Tools Fitting To Touch A Porsche

I have to admit, I’m not much of a wrench turner. I’d love to know more about what goes on under the hood, but so far, I’m just not one of those guys. I’m learning though, and hope to change my lack of mechanical ability.

Knowing that, it’s no surprise that when I cracked open a box of tools Matco Tools had sent for me to review, that, although the wrenches and cordless impact wrench looked and felt very nice, I wasn’t overly impressed. In fact, it wasn’t until one of my neighbors stopped by and happened to see the tools that I realized how incredible these Matco tools truly are. My neighbor went absolutely NUTS over them. It was pretty funny. He kept looking them over, turning the ratchets with his finger, and generally staring in awe at the quality.

After taking another look at the tools, and doing a little research online, I have to say, these are probably the finest tools I’ve ever touched.

First, the 90 Tooth Ratcheting Wrench Set. Included in the set are four wrenches in the following sizes: 13/16″, 7/8″, 15/16″ and 1″. Plenty of options for your mechanical needs. The wrenches are heavy duty, without being unmanageable. The most impressive feature about them, though, that I missed when I first unboxed the tools, is the ratcheting mechanism. The 90 teeth deliver one of the best swing arcs in the industry making short order of work in tight spaces.

The versatility of these wrenches allow them to loosen or tighten many 6pt, 12pt, spline, torx, square and even up to 50% rounded fasteners. You also don’t have to worry about the tools failing you. They’re forged from higher carbon steel and the same heat treating process used to manufacture jet landing gear.

Next up, the 12V Lithium-Ion Impact Wrench. This compact little beauty is surprisingly robust feeling given it’s size. It has the feel of a higher end, bigger unit. Here’s a quick rundown of the highlights of this wrench:

• Up to 60 ft. lbs. of maximum torque
• Replaceable carbon brush motor (a VERY cool feature)
• Longer run time, more power and lighter weight with the 12 volt lithium-ion battery power
• Variable speed, ergonomic trigger offers precise and comfortable control over the tool’s 2,400 blows per minute
• Built-in LED light helps you see what you’re doing, even in dark spaces
• One hand forward and reverse knob gives you the ability to change directions quickly and easily

The impact wrench feels great in your hand, and although I haven’t used it yet, I can’t wait to try it.

Overall, I have to say, I’m very very impressed by these Matco Tools wrenches. After taking a look at some of the tools I thought were the best I’d ever used, and comparing them to this tiny sampling of what Matco Tools have to offer, there simply is no comparison. The tools aren’t cheap, by any stretch of the imagination, but they’re well worth the price of admission.

One interesting note is how well these tools hold their value. I was surprised to see used Matco Tools going for 70% and 80% of their retail value, despite being several years old. I suspect these are tools you will never sell, though, but instead will hang on to, enjoy, then pass on to your kids.

A special thanks to Matco Tools for sending these tools for review. Visit MatcoTools.com to check out their entire line of quality products.