It seems as though Milwaukee Tool has decided to put their hat in the ring with mechanic tools. They have just released the 12pc Milwaukee swivel ratchet socket set, available in metric and SAE. These sockets and swiveling ratchet are only available in the small 12 piece kit, intended for the HVAC, electrical and plumbing pros. Time will tell if Milwaukee is just testing the waters (you can dip your foot in the pool, but you can’t have a swim) in the mechanic and hand tool market.

[adsenseyu1]

Milwaukee Swivel Ratchet Socket Set Features

While the similarities of typical ratchet and sockets abound, the Milwaukee swivel ratchet socket set displays some unique features as well. Both SAE and Metric sets are deep well chrome sockets with a slim profile for accessibility to most fasteners. In addition to the deep well socket, each kit includes 3/8” drive to 1/4” hex and 3/8” drive to 1/4” drive (square) adapters. The ratchet head is a swivel head, not just a flex, so this can be used much like a nut-driver as well. Milwaukee includes a soft-sided case with a socket rail for portability.

“Today, most professionals in the mechanical, electrical and plumbing trades rely on socket sets that were designed with automotive applications in mind, and carry several socket sizes that they will rarely, if ever use,” said Bobby Shaw, VP of Product Management for Milwaukee Tool.

The most obvious difference in this kit is the square top on the deep well sockets. Milwaukee calls this a wrench-compatible socket, hence using an adjustable wrench for additional leverage. These flat sides also aid in keeping the sockets from rolling off the work surface. We should note, this is a patented feature on these sockets. Milwaukee may have something here. Sizes for each socket stamped on two sides of each socket are easy to read, which should remain readable even with use and age.

12pc Ratchet and Socket Set – Metric and SAE – Specifications

Milwaukee SAE Set

• SKU: 48-22-9000
• Ratchet: 3/8″ Drive Roto Ratchet
• Deep Well Sockets: 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 11/16″, and 3/4″
• Extension: 6″ – 3/8” Drive
• Adaptors: 3/8″ to 1/4″ Drive (square), 3/8″ to 1/4” Hex
• Case: Soft Carry Case

Milwaukee Metric Set

• SKU: 48-22-9001
• Ratchet: 3/8″ Drive Roto Ratchet
• Deep Well Sockets: 10mm,12mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, 18mm, and 19mm
• Extension: 6″ – 3/8” Drive
• Adaptors: 3/8″ to 1/4″ Drive (square), 3/8″ to 1/4” Hex
• Case: Soft Carry Case

[adsenseyu2]

Our Thoughts

It seems fairly obvious this 12pc Milwaukee swivel ratchet socket set is a small but good-quality kit. We like the idea of the square-topped sockets; it may not last, but it is a good thought. Actually having hard-stamped sizes in sockets stands the test of time better than any other method. Even though these may be meant for portability, we would still like to see the 11 and 16mm socket to finish the metric kit.

At a cost of only $69.99 (metric or SAE) and include a Limited Lifetime Warranty; this is more than fair price for good quality sockets. Add the value a swivel head ratchet, adaptors and 6” extension, and this may be a great mobile kit for anyone. Finally, is this the end road for Milwaukee and mechanic tools, or is this just the tip of the iceberg? With yellow and black delving into more mechanic tool offerings, we wouldn’t be surprised if we saw big red head that way as well.

The 12pc Milwaukee swivel ratchet socket set metric and SAE will be available in April 2017 from your favorite Milwaukee Tool retailer or online store.