The DeWalt DWMT86311OSP 16 mm 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Metric Socket is a single metric hand socket built for fastening and mechanical service work. This is a 6-point socket designed for turning 16 mm metric fasteners with a 3/8 inch drive ratchet, extension, or breaker bar. Model Number: DWMT86311OSP. If you need a common metric size for automotive work, equipment maintenance, or general shop use, this is the kind of socket that earns a permanent spot on the rail.

The main selling point here is DeWalt's DirectTorque technology. In practical terms, that matters because socket fit is what separates a clean removal from a rounded bolt head. A well-designed 6-point metric socket grips the flats of the fastener more securely than a looser-fitting socket, which is exactly what you want when working on rusty hardware, high-torque applications, or fasteners that have already seen a few years of abuse.

The 6-point design is the right call for users who care more about grip and durability than all-angle convenience. On stubborn bolts and nuts, a 6-point socket gives better contact than a 12-point style and is generally the smarter choice for service work where damaged fasteners cost time. Since this socket is sized specifically at 16 mm, it is aimed at users building out a dependable metric socket lineup rather than buying an oversized set just to get one size they actually use.

Material matters on hand tools, and this socket is made from chrome vanadium steel. That gives it the strength and wear resistance you want from an individual drive socket that may see regular ratchet, extension, and breaker bar use. The polished chrome vanadium finish also helps protect against chipping and flaking, which is useful in a toolbox, service cart, or job box where tools get knocked around.

DeWalt also adds a knurled control ring and hard stamped markings. Those sound like small details until you are working with greasy fingers, gloves, or poor lighting. The knurled ring makes pickup and socket changes easier, while the hard stamped size marking helps you identify the 16 mm socket quickly without the painted markings wearing off after repeated use.

This socket fits into a standard 3/8 inch drive setup, which makes it a practical middle-ground size for a lot of day-to-day fastening tasks. It is a good match for mechanics, maintenance techs, installers, and serious DIY users who already work with 3/8 inch ratchets and want a dedicated metric socket instead of an all-in-one compromise. If your work regularly involves metric hardware and you want reliable grip, straightforward sizing, and a durable chrome vanadium body, this DeWalt socket makes sense.

DeWalt DWMT86311OSP 16 mm 3/8 Inch Drive 6-Point Metric Socket Gets the Basics Right

This is the kind of individual socket you buy when you want reliable grip, clear size markings, and no nonsense in the box.

• Who it's for: Mechanics, maintenance techs, and DIY users who already run a 3/8 inch drive setup and need a dedicated 16 mm metric socket.
• Why it stands out: The 6-point design, DirectTorque geometry, chrome vanadium construction, and knurled ring all work toward one thing: better control on real fasteners.
• Worth knowing: This is a single socket, not a set. If 16 mm is one of your frequent sizes, that is actually a plus because you are not paying for sizes you never touch.

• Is this a metric or SAE socket? This is a metric socket sized at 16 mm.
• What drive size does it use? It uses a 3/8 inch drive.
• Is this a 6-point or 12-point socket? This is a 6-point socket.
• What material is it made from? The socket is made from chrome vanadium steel with a polished finish.