Vintage Chrome Universal Socket Set

[goodfellow]

Thirty years ago these imported tools were standard fare in Auto Parts stores. They were usually the budget DIY option that was put on sale for promotional purposes. Pretty good quality for the time.

I'm all for buying US made socket sets when I really have a use for them on a regular basis. Case in point, this chrome universal set. I rarely have a need for a 1/2" drive chrome set since most all my needs are met by my 1/2" drive heavy duty impact swivel sets. That said, there are a few instances on a Jaguar engine and transmission when a 1/2" chrome universal is the only tool thin enough to get the job done. I've used 3/8" drive chrome universals up to now, but the force necessary to loosen the fasteners is often quite high. No use ruining a good set of vintage 3/8 drive MAC chrome universals for no good reason.

Finding a nice US made 1/2" drive 6 point chrome set for a reasonable price is next to impossible; even on e-bay. Best I found so far was older MAC or Herbrand sets on ebay that still sell for close to $100. So when this set popped up on eBay a few days ago I jumped on it.







It's looks to be vintage 1980's/90's Taiwanese manufacture. The chrome isn't as good as current Taiwaese offerings; in fact the chrome looks like present day Craftsman quality. However, the fit/finish is very good and I'm quite happy for getting this set for $8.00





For a half dozen times in a year that I require chrome 1/2" drive universal sockets, this set will do nicely.

[Muddy]

Chrome universal sockets are one of those things that collect the most dust in my box. However when I need them they are the only thing that'll work.

[goodfellow]

Chrome universal sockets are one of those things that collect the most dust in my box. However when I need them they are the only thing that'll work.

Same here, and especially 1/2" drive. But when you need one it's nice to know that you have a set. Most mechanics these days don't even have any SAE sized tools in their boxes anymore. I still work on older transition vehicles that had both metric and SAE fasteners.

[Uncle Buck]

10-15 years back I bought a large set of SK 1/2" chrome metrics from HJ Epsteins if memory serves for something short of $40, a bargain even then. Long since gone. Throughout the years I have pieced together a mixed brand set (all domestic) of SAE 1/2" drive chrome swivels. Rarely used, but so necessary when those times arise.

Like my vintage set of 1/2" Blackhawk 8 pointers I fetched out of a hock shop for a pittance and no one wanted them.

Most guys never realize that 8 pointers in the three popular drive sizes on rare occasions can be very helpful.  Quarter size for example can work well to drive a tap in a pinch.

[Elroy]

Elroy was lucky to come across these mismatched, 3/8 drive S-K swivels several years ago for $5 each.
Wanted to improve on their storage environment and fabricated these stainless trays as previously posted. It helps a whole lot when one works in a fully equipped sheet metal shop. Well those days are now long gone but the swivel sockets remain.
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[goodfellow]

Good job Elroy. I remember when you posted the manufacture of those cool trays -- excellent work!

[Uncle Buck]

LOL, Greatly appreciated by all for sure! I seem to recall some ring muscle fishing for a complimentary set if memory serves! 😁