Sockets
Hand and Impact Sockets by Drive Size
Sockets in this collection range from chrome ratchet sets to impact-rated sets for impact wrenches. Milwaukee leads with PACKOUT ratchet and socket sets in 1/4- and 3/8-inch drive, SHOCKWAVE impact duty sets in 3/8- and 1/2-inch drive, a lug nut wheel set, INSIDER box ratchet sockets, and extensions and adapters. Klein, DeWALT, and Makita add impact socket sets and a hollow socket. Festool Centrotec socket adapters let a Festool drill drive sockets.
What to Look For
- Drive size. 1/4-inch for small fasteners, 3/8-inch for general work, and 1/2-inch for lug nuts and heavy bolts.
- Impact rating. Use impact duty sockets on impact wrenches and drivers. Chrome hand sockets can crack under impact.
- Depth and points. Deep 6-point sockets reach studs and grip nut flats without rounding corners.
- Storage. PACKOUT sets ship in organizers that click into the PACKOUT system.
Shop sockets and socket sets at The Tool Nut, an authorized dealer since 1994, with free shipping on most orders and rewards points on every purchase.
Sockets FAQ
Can I use chrome sockets on an impact wrench?
No. Chrome hand sockets are harder and more brittle. Impact sockets like Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE are made to absorb repeated impacts. Impact sockets work fine on a hand ratchet.
SAE, metric, or both?
Domestic vehicles and equipment mix both. A combined SAE and metric set, such as the Milwaukee 106-piece PACKOUT set, avoids a second purchase later.