Tool Review: Alltrade Tools Powerbuilt Master Technicians 70-pc Socket Set and 3-pc Tech Ratchet Set
The Powerbuilt 70-pc 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2” Dr. Master Socket Set, No. 949007, from Alltrade Tools, is organized in high-end EVA foam trays that slide right into the drawers of a toolbox. This set is made of chrome vanadium steel construction and is drop forged and heat treated for maximum durability. The mirror-polished chrome finish prevents corrosion. This set conforms with ANSI standards and includes deep and shallow 1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2” drive sockets in various sizes.
The Powerbuilt 3-pc Ratchet Set, No. 649967, conforms with ANSI standards and includes 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drive gear-to-gear tear drop head ratchets. The ratchet's compact head is about 50 percent smaller than a typical ratchet and it has less play between the 72 teeth, according to the company. This set is made of chrome vanadium steel construction and is drop forged and heat treated for maximum durability. The mirror polished chrome finish prevents corrosion. The ratchets are organized in high-end EVA foam tray that slides into the drawers of a toolbox.
The Review
Eric Moore of DeMary Truck in Columbus, Ohio, recently used the 70-pc Master Socket set and the 3-pc Ratchet Set from Alltrade Tools in circulation with the other tools in his toolbox.
"This set is actually very comprehensive in the sizing it provides for the apprentice or beginning technician," says Moore. "Most starter sets only include the “top ten” sizes, while this set does have a broader coverage range (including up to 1-1/4” on the 1/2" set)."
He also says, "The mix of 12 point and six point is good as well, since it really is a mixed bag on the newer vehicles as to which kind of fastener head will be the one you need to access."
Having used both types of tools before, Moore says both sets compared to most other ratchet and socket sets that he uses regularly. He did like the slim tear-drop design of the 1/4” drive ratchet. “It gave a little bit more area for torque versus a typical round style.”
Both the ratchet and socket sockets came in foam-molded trays with space for additional items “like extensions or drive adapters.” He also says to use, he only needed to select the size and associated drive. “No set up was needed, I simply needed to find a place for them in the toolbox.”
In addition to daily use in-shop, Moore used this set to perform an engine swap on a 1966 Ford Mustang. He says, “They performed well, and held up to any abuse I put them through.”
On a scale of one to 10, Moore gives these sets a seven saying, they have a "good sizing selection, deep and shallow sockets, and all three drive sizes. However, it just doesn’t jump out and grab you with anything spectacular to push it over the top." Moore adds that there wasn't anything he didn't like about the set and he has no suggestions for improvement. “(The set) seemed to be well-made, and designed well."
