Craftsman 1/4 in Drive Gimbal Palm Ratchet

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman 1/4 in Drive Gimbal Palm Ratchet (model CMMT86004), I was intrigued by its unique design and compact size. Designed for low-torque applications and tight spaces, it promised to be a versatile addition to my toolbox. After putting it through a series of tests on various projects, I can confidently say that this little tool lives up to its claims and even exceeds expectations in some areas.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out is the build quality of the Gimbal Palm Ratchet. Crafted from durable steel with a full polish chrome finish, it feels solid and well-made in hand. Weighing in at just 0.2 pounds and measuring 5.8 inches in height, 4.2 inches in length, and 1.0 inch in width, it's compact enough to easily fit in a pocket or a small toolkit, making it extremely portable.

The design also includes a 72-tooth ratchet mechanism, which allows for a very small swing arc. This feature proves invaluable when working in confined spaces where a regular ratchet would struggle to get the job done. The gimbal head adds another layer of flexibility, allowing the tool to pivot in multiple directions and enabling access to fasteners from various angles. This multi-axis feature makes it feel like a cross between a standard ratchet and a universal joint, offering more versatility than you might expect from such a compact tool.

Comfort and Usability

Ergonomics are often overlooked in small hand tools, but not with this ratchet. The design is surprisingly comfortable to use, even for extended periods. The smooth polish finish is both a blessing and a slight drawback. While it looks good and feels pleasant to the touch, a knurled rim for better grip would have made it even more user-friendly, especially when your hands are greasy or wet.

Using the Gimbal Palm Ratchet is straightforward. The 72-tooth design means that you only need a 5-degree swing to engage the next tooth, making it incredibly efficient in tight spots. Whether you're working under a car dashboard, inside an engine bay, or assembling furniture, this tool excels in situations where space is at a premium.

Performance

One of my first tests involved disassembling a smoker, a task that usually involves a lot of hand-turning after breaking the torque. The Gimbal Palm Ratchet made quick work of the bolts, significantly reducing the time and effort required. Its ability to fit into nooks and crannies that a standard ratchet can't reach is a game-changer.

I also used it on several bike repairs. As someone who works on bikes frequently, I found it incredibly useful for those intricate tasks where a regular ratchet would be cumbersome. Its portability means you can take it with you on rides or trips, fitting easily into a backpack.

Another scenario where it shined was in furniture repair. European furniture often uses fluted screw heads, and this ratchet managed them with ease. The gimbal head allowed me to access screws at awkward angles without any hassle.

Areas for Improvement

While the Gimbal Palm Ratchet is impressive, it's not without minor flaws. The smooth finish, though aesthetically pleasing, could use some texturing to improve grip. The pivot mechanism, while mostly smooth, can be a bit stiff initially. However, these are minor issues that don't detract significantly from the overall functionality of the tool.

Another point worth mentioning is that it's designed for low-torque applications. If you're dealing with stubborn bolts or high-torque requirements, a traditional ratchet would be more appropriate. This tool excels in precision and accessibility but isn't meant to replace your heavy-duty ratchets.

Verdict

The Craftsman 1/4 in Drive Gimbal Palm Ratchet is a fantastic addition to any toolbox, particularly for those who often find themselves working in tight spaces. Its compact size, combined with the 72-tooth mechanism and gimbal head, offers a level of versatility that's hard to match. The build quality is excellent, and it's backed by Craftsman's full lifetime warranty, which adds peace of mind.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. It's perfect for mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable ratchet for low-torque applications. Its portability makes it ideal for on-the-go repairs, and its design ensures that you can tackle tasks that would be cumbersome with a standard ratchet. While it has minor areas for improvement, these don't outweigh the benefits it brings to the table.

In summary, the Gimbal Palm Ratchet is a specialized tool that excels in its niche. It won't replace your heavy-duty ratchet, but for those tight quarters and intricate tasks, it's a must-have. Whether you're working on a bike, disassembling furniture, or tackling automotive repairs, this tool will make those tasks significantly easier and more efficient. If you haven't added one to your toolkit yet, it's time to consider making the investment.