joseph Johnson and William Seidemann created it for mechanics working on the motorcars that were becoming increasingly common in the early 1920s.
Snap-on’s line of tools has since evolved to include power tools, welding and plasma cutting equipment, electronic diagnostic gear, hydraulic lifts, air compressors and tools, electric power tools and accessories, equipment to service automotive air conditioning systems and batteries, a wide array of hand tools, and everything you need to properly outfit an auto shop from parts and pressure washers to overhead lighting and computer diagnostic systems.
Despite the fact that many of Snap-on’s tools are priced at well above the $200 mark, its line is backed by a lifetime warranty, and the company has a long-standing reputation for producing quality products. Let’s take a look at some of the offerings that are well worth the significant expense.3-pc ratchet handle set
One essential part of any mechanic’s tool set is a reliable set of ratchet handles, and Snap-on’s entry-level three-piece blue-point series quick-release ratchet handle set at $228.50 is one of the best values in its entire catalog. The set includes 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ contoured chrome handles and a storage tray.
All three handles feature a socket release button on the back side of the head and a forward/reverse switch just below the release button. The handles are made in Taiwan and are built to meet or exceed 1996 ANSI specifications.
Like many of Snap-on’s other hand tools, this ratchet handle set is covered by Snap-on’s lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and failure under normal use.
