| Husky | Craftsman | |
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If you are a mechanic by trade or you enjoy working on cars in your spare time, it is essential that you have the right tools to do the job. You may find that your company doesn’t provide the tools to do the job, such as wrenches, spark plug sockets, and the rest, or you may believe that the tools from the company aren’t the best.
Husky Mechanics Tool Set
The Husky Mechanics Tool Set Kit has 268 pieces with a case. The tools are made of chromium steel, making it a highly durable product. The set itself includes a variety of tools, including:
- 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inch quick-release ratchets
- 23 standard length 1/4 inch 6-pt sockets
- 10 standard length 1/4-inch 12-pt sockets
- 21 Deep 1/4-inch 6-pt sockets
- 28 Standard length 3/8-inch 6-pt sockets
- Five standard length 3/8-inch 8-pt sockets
- 22 standard length 3/8-inch 12-pt sockets
- 16 Deep 3/8-inch 6-pt sockets
- Two 3/8-inch spark plug sockets
- 3/8-inch drill bit socket
- 22 Standard length ½-inch drill bit 12-pt socket
- 12 Deep ½-inch drill 12-pt sockets
- 20 combination wrenches
- 80 accessories and drilling tools
Advantages/Functionality
While many people may wonder about the extensiveness of the tools and how many you receive, you’re likely to need them all so that you can perform a variety of tasks. With all these tools, you can easily do whatever you need to do.
Along with such, the chrome finish adds corrosion resistance, which means you don’t have to worry as much about the tools rusting. However, you should care for them appropriately as listed in the manual. It’s best to wipe them down with a soft cloth after each use and before putting it back snugly in its case.
You’ll also find large stamped size markings on each tool, which allows for easy readability.
The hex keys, nut driver bits, and screwdriver are formed using heat-treated S2 steel for more wear protection and strength.
The chromium steel makes it more durable, and it is a hard metal. It is primarily added to stainless steel products to increase corrosion resistance, thereby lowering the oxidation process. However, the tools should not come in contact with water and should be completely dried before going into the case to prevent issues.
Technical/Performance Issues
There are no technical issues with this product. However, the drawers of the case do not lock in place, which can cause it to open unexpectedly.
Is This Product Recommended?
We say that the Husky Mechanics Tool set Kit is an excellent purchase because it comes to you in new condition, so you’re sure that the products have never been used before.
- Full polished chrome finish easily wipes clean of oil and dirt
- Sockets and wrenches feature chamfered lead-ins help to provide fast and easy placement onto drive tools and fasteners
- Metric and inch sizes available
- Priced reasonably for all that you get
- Compact design
- Easy to take on jobs or move around the shop
- Not as heavy as you’d think
- Plastic storage case is stamped with size markings for easy identification and organization
- Lifetime warranty with no questions, no receipt required
- 10mm Allen/hex bit is largest size
- Drawers can get stick
- Drawers do not lock in place
- Somewhat of a challenge to get tools out because of snugness
- No room for additional tools
- Set includes (3) 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 in. dr. quick release ratchets, (23) standard length 1/4 dr. 6-pt. socket,(10) standard length 1/4 dr. 12-pt. socket, (21) deep 1/4 dr. 6-pt. socket, (28) standard length 3/8 dr. 6-pt. socket, (5) standard length 3/8 dr. 8-pt. socket, (22) standard length 3/8 dr. 12-pt. socket,
- (16) deep 3/8 dr. 6-pt. socket, (2) 3/8 dr. spark plug socket, (190 3/8 dr. bit socket, (22) standard length 1/2 dr. 12-pt. socket, (12) deep 1/2 dr. 12-pt. socket, (20) combination wrenches and (80) other accessory and dr. tools
- 72-tooth ratchets need a only 5 degree arc swing to turn fasteners. Quick release button allows sockets and drive tools to be easily removed from the ratchet. Plastic storage case is stamped with size markings for easy identification and organization.
- Full polished chrome finish easily wipes clean of oil and dirt Tools are forged from chromium-vanadium (Cr-V) steel for outstanding durability and strength.
- Sockets and wrenches feature chamfered lead-ins help to provide fast and easy placement onto drive tools and fasteners. Chrome finish provides corrosion resistance and added durability Large, hard-stamped size markings allow for easy readability Hex keys, screwdriver and nut driver bits are formed from heat-treated S2 tool steel for added strength and wear protection.
What the Customers Say
The customers who have already purchased this product claim that it is a very nice tool set and they love them. They also comment on the price, saying that it is an excellent price for what you get. However, some customers have mentioned that you can purchase the set at regular hardware stores, as well.
A few customers remarked that the drawers can get stuck and that the weight doesn’t seem comparable to the durability of the tools.
Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set
The Craftsman mechanics tool set includes 230 pieces and comes with a sturdy hard-case carrying case. The tools are made using alloy steel and come with a silver finish (other than the hex wrenches). You get a variety of tools with this product, including:
- Three quick-release hatches in various sizes
- 116 sockets in various sizes and depths (1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 inch drives
- Two extension bars (3/8 inch and 1/4 inch)
- Six Combination wrenches (labeled in both metric and inch sizes)
- One magnetic handle
- 12 nut driver bits (labeled in both metric and inch sizes)
- 50 screwdriver bits
- 40 Hex keys (labeled in both metric and inch sizes)
The product itself is coined the ‘number one selling’ toolset for mechanics, and the product doesn’t disappoint.
Advantages/Functionality
There are a variety of advantages to purchasing and using this product. It has all of the tools that you will need to become a mechanic, and it is considered an excellent first tool set. If your family member or friend requires it for work (or you need it), you may find that it has all the tools and sizes you require.
The carrying case is made of plastic, which means it will not break easily. Therefore, you can keep all your tools organized and together. You no longer have to worry about losing a tool.
Plus, each tool fits a particular space within the case; if you have to remove many tools, you won’t have much trouble putting them all back in the right locations.
Technical/Performance Issues
It is also best to keep all the tools in the carrying case when they aren’t being used and keep the carrying case closed to prevent excess air and moisture from getting to the tools.
One performance issue is that the carrying case can be opened multiple ways; if you open it incorrectly, the wrenches and sockets will fall out. Of course, you can always put them back inside and somehow mark the right way to open the case, but it can be cumbersome and time-consuming to put everything back inside correctly.
This is especially challenging when you’re at work and should be working on cars instead of reorganizing your mechanic’s toolset.
Is This Product Recommended?
If you are just starting out to become a mechanic or want to work on cars at home in your spare time, this product might be right for you. However, this product is not considered a professional tool set by most. Therefore, if you are or plan to get ASE-certified, you’re likely going to want to upgrade to a better set with more corrosion resistance, a better case, and more tools and options.
That being said, you should be aware that this product has a lifetime guarantee. If any tool breaks or becomes too damaged to use, you can return it to the manufacturer and get a replacement tool. The process isn’t quick, but it can give you peace of mind to know that you’ve got options if a tool is damaged.
- Includes plenty of necessary tools to work on cars
- Perfect for beginners
- Suitable to fix a variety of products
- Sturdy case
- Priced to sell
- Lifetime warranty
- Extension sizes are limited
- Angle universal joint adapters aren’t included
- Not as many wrenches as you’d need
- Allen wrenches come in a baggie and don’t have separate compartments in the case
- Сase can open many ways, and if you open it the wrong way, all the tools fall out
- Items can corrode with time
- Not suitable for professional (ASE-Certified) mechanics
What the Customers Say
Most customers claim that this product is an excellent choice for a first tool set, either for a son, husband, or someone wanting to go into the mechanics’ trade. However, they also mention that this product doesn’t contain everything you’d need.
Many customers also reported that the case can open many ways, and if you open it the wrong way, all the tools fall out. This can be a little bothersome, but you can mark the side you shouldn’t open to prevent issues.
The tools themselves are of high quality, as many customers remarked on this point. They also rave about the lifetime warranty, making it suitable for those who use tools hard.
The Winner Is…
We used a variety of factors to come up with our decision. We looked at:
- Materials
- How many pieces
- Case
- Ease of use
- Price
On all accounts, the Husky Mechanics Tool Set reigned supreme. The tools are made of chromium steel, which is a chromium/stainless steel mix, which helps reduce oxidation and corrosion. You also get over 30 more pieces, some of which aren’t included with the Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set. Along with such, the case is much sturdier and only opens one way, though we weren’t impressed that the Husky case was harder to open.
Of course, the tools themselves are easy to use if you know what you’re doing and they had great extenders and a small screwdriver to ensure that you can reach tight spaces.
Price was the one downfall, but we believe that the higher price is still a better overall value than what you get with the Craftsman toolset. Though the lifetime warranty does help, the fact that the tools are made of more durable materials and you get more tools made the price easier to swallow.
An Alternative Worth Considering:Stanley Set Tools
If you’re looking for something that is comparable in price to the Husky and Craftsman version with similar features and 210 tool pieces, the Stanley Mixed Tool Set is worth considering, as well.
The tools are forged with chrome vanadium, which is a variety of steel alloys that include manganese, carbon, sulfur, phosphorus, silicon, vanadium, and chromium. While they aren’t as durable as steel tools, they do offer similar properties as the Husky version.
The set has 210 pieces, which includes:
- Utility Knife
- 16-ft Tape Measure
- Four Screwdrivers (two Phillips and two Flat)
- 6-inch adjustable wrench
- 8-inch groove joint pliers
- Eight combination wrenches in inches and metric sizes
- 28 Hex key wrenches
- Four ratchets
- Spinner handle with bit adapter
- 55 different drive bits
- 17 1/4-inch drive nut bits in inch and metric sizes
- 23 1/4-inch dr. 6pt sockets in inch and metric sizes
- 21 1/4-inch dr. 6-pt Deep sockets in inch and metric sizes
- An extension bar, three-inches
- 23 3/8-inch Dr. 6pt Sockets in inch and metric sizes
- Eight 3/8-inch Dr. 6pt Deep sockets in inch and metric sizes
- 5/8-inch socket for spark plugs
- 10 1/2-inch dr. 6-pt sockets in inch and metric sizes
It also comes with a blow-molded carrying case to help you keep everything organized and allow for easier portability.
Features/Benefits
The set has everything a novice mechanic needs, and many professional mechanics enjoy all the tools, as well. It comes with many things that neither of the other tool sets offered, making it unique.
The carrying case is very sturdy and secure and uses a tri-fold feature. It also has a twist lock to secure all the tools and prevent the case from opening while traveling or working.
The polished chrome finish offers more anti-corrosion properties, and the product comes with a lifetime warranty. The tools all meet or exceed ANSI specifications, as well.
- Has 210 pieces
- Tri-fold case makes it compact
- Polished chrome finish reduces corrosion
- Lifetime warranty
- Only weighs about 20 pounds (with tools)
- Tools sometimes fit too snugly in case
- Missing pieces are prevalent; check and request replacement if needed
- CORROSION RESISTANCE: Mechanics tool set has a full polish chrome finish
- Tool sets for mechanics meet or exceed ANSI specs
- The mechanical tool set includes blow molded case for easy tool storage and portability
Is This Product Recommended?
It’s important to note that you need to stay diligent and make sure you check to ensure all 210 pieces are there when it ships to your door, as well.
Brand Information
STANLEY tools has a long history of providing the most powerful and innovative tools to professionals throughout the world so that everyone can repair, build, and protect the objects they hold dear. The company has been around since 1843, and the innovative products are still as durable and strong as ever.
The company offers a variety of tools, including hand tools, American Heritage tools, FATMAX tools, and more. You can find automotive tools, storage options, tape measures, and safety knives, as well as hammers, levels, and much more.
What Customers Are Saying
While most customers only had good things to say, including the fact that the Stanley set is a better overall product, many people did have complaints. For one, pieces were missing from the new set. While this is a problem and you want a full set for which you’ve paid, you can talk to the seller or the manufacturer and get a replacement.
The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty on the tools and case, so you can always return the broken or damaged product and get another.
Many people comment that the tools are of high quality, which is surprising because the case with all the tools is relatively light compared to other products. However, the case is designed to be ergonomic, meaning it is lighter to reduce arm muscle strain.
FAQ/Buyer’s Guide
Contents:
Is Husky a good brand of tools?
While quality control can differ between batches, overall, Husky is an excellent tool brand that offers pneumatic tools, tool storage, and hand tools. It was founded back in 1924, and its slogan is ‘the toughest name in tools.’ With a reputation like that, it’s no wonder that the company embarks on providing the best quality and workmanship possible.
While Husky tools used to be manufactured in the US, they are primarily made in Taiwan and China now. While some people dislike that fact and only want to purchase US-based products, the manufacturer still offers its lifetime warranty, which ensures that you don’t have to worry about the product breaking over time.
Do Craftsman tools still have a lifetime warranty?
Yes, Craftsman tools do still have a lifetime warranty, but only the hand tools are applicable. Items that are designed to wear out with time aren’t included in the lifetime warranty. These items can include saw blades. However, tool bits for the hand tools are also covered with the lifetime warranty.
However, the lifetime warranty does not cover any expendable parts. For example, the knife you purchased may be replaceable, but the blade within the knife is not. You do not need proof of purchase or a receipt to utilize the lifetime warranty.
Along with such, only wrenches, wrench sets, screwdrivers, ratchets/sockets, pliers, nut drivers, knives, Hex keys, finishing tools, and hammers are covered under the lifetime guarantee.
Do Husky tools have a lifetime warranty?
If you require a replacement through the lifetime warranty, you should visit the Home Depot. While the literature explaining the lifetime warranty is confusing and most manuals claim you can get a free replacement within one year of the purchase, the lifetime guarantee is solid on any Husky hand tool.
In the past, Home Depot offered a lifetime replacement guarantee on other brands, but this is no longer in effect.
How do I replace my Craftsman tools?
It can be a challenge to find a location to take your broken or defective tool. Primarily, Sears Holdings would take any broken or damaged hand tool and repair/replace it for you free of charge. However, many Sears locations closed their doors throughout the years. You can return the tool to any Craftsman outlet within the US for a free replacement or repair.
You must research retail locations near you that stock Craftsman tools; you can return the product to any of these locations. You can also call 1-888-331-4569 to find retail locations nearby.
Are Stanley tools made in the USA?
Yes, Stanley tools are still made in the USA. With many manufacturers moving overseas, some people still desire to purchase American-made products. The company has been manufacturing and selling products in America since 1843, though sometimes, the materials used to make the tools are imported from other countries.
Do Stanley tools have a lifetime warranty?
Mechanic’s tools are covered by a full lifetime warranty. If any Stanley mechanic’s tool fails for any reason, the manufacturer will replace it with a similar product. You do not need proof of purchase.
However, you cannot return the product to the store or to the seller. You should call 1-800-262-2161 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST to provide shipping information. Tools covered under the lifetime warranty include ratchets, sockets, wrenches, and drive accessories. The lifetime warranty also excludes any consequential or incidental damages.
Conclusion
If you plan to use mechanic’s tools at home to fix your beloved vehicle or are in school to become a mechanic, you need a set of tools to help you fix any issues. Most colleges require that you purchase a personal set of tools and most mechanic shops recommend that you have personal tools. Therefore, mechanic tool sets can be helpful. Those who prefer a low price above quality may want to consider the Craftsman tool box while those who want a full range of tools and accessories that are high-quality may want to purchase the Husky tools brand.
For those who want to purchase products made in the USA, Husky and Craftsman products may not be suitable for you, as both companies have moved overseas to make it cheaper to make and sell the tools. Therefore, if you’re looking for a USA-made alternative, the Stanley brand may be more suitable for your needs.
While it can be a little confusing, it is important to understand that Husky-brand tools can be found at the Home Depot. Home Depot is likely to offer a lifetime guarantee on the tools there, but the Husky manufacturer does not. Along with such, the Forever guarantee may not extend to all tools or the wearable counterparts.
Just a few short years ago, Craftsman unveiled its new lineup, which featured over 1,200 different products, such as bare tools, kitted tools, combo kits, chargers, compressor combo kits, and pneumatic nailers. Of those 1,200 products, 100 power hand tools, 130 were power tool accessories, 600 were mechanic’s tools, 60 were power equipment for the outdoors, and 50 were new and innovative storage solutions.
Stanley is also always looking for new ways to innovate. It has a variety of new products, including laser levels, metal tool storage options, new tape measures, including a 175th-anniversary version, a new 269-piece mechanic’s tool set, and metal sawhorse. Of course, the manufacturer never skimps on quality, so if you choose one of the other products, you’re still going to get full enjoyment and use out of them.
Plus, the lifetime warranty (only available for hand tools) can be highly beneficial. All the products, even the new ones, have some warranty included. If you’re unsure what is included, it is best to read through the warranty information before purchasing a product. That way, you know what is included, what to do if you need a replacement, and more.
All three companies have been around for many generations, and all work hard to provide the most innovative products available. With attention to detail and a focus on high quality, you’re sure to get many decades of use out of your new tools.
Hey John,
This is an excellent piece of article with essential details on husky and craftsman toolboxes.
I believe both of the brands offer great tools and toolboxes. But I prefer Husky over other brands as these tools are durable, great value for the money, and come with a lifetime warranty. Husky has a vast range of tools for every budget. There’s no doubt that Husky is the winner here.
You compiled a fantastic article. I am going to share this with my mechanic friends.