What's the difference between standard and deep sockets, and when would I use each?

Standard sockets are best for accessing fasteners with plenty of clearance around them. Deep sockets, like some Grey Pneumatic impact sockets, provide extra length to reach recessed fasteners or those on long bolts. Consider a deep socket if you frequently work on engines or suspensions where access is limited. Keep in mind that deep sockets may not fit in tight spaces where a standard socket would work.

What does '6 point' vs. '12 point' refer to in socket design, and which is better?

The terms '6 point' and '12 point' refer to the internal shape of the socket that grips the fastener. A 6-point socket grips the fastener on its six corners, offering a more secure grip and reducing the risk of rounding off the fastener, especially when dealing with stubborn or corroded bolts. A 12-point socket engages the fastener at twice as many points making it faster to engage the fastener. For most high-torque applications, a 6-point socket, like the Grey Pneumatic 3/8 Inch Drive Magnetic 6 Pt Deep Length Impact Socket, is generally preferred.

What does 'SAE' mean, and why is it important when choosing a socket set?

'SAE' stands for Society of Automotive Engineers, and in the context of sockets, it refers to sockets measured in inches. It's crucial to choose the correct measurement system, as SAE and metric sockets are not interchangeable. Using the wrong size can damage the fastener or the socket. If you're working on American-made vehicles or equipment, you'll likely need SAE sockets.

What's the difference between impact and non-impact sockets?

Impact sockets are specifically designed for use with impact wrenches and drivers. They are made from a tougher alloy steel, like chrome-molybdenum (Cr-Mo), and undergo a different heat treatment process to withstand the high torque and repeated impacts. Non-impact sockets, often made from chrome vanadium (Cr-V) steel, are not designed for impact tools and can shatter or crack under high stress. Always use impact-rated sockets with impact tools for safety and tool longevity.

What are 'driver sockets' and what are they used for?

Driver sockets aren't for standard nuts and bolts; instead, they are designed to fit specific types of fasteners like Torx, hex, or spline bolts. For example, Sunex Tools makes a variety of Torx driver sockets. Using the correct driver socket ensures a secure grip and prevents damage to the fastener head. Common applications include automotive repair, machinery maintenance, and electronics assembly.

What are tap sockets used for?

Tap sockets are designed to hold and drive taps, which are tools used to create internal threads in holes. They provide a more secure and efficient way to turn a tap compared to using a wrench directly on the tap's square end. Tap sockets, like those from Lisle, are especially useful in tight spaces where a T-handle tap wrench won't fit. Be sure to select the correct tap socket size for the tap you are using.

What should I consider when choosing a socket set if I work on classic cars?

When working on classic cars, consider the age and origin of the vehicle. Many older American cars use SAE fasteners, so a comprehensive SAE socket set is essential. Also, consider the condition of the fasteners. Older vehicles often have corroded or damaged bolts, so investing in high-quality sockets that provide a secure grip, like 6-point sockets, is crucial to prevent rounding off the fastener heads. Penetrating oil and patience are also your friends.

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Genius Tools | MS-090S | 90PC 3/8" Dr. SAE Master Socket Set

Name: 90PC 3/8" Dr. SAE Master Socket Set
Brand: Genius Tools
SKU: 135107
Price: 422.22 USD
Availability: LimitedAvailability
Rating: 3 (1 reviews)

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90PC 3/8" Dr. SAE Master Socket Set MS-090S

Item No.	Description
3/8" Dr. 12 pt. SAE Hand Socket
373208	1/4" Hand Socket 28mmL
373210	5/16" Hand Socket 28mmL
373211	11/32" Hand Socket 28mmL
373212	3/8" Hand Socket 28mmL
373214	7/16" Hand Socket 30mmL
373216	1/2" Hand Socket 30mmL
373218	9/16" Hand Socket 30mmL
373219	19/32" Hand Socket 30mmL
373220	5/8" Hand Socket 30mmL
373222	11/16" Hand Socket 32mmL
373224	3/4" Hand Socket 32mmL
373225	25/32" Hand Socket 32mmL
373226	13/16" Hand Socket 32mmL
373228	7/8" Hand Socket 32mmL
3/8" Dr. 12 pt. SAE Universal Hand Socket
365612	3/8" Universal Hand Socket 51mmL
365614	7/16" Universal Hand Socket 51mmL
365616	1/2" Universal Hand Socket 51mmL
365618	9/16" Universal Hand Socket 52mmL
365620	5/8" Universal Hand Socket 54mmL
365622	11/16" Universal Hand Socket 56mmL
365624	3/4" Universal Hand Socket 56mmL
3/8" Dr. 6 pt. SAE Deep Hand Socket
386308	1/4" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386310	5/16" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386311	11/32" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386312	3/8" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386314	7/16" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386316	1/2" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386318	9/16" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386319	19/32" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386320	5/8" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386322	11/16" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386324	3/4" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386325	25/32" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386326	13/16" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
386328	7/8" Deep Hand Socket 63mmL
3/8" Dr. 6 pt. SAE Deep Impact Socket
366310	5/16'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366311	11/32'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366312	3/8'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366314	7/16'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366316	1/2'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366318	9/16'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366319	19/32'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366320	5/8'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366322	11/16'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366324	3/4'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366325	25/32'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366326	13/16'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
366328	7/8'' Deep Impact Socket 63mmL
3/8" Dr. Assorted Bit Socket
308+3108	1/8" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
308+3110	5/32" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
308+3112	3/16" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
308+3114	7/32" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
308+3116	1/4" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
310+3128	9/32" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
310+3130	5/16" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
312+3134	3/8" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
314+3138	7/16" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
316+3142	1/2" Hex Bit Socket 50mmL
308+3608	1/8" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
308+3610	5/32" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
308+3612	3/16" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
308+3614	7/32" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
308+3616	1/4" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
310+3618	9/32" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
310+3620	5/16" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
312+3624	3/8" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
314+3628	7/16" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
316+3632	1/2" Hex Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6610	T-10 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6615	T-15 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6620	T-20 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6625	T-25 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6627	T-27 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6630	T-30 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+6640	T-40 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
310+6645	T-45 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
310+6650	T-50 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
340+6655	T-55 Star Bit Socket 140mmL
308+8104	M4 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
308+8105	M5 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
308+8106	M6 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
310+8108	M8 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
340+8110	M10 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
342+8112	M12 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
344+8114	M14 Triple Square Bit Socket 50mmL
Accessory
320075	3/8" Dr. Extension Bar 75mmL (3"L)
320200	3/8" Dr. Extension Bar 200mmL (8"L)
380336P	3/8" Dr. Hinge Handle 230mmL (9"L)
381803P	3/8" Dr. 72 Teeth Rotor Ratchet 250mmL (10"L)
380372S	3/8" Dr. 72 Teeth Ratchet 230mmL (9"L)
Plastic Tray 1/1