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Impact sockets worth it?

I stick with the impact sockets when using the impact gun. Years ago, I was using a Craftsman socket with an impact gun. The chrome split on the socket and shredded my fingers. The stuff was so sharp that I didn't even know it was cutting me up until it was too late. It's amazing how fast that stuff can remove your fingerprints.... :o
 
I'll use a standard socket on the gun when clearance is a problem, but I break it loose with a breaker-bar. then spin it out with the gun. ;)
 
I bought a set of impact sockets from autozone. they were less than $30. Been using them for years
 
Ive got a set of harbor freight impact sockets too and they've treated me well...

as with most of you im sure, I love high quality, big name, high dollar tools but in reality I cant afford to fill my toolboxes with snap-on and the likes.. sometimes Im on a budget and will buy the cheaper stuff especially if its not used on a regular basis.. my toolbox that I keep in the truck has a bunch of harbor freight stuff in it (wrench sets, allen wrenches, etc) and some cheap ratchets and what not and it all works real well and im not terribly afraid of loaning it out or getting it dirty or breaking it or modifying the tools for special usage.... 3 cheers for harbor freight.
 
I'd definately go with impact. They're a bit more, but props to the guy who can break one of them... I've shot pieces of socket across my garage when I didn't use impact!
 
Didn't read whole post but, IF you insist on using chrome sockets on impacts don't hold onto them. If they split and spin they will shred your hand.
 
You'll acutally find that you can get away with just one set of impact sockets, if you just get the metric set. The larger sizes of metric has worked on every SAE bolt, without rounding or damaging anything. 6 pt metrics will work on SAE's, but not the other way around.

I think however, anything under about 15mm, this doesnt apply.

I bought a set of craftsman metric sockets, and have been impacting away for years. Never a problem.

i'd shy away from using the shiny ones, they dont handle impact stuff very well, and tend to crack. I Didnt know about the hand shredding thing, thats kinda scary.
 
Using my IR 2135TI on 110psi, I turned a 1/2" drive, 1 1/2" 6-point standard (chrome) socket into something that resembled a .45ACP Hydra-Shok after it's removed from a "victim". Thankfully, I didn't have my off-hand on the socket - otherwise my coworkers probably would've been picking up parts of my fingers while I waited for the meat wagon...
 
I also use the HF impact sockets and they have lasted okay. When they wear out I will probably just buy another set since they are so cheap.

Save your money and just get a good impact gun.
 
Impact sockets are thicker walled because the metal is softer than chrome "hand drive" sockets. The softer metal absorbs the shock of the impacts, and doesn't shatter.

You should never use a chrome socket on an impact, unless you break it loose by hand first and then use the impact simply to spin on and/or off the bolt/stud. Think of new building designs in California that are engineered to flex with earth quakes to absorb and dissipate the energy from the shock waves. This is what the thick walls of your impact sockets will do.

As for clearance issues, you can get some very low clearance impact sockets from reputable dealers. Also, try moving to a smaller gun (IR 2135TI is the shiatsnat). I sell this stuff for a living, so if you have any other questions about tools and what not feel free to ask.
 
I use to have the same thought. Oh well they break I bring them back. Until the chrome socket broke and a piece hit about 1/4 in from my eye leaveing a scar. Luckily its only a scar and I still have the eye. Spend the extra cake for safety sake.
 
do a search on harbor frieght tools sells impact sockets for cheap online and they are made by pennsylvnia tool and are lifetime warrantied
 
I might be wrong but I'll bet you are talking about the "Pittsburb" brand, if so those are imported. They are a great tool for the money, but not made in the USA.
 
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