Craftsman 3/8-in Drive Metric Long Ball Hex Bit Socket Set

Craftsman has long been a name synonymous with reliability and durability, and their 3/8-in Drive Metric Long Ball Hex Bit Socket Set (CMMT42607) is no exception. This set, with its chrome finish and thoughtful design, promises to be a valuable addition to any tool collection. After putting it through its paces, I can confidently say it mostly lives up to the Craftsman reputation.

First and foremost, the chrome finish on these sockets is impressive. Not only does it provide a sleek, professional look, but it also offers significant resistance to corrosion. This feature is crucial for those of us who often work in less-than-ideal conditions. Whether you're dealing with moisture, grease, or grime, you can rest assured that these sockets will maintain their integrity over time.

One of the standout features of this set is its ability to facilitate quick fastening when used with a ratchet. The sockets fit snugly onto the ratchet, and the large markings make it easy to identify the size you need at a glance. This is especially handy when working in tight spaces where you can't afford to fumble around looking for the right tool.

Speaking of tight spaces, the long ball hex design is a game-changer. The extended length allows you to reach bolts that would be otherwise inaccessible with standard hex keys. This feature proved invaluable when I was working on my UTV. There was a particularly stubborn 6 mm fill plug that I could only reach and loosen thanks to the offset end of these sockets. The ball end allows for turning the bolt from an angle, which is a significant advantage in cramped quarters.

The set includes six pieces, covering the most common metric sizes: 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, and 10 mm. This range is sufficient for most DIY and professional applications. The sockets are made of steel, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of regular use. However, it's worth noting that these are not impact-rated. Using them with an impact tool could result in breakage, as they are designed for hand tool applications only.

Durability is a bit of a mixed bag with this set. While most users, including myself, have found the sockets to be sturdy and reliable, there have been instances where the 5 mm socket broke under normal use. This is disappointing, especially given Craftsman's reputation for quality. It's possible that these isolated incidents were due to using the sockets with impact tools, but it's something to keep in mind if you plan on putting these tools through heavy use.

Despite this, the majority of the time, the sockets performed admirably. They held up well during a brake job on my truck, and the sizes engraved on the sides were easily readable even in low light conditions. This attention to detail is something I've always appreciated about Craftsman tools.

The set is also backed by a full lifetime warranty, which provides peace of mind. Should any of the sockets fail under normal use, you can have them replaced without hassle. This warranty is a testament to Craftsman's confidence in their product and their commitment to customer satisfaction.

One minor gripe I have is that the set doesn't come with a storage bracket. Having a dedicated holder for these sockets would make organization and access much more convenient. It's a small oversight, but one that could enhance the overall user experience.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 3/8-in Drive Metric Long Ball Hex Bit Socket Set is a solid addition to any tool collection. Its corrosion-resistant chrome finish, ease of use, and ability to reach tight spaces make it a versatile and valuable tool. While there are some concerns about durability, particularly with the 5 mm socket, the lifetime warranty provides a safety net for any potential issues.

I would recommend this set to anyone in need of reliable metric hex bit sockets for hand tool applications. The benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, and the overall quality and performance are in line with what you'd expect from Craftsman. Just be mindful not to use them with impact tools, and you should find them to be a dependable and long-lasting addition to your toolkit.