Discover the Top 5 Best Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench Sets for 2023
Ratcheting wrench sets are the perfect combination of a traditional wrench and a traditional socket set. They are perfect for removing nuts and bolts in hard-to-reach places. But sometimes, a traditional fixed-head wrench is not enough, which is why most mechanics keep both a regular set as well as a flex head set in their toolbox at all times.Finding the best flex head ratcheting wrench set can make your repair jobs much more enjoyable, you’ll find our 4 picks below.
Regular Wrench Vs Flex Head
Wrenches are one of the most important tools in any mechanics’ toolbox. In fact, most people have at least one set of open and boxed-end wrenches in their collection. And although traditional fixed head wrenches are extremely functional, there are times when they are just not enough to complete the job.
Socket sets are also a crucial extension to any tool collection, due to their versatility and ratcheting action. More recently, ratcheting wrenches have become a mainstay, as they are the perfect blend of a traditional boxed-end wrench and a socket set.
Today, you have two different options when it comes to choosing a ratcheting wrench set. The first option is more of a traditional wrench with ratcheting action at either the open-end or the boxed-end. The second of course is a flexible head ratcheting wrench set, which has a head that can be angled up to 90 degrees in either direction.
Without a question, when it comes to strength, the traditional fixed head ratcheting wrench is stronger. Where the flex head ratchets lack in overall torqueing strength, they make up in versatility. Because of their slimmer design, both styles can easily reach into tighter spots in order to break loose a stubborn nut or bolt.
The traditional ratcheting wrench is best when you need more torque. Because the flex head has a pivot point near the head, there is a chance of shearing off the pin under high loads. Because of the joint, the action of a flex head also tends to be sloppier. Nevertheless, flex head ratchets do serve an important purpose.
When working on a project, it is not always possible to keep the wrench perfectly in line with the nut or bolt. There may be other features in the area that prevent a traditional wrench from being used. Because a flex head ratcheting wrench is more versatile, is able to get into tighter locations than the traditional wrench. It is because of this versatility, that most mechanics keep a set of flex head wrenches alongside their regular wrench sets.
Here Are Our 5 picks for Best Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench Set:
GEARWRENCH 16 Pc. 12 Pt. Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set, Metric – 9902D
- 16-piece set made from high-quality chrome vanadium
- Range: 8 mm – 25 mm
- 5-degree swing with 72 teeth ratcheting mechanism
- 90-degree pivoting head
- Weight: 8.54 pounds
This excellent 16-piece flex head ratcheting wrench set is made of high-quality chrome vanadium and features an open-end wrench on one end, and a ratcheting boxed-end wrench on the other. Featuring 16 metric-sized wrenches that range from 8 mm all the way up to 25 mm, this Gearwrench combination set has a 5-degree swing thanks to the 72 teeth in the ratcheting mechanism. The head is able to pivot up to 90 degrees in each direction. While the overall weight of this ratcheting combo set comes in at a whopping 8.54 pounds, the weight is evenly distributed amongst the 16-pieces, making it comparable to most smaller sets available today.
Anbull Ratcheting Wrench Set with Open Flex-head, Metric Tubing Combination Wrench Set,9pcs Tubing Ratchet Wrench
- 9-piece set made from durable chrome vanadium
- Range: 8 mm – 17 mm
- 5-degree swing with 72 teeth ratcheting mechanism
- 90-degree pivoting head
- Weight: 4.76 pounds
This powerful 9-piece ratcheting wrench set is made of durable chrome vanadium and is a double open-ended wrench, with one end having a ratcheting action. The Anbull metric ratcheting wrench set covers virtually all sizes from 8 mm up to 17 mm. With 72 teeth in the ratcheting mechanism, you will only need to swing the ratchet 5 degrees between turns, and with a 90-degree pivoting head, you will be able to reach into tighter places using this popular wrench set. Weighing in at 4.76 pounds, this 9-piece wrench set weighs as much as a traditional 12-piece set.
JH Williams MWS-12RCF 12-Piece Metric Reversible Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set
- 12-piece set made from chrome vanadium
- Range: 8 mm – 19 mm
- Less than 5-degree swing with 80 teeth ratcheting mechanism
- 90-degree pivoting head
- Weight: Over 5 pounds
This versatile 12-piece ratcheting wrench set is made of chrome vanadium and features a ratcheting action boxed-end wrench on one end, and a traditional open-ended wrench on the other. The JH Williams ratcheting combination set features every size from 8 mm up to 19 mm, all of which have a 6-point boxed-end. With 80 teeth in the ratcheting mechanism, you will be able to swing the ratchet less than 5 degrees at a time, which makes it a more versatile wrench than many other options available today. Thanks to its 90-degree pivoting head, it is easy to get into tight places in order to loosen stubborn bolts. This combination wrench set weighs in at over 5 pounds which makes it one of the heavier sets available on the market.
Dewalt DWMT19229 12PC MM Flexible Ratcheting Wrench Set
- 12-piece set made from high-quality chrome vanadium steel
- Range: 8 mm – 19 mm
- 5-degree swing with 72 teeth ratcheting mechanism
- 90-degree pivoting head
- Weight: 3.66 pounds
This Dewalt 12-piece wrench set is made using the highest quality chrome vanadium steel and features a ratcheting boxed-end wrench on one end. This popular metric wrench set covers all sizes from 8 mm up to 19 mm but features a 12-point boxed-end wrench. Nevertheless, with 72 teeth in the ratcheting mechanism, it will still be easy to tighten or loosen any not or bolt, 5 degrees at a time. Like most flex head ratcheting wrench sets, the Dewalt is able to pivot up to 90 degrees in either direction. At only 3.66 pounds, this set is one of the lightest 12-piece sets available today.
Olsa Tools Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench Set
- Designed for tight spaces with 120 teeth and a 3.0-degree swing arc
- Easily extracts damaged fasteners, handling bolts up to 80% rounded
- Includes metric sizes: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 mm
- Comes with an organizer tray for easy portability and organization
- Forged from industrial-grade 6140 Chrome Vanadium (Cr-V) steel
- 4.7-star rating from 218 ratings
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects
The Olsa Tools Flex Head Ratcheting Wrench Set is a versatile, high-quality toolset that can handle a variety of tasks, from everyday fixes to more complex jobs. With its exceptional grip and durable construction, this set is a valuable addition to any toolbox. The included organizer tray and the backing of a limited lifetime warranty add even more value to this set.Regenerate response
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a weekend DIY warrior, having a reliable flex head ratcheting wrench set can make your work easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. The five sets reviewed here all offer unique features and benefits to help you get the job done right. Choose the one that best suits your needs and get wrenching!
Commonly Asked Questions:
Is it worth buying ratcheting wrenches?
Yes, buying ratcheting wrenches is generally considered worth it, especially if you often work with nuts and bolts. They can significantly speed up your work because they allow for continuous operation without needing to remove and refit the wrench after each turn. They are also particularly helpful when working in tight spaces where movement is restricted.
What are the three most common ratcheting wrenches?
The most common types of ratcheting wrenches are:
- Box Ratcheting Wrenches: These have a closed loop (or box) on one end that fits over a bolt or nut. The ratcheting mechanism within the box allows you to turn the bolt or nut without removing the wrench.
- Open-End Ratcheting Wrenches: These have an open end but incorporate a ratcheting mechanism, allowing for greater speed and efficiency compared to regular open-end wrenches.
- Combination Ratcheting Wrenches: These are a combination of the above two types – one end is a box ratcheting wrench and the other is an open-end ratcheting wrench. These are quite popular due to their versatility.
Who makes Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches?
Gearwrench ratcheting wrenches are made by Apex Tool Group, a large tool manufacturer based in Sparks, Maryland, USA. Apex Tool Group is known for its wide range of hand and power tools, and Gearwrench is one of their most popular brands, known for its innovative design and high-quality construction.
Are stubby ratcheting wrenches worth it?
Yes, stubby ratcheting wrenches can be worth it, especially when working in tight or confined spaces where a full-size wrench won’t fit. Their shorter length allows for better maneuverability and control in such situations. However, they may not be suitable for all tasks due to their shorter leverage. As with any tool, whether they are worth it or not will depend on your specific needs and the type of work you typically do.
